December 29, 2016

Moto G4 Review with Tracfone BYOP

Moto G4 Review and How to Activate with Tracfone BYOP

Below we share our review of the Unlocked Moto G4, and how you can use it with Tracfone BYOP. Here at TracfoneReviewer we share a variety of informational bout Tracfone Wireless. If you're new, be sure to take a loot at some of the other posts we have created.

tracfone moto g4 review
Moto G4 Review for Tracfone Prepaid
The Moto G4 is the 4th generation of a line of phones from Motorola that have been hugely successful for their combination of great features at a reasonable price.

The 4th iteration of the Moto G is no exception and brings a lineup of solid performance, reliability and long battery life for a starting price of $200.

Below we will share our review of the Moto G4 (and G4 Plus/G4 Play), and how it works with Tracfone BYOP and a brief guide to activating it.

There are several different versions of the Moto G4, each with a handful of differences, but mostly the same features. The three main versions are the Moto G4, Moto G4 Play, and Moto G4 Plus. The G4 Play is cheaper than the regular G4, but has a smaller screen and certain other changes. Likewise the Moto G4 Plus has some improvements over the G4, at a higher cost.

Let's take a look at the specs for each of these phones, starting with the mid-priced option, the Moto G4.

Moto G4 Features and Specs

These are the main features and specs. For a complete rundown, visit GSMArena.
moto g4 review
Moto G4
  • 4G LTE Compatible with Both GSM and CDMA networks
  • Android 6.0.1 with upgrade to Android 7.0 in near future
  • Screen: 5.5" IPS LCD with Full HD Resolution (1080x1920) and Gorilla Glass 3
  • Processor: Octa-core (Quad-core 1.5 Ghz and Quad-core 1.2 Ghz)
  • Memory: 16 or 32 GB (plus Micro SD Card Slot)
  • RAM: 2 GB
  • Camera: 13 MP Rear, 5 MP Front with 1080p recording
  • Battery: 3000 mAh removable
  • Price: 16 GB for $199 / 32 GB for $229
You also get all of the other typical features found on a smartphone like GPS, WiFI, FM Radio, MP3 Player, threaded SMS, email, and more.

There are three big features that stand out on the Moto G4 compared to Tracfone smartphones in this price range. The G4 has an Octa-core processor for great multitasking capability, 2 GB RAM to complement that, and a 13 MP Camera with plenty of features.

We recently reviewed the Samsung Galaxy Sky, which was released for closer to $120, but only has a quad-core processor, 1.5 GB RAM and 5 MP Camera.

Let's take a look at another version of the Moto G4 that is cheaper, and also a little smaller.

Moto G4 Play Features and Specs

These are the main features and specs. For a complete rundown, visit GSMArena.
    moto g4 play review
    Moto G4 Play
    • 4G LTE Compatible with Both GSM and CDMA networks
    • Android 6.0.1 with upgrade to Android 7.0 in near future
    • Screen: 5" IPS LCD with HD Resolution (720x1280)
    • Processor: Quad-core 1.2 Ghz
    • Memory: 16 GB (plus Micro SD Card Slot)
    • RAM: 2 GB
    • Camera: 8 MP Rear, 5 MP Front with 1080p recording
    • Battery: 2800 mAh removable
    • Price: $149 (sometimes as low as $129)
    As you can see, the Moto G4 has a smaller, 5" touchscreen, just a quad-core processor and only 8 MP rear camera. However, it still comes with 2 GB RAM, 16 GB memory and Android 6.0.1 (with upgrade to 7.0 coming soon).

    The Moto G4 Play is built more for the everyday causal users, but still has decent specs to handle most games or apps.

    For the real powerhouse of the Moto G4 lineup, let's look at the G4 Plus.

    Moto G4 Plus Features and Specs

    These are the main features and specs. For a complete rundown, visit GSMArena.
    moto g4 plus review
    Moto G4 Plus
    • 4G LTE Compatible with Both GSM and CDMA networks
    • Android 6.0.1 with upgrade to Android 7.0 in near future
    • Screen: 5.5" IPS LCD with Full HD Resolution (1080x1920) and Gorilla Glass 3
    • Processor: Octa-core (Quad-core 1.5 Ghz and Quad-core 1.2 Ghz)
    • Memory: 16 GB or 64 GB (plus Micro SD Card Slot)
    • RAM: 2 GB with 16 GB Version / 4 GB with 64 GB Version
    • Camera: 16 MP Rear, 5 MP Front with 1080p recording/720p slow motion
    • Battery: 3000 mAh non-removable
    • Price: 16 GB for $249 / 64 GB for $299
    The Moto G4 Plus also has a fingerprint reader for unlocking the device.

    If you're going to spend the extra money on the G4 Plus, you might as well get the 64 GB version because it also comes with 4 GB RAM. This pairs very nicely with the octa-core processor for more demanding apps or games. More RAM allows the phone to have more going on at once, so it will be less likely to freeze or slow down.

    The fingerprint sensor is surprisingly useful and convenient for quickly and securely unlocking the device. It does have trouble recognizing a fingerprint if it is wet.

    Review of the Moto G4 on Tracfone BYOP

    We will go into a little more depth on some of the features for the G4 and discuss the pro's and con's of the Moto G4, G4 Play and G4 Plus.

    tracfone moto g4
    Moto G4 Review

    The internal memory and RAM on the Moto G4 is very acceptable in a budget smartphone and the Octa-core processor allows the phone to keep up with most apps and games. For low to moderate smartphone users, 2 GB RAM and 16 GB memory is plenty. However, for users who will be taking a lot of photos or video, or want to load a lot of apps on the phone, 32 GB or even 64 GB will be a better choice.

    The fact that the G4 Play also comes with 2 GB RAM and 16 GB memory is a great deal. It doesn't have the same processor however, running just a quad-core 1.5 Ghz processor.

    There is some occasional lag and stuttering on the G4 (all versions), which likely is not from a lack of processing power, but more likely due to firmware issues that need to be cleaned up. The phone may see some improvements when upgraded to Android 7.0, and let's hope that includes the stuttering issues. It isn't a very common issue, and only appears occasionally in certain applications or when switching between windows.

    The 5.5" screen on the G4 and G4 Plus is full HD 1080x1920 resolution and looks great with good brightness and contrast levels. It also has Gorilla Glass 3 protection. The G4 Play has the smaller 5" screen with HD 720x1280 resolution and also looks quite good.

    When it comes to the camera, the Moto G4 Plus has a 16 MP rear camera with a larger sensor compared to the G4 at 13 MP, and better low light shooting plus laser auto focus. It is a very nice improvement, and renders nice, clear photos in good lighting conditions. While it is also better at low light versus the G4, the G4 Plus still doesn't take great low light photos (but few smartphones do).

    The 8 MP camera on the G4 Play can take good photos in good lighting conditions, but don't expect much more out of it. All three phones have a variety of different features like panorama, HDR and flash.

    All three versions of the G4 are capable of recording full HD video at 30 fps. Video quality is good, and the phone does have optical image stabilization to help smooth out your shots. Videos shot at night do have noticeable noise.

    Battery life on the Moto G4 is excellent, with the G4 Play providing the best battery performance of the three (due to the smaller processor and screen). These phones truly have 'all day' battery life and on many occasions we've noticed nearly 50% charge remaining after a full day with moderate use. Charging speed is also impressive, with all three devices charging very quickly.

