Blackberry Question

I'm considering buying a blackberry on pre-paid, while I'm aware that I can get the BIS service on pre-paid for me it just doesnt seem worth the money for my needs. My question is - would it be worth my while getting a blackberry without the BIS service ie will I still be able to use the blackberry messenger and set up and receive emails etc using regular data bundles?

Will I be better off with a different phone seeing as I wont be using the BIS service?

BIS = convenience. BBM and emails don't work without it.

I know this because, I have one.

Agreed, if you want to use the BB for Data etc then you need the BIS Service in place. If you dont want to use it then stick to a different Smart Phone. e.g. Android.

I have both at the moment and to be completely honest, I prefer my HTC Magic (Android) above my BlackBerry.

But thats my opinion :)

I am upgrading to a Blackberry just for the BIS. I want a HTC but the BIS is value for money.

What's a Blackberry? I prefer Blueberrys. With cream. Hmmm.

Blackberry is the hard plastic one that every one around you uses :P

As stated already, a BB without the BIS service is pretty much chopping out the best part of the phone. Rather decide what it is that you like about the phone and then decide. ie If you like the full keyboard then get a Nokia instead.

If you want to enjoy a phone without the extras I'd also suggest doing some digging on the Android, I've also got a Magic and thus far have not found anything else I'd prefer other than the newer version of the phone. If only they would release a BIS package equivalent for all of us non Blackberries :)

Thanks guys, seems like everyone agrees that its not worth getting without the BIS, Ill do some searching for other phones or re-look at pre-paid BIS as an option.

What is the cost implications on the pre-paid ? It is quite a useful thing if you use your Blackberry to gain access to the internet often. So browsing websites and email , since both are included in the fee paid. If you don't use it much then it makes less sense in the long run.

Its R59 for 30 days on prepaid. Thats the thing I wont use it often, but I travel up to Joburg or CT for business about 3 or 4 times a year and I need access to my emails. In term of that the pre-paid option looked more appealing than a contract as I wont need the BIS every month.

Ah well if it is that infrequently then normal IMAP will be perfect for you. Most business phones support this now so your choices are quite varied. Look around and find the phone that you LIKE.