Tracfone Smartphone Vs. Unlocked Smartphone - Pros and Cons

Unlocked Smartphone or Tracfone Locked Device? See the Pros and Cons List

Should you go with a Tracfone branded device or use an unlocked smartphone on the 'Bring Your Own Phone' program with Tracfone? There are reasons to consider either option, and we share all the pros and cons in this post. 

Use the following list to help make your decision if you are wondering which option is best.

Tracfone Branded Smartphone Pros and Cons

Pros - Tracfone Smartphone

• Subsidized retail price for a big discount on some devices
• Many sales and deals throughout the year
• Deals with airtime bundles of up to 1 year of service included with a new phone available
• No hassle with compatibility and typically easy to transfer service

Cons - Tracfone Smartphone

• Phone choices are limited to a handful of brands (but that is slowly growing)
• Must go through unlocking process to use on any other carriers or in other countries
• Some Tracfone smartphones have reduced RAM or other specs compared to unlocked versions
• Tracfone still offers phones from several years ago - so you must pay attention to what you are buying
• Tracfone sometimes takes months to release a phone that is already available unlocked
• Tracfone doesn't always provide OS or security updates (but that is getting better)

Why get a Tracfone Smartphone?

For the best deal on a phone and service

Tracfone's branded devices are often available not only at subsidized prices, but also with airtime bundles of up to 1 year of service included (see our Tracfone Deals list for more). Some savvy users opt to purchase a new phone with airtime bundle each year at barely more than the cost of the airtime alone.

If you want minimal hassle, don't mind a locked device, and want the cheapest option for a phone and service, go with a Tracfone branded device. Just be sure that the phone you are purchasing was somewhat recently released for the best security and performance.

See our list of the best Tracfone smartphones for under $100 for some great options or the top Tracfone smartphone picks.

Unlocked Smartphone Pros and Cons

Pros - Unlocked Phone

• Wide selection of compatible unlocked devices including 5G capable devices and many phones not offered by Tracfone
• Get new phones (and the latest features) as soon as they are released
• Can easily switch to a different network or replace the SIM card for international travel
• Get automatic OS or security updates from the manufacturer

Cons - Unlocked Phone

• Not all unlocked phones are compatible with Tracfone service
• No special discounts from Tracfone
• Sometimes there are issues with voicemail or other services working properly

Why get an Unlocked Phone?

For the widest selection of devices and the most up-to-date software and security, plus the option to switch networks or swap SIM cards.

There are many unlocked smartphones that are not offered by Tracfone and allow users much more flexibility and features, especially camera performance. The latest phones will command a premium price, but often have excellent update policies for extended usability.

If you want flexibility, access to the latest releases, and a wider selection of phones with more features, go with an unlocked smartphone. 

Take a look at our list of the best unlocked phones for Tracfone.

There are many great ways to make Tracfone work for you, and we hope these pros and cons help if you are trying to decide what to do.

Leave a comment or head over to our Facebook page to join our growing community and to send us a message directly for technical questions or problems.

If you are new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide!

Don't miss our new list of 23 Pro's and Con's for Tracfone.

Thanks for visiting!

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G (S156VL) Tracfone Review

Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A15 5G (S156VL) Review, Specs and Features

The latest in a very popular line of budget Samsung smartphones, the Galaxy A15 5G is newly available from Tracfone for 2024 and comes with a 6.5" Super AMOLED screen, updated octa-core processor, and Android 14.

Along with the A15, Tracfone also offers the Galaxy A25 5G, which has an upgraded processor and increased RAM, but otherwise mostly similar features for a higher price. 

There will surly be a variety of new phones coming from Tracfone in 2024, and you can keep up in our Latest List of Tracfone Smartphones.

Let's start with the best/worst features on the A15.

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Pros and Cons

What we Like:
-Full HD Super AMOLED touchscreen
-Android 14
-5G and NFC
-Improved processor
-128GB storage
-25W fast charging

What we Don't Like:
-Only 4GB RAM
-No dust or water resistance
-No screen protection technology

There are several great features and upgrades coming to the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G, including a Super AMOLED screen with fast refresh rate, increased internal storage, and new processor compared to the previous model.

The A15 also comes with the latest Android OS at this time, and both 5G network compatibility and NFC for making payments with your phone. Plus, there is a 3.5mm headphone jack for those still using a wired set.

We do not get an upgrade in RAM, which is just 4GB, and the same included in the previous model. 

Below is the full list of features and technical specs for the A15 5G.

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G (S156VL) Features and Specs

Below are the features followed by the technical specs

• Android 14
• Samsung One UI 6 
• 5G (Verizon)
• Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
• Bluetooth 5.3
• Alarm Clock
• GPS
• MP3 Player
• Hearing Aid Compatible
• Access to over 1 Million Apps on Google Play
• Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting
• SMS/MMS
• USB Charger (USB Type-C 2.0)
• Compatible with Samsung Gear Smartwatches
• Side-mounted Fingerprint sensor

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Technical Specs
Size: 6.30 x 3.02 x 0.33 in (7.05 oz)
Camera: Triple rear camera 50+5+2MP and 13MP front camera
Screen: 6.5" HD Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits display (1080x2340 resolution)
Processor: Octa-core Mediatek Dimensity 6100+

Memory: 4 GB
Storage: 128 GB internal storage, supports up to 1 TB MicroSD Card
Battery: 5,000 mAh battery (non-removable) with 25W fast charging

Most consumers are familiar with the Samsung brand as they are a global manufacture and the largest consumer electronics maker (by revenue) in the world. They are based in South Korea and have a broad lineup of smartphones with their high end device, like the Samsung Galaxy S24, a contender for some of the best phones in the world.

Samsung phones are well known for their quality, something that can't always be said for some of the other brands Tracfone offers. Samsung also offers several years of OS updates and security fixes, another benefit some other brands don't include.

The Galaxy A15 5G does get some of the updated design elements of Samsung phones with a familiar layout for the charging port, beautiful screen, and it also features Samsung's UI changes. But a budget phone will have to cut some corners, and we will dive into that below.