    Finally, what makes the Moto G4 such a great device to pair with Tracfone BYOP is that you can use it with either CDMA or GSM service. Just choose the correct SIM card, and follow the activation process (which we will provide more details on further along).

    To Summarize the Main Pro's and Con's with the Moto G4:
    The Good:
    -Good combination of processor, RAM and Internal Memory
    -Large, Clear Touchscreen
    -Excellent Value
    -Compatible with both CDMA and GSM
    -Very Clean Android OS with Update to 7.0 Coming Soon

    The Bad:
    -Occasional stuttering/lag
    -No blinking notification light
    -Low Light Photo Quality is not Great

    Overall, our experience using the Moto G4 Plus with Tracfone BYOP has been nearly flawless. Data and picture messaging (MMS) have both worked without any issues.

    The phone itself is fast, powerful and has plenty of storage. The 5.5" screen is large, but easy to get used to and videos, games or photos look great on it. The single front speaker does a good job, and gets loud enough for most needs.

    The occasional stuttering is not very noticeable, but should be considered when purchasing this phone.

    Which Moto G4 Version is Right for You?

    Originally Motorola had three different 'budget' phones; the Moto E, Moto G and Moto X. They have now decided to just offer one phone, but with three variations.

    All three of the new variations on the Moto G are great value for the money, and they target different people who have different needs for a phone.

    Moto G4 screen size
    Moto G4 Screen Size vs Moto G4 Play and Moto G4 Plus

    The Moto G4 has great specs for the price, but may be limited on internal memory unless you choose the 32GB option.

    With the G4 Play you get a smaller and cheaper phone, but also sacrifice some performance and camera resolution.

    For the 64 GB Moto G4 Plus you get lots of memory and RAM, plus other great features, but the cost starts to get a little high for some, and there are a number of other good phones in this price range (each with certain pro's and con's).

    In the end, the right phone for you is one that you can afford, and will fit the demands you plan to put on the device. For many, the Moto G4 Play is more than adequate with nice snappy performance, and a convenient size.

    However, for just $50 more the regular G4 has a number of improvements that make it a good choice for moderate to heavy smartphone users. It has a better processor for running more apps, and an improved camera.

    We've seen all of the versions of the Moto G4 on sale for $20 or more below retail price, so it might be worthwhile to wait for a sale if you need to get the most bang for your buck.

    How to Activate the Moto G4 on Tracfoen BYOP

    The Moto G4 can be activated as either a CDMA or GSM device. We've tested it on Tracfone's GSM network with complete success. We have also received reports of successful activation on the CDMA network, although some users have run into issues.

    Here are the steps for activating the Moto G with Tracfone BYOP:
    1. Buy an Unlocked Moto G4, G4 Play or G4 Plus (see below for where to buy)
    2. Purchase a Tracfone SIM kit (available online and in many stores for $1)
    3. Choose whether you will activate with CDMA or GSM coverage, and use the matching Micro SIM card from the kit.
    4. Insert the SIM card into the phone by removing the back cover, taking out the existing SIM tray, and replacing it with the Micro SIM card.
    5. Visit the Tracfone website or call Tracfone to continue the activation process, which will include choosing if you want to activate a new phone number or transfer an existing number.
    6. Once activation is complete, test the functionality. Sometimes turning the phone off(by holding down the power button for 3 seconds) and back on is required before the phone recognizes the SIM.

    For additional activation information, and advice on what to do if you run into problems, visit our Tracfone Smartphone Activation Guide.

    If you already have a device on Tracfone's BYOP program, and it uses the same SIM card, you can actually just take it out of one device and put it in the other. We tested this going from a 1st generation Moto G to the Moto G4 Plus and everything worked after restarting the phone, including MMS and Data. We don't necessarily recommend this route, but, as of yet, we've experienced no issues.

    Where to Buy the Moto G4/ G4 Play/ G4 Plus

    The Moto G4 is available from several different major retailers including Walmart, BestBuy, Target, Amazon and others. Below are links for online retail options:

    Moto G4 - Available from Amazon (currently on sale for $179), Motorola, BestBuy

    Moto G4 Play - Available from Amazon, BestBuy

    Moto G4 Plus - Available from Amazon Motorola, BestBuy

    There are plenty of cases on covers available from both Amazon and eBay.

    That concludes our review of the Moto G4. We hope this information is helpful for those considering this phone as an option to use with Tracfone BYOP. There are also many other great smartphones to use, and we've even created a list of the Top 6 Smartphones to use with Tracfone BYOP.

    Leave a comment below with any questions or thoughts you want to share. All comments are moderated for a short period of time before posting.

    Also get involved on our Facebook Page where we share the latest news and information with our active community of over 2300.

    For more information on the BYOP program, visit our Tracfone BYOP page. And you can also take a look at some of Tracfone's smartphone options on our Cell Phone Reviews page.

    Thanks for visiting!

    December 13, 2016

    Samsung Galaxy Sky (S320VL) Review - Tracfone Android

    Tracfone Samsung Galaxy Sky (S320VL) Review

    Welcome to TracfoneReviewer, an independent website for news, reviews and other information about Tracfone. If you're new, be sure to take a look around at some of the other helpful information we have shared.

    tracfone samsung galaxy sky
    Tracfone Samsung Galaxy Sky Review
    The Samsung Galaxy Sky has a 5" touchscreen, quad-core processor with 1.5 GB RAM, and runs Android 6.0. It also has 16 GB internal memory, something very few smartphones from Tracfone have at this time.

    We recently reviewed the Samsung Galaxy Luna, which has a number of similarities to the Sky, although it differs in screen size and internal memory. We will look more closely at how these phones compare, and several others from Tracfone, further along in our review.

    Tracfone has released a number of new smartphones in 2016, and the Galaxy Sky, which was released in November, might be one of the best budget friendly options yet.

    Lets look at the quick facts for the Galaxy Sky to get an idea of what it offers.

    Samsung Galaxy Quick Facts
    The Good:
    -16 GB internal memory
    -Android 6.0
    -5" Super AMOLED HD touchscreen

    The Not so Good:
    -Only 5 MP camera

    A major complaint that consumers have had with Tracfone is their lack of smartphones with 16 GB internal memory or more. The majority of Tracfone smartphones only have 8 GB memory, which fills up fast even if you only load a handful of apps. The Galaxy Sky comes with 16 GB which can hold a lot more apps, photos and more.  The ZTE ZMAX 2 is another option that also has 16 GB internal memory.

    Of course, there are plenty of unlocked smartphones that have 16 GB internal memory or more. Take a look at our list of the Best Unlocked Smartphones to use with Tracfone BYOP for some ideas or go straight to our BYOP page.

    But there are some more great features on the Sky, so let's take a look at the full list of features and specs.

    Samsung Galaxy Sky Features and Specs

    Below are the features, followed by the technical specifications
    • Android 6.0 Marshmallow
    • 4G LTE Capable using CDMA network (Verizon)
    • WiFi, GPS
    • Bluetooth 4.1
    • Alarm Clock
    • MP3 Player
    • 5 MP Rear Camera, 2 MP Front Camera
    • Handsfree speaker
    • Access to over 1 Million Apps on Google Play Store
    • Proximity and Accelerometer Sensor
    • 3 Home Screens
    • MMS (Picture and group) messaging 
    • Caller ID, Voicemail
    • Triple Minutes for Life (on regular airtime cards)
    Samsung Galaxy Sky Specs
    • Size: 5.60" x 2.79" x 0.31"
    • 5.0" Super AMOLED Touchscreen 720x1280 resolution (HD)
    • 1.2 Ghz Quad Core Processor
    • 1.5 GB RAM
    • 16 GB Internal Memory (with MicroSD card slot for up to 128 GB external memory)
    • Battery: 2600 mAh with 25 Hrs Talk Time, 13 Days Standby

    The Galaxy Sky is a little larger than many of the older smartphones from Tracfone such as the LG Ultimate 2 or Samsung Galaxy Stardust, but at 5", it is still a convenient size that will fit in most pockets or purses. Notice that the screen is Super AMOLED, which means deeper blacks, and in some cases, better battery life.

