Yesterday, Microsoft finally began its long-awaited Windows 10 Mobile upgrades for (some of) its older Windows Phone 8.1 devices - but of course, the latest version of the OS has been available on its newest handsets for months. Among them is the entry-level Lumia 550, which has been on sale in the US for $139 SIM-free, but which you can now buy for less.
The Lumia 550 is now available in white from B&H Photo Video for $119.95, a savings of over $19 on its regular price. That"s an appealing price given that even Microsoft itself doesn"t sell the white 550 in the US, exclusively offering the black model via its online store.
The black version is also available from B&H, albeit with a more modest discount, bringing its price down to $129.95. Both versions are "international" variants of the Lumia 550, promising compatibility with most 4G LTE networks from US GSM carriers, but the retailer warns that you should double-check this compatibility with your specific carrier before purchasing the device.
You may wish to think twice about buying the Lumia 550 though, even at its lower price. As we explained in our review of the device, it falls short in just about every area, and given that the older, but more capable Lumia 640 is now on sale from various US retailers for just $29.99 off-contract (albeit locked to AT&T) - and eligible for the Windows 10 Mobile upgrade - that might be a better option for budget-conscious buyers.