Now let's get into the details with our review of the A15.

Tracfone Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Review

Touchscreen

The 6.5" touchscreen on the A15 5G has a resolution of 1080x2340 and 90hz fast refresh rate. Even more exciting than the full HD screen is the Super AMOLED technology that gives the screen more saturated colors, better brightness in sunlight, and deeper blacks. 

This screen is a significant upgrade for the A15 over the previous model, and is an example of high-end features slowly getting passed down to Samsung's budget phones. 

The screen has 393 ppi density, which gives it good contrast and detail, and a relatively common 19.5:9 screen ratio. It also features 84.5 percent screen to body ratio, which indicates smaller bezels compared to many budget phones. Samsung has created a device with excellent media viewing potential at a very reasonable price point and it is a significant upgrade over the previous model.

Performance - Processor, Storage and RAM

Samsung includes 128GB internal storage, 4GB RAM, and a new, MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ processor for the internal specs on the A15 5G. 

While some versions of the A15 5G include more RAM, the Tracfone version has just 4GB which is adequate but not ideal, and will limit the phones ability to multitask and run more resource intensive apps or games. 

This is the same amount of RAM as the previous model, but the A15 5G gets double the internal storage, with 128GB, plus additional external storage with a Micro SD card slot.

The MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ is an octa-core processor with 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55. It offers good efficiency with enough performance for some gaming and is a solid improvement over the processor in the previous model. 

There is no avoiding the fact that the A15 is a budget phone and the performance isn't as good as a more expensive device, but it is still quite capable for the price, and an improvement over the last model.

Camera

The Galaxy A15 5G offers a similar setup to the previous model when it comes to the rear camera with a 50MP main, 5MP ultrawide and 2MP macro sensor. Images are actually pretty good, with nice details and colors, but start to struggle in low light. There is a night shooting mode, which offers some improvements.

The front facing camera is a 13MP sensor, and very similar to the camera in the previous model. It offers adequate images.

Both the front and rear sensors shoot full HD video at 30fps and it is more than good enough for social media and sharing with friends.  Just don't expect too much from it or try to shoot a cinematic movie. We are a little surprised the A15 5G doesn't get 4K video recording, but at this price point, Samsung probably couldn't fit that feature.

Shoot better photos with our list of camera phone photo tips.

Battery Performance

A 5,000 mAh battery comes with the A15 5G which is a very common size and offers a long life with over 40 hours talk time, and up to 16 days on standby. 

The power-efficient processor and screen both help to extend the battery life and we are also happy to see 25W fast charging, which is better than many budget phones offer.

Android OS and Software Experience

Samsung includes the latest Android version on the Galaxy A15 5G at the time of release, along with their custom software additions. 

Android 14 was released at the end of 2023, and offers many exciting features such as improved battery performance, more customization, better font scaling, and a variety of enhanced security features. The latest Android experience not only brings features, but also better overall security. Samsung also includes software updates for up to 4 years, which is one of the best update policies from any phone manufacturer.

One UI 6 is a user interface designed by Samsung to make using their phones easier and more visually appealing. Samsung fans will likely be very familiar with the various time-saving and quick customization features included. The latest version, One UI 6, has a large list of features which can be viewed on the Samsung website.

Grab the best apps for Tracfone users in our full list.

Design

The Galaxy A15 5G follows relatively close to the basic exterior design of Samsung's high-end Galaxy S24 with a similar button layout, back panel look and camera lens layout. The A15 uses cheaper, plastic materials on the side and back, but it doesn't fell too cheap. There is no dust or water protection, and we don't see any mention of Gorilla Glass protection on the front screen. 

On the side of the device is the dual fingerprint reader and power button, along with the volume rocker.

A headphone jack is included on the A15 5G, a feature becoming more and more rare. And there is also NFC, which allows the phone to act as a credit card and scan at checkout using various virtual wallet apps. NFC is a great feature, and one we don't see at this price point very often, but is becoming increasingly noticeable when it is missing.

The size of this device is on the larger end, but it still fits well in the hand for most. For those that might have small pockets, or prefer a smaller form, there are better options out there.

The A15 5G has noticeably smaller bezels on the front compared to the A14 5G, and is just a little smaller, but otherwise the two phones are pretty similar in design and weight.

In general, the design is quite nice, especially for the price, and it looks like a much more expensive smartphone with the sleek lines.

Conclusion

Samsung has upgraded their popular budget phone from last year with a new touschreen, increased storage, updated processor and the latest Android OS experience. And while there are a few features they left out, like increasing the RAM or adding water resistance, the Galaxy A15 5G offers a lot for a budget friendly phone.

Tracfone is also releasing the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G sometime soon, which will feature a number of similar features, along with an improved processor and more RAM, with a higher price tag.

The Bottom Line
The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G builds on the popular budget line and offers some significant upgrades over previous models including an impressive Super AMOLED screen, improved processor, and more internal storage. While this device is not the best choice for gaming or serious phone photography, it is quite capable for most everyday smartphone tasks. With a retail price of $169 from Tracfone, this phone does have some competition from less expensive deices, but we also expect discounts and airtime bundles sometime in the future.

Samsung Galaxy A14 5G vs Samsung Galaxy A15 5G

The Samsung Galaxy A14 5G from last year was a capable phone despite using an older processor and offering limited storage and RAM. The updated A15 5G brings more storage, and a new processor with some nice speed improvements but the same 4GB RAM.

Perhaps the biggest upgrade on the A15 5G is the Super AMOLED screen which we have not seen on a phone at this price point and gives rich, vibrant colors and good brightness.

The A15 5G is a nice upgrade over the A14, but with Samsung's excellent software update policy, it might be worth waiting a year or two for those that currently have the A14 5G.

Motor G Power 5G 2023 vs Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Motorola's top contender from last year was the Moto G Power 5G 2023, and it offered a lot of great features at a very friendly price from Tracfone. 