    Let's take a closer look at some of the key features on the Galaxy Sky with our full review.

    Samsung Galaxy Sky Review

    Below we share what we like about the Sky, and what we don't like.

    What we Like about the Sky:
    There's a lot to like about this phone, but some of the key features that make it popular are the battery life, internal memory and Android OS.

    Tracfone samsung galaxy sky
    Samsung Galaxy Sky front, side and back. Notice the rounded edges and slim design.
    The battery life on the Samsung Galaxy Sky is very good compared to most other smartphones. The Sky doesn't have a large battery, but a combination of the screen, processor and operation system help conserve power to make it last all day with normal use, or nearly two weeks on standby. A longer battery life is something everyone can enjoy, whether you use your phone often or not.

    Android 6.0 comes with a number of improvements, fixes, and upgrades (including better battery performance). One of the improvement is better integration of external Micro SD cards, however, it doesn't appear that the Sky is able to fully integrate external storage as if it were internal storage. .

    Speaking of storage, the Galaxy Sky has 16 GB, with about 11 GB usable space. This is a great improvement over many of Tracfone's other smartphones.

    Additionally, the combination of 1.5 GB RAM with the quad-core processor is more than adequate for the phone to handle most activities and apps.

    We also want to mention the touchscreen, which has HD resolution and good colors. As we mentioned above, the 5" screen is a comfortable size for many and looks great, qith good colors and sharpness.

    The Samsung Galaxy Sky packs nearly everything we would want in a budget smartphone from Tracfone. But there are some negatives we want to mention.

    What we Don't Like:
    The main drawback with the Galaxy Sky is the front and rear camera. The rear camera is only 5 MP, while the front is 2 MP. The quality is reasonably good, but at such a low resolution, you will probably want something better to capture any important memories.

    It also appears that external Micro SD cards may not be integrated as internal memory the same way many other Android 6.0 devices are able to do. We're not sure why there is a difference with the Galaxy Sky, but will add additional information as it becomes known.

    Finally, the Samsung Galaxy Sky does come with a handful of apps most users won't want, but it is possible to remove some of them, or at least disable them. Most phones come with a variety of pre-installed apps, so this is not something specific to the Sky.

    That concludes the issues we've found with the Sky. It is a well rounded phone in most ways and ideal for moderate smartphone users upgrading from an older Tracfone smartphone.

    Samsung Galaxy Sky Overview and Comparison to other Smartphones

    The Galaxy Sky brings some very popular features at a reasonable price to Tracfone users who have been waiting a long time. While the camera is not a strong point, the phone does excel in many other ways, especially battery life, screen quality, and overall performance.

    Compared to the Samsung Galaxy Luna, the Sky is a little more expensive, but also has twice the internal memory, and a larger screen. They both have the same processor, RAM and cameras.

    The Samsung Galaxy Sky is a significant improvement over many older Tracfone smartphones like the LG Ultimate 2, Moto E and Samsung Galaxy Stardust for many reasons, but especially the 16 GB memory and Android 6.0 OS. They phone will be smoother and faster than older devices, as is to be expected.

    While we do expect Tracfone to continue to release smartphones with similar or improved features in 2017, the Samsung Galaxy Sky is a great phone, and, with some of the airtime bundles below, a great deal.

    For additional information on how to use the Galaxy Sky, take a look at the interactive tutorial.

    Tracfone samsung galaxy sky
    Samsung Galaxy Sky on Amazon
    Where to Buy the Samsung Galaxy Sky:

    HSN - Available with 1350 Minutes and accessories - $129 (best value)
    eBay - Available with $25 airtime card - $129
    Amazon - With Airtime bundle - $119

    Prices may change, and HSN will probably sell out sometime in the near future.

    That concludes our review of the Samsung Galaxy Sky. We are excited about the improvements this phone has over older smartphones. Let us know your thoughts or questions in the comments below.

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    Tracfone Smartphone Resources:
    How to Activate or Transfer a Tracfone smartphone
    How Data Works on Smartphones
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    December 2, 2016

    Tracfone Promo Codes for December 2016

    Tracfone Promo Code List - December 2016

    Welcome to TracfoneReviewer, a blog with the latest Tracfone Promo Codes plus much more about Tracfone prepaid cell phones. If you're new, be sure to take a moment a see what else we have to offer including cell phone reviews and lots of other information.

    tracfone coupon code
    December Tracfone Promo Codes
    December is usually time of celebrating holidays with families and friends, and getting reconnected. So what could be better then some free Tracfone minutes to go with it!

    Each month we gather and share the latest promo codes to use with Tracfone prepaid devices to get additional minutes for free. You can get form 20 to 250 free minutes, depending on which promo code you use.

    Promo codes are used when adding a Tracfone airtime card, and each promo code is for a specific airtime card (and can also be used with cards of greater value). For example, a promo code for a 60 minute card, will also work on the 120, 200, and 450 minute airtime cards.

    Promo codes are not supposed to work on Tracfone Android smartphones, or unlocked devices on the BYOP program, however, sometimes they do, so it may be worth trying. It appears that smartphone users are getting bonus talk minutes, but no additional text or data airtime.

    Tracfone offers a wide variety of phones to use with their prepaid service, and we've created reviews for many of them on our Cell Phone Reviews page, so take a look if you're looking for a new phone (or just want to see what's new). We just finished our review of the Samsung Galaxy Luna.

    We also just created a guide to the Best Unlocked Smartphones to use with Tracfone BYOP. If you want some ideas on which phones you can bring to Tracfone (that won't break the bank either) check out that post.

    Now, let's get tot he promo codes for December.

    Tracfone Promo Codes for December 2016

    We also have more codes on our main Tracfone Promo Code page. Below are the latest codes tested for December.

    60 Minute Card use code 12745 for 60 extra minutes

    120 Minute Card enter 33707 to get 30 bonus minutes

    200 Minute Card add code 48567 and receive 40 free minutes

    450 Minute Card use 59431 for 50 bonus minutes

    1 Year/400 Minute Card enter code 97276 and get 300 additional minutes for free

    Bonus: $15 off purchase of 1 Year/400 Minute card with code 83453 (only at Tracfone.com)

    That concludes our promo codes for December. We hope these codes work for you, and please leave a comment with which code you tried or any other questions you might have.

    We also have a great community on Facebook where our readers can ask, and answer questions as well as get the latest news and updates.

    Check out our new Top 10 Christmas Gift Ideas for Tracfone users for some help in gift-giving this holiday season.

    if you're curious about which airtime card is the best deal, we did a full breakdown on Tracfone Airtime Cards including the newer smartphone only cards.

    For those who might be new to Tracfone, visit our Beginners Guide to Tracfone and also our Guide to Activating or Transferring to a Tracfone Smartphone.

    Thanks for visiting!

