Whatever you do, do not get an iPhone. They are overpriced, have less ease of access/software flexibility, and you can generally get a better deal for your money with an Android.
this statement is pretty dumb. theyre just as overpriced as any big time flagships. but they age better so they maintain a very stable price because theyre not made to last 2 years like most other phones. most of these corporate roosterbangers make these devices wear out purposely within a small life time so you buy their next big hit. im not gonna recommend the iphone over that but in the end just get what you like because youll end up replacing it within a year or two.
besides buying a phone without a plan nowdays is a very bad idea because theyre getting more expensive. get them cheap with plans. go at a store and try them out before you buy one.
i personally suggest the galaxy alpha or iphone 5s if youre into small-brick-shape powerful phones