Ridiculous Down Payment

I definitely see where you are coming from @eightd ,  $700 is a chunk of change for sure.   I guess the way I look at it (I have pretty high downpayment amounts right now, too) is that I tough it out with my Note Edge for just another couple of months and then, because I have made every payment on time within 2 days of its due date, I will qualify for zero down and luego I will get the phone I really want.    For me, the lower cost of the service is way worth what is to me a small enough sacrifice.  I actually like my Note Edge.

But, that's one thing to keep in mind -  once you have established a history with T-mobile (12 consecutive on-time payments) then you will be considered well-qualified and will get the lowest downpayment amounts.

Another thing to consider is that any of the other providers (who are offering you a 'free' device, in exchange for a 2 year contract) are going to recover the cost of that device from you in higher service charges.  Except that once they've done that, they are not going to then reduce the amount you are paying for service. Additionally, should you decide to change carriers they are going to doubly recoup that initial loss-leader in the form of ETF.

So, when making my own decision it was a combination of things which made T-mobile the right choice.  I am honestly super happy with my service, and enjoy all of the little perks like Music Freedom, Binge-On, and the free Pokemon Go data just about sent me over the moon I was so delighted.   Oh, and also Frosty's. 

Just my two or seven cents.

😊