    November 28, 2016

    Samsung Galaxy Luna (S120VL) Review - Tracfone Smartphone

    Tracfone Samsung Galaxy Luna (S120VL) Review

    Welcome to TracfoneReviewer, a website with news, reviews and lots of other information. If you're new, take a moment to check out some of the other Tracfone related content we share!

    tracfone samsung galaxy luna
    Samsung Galaxy Luna Review
    The Samsung Galaxy Luna is a budget friendly smartphone released by Tracfone in late 2016 to use with their prepaid cell phone network.

    The Luna features a 4.5" touchscreen, 8 GB internal memory, 1.5 GB RAM, 5 MP rear camera and runs on Android 6.0.1. It has 4G LTE capability and uses Verizon's CDMA network. In general, it has pretty standard features and specs for a Tracfone smartphone device, with a few improvements.

    Tracfone continues to release a variety of smartphones, including the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus (as well as the iPhone 5S). The Samsung Galaxy S5, S6 and S7 have also been available through Tracfone for several months now and offer high-end performance at prices of over $500.

    But they are still heavily focused on budget devices listed between $50-$200 because that is where the largest demand among Tracfone users exists.

    Don't forget that you can also buy an unlocked smartphone, and bring it to Tracfone. We just created a list of the Best Unlocked Phones to use with Tracfone BYOP so take a look if you want some ideas. You can also visit our BYOP page for more information on how it works.

    let's get back to the Luna, and look at the quick facts:

    Samsung Galaxy Luna Quick Facts

    The Good:
    -Android 6.0.1
    -Reasonable Price

    The Not So Good:
    -Only 8 GB Memory
    -5 MP Rear Camera

    One of the key features on the Luna, and the reason it may be a good phone to upgrade to for some Tracfone users, is that it comes with Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow. This is a very recent version of the Android operating system, and has some nice improvements over past versions which we will explain more about later.

    The majority of Tracfone's low cost smartphone devices have only 8 GB internal memory and 1 GB RAM. This includes many of the recent phones we've reviewed like the ZTE Citrine, LG Rebel and LG Treasure. If you have used smartphones with limited memory and run into the problem of filling up your storage, you may want to consider a phone with more internal memory, such as the ZTE ZMAX 2 or unlocked phone options.

    We've just added the Luna to our List of 10 Tracfone Gift Ideas, follow the link to see the other Christmas gift ideas!

    Lets take a look at the full list of features and specs for the Samsung Galaxy Luna, followed by our review.

    Tracfone Samsung Galaxy Luna Features and Specs

    Below are the features, followed by the technical specifications

    • Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow
    • 4G LTE Capable using Verizon CDMA Cell Network
    • WiFi
    • GPS
    • Bluetooth 4.1
    • MP3 Player
    • Alarm Clock
    • Access to over 1 Million Apps on Google Play Store
    • 5 MP Rear Camera and 2 MP Front Camera
    • Caller ID, Voicemail, SMS, MMS
    • Triple Minutes for Life (on regular airtime cards)

    Samsung Galaxy Luna Specs

    • Size: 5.22" x 2.73" x 0.35"
    • 4.5" Touchscreen at 800x480 resolution
    • 1.2 Ghz Quad Core processor
    • 1.5 GB RAM
    • 8 GB Memory (with MicroSD slot for up to 128 GB additional memory)
    • Battery: 2050 mAh with 19hrs talk time, about 20 days standby

    There are a couple of interesting features to notice about this phone. First of all, it appears to have 1.5 GB RAM with a 1.2 Ghz quad core processor which is a step up from many other low cost Tracfone smartphones and will allow it to multitask much better. The Luna also has a long standby time, which is due, in part, to the newer operating system.

    The Samsung Galaxy Luna is one of several great Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals we've shared, so take a look so see where you can buy it at a discount, and some of the other phones available for super low prices.

    Let's dive into our full review of the Samsung Galaxy Luna where we will share the key features on this phone that make it good, and any drawbacks that might exist.

    Samsung Galaxy Luna Review

    What we Like about the Luna
    This is a phone that comes with a few small improvements over other recent smartphones released by Tracfone that actually might make a big deal for some users. We like that the Luna comes with 1.5 GB RAM, Android 6.0 and a reasonable price.

    tracfone luna review
    Tracfone Samsung Galaxy Luna Review

    We would like to see more phones from Tracfone with 2 GB RAM, which allows the phone to run more applications at once, and generally means better performance. But this is a lot to ask for in a budget smartphone, and 1.5 GB is an improvement over 1 GB which is what almost every other recent smartphone from Tracfone offers.

    The most notable feature on the Luna in our opinion is that it comes with Android 6.0.1. This version of Android was released in 2015, but only newer phones are using it. Most of Tracfone's other smartphones use Android 5.1 or older.

    Android 6.0 brings several improvements, including a 'doze' feature which does a number of things to improve battery life (and leads to a much longer standby time compared to most other smartphones). Android 6.0 also allows greater external memory support, which were lacking in several of the previous Android versions. What this means is that the 8 GB of internal memory may not be so limiting, and users should be able to load apps, music, photos and other content onto the external MicroSD card (once the card has been set as 'internal memory').

    Finally, the Luna is widely available for about $109 with an airtime bundle from HSN and QVC, or closer to $80 for just the phone from Target, BestBuy and other retailers. (Target offered the phone for closer to $40 on Black Friday)

    The Samsung Galaxy Luna is a smaller phone, but packs some good performance and features for the price, and we would see this phone outperforming many older Tracfone smartphones.

    We we Don't Like
    What is key to remember about the Luna is that it is a budget smartphone, which means that certain corners are cut to keep the cost low. In the case of the Luna, it comes with a somewhat small screen, low resolution camera, and low internal storage.

    Screen size on a smartphone is a matter of personal preference. Many smartphones now come with a screen size of 5.5 inches or more, which is great for viewing photos or videos, but may be bulky when trying to fit into a pocket or purse. The Luna has a 4.5" touchscreen which is a little smaller, but may be more convenient for some users. The screen appearance and resolution is good, but nothing fancy.

    Samsung Galaxy Luna only comes with 8 GB memory, which for many, isn't enough if you plan to run a variety of apps, store music and photos, or keep other content. However, the Luna does support up to 128 GB external MicroSD card, which should allow users not to expand the internal memory, although we haven't fully tested this yet.

    Finally, the front and rear cameras on the Luna are more of an afterthought. And while they do a reasonable job, they can't compete with most modern smartphones camera capabilities. If you only plan to use the camera for occasional photos in good lighting, then it should be fine. Otherwise, consider a phone with an improved camera.

    That concludes the main drawbacks we noticed on the Samsung Galaxy Luna. It performs very well compared to many of Tracfone's other smartphones, but isn't going to keep up with smartphones like the Moto G4 or iPhone 5S (but they are twice the price).

    Overview and Where to by the Samsung Galaxy Luna

    The Luna is a small, but capable smartphone that is ideal for low to moderate smartphone users. But it has potential, with the ability to integrate the external storage, it could end up with the ability to store quite a lot via a MicroSD Card.

    Compared to the LG Rebel, which also has a 4.5" touchscreen and retails for a similar price, we would choose the Samsung Galaxy Luna for the newer Android OS, more RAM and overall better value.

    Compared to older smartphones like the LG Ultimate 2, LG Sunset, and Samsung Galaxy Stardust, we would also recce mend the Galaxy Luna simply because of the newer Operating System which has a number of performance and security updates.

    The Samsung Galaxy Luna is available from several online retailers, and from retail stores like Target and WalMart.

