Buying a cell phone seems pretty straightforward. One goes to the store, or the mall kiosk, and signs up for a service. Then, if the offer is a good deal, a cell phone comes free. Or, sometimes the salesperson tries to upgrade the buyer into paying more money by showing a variety of cell phone brands.

Cell phones aren't just made by one company. There are many cell phone brands available. Most cell phone companies contract with electronics manufacturers to create phones that are compatible with their services. These cell phone brands have different styles and types of phones.

Many cell phone makers constantly try to outdo each other with features. Many phones now include color displays and some form of Web access. Other cell phone brands put out phones that can take pictures. Not only does the cell phone have many features now, but it also comes in many styles.

Some phones look like small, straight sticks. Others are done in a clamshell style, flipping open and then closing into a small, compact shape. Some cell phone brands are experimenting with cell phones that simply fit over the ear, no hands necessary at all. This type of cell phone does not require a separate head set plug-in; the cell phone actually fits over the ear.

The three main cell phone brands are Samsung, Nokia and Motorola. Samsung specializes in picture cell phones and Motorola makes mainly walkie-talkie style cell phones. Nokia has an array of Web accessible phones.

No matter which service you choose, the company probably carries all cell phone brands. When choosing which cell phone is right for you, think about what you want to do with it, and what features appeal to you. Don't be pressured by the salesperson. The cell phone is an expression of who you are: make sure you get what you want.