Mobile contract due to be renewed, looking at iphone options

[bananaistheanswer]

And need some advice. I don't have the money to buy an iphone, and am struggling with all the different deals/models that are available. I've come across a website that does refurbished iphones and the deals look reasonable price wise. Just not sure a refurbished model is what I should get. Has anyone had a refurbished model? Also, what are the main, easy to understand no techno stuff, I'm illiterate on that differences between an iphone 3, 4 and 4s? One of the cheap deals is for the 3 model.

Mains reasons for wanting one is I've 'mislaid' my ipod and need my florida apps for checking q times when I go on holiday in just over 3 weeks. I was relying on my ipod to keep 6yr old DD amused on the flight, and now it's disappeared my forgetful mother has tidied it away somewhere and can't remember where I thought I'd consider an iphone if I can afford one.

So any helpful info appreciated.

As long as the company is reputable and you pay by credit card (not debit card) then you should be pretty well covered.

As with all Apple things, if you can afford it, go for the latest model. So the 4S if you can.

Basically don't go for anything older than a 3GS. Version 4 and 4S has the retina display which makes a massive difference in screen quality. 4S comes with Siri which is fun....but arguably not much use.

Size wise, I'd recommend at least 16GB. My son has a 8GB Touch and that's always full. I manage fine with 16GB with music and videos on it.

Make sure the phone you get is unlocked if you can. Not only does this help with resale values, it means you won't be tied to that network.

Lastly, personally I've been unimpressed with 3 coverage. Very patchy I found, even in city centres. That said some people do swear by them. So your mileage may vary.

Thanks niceguy, 3 was one of the companies doing a really cheap deal for the 4s, and I've heard not so good things about them. The refurb models are thru a recylcling website - they provide the refurb model, and the mobile contract is separate i.e. hopefully the phone will be unlocked (but will check that 1st). My iPod was 32GB so am hoping to get either the 16 or 32, depending on the deal. Also just waiting for my current supplier to come back to me begging to keep my business at all cost. ahem. I wish...

Cheers. You are indeed a 'niceguy' Helpful too...