Compared to the A15 5G, the Power has the same RAM and storage, similar camera setup, and a comparable processor, but the A15 5G offers a better touchscreen, NFC, and significantly better Android update policy. 

The Power does have a lower retail price at just $119 from Tracfone, but we expect the Galaxy A15 5G to be discounted sometime in the near future.

Where to Buy the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G from Tracfone

Get the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G w/ airtime bundle from HSN - $119 (limited time deal)

Get the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G w/ airtime bundle from QVC - $125

Get the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G on the Amazon - $149

We will update with more buying options as they become available.

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G User Manual

Get the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G User Manual to learn more about the device and how to setup your phone.

That concludes our review of the Galaxy A15 5G. Please leave a comment below with your thoughts or questions. 

If you are new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide!

Join us over on Facebook for the latest news and posts or send us a message for more direct help questions.

If you're shopping around for other plans, take a look at the Best Alternatives to Tracfone. 

Take a look at some of our recent posts, including a Guide for Making your Airtime Last Longer and Everything you Need to Know about Data Cards.

And don't miss out on the best Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales!

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The Best Alternatives to Tracfone Wireless (Is Tracfone Still the Cheapest?)

Top Cheap Alternatives to Tracfone Prepaid Service

These are the best low-cost alternatives to Tracfone service. Most of these options are a little more expensive than the lowest-cost Tracfone options, but generally offer more for the money with unlimited talk and text, and a some with unlimited data.

Many Tracfone users have been with the company for a long time. The extremely low cost and ability to control airtime usage has made it popular for years.

But there have always been a handful of issues (mostly poor customer service), and with Verizon acquiring Tracfone, the problems only seem to have multiplied. Issues range from a lack of basic functionality of the Tracfone website, to some users accounts getting disconnected. Tracfone promo codes have also become much more restricted, and Tracfone really has not been handling 3G network closures very well, leaving customers looking for answers.

We're hoping Tracfone straightens the issues out soon, and most Tracfone users are unlikely to leave, but for those who are ready to jump ship to greener grass, here are some of the best alternatives available. 

One thing to remember is that most of these use T-Mobile's network. So if you don't have T-Mobile coverage in your area, your main option in this list is Visible Wireless. 

Cheap Cell Phone Service Providers

Mint Mobile

Founded in 2016, Mint Mobile is a relative newcomer to the wireless industry, but they have quickly become a popular option for the simple, affordable, no-nonsense plans. 

Mint runs on T-Mobile's network, and only offers 3, 6 or 12 month prepaid plans. All their plans come with unlimited talk and text, and varying amounts of data. Their cheapest plan is $15 a month for the first 3 months and comes with 5 GB data per month. After that, to keep the $15 a month rate, you will have to commit to 12 months at $180 upfront. This is not unlike Tracfone's 1 year airtime cards that are a popular, and inexpensive option.

Other plans from Mint offer more data, with their $20 plan featuring 10 GB data per month, their $25 plan offering 15 GB, and their $30 plan coming with unlimited data. Just remember that to get those monthly rates you have to pay for 12 months upfront. If you opt to pay for only 3 months, it will end up at $25 for their cheapest, 5 GB plan.

Tracfone's most comparable plan is $199 for 365 service days, unlimited talk and text, and 24 GB data. But that comes out to over $16 per month with only 24 GB data for all 12 months. If you do need more data, it can be purchased at $10 for 1 GB. 

For those that use a lot of data, and prefer unlimited talk and text, Mint is a cheaper option to Tracfone. However, Tracfone does offer other plans without unlimited talk and text that come out to about $10 per month for 12 months.

Because Mint uses T-Mobile's network, you should check for coverage in your area, and for compatibility with your device, before switching.

Learn more about Mint Mobile on their website.

Google Fi

For certain users (mostly those ready to sign up 4+ lines), Google Fi might be a great unlimited option. 

All of their plans offer data, calls and texts within the US, Canada and Mexico at no additional cost, and their Unlimited Plus plan offers data in more than 200 countries, and free international calling from the US to 50+ international destinations. For people who travel a lot, or have family or friends abroad, this could be a big money saver.

Google Fi's plans only become economical, however, when you add multiple lines in a 'family' plan. With 4 lines, their Simply Unlimited plan is just $20 per month per line and includes unlimited talk, text and data. 

They also offer a flexible plan, which is just $20 for one line, and includes unlimited talk and text. But you have to pay $10 per GB for data on top of the $20. Tracfone offers a similar $20 unlimited talk/text card, but it also includes 1 GB data and additional data can be purchased at $10/GB.

Google Fi doesn't make sense for everyone, but for some users, and especially those looking to add a family plan of 4 lines or more, it offers a lot of great features and can be very affordable.

Fi uses combination of T-Mobile, Sprint, and U.S. Cellular's networks and only a handful of phones (such as Google Pixel devices) are designed to fully make use of all of Google Fi's features. But many other phones are still compatible. Check the full list here, and learn more about Google Fi on their website.

Tello Mobile

Update: Tello now offers a $10 plan for unlimited talk/text and 2 GB data, and a $25 plan for unlimited talk/text/data.

Much like Mint Mobile, Tello is an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) that uses T-Mobile's network and was founded in 2016. Unlike Mint, Tello offers monthly prepaid options so you don't have to commit to more than 1 month of service at a time. They offer a number of different, flexible plans that are also quite economical. 

For just $10/mo, Tello gives customers unlimited talk and text, and 1 GB 2 GB data. Increase the data to 5 GB at just $14 per month. They also offer an unlimited data plan for just $25. (Tello recently updated their pricing, reducing the cost and increasing data for many of their plans!)

Plans can be upgraded or downgraded anytime with no extra fees. The change is instant, and your remaining balance will roll over for the next 30 days. Plans renew automatically each month, but can be cancelled at any time with no fees.

Tello also offers International calling to over 60 locations free with every plan. And they currently have 50% off your first month of service.

