When i save a phone number it defaults to saving it as a "work" number. Same thing happened when i transfered my contacts from my sim card. When i transfer contacts from Outlook the phone number type "work/home/mobile" etc remains as it should be.

Is there a way to change the default "type" when saving a phone number into the address book?

I believe not.

Another faster way to enter new contact is to go to your Address Book/Menu/New Address.