Cell phones

Several cell phone networks are available in New York City.

Verizon

Verizon has by far the best coverage; you'll get reception whether you're underground, in an elevator, or on the 13th story. However, it comes with a premium price. And if you're on a family plan, it may be difficult to get a replacement if you lose or break your phone.

AT&T (Formerly Cingular)

AT&T has an average signal. It's not as good as Verizon but better than T-Mobile. The customer service is crappy though. Columbia students have a 20% discount.

T-Mobile

T-Mobile has several reasonably priced plans, but its signal on the Morningside Heights campus has a few dead spots. Notably, you won't get any reception while crossing in front of Butler Library.

If you're looking for a pay-as-you-go plan, T-Mobile is the best network. It costs $0.10 per minute, and credit lasts an entire year.

Sprint

Sprint has a spotty signal and poor customer service. In 2005 and 2006, Sprint made major improvements to its infrastructure (including adding new cell towers), changing the Columbia dead-zone to a reliable level of coverage. Some areas on campus still have a poor signal, especially within buildings. However, coverage outside of Columbia's campus is very strong. Columbia offers an 18% discount to students/faculty/alumni for phone purchases as well as a 5% discount on monthly plans.