Compared to Tracfone, Tello offers similar amounts of data, but at a lower monthly cost. Tracfone's cheapest unlimited talk/text plan is $15 for 1 GB (with auto-refill). And their top option is $35 for 8 GB (with auto-refill). With Tello, their 10 GB data plan with unlimited talk and text is $19.

One of the drawbacks for Tello is they don't currently offer any data-only add-ons. Whereas with Tracfone, if you need more data it is just $10 per GB. And also, Tracfone offers data carryover, so your unused data is added to the next month. We couldn't find anything mentioned about data carryover for Tello.

Head over to the Tello website to learn more, and check for compatibility.

Visible

Simple and affordable are the two words we would use to describe Visible. They have moved away from their 'party plan' pricing which required users to 'partner' with other users to get the lowest price on Visible service. Now, all users can get the lowest price without the need for a 'party plan'. 

Visible offers a $25 unlimited plan, and a $45 unlimited plan that includes various extras like 5G ultra wideband access.

Visible is owned by Verizon, and operates on Verizon's network, but still maintain an independent headquarters in Colorado where they were founded. 

Visible's main plan is $25 a month for unlimited talk, text and data, however, they are offering a discount to $20 a month using code Visible24, which may not last long. Refer a friend, and you each get $20 off your next bill.

Visible also comes with unlimited mobile hotspot and users can make calls to Canada, Mexico, the US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico at no additional cost.

But the biggest plus is that taxes and fees are all included. And many of you know how quickly the fees and taxes can drive the price up on a 'cheap' plan. 

Data on Visible is capped to certain speeds. 4G LTE data is capped to around 12 Mbps, and 5G data is capped to about 200 Mbps. These aren't the fastest speeds, but more than enough for most users. In several speed tests we conducted for Tracfone's service (on Verizon), our 4G lTE speeds averaged only 7 Mbps. 

If a simple, unlimited plan with Verizon service is what you want, and you don't mind finding a party plan to join, Visible is a good option. Head over to the Visible website to learn more.

Tracfone has several other brands under it, including Straight Talk and Net10 which each offer unlimited talk/text plans with 10 GB data per month for $35-$40. But users would be better off opting for Visible's unlimited plan and joining a party to get it all for $25 on the same network (Verizon).

Which Plan is Best for You?

Tracfone offers cheap service and a lot of flexibility with different plans. However, they are not the cheapest option for people who use a lot of data, or want an unlimited plan. And Tracfone's other brands (Straight Talk and Net10) are also more expensive than many other options.

For an unlimited plan, Visible and Tello are the cheapest options at $25 (with Visible requiring you to join a party plan). If you are going to have a family plan with 4+ lines, Google Fi is the cheapest unlimited plan. And if you don't want to deal with party plans or family lines, Mint Mobile is another option and has a $30/mo unlimited plan.

For the cheapest options, Tracfone is one of the better contenders, with a $125 year card that includes some airtime. But unless you are not using your phone much, you will have to spend more to get additional talk, text and data. Mint Mobile and Tello each offer plans for $10-$15 which include unlimited talk and text, and 1-5 GB data.

Tracfone does offer network coverage on all the major networks, which is very convenient. However, they do plan to migrate everyone to Verizon service in the future. Many of the other carriers in this list use T-Mobile, which may not have service in some rural areas.

The bottom line is, there are a lot of different options available and the best one is the one that fits your budget and needs best.

There are a number of other carriers that we did not include in this list, and some of them may offer great prices for certain options. But we found the list above to be the cheapest and best at this time.

If you have questions or want to share additional info, be sure to check the comments below or head over and Follow us on Facebook! 

If you're shopping for a smartphone, be sure to check out our List of the Best Tracfone Smartphones, which includes some of best current smartphones available from Tracfone. And for cost-conscious people, we just published the Best Tracfone Smartphones under $100 list.

You can also Bring Your Own Phone to Tracfone, including devices like the Moto G Stylus, iPhone, and more

See our Latest list of Deals and Discounts on Tracfone cell phones, but be careful, you might find a deal too good to pass up!

Thanks for visiting and leave a comment if you have thoughts or questions to share.

Tracfone Beginners Guide - New to Tracfone? Start Here!

How to Get Started with Tracfone Prepaid Service

If you're new to Tracfone, or want to know more about how it works, this is the place to begin!

How Tracfone Works - Beginners Guide

Learn the basics of what Tracfone offers, the  phones and airtime available, and how to get your phone up and running!

Also get a general overview of the different kinds of prepaid minutes, from add-on to unlimited, we've got all the details to get you started with Tracfone here.

Update: We just shared the Top 10 Most Common Tracfone Questions and the Answers, so be sure to take a look at that as well.

Let's get to it!

What is Tracfone Wireless?

Tracfone Wireless is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) that provides both prepaid service and a variety of branded smartphones to use with their service. They do not have any contracts and all airtime has unlimited carry over for talk, text and data.

Tracfone Wireless is the parent company of several other brands including Straight Talk, Net10, Total Wireless (now Total by Verizon), and some others. All of these brands offer prepaid service with Tracfone generally offering the most affordable options. (Learn more about all the different Tracfone brands)

Tracfone was recently acquired by Verizon which is leading to a variety of big changes, such as the rebranding of Total, and will likely include Verizon phasing out the use of ATT and T-Mobile networks by Tracfone users and switching them all over to Verizon's network. All phones activated going forward will likely only be allowed to be activated on Verizon's network.

What Does Tracfone Offer and How Do Minutes Work?

Tracfone offers prepaid cell service in the form of airtime cards that can be purchased from a variety of places, including online and in stores. Below are the service options.

Tracfone has four different types of cards:

• Regular airtime cards - Can be used with regular phones or smartphones, comes with varying amounts of airtime and service days
• Smartphone-only airtime cards - Can only be used with smartphones, comes with a certain amount of talk, text, data and service days
• Unlimited smartphone cards - Only for smartphones, comes with unlimited talk and text, a certain mount of data (1-8 GB) and 30 service days (there is also a 1 year card)
• Add-on cards - Only for smartphones, comes with either talk, text or data in a specific amount and no service days.

