A:AnswerYour signal strength depends on the carrier in your area. Newer phones have new and stronger technologies, but if you don't have a strong signal where you are no phone is going to make it better.
A:AnswerNo, taxes are added on when you purchase the phone. There also may be an additional activation fee depending on your carrier (Verizon's was $30.00 when I purchased mine.)
A:AnswerI just applied for a Best Buy credit card and put the phone on that with interest free financing. Then my payments are whatever I decide to pay. I think the minimum is $27/ mo.
A:AnswerI have purchased phones both ways. No different price-wise. But if you go in store it seems to take longer for the whole transaction/activation to go thru. So I guess I would rather do it online myself...on my couch!