    Find the Samsung Galaxy Luna on eBay Bundled with airtime for $69
    Find the Samsung Galaxy Luna on HSN bundled with airtime for $109
    Find the Samsung Galaxy Luna at Target for $109
    Find the Samusng Galaxy Luna at BestBuy for $109

    There are also several Cases on Amazon available for the Luna.

    View the Samsung Galalxy Luna Interactive Tutorial.

    That concludes our review of the Samsung Galaxy Luna, we hope you have found it useful and let us know if we've missed anything, or if you have any questions.

    If you're new to Tracfone, check out our Beginners Guide to Tracfone which provides details on how Tracfone prepaid service works, and some other helpful tips.

    We've also created a Guide to Activating or Transferring service to a Tracfone Smartphone or BYOP device.

    We will also be sharing details soon on the Samsung Galaxy Sky, a very similar phone with a 5" touchscreen also available through Tracfone.

    Thanks for visiting!

    November 2, 2016

    Tracfone Promo Codes for November 2016

    Tracfone Promo Code List - November 2016

    Below are the latest promo codes for November 2016. TracfoneReviewer strives to provide the most accurate codes, and be sure to check out some of the other valuable reviews and news we provide about Tracfone.

    Tracfone coupon code
    Tracfone Promo Codes for November!
    Each month Tracfone releases new promotional codes to get additional minutes for free. We find, track and post these codes for our readers to use and enjoy for free. We never require you to do anything to view the codes

    Tracfone uses promotional codes as an incentive for their customers. To get the free minutes, simply use a promo code when purchasing or adding an airtime card to your phone. In most cases, the bonus time is also automatically added.

    Some codes may only be used once, or are not available in every geographical location. Promo codes are not supposed to work on Android smartphones, but we've been getting reports that they may in fact work in some cases.

    Tracfone has continued to release more and more smartphones to use with their prepaid network. We recently reviewed the ZTE Citrine and ZTE ZMAX 2.

    You can also visit our BYOP page for details on bringing an unlocked phone to Tracfone, or our Cell Phone Reviews page for all our reviews.

    Remember, each promo code is for a certain airtime card, but can also be used on cards of greater value. So if you have a 200 minute card, the code for a 60 minute card will also work.

    Now, let's get to these coupon codes!

    Tracfone Promo Codes - November 2016

    Below are the latest codes that are valid and working for November 2016.

    60 Minute Airtime Card use code 12745 for 60 bonus minutes

    120 Minute Airtime Card enter 51574 to receive 20 free minutes (or try the code above)

    200 Minute Airtime Card add 36796 or 30433 to get 40 additional minutes

    450 Minute Airtime Card (no new codes - use any of the above codes)

    1 Year/400 Minute Airtime Card use 12572 for 250 extra minutes

    These are the promo codes for November. We hope you enjoy the free minutes! Remember, we also have many more code options on our main Tracfone Promo Code page.

    Don't miss out on the latest list of Deals, Discounts and Sales including great BYOP phones. We also included details on some new phones Tracfone released.

    To stay up to date, follow us on Facebook where we share each new post, as well as other tips, news and deals.

    Finally, see our comparison of Regular airtime cards to the New Smartphone only codes - Which one is a good deal?

    Thanks for visiting, and leave a comment with which code you tried and how it worked!

    October 28, 2016

    ZTE ZMAX 2 Review - Tracfone Smartphone

    Tracfone ZTE ZMAX 2 (Z955L) Full Review

    Welcome to TracfoneReviewer, a blog with helpful information about Tracfone cell phones. If you're new, be sure to take a look at some of the other articles we have created.

    zte zmax 2 review
    ZTE ZMAX 2 Review
    The ZTE ZMAX 2 was released in late 2015, and came to Tracfone in mid 2016, but it is a phone that has some features many Tracfone users desire, and at a price that is nearly unbeatable.

    Tracfone continues to release many new smartphones, and the ZMAX 2 was released several months back, but we are just now getting around to reviewing it. This is partially due to the great value for the price it offers, and also because Tracfone has released the 'big brother' to the ZMAX 2 in the form of the ZTE Max Duo.

    In this review we will share the features and specs for the ZMAX 2, followed by the pro's and con's and finally where you can buy and how it compares to some other Tracfone devices.

    Catch up on some of the other new phones Tracfone has been releasing by visiting our New LG/Samsung post, New ZTE/Alcatel phones, and New Apple iPhones available from Tracfone.

    Before we get too far into this review, here are our quick facts about the ZTE ZMAX 2. This is to help give an idea about the main pro's or con's for this phone:

    ZTE ZMAX 2 Quick Facts

    The Good:
    -5.5" Touchscreen
    -Android 5.1
    -16 GB Memory/ 2 GB RAM
    -8 MP Camera with good features
    -Great price - with airtime bundle for $150

    The Not so Good:
    -Not the best Battery Life
    -Speaker Performance is just OK
    -Processor is made for budget phones
    (these are only slight negatives, especially if you're coming from an older smartphone)

    We don't really have too much that is bad to say about this phone, but we will dive into some details further on. The key specs to take note of is the 16 GB internal memory and 2 GB RAM. These are features very few other Tracfone smartphones have, and allow the phone to be much more useful.

    We recently reviewed the LG Premier and LG Stylo 2, which have screens of 5.3" and 5.7". But the LG phones only have half the internal memory or RAM, which limits their ability to multitask, or store very many apps and other data.

    LG does have a reputation for quality and good performance in their phones while ZTE is less well known. ZTE is a Chinese manufacturing company and is one of the top mobile phone makers in China, and in the top 10 worldwide. They have increasingly been creating budget friendly phones that have good performance and features for distribution in the US and rest of the world.

    The ZTE ZMAX 2 is a phone that hits some high marks with the features it offers for the price, and may prove to be a good option for many Tracfone users.

    Let's get into the full list features and specs for the ZMAX 2 and see exactly what it offers.

    Tracfone ZTE ZMAX 2 Features and Specs

    Below are the phone's features, followed by the technical specs
    • Android 5.1 Lollipop
    • 4G LTE capable using GSM service (AT&T cell towers)
    • WiFi and Bluetooth 4.0
    • MP3 Player
    • Alarm Clock
    • Access to over 1 MIllion apps on Google Play
    • Accelerometer, proximity sensor, compass
    • GPS
    • 8 MP Rear Camera with autofocus, flash, HDR, Panorama, Face detection and more
    • 2 MP Front Camera
    • Caller ID, Voicemail, SMS and MMS
    • Triple Minutes for Life (when adding regular airtime cards)
    Tracfone ZTE ZMAX 2 Specs
    • Size: 6.06" x 2.99" x 0.37"
    • 5.5" Touchscreen with 720 x 1280 pixels (~267 pixel density)
    • 1.2 Ghz Quad Core Processor (Qualcomm Snapdragon 410)
    • 2 GB RAM
    • 16 GB Internal Memory (~9.5 GB usable, Micro SD card Slot up to 32 GB)
    • 3000 mAh Battery (removable) with about 17 hrs talk time, 10 days standby
    There are some key features on the ZMAX 2 that make it stand out from most other budget phones from Tracfone (which we will go over a little further on). But what is really impressive is that the ZMAX 2 is about the same price, or even a little cheaper.

    The Tracfone version of the ZTE ZMAX 2 is only available from HSN.com at this time, but you can also purchase unlocked versions of the phone(on amazon) and activate it with the BYOP program. Unlocked versions cost a little less, but don't come with the airtime bundle which is a $100 value.