The Smartphone airtime cards can be used with any smartphones, and offer specific amounts of talk, text and data (plus service days) on each card. Generally, the smartphone cards are a better deal than the regular airtime cards, for those that use a moderate amount of talk/text/data each month. The smartphone cards range in price for $15 to $125, with different amounts of service days and airtime on each card.

Unlimited smartphone cards are somewhat new, and offer unlimited talk and text, 30 service days, and a certain amount of data (1-8 GB). These cards are between $20-40. For people that use a lot of airtime, especially calling or texting, these cards are a great deal. 

Unless otherwise marked, the Regular airtime cards come with 90 days of service. So, for example, if you buy a 60 minute card (which usually costs $20), you get 60 minutes for calling and texting, and also 90 days of service time. The regular airtime cards come with either 60, 120, 200 or 450 minutes. When you add a regular airtime card to a smartphone, the airtime is automatically split into talk, text and data. With the 60 minute card, that would be 60 talk, 60 SMS texts and 60 MB Data.

If you use all the 60 minutes, you can't make any more calls or texts. And if you go beyond the 90 days without renewing, you also can't make any more calls or texts. So you don't want either to run out!

The nice thing is that minutes and service days roll over. So if you already have 100 minutes, and 10 service days, when you add a 60 minute card, you will end up with 160 minutes and 100 service days! The smartphone cards work in the same way.

It is important to keep track of your minutes/service days because you don't want to run out. Here's our guide to the best ways to track your airtime.
 
Tracfone service can be very low cost, as little as $10 a month (even less for some!). And there are prepaid plans that automatically add airtime and service days so you don't have to worry about it.

Airtime is deducted for sending or receiving calls, for sending or receiving texts, and also for using the web (when not connected to WIFI).

On Android smartphones, airtime is split into three pools, one for calling, texting and data. Learn more about how minutes work by reading our Guide to How Minutes Work with Tracfone Smartphones.

Now, let's move on to activating your Tracfone.

How to Get Started with Tracfone

Setting up a new Tracfone devices is very easy, and can usually be done in a few minutes, with it taking a few hours to fully activate. 

How to Get Started with Tracfone:

1. Get a Phone - Choose a phone offered by Tracfone, or bring your own compatible unlocked phone. Check compatibility on the Tracfone website.
2. Activate Phone - Start the activation process on the Tracfone website, or text 'activate' to 611611. Follow the steps to get your phone activated. You can choose to use your existing phone number, or get a new one. For unlocked phones, you may need get a SIM card (or have one mailed to you).
3. Select an Airtime Card - Choose an airtime card to fit your needs, and add it during the activation process. Tracfone offers many different airtime cards, including unlimited options, and some with up to a year of service.

When you finish the activation process, be sure to follow any additional steps, including restarting your phone and testing the calling/texting functions.

Each Tracfone device should come with a small red card that includes instructions, and the phones serial number which you will need to register the phone. For BYOP phones, you will need a BYOP SIM card kit which Tracfone will mail to you.

You can activate your phone by following the directions, and either calling Tracfone or going online to their website. You can choose to either activate your phone with a new number, or transfer your number from your old phone.

The process for activating phones with Tracfone is usually very easy, and doesn't take much time. But occasionally, and especially with BYOP phones or some smartphones, you might run into problems that cause it to take longer. The key is to be persistent and patient.

Once your phone is activated, you will be able to manage your minutes on the home screen (except for the smartphones, where you can use the Tracfone My Account App). You can also check your minutes by signing in to the Tracfone website and going to your account page. Learn 4 Ways to Check your Tracfone Airtime for some additional methods!

Visit our Guide to Activating Smartphones and BYOP devices for more information on these newer phones.

Now that your phone is all set, you can add minutes to it, and start enjoying the freedom and flexibility of a no-contract phone.

What Phones Can I use with Tracfone?

As we mentioned above, Tracfone sells locked devices for use on their cell phone network. They get these phones through partnerships with many major cell phone makers like Motorola, Samsung, Apple and others and offers them at often discounted prices. Tracfone also allows users to bring almost any unlocked phone that is compatible with their network.

Tracfone offers a lot of different phones, and it releases new options frequently. see all new phones on our List of the Latest Tracfone Smartphones. 

Visit the Best Tracfone Smartphone List for our top picks, or also see our Best Budget Picks (under $100).

Tracfone cell phones are locked to Tracfone for a certain amount of time, but they can be unlocked in most cases. Check if your Tracfone can be Unlocked in our recent guide.

See more smartphones options on our Cell Phone Reviews page. Also learn How to Add Texts to your Smartphone and How Data Works on Tracfone Smartphones for more in depth information.

'Bring Your Own Phone' or BYOP, is a program Tracfone offers that allows users to bring their own device to use with Tracfone service. In general, an unlocked phone is required, but some locked devices will also work. There are a wide variety of unlocked smartphones available that offer great performance at a reasonable cost. Take a look at our list of the best unlocked smartphones to use with Tracfone.

To activate a phone with the BYOP program you just need your device and a BYOP SIM kit. Learn more about what phones will work and the activation process on our BYOP page.

The BYOP program is great for users who want to get the most out of their phone or enjoy shopping for bargains on unlocked phones.

Tracfone Promo Codes

If you are new to Tracfone, you might not know about Tracfone Codes! These are codes provided by Tracfone which will give you extra minutes or discounts for free whenever you add a new prepaid minutes card. There are certain codes that work for different Cards. Tracfone hasn't been updating these codes as much in the last few years, but there are still some discounts available.

Visit our Tracfone Promo Codes page for all the codes, and more details.

Additional Tracfone Resources and Helpful Links

We want to share a few more additional resources for learning more about Tracfone, and getting the most from your device. So browse the following links and take advantage of the information.

For the latest deals and sales on Tracfone devices, head over to our Deals and Discounts category which features periodically updated blog posts that share the lowest prices on Tracfone devices and minutes.

