Your phone is getting larger, the world is getting smaller, and every app developer is competing in a large pool of identical clones. Whether you have an IOS or an Android, your app store is overflowing. It doesn't matter if you're browsing for "Productivity," "Games," or yet another photo-editing app (we don't judge), the choice paralysis alone is enough to force you into a hasty purchase. Even if you're savvy enough to know that reviews are not always trustworthy, the temptation to see for yourself if an app is worth its cost is greater when the price tag is only $0.99 or $1.99. But of course, that's exactly what app developers are counting on. All in all, app shopping can be more frustrating than mining the depths of Amazon when all you want is to restock your dish soap but end up checking out with an espresso machine.

The secret to savvy app shopping? Depending on what kind of app you're looking for, some types are more worth your money than others.

Best

Weather Apps: Free weather apps are often laggy and inaccurate, so if your daily routine requires you to be on-the-go, it's worth the investment not to get caught in the rain in the middle of your work day. For $4.99, the Carrot weather data app is both a predictor of capricious Mother Nature and a game. Dark Sky, on the other hand, is so specific in its location that it can keep you up-to-date about temperature changes and weather conditions no matter where you are for $3.99.

Directions: DON'T TRUST GOOGLE MAPS. Free map and direction apps aren't just laggy; they're often downright inaccurate. Updated maps can keep you informed about traffic conditions, construction work, or other inconveniences that would otherwise severely delay your plans. Some apps like Guru Maps Pro cost a hefty $49.99 in exchange for minute details and offline access, while other simpler GPS systems are available for both Android and IOS.

Security: Big Brother may not be personally targeting your data and whereabouts, but he is interested in selling your information to literally whoever is willing to pay. Invest in password protectors and privacy apps in order to keep your data private. LastPass Premium may cost $36.00 annually, but it includes a password manager. Other than that, many anti-virus programs now come with mobile protection and password protectors. Be sure to check for that specification when you're shopping for the best program.

Worst

Cloned Games: We get it, games are great. Why on Earth does your phone need Internet if you're not going to kill time playing puzzle games while waiting in line at Target? But be careful about what games you invest in. Many let you play lower levels, just enough to get sucked in, and then hit you with a pay wall. Just be wary; some of the most popular iPhone games are really just rip-offs of other games. This not only steals your money in exchange for a subpar game; it rips off developers.

Fake Security Apps: At worst, a fake security app will steal the very data you're trying to protect. At the very least, it will steal your money in exchange for a pretty icon on your phone that looks legitimate but actually does nothing for your security. Take an extra hard look at the developer and see what else they've produced before you buy.

Photo Editing: This can be a toss-up, depending on your love of selfies. Admittedly, if your job or creative hobbies involve visual arts, it might be worth investing in a reliable editing app. But you know you'll be using it for selfies. Leave the 'gram alone.