    Let's get into our full review of the ZTE ZMAX 2.

    ZTE ZMAX 2 Full Review

    We will share our key likes and dislikes about this phone below.

    What we Like:
    Many of the features and specs on the ZTE ZMAX 2 are as good or better than many of the other Tracfone smartphones in this price range. The two most important features are the memory and RAM that come with this phone. Also impressive is the screen, camera and price.

    Many Tracfone smartphone users have found it annoying that Tracfone keeps releasing new phones with only 8 GB internal memory, and just 1 GB RAM. The ZMAX 2 doubles that, with 16 GB internal memory and 2 GB RAM. You end up with about 10 GB available space to store apps, photos, videos, music and anything else. This will likely be enough for most users unless you download lots of videos or music. 2 GB RAM makes this phone better at multitasking - it can run more apps at once before it starts to lag.

    We are surprised that the ZMAX  is one of very few options from Tracfone at this time with 16 GB memory. We think Tracfone will add more budget phones with 16 GB memory, but at this point the ZMAX 2 is one of the cheapest phones with this feature.

    The RAM and memory the ZMAX 2 has is about the minimum a moderate smartphone user would want in order to load the apps, music and pictures on their phone, and not have it slow down.
    ZTE ZMAX 2 tracfone review
    Tracfone ZTE ZMAX 2 Front, Side and Back

    Beyond the internal memory, the ZMAX 2 also has a large 5.5" touchscreen with a resolution of 1280x720 that is not bad considering the price of the phone. You don't get a full HD display, but it looks good and renders colors well.

    The camera on the ZMAX 2 is 8 MP on the back, 2 MP on the front. Neither is especially amazing, but they get the job done if you want to snap a few photos to share with friends. The camera actually does have a number of useful features, like panorama, HDR, face detection and touch focusing. You can also record video in 1080p 30fps HD resolution

    We like that the ZTE ZMAX 2 come with Android 5.1, but there are some phones coming from Tracfone that are running the newer, Android 6.0. With Tracfone, you can't upgrade the OS, so whatever version the phone comes with you are stuck using. Android 5.1 is relatively recent, but if you want to get OS updates, you should use an unlocked smartphone with the BYOP program.

    That concludes our list of the main aspects of this phone we found impressive. Now we want to cover some things that didn't quite impress us.

    What we Don't Like about the ZTE ZMAX 2:
    There is a lot to like about the ZMAX 2 when compared with similarly priced smartphones, so it is hard to find any serious negatives about this phone. However, we do want to make a few points clear to help our readers understand exactly what they are getting if they buy this phone.

    The speaker, battery, camera and screen are all pretty good at this price point and compared to the other smartphone's Tracfone offers like the LG Premier or ZTE Quartz, yet they have some drawbacks.

    The processor is 1.2 Ghz Quad-core, which is good, but also meant for budget phones. The battery is 3000 mAh, and can last all day with moderate use, but, as is to be expected, the large screen size does tend to drain the battery quickly if used constantly.

    It is hard to compare the ZMAX to other Tracfone devices because the ZMAX is generally a nice improvement. So why not try comparing it to one of the most popular unlocked smartphones currently available? That will help us see any significant negatives.

    If you were willing to spend a little more, you could get an unlocked phone like the Moto G4 ($200), which has a 5.5" screen at 1080x1920 full HD resolution, 13 MP camera, and uses a faster, Octa-core processor. The Moto G4 will also get Android 7.0 when that is released.

    The ZMAX 2 retails for $150, but that includes an airtime bundle worth $100, so you get the phone for just $50. If you buy the Moto G4, it is $200 with no additional airtime, so it actually costs $150 more.

    Looking at how the ZMAX 2 compares to the Moto G4, we see that spending a bit more money does get you better features, but the ZMAX 2 is also a great deal at the price.

    One final bit of information to point out  there is only one speaker at the bottom of the phone, so the sound can be muffled if set down with the speaker covered, but you can customize some of the settings and adjust the sound.

    That's it for our likes and dislikes. The ZMAX 2 comes with a lot of good specs at this price.

    Overview and Where to Buy the ZTE ZMAX 2

    The ZTE ZMAX 2 is ideal for moderate smartphone users who want to use a handful of apps and are also looking for a large display. It is a great value for the money, with better performance and specs than many of Tracfone's other similarly priced smartphones.

    Many of the recent Samsung and LG phones such as the Samsung Galaxy Luna, LG Treasure, LG Premier and others, have just half the memory and RAM of the ZMAX 2.

    For heavy smartphone users, who may play graphics-heavy apps or run lots of apps at once, it would probably be worthwhile spending a bit more money to get a more powerful device (like the Moto G4).

    The Tracfone ZTE ZMAX 2 is available from HSN with 1200 minutes for $150. It is also sometimes on sale for $129.

    Take a look at the Interactive Tutorial for a closer look at how the phone works.

    We hope the information provided in this review is helpful, and please leave a comment with any thoughts or questions.

    We also want to include some additional helpful information about Tracfone smartphones.


    Helpful Information about Using Tracfone Smartphones

    Using Tracfone Smartphones (or devices on the BYOP program) has certain unique characteristics we want to go over to help clear up any confusion

    There are regular airtime cards and smartphone-only airtime cards. You can use both with Tracfone smartphones.

    Regular airtime cards such as the 60, 120, 200 minute cards, triple on all smartphones. Smartphone-only airtime cards do not triple.

    Promo Codes do not work on Tracfone smartphones (although occasionally they do...)

    Airtime is split into three 'pools' of talk, text and data. When you add airtime, you usually get a certain amount of each. Send a text will only use your text 'pool', just like calling will use your talk time, and surfing the web or other online activities will use your data (if you are not on WiFi).

    For more about using Tracfone smartphones, take a look at some of our other resources:

    How Airtime works on Tracfone Smartphones
    4 Ways to Check your Airtime Balance
    Comparison of New Smartphone Cards to Regular Airtime Cards
    How to Add only Texts to your Smartphone
    How to Add Data to your Smartphone (and how Data works)

    We will also be reviewing the ZTE Max Duo in the near future, so keep an eye for that especially if you're looking for a phone with a 6" screen.

    Don't forget to check out our list of Great Deals, Discounts and Sales including some of the best unlocked phones to use with the BYOP program.

    And join over 2000 other fans who follow us on facebook where we post the latest news and updates.

    Thanks for visiting!

    October 18, 2016

    ZTE Citrine (Z717VL/Z716BL) Review - Tracfone Smartphone

    Review of the  Tracfone ZTE Citrine Android Smartphone

    This review of the ZTE Citrine is created by TracfoneReviewer. We have many more full reviews on our Cell Phone Reviews page.

    zte citrine z717vl z716bl review
    Full Review of ZTE Citrine

    The ZTE Citrine is a small, inexpensive Android phone available from Tracfone for either CDMA or GSM networks that actually packs many similar features and specs found in larger, more expensive devices.

    Is this phone the best smartphone from Tracfone for under $50? We will answer that, and share the full specs, features, and details about this phone. We will also give our review, and where to buy this phone at the best price.

    Tracfone has been releasing a large number of budget smartphones during 2016 including many ZTE, LG and Samsung devices. You can catch up on what phones are coming out or already released by checking out our posts on New LG and Samsung Tracfone Smartphones and New ZTE, Alcatel and Huawei (Nexus 6P) Tracfone Smartphones.