If you have a new smartphone, two posts which are great resources are The Best Android Apps for Tracfone, and Tracfone Smartphone Cases and Covers.

Don't miss our new list of 23 Pro's and Con's for Tracfone.

Well we hope this information will help you out, and be sure to leave a comment if you have questions! Also share this along with a friend who could also use it!

And if you want to keep up with us and the latest news and info, follow us on Facebook.

Thanks for visiting!

Best Tracfone Plans 2024: Cheapest Plans and Unlimited Talk/Text

Tracfone Service for $7/mo, Airtime Bundles, and the Cheapest Unlimited Plan

The great thing about Tracfone Wireless is that you can choose different plans to suit your specific needs. But how do you know if you are getting the best deal? And what if you just want the cheapest plan?

In this post we will cover:

• Ultimate Cheapest Tracfone Plans
• Best Tracfone Plan with Unlimited Talk and Text

For those wondering about 5G network coverage, Tracfone includes coverage with all of their plans, where available. Check Tracfone's 5G network coverage map for more information. 

Ultimate Cheapest Tracfone Plans

Are you looking for the cheapest way to have a cell phone with calling, texting and data capabilities? Maybe you don't use your phone often, or perhaps you just need a backup device. Here are several options that are all under $10/mo.

1. Buy a Phone with Airtime Bundle ($5/mo plus free smartphone)
This surprising deal might not work for everyone, but if you are willing to buy and activate a new phone every year, there are options for as low as $5/mo. This deal from retailers like HSN and QVC (and sometimes eBay) offers a budget smartphone like the Samsung Galaxy A03s or Moto G Power 2022 bundled with 1500 talk, 1500 text and 1.5GB data plus 365 service days. Prices change often, and there are a variety of phone options available, including 5G capable smartphones for a little higher price. This is the cheapest service plan, and you get a brand new phone.

2. $20 Airtime Card for Basic Phones ($7/mo) 
The 60 minute card from Tracfone comes with 90 service days and 60 minutes to use for talk, text and data. It costs $6.67 per month, not including taxes or other fees and is a simple, cheap way to keep a phone activated. If you already have a basic phone, this is a great option.

3. Buy the $125 Smartphone Card and use promo code 44282 for $15 off ($9/mo)
If you already have a smartphone, and just want to add more service days and some airtime, the $125 smartphone card comes with 365 days and 1500 talk, text and data to use during the year. With a promo code, it comes down to just $110 not including taxes and fees. While this isn't the cheapest method, it is an easy way to add a plan for under $10/mp.

Got a tip or other cheap service plan? Share it on our Facebook or in the comments below.

Best Tracfone Plans with Unlimited Talk and Text

For consumers that use their phone often for calling, texting and more, an unlimited plan may make the most sense. Tracfone only offers unlimited talk and text. There's no unlimited data at this time. Below are the best Tracfone plans that offer unlimited talk and text and some data. If you use more than 4-5GB per month, consider switching to another company that offers unlimited data options.

1. $199 Unlimited Smartphone Plan with 1/year service and 24GB Data ($16.60/mo)
This unlimited plan comes out to about $16.60 per month for 2GB data and unlimited talk and text. What is great about this option is that you get 24GB data upfront, so you can choose to use more of it some months, less of it others. This could be great for those who travel, or just want some flexibility. If the data does run out, a data card can be added, or other unlimited cards.

2. Don't Need Data? $15/mo Unlimited Talk/Text ($15/mo)
If, for some reason, no data is required, then the $15 unlimited card is the cheapest option. It offers 30 services, but comes with zero data. If you already have a lot of data, or don't use it, this is a great option.

There are a lot of different plans and options from Tracfone that can be selected to suit your specific usage. Share what plan you prefer in the comments below.

About Tracfone (For anyone who might be new to Tracfone)

Tracfone is an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) which basically means they don't own any networks, but operate on other companies networks including Verizon, ATT and T-Mobile. Tracfone is now owned by Verizon, but they still offer service on other networks as well (for now).

All Tracfone service is prepaid, and comes with a specific number of service days, and a certain number of talk, text and data minutes. Some plans come with unlimited talk and text.

Tracfone offers locked smartphones at often subsidized prices, but their selection can be limited. It is also possible to bring most unlocked smartphones and use them with Tracfone service.

For more on the basics of Tracfone, visit our Beginners Guide.

Also take a look at our List of the Best Tracfone Smartphones under $100!

Take a look at the Latest Deals and Sales on Tracfone devices and also our Tracfone Promo Code page!

Join our Facebook page where we post the latest news, deals and other information. Plus, if you have specific questions you can send us a message.

Finally, learn how to Make your Airtime Last Longer and also check out our recent post on How Data works with Tracfone.

Thanks for visiting!

Tracfone GSM Vs. CDMA Phones (What You Need To Know in 2024)

What is the Difference Between GSM and CDMA Tracfones?

Welcome to TracfoneReviewer! This post updated January 2024.

Tracfone Wireless offers prepaid cell phone service but does not actually have any cell networks of their own. Instead they use other major service provider networks including Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. 

Many things have changed in the last few years, including Verizon acquiring Tracfone in 2021, and newer cell phone technologies (4G and 5G) moving away from the distinction of GSM and CDMA. In the past, Tracfone offered two general types of phones, GSM and CDMA, which determined what network you would use. But now, that doesn't really matter, and we'll explain why.

Let's jump straight into our updated information, and start with a little backstory.

Why GSM and CDMA Don't Matter Anymore

GSM and CDMA are technologies that only had to do with 2G and 3G cell phone networks. And as these infrastructures are decommissioned, that distinction  will become irrelevant. We now have widespread 4G LTE, and growing 5G technology beginning to emerge.

4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) has a standardized framework across all carriers (as does 5G). But until recently, 2G and 3G networks were still used for voice calls, leading to a distinction between GSM or CDMA for certain providers, still being relevant. Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile are all closing their 3G networks in 2022 and will switch users to VoLTE compatible devices.

