Does 7290 work without data plan?
 

I am new to the Blackberry
I have an opportunity to get a 7290 or maaabye a 8700c.

My question is: I am on a suncom plan
I don't want to spend the extra money for the data plan right away--does the blackberry work without a data plan in terms a PDA and phone?
I definatly want to use it for e-mail eventually, and will get the additional service plan, but I want to be sure it will work fin without it for a bit.

Also, between 7290 and 8700 series--is 8700 that much better?
I can get a good used 7290 for FREE--I can get a used 8700c for about $100.

which would you suggest?

Yes, you can use a Blackberry as a phone and/or PDA without a data plan.

Between the two, go for the 8700 series. Yes, it's that much better than the 7200 series.

No problem
 

If you have an unlocked or Suncom branded unit, just pop in your SIM card and go and it will work fine.

$100 is too much for a used 8700C. Free 7290 is the way to go.