    With the Citrine, the main feature is the low cost, but there are some other good things about this phone. Let's take a look at our quick pro's and con's for the Citrine.

    ZTE Citrine Quick Facts

    The Good:
    -Recent OS - Android 5.1.1
    -Low cost - Available for $50, and even $30 some places
    -Quad-Core Processor
    -CDMA and GSM versions of the phone available

    The not so Good
    -Small Screen - 4"
    -Low Internal Memory - 8 GB
    -Low RAM - 1 GB

    One of he key features on this phone is that it is very inexpensive, and yet comes with the relatively recent Android 5.1.1 OS which we see mostly on phones that cost twice as much or more.

    Another great point to note is that there is a GSM version of this phone and a CDMA version. Just make sure you know which version works in your area (more about this below).

    Of course the Citrine can't compete in performance, appearance, or functionality with devices like the Apple iPhone 6 Plus now available from Tracfone, or other high end devices, but it also doesn't have the $500 plus price tag.

    Let's take a look at the full features and specs for this smartphone.

    ZTE Citrine (Z717VL/716BL) Features and Specs

    Below are the features for the smartphone, followed by the technical specs.
    • Android 5.1.1 OS (Lollipop)
    • Z717VL version is 4G LTE capable using Verizon network towers
    • Z716BL version is 4G HSPA+ capable using AT&T network towers
    • Wifi and Bluetooth
    • Access to over 1 Million Apps on Google Play
    • Alarm Clock
    • MP3 Player
    • GPS
    • 3 Home Screens
    • Handsfree Speaker
    • Voice Dialing
    • Caller ID, Voicemail, SMS, MMS
    • Proximity and Accelerometer sensor
    • 3.5mm headphone connection
    • Hearing Aid Compatible
    ZTE Citrine Specs
    • Size: 4.92" x 2.56" x 0.41"
    • Screen: 4.0" touchscreen with 800x480 resolution (TFT-LCD)
    • 1.1 Ghz Quad-core Processor (Qualcomm Snapdragon 210)
    • 1 GB RAM
    • 8 GB Internal Memory plus Micro SD Card slot (up to 32 GB)
    • 1650 mAh Battery with Talk Time 12 Hrs, Standby 10 days.
    Many of these features and specs are very similar to Tracfone's other devices such as the LG Rebel or Samsung Galaxy Core Prime. However, the Citrine is available at a much lower price. The main difference in the Citrine from many of Tracfone's other recent smartphones is the smaller screen size.

    If you notice the battery capacity, it is small, but this phone only has a 4" screen so it doesn't drain the battery as fast as phones with larger screens.

    Let's get into our full review of the Citrine.

    Tracfone ZTE Citrine Review

    What we Like:
    There's a lot of good features on this phone, specifically Android 5.1.1, 4G speeds, Quad-core processor and the low cost.

    tracfone zte citrine review
    Front, back and side of the ZTE Citrine - Note the textured back, and side charger port 
    Android 5.1.1 is a fairly recent version of the operating system, and generally newer is better when it comes to Android. With each new version, any bugs or security risks are usually fixed, and new features are added. For various reasons, Android phones from Tracfone do not receive OS updates, so whatever version they come with is what they will stay with. Tracfone has just released two Samsung smartphones with Android 6.0, but most of their phones use 5.1.1 or older.

    The Citrine comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 processor that has four cores, and runs at 1.1 Ghz. With this processor, the Citrine is capable of 4G LTE speeds, and has pretty good responsiveness. It is limited by the RAM, which we will mention more about further on. Basically, in a phone this cheap, it still has reasonably good performance.

    Lastly, the price is what will likely draw most of the attention to this phone. It is listed most places for $50, but also available for $30 in a variety of locations, including online. $30 is a great price for this phone.

    We also want to remind our readers that there are two versions of the Citrine, one with GSM capability, the other with CDMA capability. So it is available to all Tracfone users, but make sure you get the correct version for your service area.

    What we Don't Like
    There are some drawbacks about this phone that we want to share so that you can make your own informed decision about buying this device.

    First of all, the Citrine has limited internal memory and only 1 GB RAM. Many of Tracfone's smartphones share the same limitations. While it has 8 GB internal memory, only about 2-3 GB is actually usable, depending on which pre-installed apps you keep/update. Because of the low amount of memory and RAM, you won't be able to load very many apps on this phone, and running multiple apps at once will cause the phone to slow down and possibly freeze. This phone is best for calling and texting, and a handful of basic apps like Instagram and Google Maps.

    Here is some additional helpful information relating to the internal memory, from one of our readers, KRR:
            The total space I see is 8.00GB, System Memory takes up 4.69GB and after updating the variety of apps that are mandatory and adding in apps like The Weather Channel, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Zedge, Google Photos, Tracfone and a couple smaller apps for work I am left with 1.75GB available.  Not too shabby all things considered.  The Facebook app is a storage hog, so I opted to uninstall it and just access Facebook from the Chrome browser and use Facebook Messenger (since Facebook is staunchly against us accessing our Facebook messages via a browser on a mobile device).  I do recommend going in and clearing the cache often (Storage>Used Space>Cached Data). 
    - KRR
    The ZTE Citrine also has a small screen, just 4", which for some is a good thing, and for others a negative. If you're not sure what size screen you prefer, try visiting a Bestbuy, or other electronics store, and test different smartphones. For many, a screen size between 5" and 5.5" is preferred as it makes for easier viewing of videos, messages and everything else.

    Camera quality isn't great either on the Citrine, which shouldn't be a surprise at this price point. The rear camera has 5 MP and is adequate for capturing moments as long as there is good light, but the front camera, with only 0.3 MP, will struggle in anything other than good lighting.

    Finally, the quality of this ZTE phone is good, but nothing like a high-end smartphone. With most things in life, you get what you pay for, and the same is true for the Citrine. It does have a nice textured back, but it is made from plastic.

    Some readers have experienced issues with the quality of ZTE phones, such as the ZTE Quartz, and ZTE Valet. If you experience issues, we suggest contacting the retailer you bought the phone from, or contacting Tracfone. We have not heard any complaints about the quality of the Citrine, but will update as more information becomes available.

    Now that we've covered our pro's and con's for the CItrine, we want to answer the question, is this the best phone from Tracfone for under $50? Well, probably. A lot depends on what you're looking for in a phone, and if you're looking to use a variety of apps, you will likely be better off with a more robust smartphone.

    That concludes our review of the ZTE Citrine. We will share some additional information, and where to buy the phone.

    ZTE Citrine Overview and Where to Buy

    The Citrine is a very budget friendly smartphone that is best for those who want to use it for calling/texting and occasional web browsing, email and other basic apps. It will likely struggle at running any apps that are resource intensive, like certain newer games.

    This phone is most similar to the LG Lucky, also available from Tracfone. However, the Citrine is an improvement over the lucky in almost every way, with better processor, more memory, better camera, larger screen and more.

    You can find the ZTE Citrine available from many retailers including Walmart (GSM version, or here is the CDMA version), Target, Bestbuy, and more.

    The Citrine can be found online from many of the same retailers, and also on the Tracfone website.

    Some retailers have the phone listed for $50, while others have it discounted at $30, including the Tracfone website and Walmart.

    You can take a look at the ZTE Citrine interactive tutorial for help using and navigating the phone.

    We hope this review is helpful and let us know in the comments below if you have any further questions.