CDMA and GSM are still sometimes incorrectly (even by us) used to refer to Verizon and AT&T's networks, but as they transition to 4G LTE and 5G, that distinction doesn't matter, and what is more important is which bands your phone is capable of using.

A band is a range of frequencies within a specific signal, and Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile each have some of their own bands, but also share some of the same ones. Some phones are compatible with enough bands to be capable of working on any network, while other phones only can access bands from a specific provider.

To summarize, GSM and CDMA are technologies that are nearly obsolete, and current and future technologies are standardized, but different networks still use different bands, which not all phones are configured to access. Most mid-to-high-end smartphones are compatible with bands for any major carrier, but many budget phones don't include that, and are only capable with certain networks and bands.

With that all covered, for those who are still interested, here is additional information about CDMA and GSM.

What Are GSM and CDMA Cell Phones?

Let's start by giving a little more information about GSM and CDMA:

GSM, which stands for Global System for Mobile communication, is the more popular cell phone standard worldwide, but not as much here in the United States. AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM networks for all their cell phone service, and Tracfone cell phones that use GSM run off of one of those two major carriers (mostly AT&T).

CDMA stands for Code Division Multiple Access and is less popular world wide, but more popular in America. It is used by Sprint and Verizon for their cell phone service, and any Tracfone devices that use CDMA typically is using Verizon's networks..

So, GSM or CDMA cell phones are simply cell phones that run on one of those two networks.

For more general details on the differences between GSM and CDMA networks visit GSM vs CDMA on Diffen

How to Tell If You Have a GSM or CDMA Tracfone:

LG 505C (CDMA)

This is a common question with Tracfone users that has a very simple answer.

For Older Tracfone Devices:
If your cell phone ends with a 'C' it uses the CDMA Network. An example is the LG 505C. Notice the 'C' at the end of the name. All Tracfone mobile devices that end with "C' use either Verizon or sometimes other  CDMA networks.

If your cell phone ends with a 'G' it used the GSM Network. An example is the LG 840G. All Tracfone cell phones that end with this 'G' use the GSM network, which is either T-Mobile or AT&T. GSM phones have been very popular with Tracfone, but recently there has been a wave of Android smartphones for Tracfone and they all use Verizon CDMA service.

For Newer Smartphones:
Tracfone has also started using 'VL' at the end of some of their smartphones, which indicates it is Verizon - LTE. The Samsung Galaxy Luna Pro (S327VL) is an example.

Some Tracfone GSM smartphones also use 'AL' or 'BL' to indicate LTE service with either AT&T or T-Mobile.

Check your SIM Number:
Another way to check what carrier you are using is to check your SIM number and compare the first 6 numbers with those below:
890141 + AT&T (GSM)
890126 + T-Mobile (GSM)
891480 + Verizon (CDMA)

On most smartphones you can find the SIM number on the SIM card, or with the packaging. Here is a tutorial from Tracfone that walks through finding and checking your SIM card number.

For more on these smartphones, visit our Cell Phone Reviews page where we have a full list including all of the recent Android smartphones.

Should I Buy a GSM or CDMA Tracfone?

This is also a question we get here at TracfoneReviewer quite often. Many people are unsure which type of phone to get, those ending with 'C' or 'G'?

Here is what it comes down to: As mentioned above, Tracfone cell phones ending with 'C' or 'VL' use the CDMA networks of Verizon and phones ending in 'G' or 'AL'/'BL' use AT&T and T-Mobile. Thus, you should get the phone that will use the network that has the best coverage in your area.

This may take a little research to discover, you may want to talk with friends or look up information online, but when you have found which major cell phone provider works best in your area, use the cell phone from Tracfone that will use that network.

Many cities have either GSM or CDMA as the more dominant provider for a variety of reasons, so be sure to find out which will work better. You can go on the Tracfone website and shop for cell phones there, where they will ask for your zip and determine which type of phone you should get.

Many of the Android smartphones Tracfone has released use CDMA (Verizon) cell service. There are a few that also use GSM service. Check before you buy that you are getting the right one for your area.

In some cases, Tracfone may indicate that only GSM or CDMA works in your area, but in reality both may work.

And remember, you can always buy an unlocked smartphone and bring it to Tracfones BYOP program using either CDMA or GSM service. We just reviewed the Unlocked Moto G7 which can be used with either either network.

In the end, do a little research and you should find which type of phone will work best in your area.

Tracfone Cell Phones for GSM and CDMA Networks

Tracfone cell phones use either GSM or CDMA. Below we will share a list of cell phones from Tracfone organized by which type of network they use. This list does not include all of Tracfone's devices, but many of the most popular ones with newer devices listed first.

Additionally, you can visit the Tracfone website and go to 'Shop' and they will ask for your ZIP code, and then show you currently available phones for your area.

GSM phones - AT&T and T-Mobile
(Limited Android smartphones use GSM)
ZTE ZFIVE 2 (Available on Tracfone website)
LG Rebel
LG Sunset
LG 306G
Motorola EX431G
Samsung S425G
LG 840G
LG 530G
LG 500G
Samsung S390G
LG 440G

CDMA phones - Verizon and Sprint
(Most Android smartphones use CDMA)
Motorola Moto G6
Samsung Galaxy J7 Crown
Samsung Galaxy J3 Orbit
LG Fiesta
Samsung Galaxy Luna Pro
Samsung Galaxy Sky Pro
ZTE ZFIVE
Samsung Galaxy Centura
Huawei Glory
ZTE Valet
LG Optimus Dynamic
LG Optimus Dynamic II
LG 505C
Samsung R455C
LG 501C
LG 290C

Tracfone allows users to bring GSM or CDMA smartphones (usually unlocked) to use with their BYOP 4G LTE service. Visit our Tracfone BYOP page to learn more.

There are many more cell phone options from Tracfone besides these, but this is just a sample of cell phones categorized by which network they use.

Take a look at our Latest Tracfone Cell Phones List to keep up with the newest releases.

