Smartphones

[73kittycat73]

Hi, I hope I've put this in the right section? I'm in the market for a smartphone. We are having neighbour trouble and want to install CCTV so need a smartphone to hook it up to. The trouble is, I've only ever had a cheap £50.00 basic phone from Argos before. (Not complaining, it's done it's job. :D ) I haven't really had need for one before as I'm housebound.
Where do I start? If you take out a contract, do you get the handset for free? Or do I need to buy the phone first, then look for a provider? What handset do you recommend?
Thank you for any help!

I have CCTV without a smart phone, I use an old TV. Is there a reason you have to have a smartphone only one?

Sorry, I mean an old PC monitor, not TV but the same principle, no need for a phone. I assume you have a computer as you are posting, why not use that?

I'm really not up to date on all the connections and programmes and what not. I also quite like the idea of getting a smart phone. It would be easier to text relatives, etc.

You can either buy a smartphone outright and then get a PAYG sim card or you can get a contract from a provider which includes the handset but will cost you more per month (because you are paying for the handset, they aren't free).

Thank you HilaryBriss that's good to know.
I've heard of Carphone Warehouse so will go have a nosey at them.