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The cost of the phone is almost becoming irrelevant. The cost of the data plan is the real barrier to entry as it dwarfs the cost of the phone.

But you pay for the plan the same regardless of the phone you use so it's not a basis for choosing a phone.

The price of the phone, on the other hand, is a factor in choosing a phone.

Assuming you've made the choice to get a smartphone. If you haven't then the difference between a regular and smart phone is really the plan cost.