Cell Phones vs. Landlines Pros & Cons

Cell phones are often more economical than landline phones. Some cell phones are free with a contract and plans frequently include caller ID, voicemail and long distance at no extra charge. A cell phone's portability means that help, should you need it, is only a phone call away no matter where you are. Many cell phones are also virtual mini-computers and include cameras, Internet and texting capabilities, games and the ability to shoot or stream video.

Dead spots and dropped calls are notorious cons for cell phone users. Another concern for cell phones is an inability to communicate the origin of a 911 call. For example, if a cell phone user calls 911, responders may not receive full information regarding the caller's location, which could cause them to lose crucial minutes searching for the caller. Recent studies have also begun to investigate whether frequent exposure to cell phone radiation may be carcinogenic.

With a landline phone, an entire family can be reached at the same number, reception is usually solid and users don't have to charge batteries regularly. Users also don't have to worry about the network carrier being overwhelmed by calls during a big event or disaster in their area.

Landlines are usually more expensive to maintain than cell phones. They also rely on electric power and can be knocked out by downed power poles during storms. Telemarketers are also more likely to exploit land line numbers than cell phone numbers.