Data only or no service possible?

[enchant]

I haven't had any need for a smartphone up to now, but I design websites and need one for testing purposes. I don't need any minutes or text messaging, just the ability to surf the web. So I was wondering what's the cheapest way to go about this?

I'd like to get a popular phone, maybe an IPhone. But I hate the idea of having to spend $60/month or more when all I need to do is spend a few minutes a month looking at websites.

Is there any way I can simply use it with my home wifi setup?

Thanks for any help.

[Marctronixx]

you can purchase any smartphone off contract and not need to have it activated. iphones are very expensive though. you may want to try second hand places, such as ebay and craigslist, where you can purchase a used handset and just use it via wifi.

[enchant]

That's great news. I often see decent used prices like a used 16GB iPhone for $270 in dealnews.com.

Thanks for the info!