    Be sure to visit our Guide to Activating or Transferring Service on a Tracfone Smartphone for some helpful tips and info.

    If you're new to Tracfone smartphones, or just like to know how many minutes you have, visit our post on 4 Ways to Check your Tracfone Airtime Balance on a Smartphone

    We recently compared several of the latest LG phones from Tracfone and shared the results. Take a look at our LG Smartphone Comparison, with the LG Rebel, Treasure, Premier and Stylo 2.

    Join us on Facebook where we share our latest posts, and have a great group of followers who help answer questions.

    Catch up on the latest new Smartphones plus great deals and discounts on Tracfone devices in our last post.

    Thanks for visiting!

    October 3, 2016

    Tracfone Promo Codes for October 2016

    Tracfone Promo Code List - October 2016

    Below are the latest promo codes for Tracfone for October 2016. Each month TracfoneReviewer collects and shares these codes for our readers to freely use and share. Be sure to take a look at some of our other Tracfone related content including reviews and other information here on the blog.

    tracfone coupon code
    Tracfone Promo Codes below!
    Winter is coming, but to help hold off the cold we've got hot new promo codes for Tracfone!

    Tracfone provides these codes for their customers to use and get bonus minutes whenever they add an airtime card. Promo codes are for use with a specific card, but can also be used with cards of greater value.

    Promo codes do not work on Android phones. There has been some confusion about this, but from the first smartphone Tracfone released, they haven't allowed promo codes to be added. But, all smartphones come with Triple MInutes for Life (for regular airtime cards) and are a pretty good deal.

    Below you will find just the latest promo codes for Tracfone that are valid for October. But we also have a much more comprehensive collection of codes on our main Tracfone Promo Code page so take a look if you want more codes to try.

    If you're considering buying a new phone, check out our Cell Phone Reviews page where we list all of our reviews of Tracfone devices. You can also take a look at the details about the Tracfone iPhone 6 and 6 Plus now available.

    Let's get to the codes:

    Tracfone Promo Codes - October 2016

    Below are the codes, remember, some codes can only be used once/ Also, these codes won't work on for smartphones.

    60 Minute Card use promo code 12745 for 60 bonus minutes (may only work for some)

    120 Minute Card enter 90166 to get 20 free minutes or 24412 for 30 minutes

    200 Minute Card add code 27171 or 36120 and receive 40 extra airtime

    450 Minute Card (no new codes, try 36120 or 27171 for 40 bonus minutes)

    1 Year/400 Minute Card use 66994 for 250 free minutes

    These are the latest promo codes to use with Tracfone when adding a new airtime card. We hope these codes worked for you! Share your results in the comments below.

    We recently created a Guide to Activating or Switching to a Tracfone Smartphone/BYOP device and we also shared 4 Ways to Check your Tracfone Balance on a Smartphone. These might be helpful if you're considering a new smartphone from Tracfone.

    If you've got questions, or just want to keep up with the latest news and information, join over 2000 others who Follow us on Facebook. We share the latest posts, and various deals or updates from time to time.

    Finally, we also created a comparison of the latest LG smartphones available from Tracfone to help our readers decide which device is best for them.

    We've got lots more information and reviews coming soon, including a guide to buying non-smartphone devices from Tracfone, so stay tuned!

    Thanks for visiting!

    September 22, 2016

    Tracfone LG Smartphone Comparison - LG Rebel vs Treasure vs Premier vs Stylo 2

    Tracfone LG Android Phones Compared - Rebel, Treasure, Premier and Stylo 2

    This post was created by TracfoneReviewer to give a side by side comparison of several new Tracfone LG smartphones. We share lots more Tracfone information here, so take a look around.

    Tracfone has released a full line of new LG smartphones over the last few months. We've reviewed each of these phones, but also wanted to create a quick comparison to help highlight the various differences and similarities each of these phones share.

    We often get questions asking whether phone 'a' is better than phone 'b' and it isn't always easy to give a straight answer. With this comparison of these LG smartphones we hope consumers will be able to see the key differences for themselves, and determine which phone is right for them.

    Obviously there are a number of other great Tracfone smartphones also available, so don't limit yourself just to these phones. Take a look at our Cell Phone Reviews page for more.

    The Treasure, Rebel, Premier and Stylo 2 are all from the same LG line (released by LG in early 2016), with a handful of differences. The Stylo 2 is the most expensive, but also has the largest screen and other features. The Rebel is the cheapest, and comes with the smallest screen.

    Below is our comparison chart to show exactly how these phones differ.

    best lg smartphones tracfone
    Tracfone LG Phone Comparison - Click to Expand

    There are a number of similarities as you can see, including RAM, internal memory, and Android OS version.

    There are four main ways these LG phones differ:
    -Screen Size
    -Camera
    -Network
    -Price

    Let's take a closer look at each of these differences.

    Screen size is the most obvious, and ranges from 4.5 inches on the Rebel, to 5.7 inches for the Stylo 2. If you know what size screen you might prefer, it makes it easy to choose which one to buy. 5 to 5.3 inches is a good size for many people, as it balances between bulk and larger viewing surface. But some may prefer a much larger, or smaller screen size.

    The front a rear cameras on these four LG phones also differ, with better front and rear cameras coming with the LG Premier and Stylo 2.

    Network compatibility is an important difference to note as your area may only be compatible with one network. Note that the LG Rebel has two versions available, one with GSM compatibility and the other with CDMA compatibility.

    Finally, the price also changes depending which device you choose. The Treasure and Premier are currently available for a similar price, but we expect the price to go up a little for the Premier.

    Here are the links to our reviews for each of these LG smartphones so that you can take a closer look:
    LG Rebel Review
    LG Treasure Review
    LG Premier Review
    LG Stylo 2 Review

    Now for those who may be considering upgrading from older LG smartphones we've added several popular LG phones to our comparison chart:

    Tracfone LG smartphones
    Tracfone LG Comparison Chart - Click to Expand

    You can see the key specifications for the LG Ultimate 2, LG Lucky and LG Sunset above along with the other LG Smartphones. The Ultimate 2 has been discontinued by Tracfone (meaning they don't sell it anymore, but you can find it on Amazon and eBay) but the Lucky and Sunset are both still widely available.

    We wouldn't recommend buying the LG Lucky or Ultimate 2 unless you understand the limitations. For the price, the Lucky is a great deal for an Android device. However, if you want to use this as a daily smartphone and run a variety of apps, you will probably be frustrated with the low memory and lack of performance. The Ultimate 2 was the best Tracfone device at the time it was released, but it has been available from Tracfone since 2014 and is somewhat outdated.

    The LG Sunset actually compares pretty well with several of the newer LG phones like the Treasure and Rebel. If you've got the Sunset already, you may want to wait for something more advanced to be released before upgrading.

    We hope this comparison helps for those considering the new LG smartphones Tracfone has recently released. Leave a comment below and share your thoughts or questions. (all comments are moderated before posting to keep out spam)

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    If you're ready to buy a smartphone, but unsure of the activation process, read our recent Guide to Activating Tracfone Smartphones and BYOP Devices where we include a step by step walk through, and helpful tips.

    The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus are now Available for Tracfone and we've shared details on where to buy, prices and features. Follow the link to learn more.

    4 Ways to Check your Tracfone Airtime Balance on Smartphones is another recent post many of our readers find helpful.

    Finally, take a look at our Comparison of Tracfone Smartphone Airtime cards to Regular Airtime Cards and see which is a better deal.

    Thanks for visiting!