You may also find our recent posts, Top 3 LG Phones from Tracfone and the Best Tracfone Prepaid Cell Phone interesting and useful in finding a cell phone.

We hope this helped to answer questions, and if you have any more, just ask them in the comments. Share this with others who also might find it beneficial!

Tracfone Smartphone Deals List - January 2024

 Best Tracfone Sales, Deals and Bundles - January 2024

We all want the lowest prices and best deals and to save money, and that is especially true when buying an expensive new smartphone. Plus, there are so many different places to buy Tracfone devices from these days, how do you know where to find the best deal?

We are here to help! With the list of best prices on recent Tracfone smartphones and even unlocked devices! 

Prices, bundles and deals change often online and every month we gather the best prices on popular Tracfone smartphones and provide the updated deals to our readers below. Some of these deals include airtime bundles, and others just the phone. (The best value usually includes airtime bundles!).

Prices and availability change quickly, and we update this list as often as we can. If you are looking for a new phone, also check out our List of the Latest Tracfone Smartphones. The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G, for example, is coming to Tracfone vey soon.

We've included several smartphones just released on Tracfone last month!

Best Deals on Tracfone Smartphones - Updated for January 2024

These are the lowest prices from around the web on some of the latest and greatest smartphones from Tracfone.

Samsung Galaxy A13 5G - $59 w/ airtime bundle
6.5" touchscreen, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, 5G network compatible 
HSN with airtime bundle | QVC with airtime bundle

Moto G Stylus 5G (2022) - $145 w/ airtime bundle

6.8" touchscreen, 4 GB RAM/128, 5G network compatible, Snapdragon 695 processor

QVC with airtime bundle (limited time deal)

Google Pixel 6a - $219 w/ airtime bundle

6.1" screen, 128GB internal storage, 6GB RAM, Tensor processor, dual 12MP cameras and 5G

QVC with airtime bundle ($200 value) $239 | HSN with airtime bundle ($200 value) $219

Moto G Stylus (2022) - $125

6.8" touchscreen, 4 GB RAM/128 GB storage, (Read our full review of the Stylus)

Amazon

Moto G Power 5G (2023) - $79

6.5" full HD screen, 4GB RAM/128 GB internal storage, 5G network access, great battery life. (Read our full review of the Moto G Power 5G)

QVC w/ airtime bundle ($79)

Target (Discount available for new activations)

Amazon (on sale for $99)

Samsung Galaxy A14 5G - $119 (sale ended)

6.6" full HD screen, 4GB RAM/64GB storage, 5G network access, NFC, newly released (Read our full review of the Galaxy A14 5G)

HSN with Airtime Bundle 

QVC with Airtime Bundle 

Moto G Power (2022) - $69

6.5" touchscreen, 4 GB RAM/64 GB storage,  (Read our full review of the Moto G Power 2022)

Amazon

Samsung Galaxy A03s - $49

6.5" touchscreen, 3 GB RAM/32 GB storage,  (read our full Galaxy A03s Review)

Amazon | Target | HSN 2-pack w/ airtime bundle $99

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G - $307

6.4" Super AMOLED touchscreen, 6 GB RAM/128 GB storage (Read our review of the A54 5G)

QVC with airtime bundle ($200 value) | Amazon (device only)

Moto G Play 2023 - $73

6.5" touchscreen, 3GB RAM/32GB storage, newly released (read our full review of the Moto G Play 2023)

QVC w/ airtime bundle

Moto G Stylus 2023 - $99 (price drop)

6.5" screen, 4GB RAM/64GB storage, Android 13, newly released

Tracfone Website

Deals on Unlocked Smartphones (For Tracfone BYOP)

Moto G Power 5G (2023) (Unlocked) - $199 ($100 off)

6.5" screen, 6 GB RAM/256 GB storage, 5G network compatible

Amazon

That concludes our deals and sales list and hope these help you get the best price on a new smartphone!

Leave a comment below with any thoughts or questions and also join us on Facebook to connect with our growing community and get the latest info.

We just shared our thoughts on whether Alcatel, TCL and ZTE phones from Tracfone are any good, and some of the information we share might be surprising.

All the phones in our list above are VoLTE capable according to Tracfone, but you may want to take a look at updates to our post about Tracfone Closing their 3G CDMA network and how it may affect you.

Keep up with the latest in 5G network access with Tracfone including 5G Coverage maps! And a list of Tracfone 5G phones.

If you're new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide which shares helpful information about how it all works or we just created, The 10 Most Common Tracfone Questions Answered.

And finally don't miss out on our Tracfone Promo Code list with many different codes to get free minutes when adding airtime!

Thanks for visiting!

Tracfone Review: 24 Pros and Cons of Tracfone in 2024

Is Tracfone a Good Deal? Is it Worth It? - Top Pros and Cons for 2024

Tracfone Wireless has been around for more than 25 years and while plenty of things have changed about the company, they generally have always been focused on low-cost cell phone service.

But how do things look for Tracfone in 2024 and what are some of the potential drawbacks users might want to know about before signing up for their service? We've compiled a list of our top 24 pros and cons of Tracfone Wireless. 

Pros of Tracfone Wireless Prepaid Service:

1. No contracts required
2. Very affordable plans starting at just $10 per month (and even $99 for a year of service) (see our Cheapest and Best Tracfone Plans)
3. Nationwide coverage on major networks (Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile)
4. 5G network access at no additional charge (where available - See coverage maps and more details)
5. Flexible plan options and the ability to add airtime/data as needed
6. Variety of Tracfone branded (locked) phones available at subsidized prices (List of Best Phones Under $100)
7. Option to use almost any unlocked phone with Tracfone service
8. Manage your account online or on the app 
9. No credit check required for activation
10. Option to purchase international calling time
11. Buy airtime and phones from many major retailers or a variety of online sources (Walmart, Amazon, etc.)
12. Unlimited carry-over for talk, text and data

Bonus: Get free airtime with Tracfone Rewards (Sign up using our code and get 7,000 points!)

The main benefit of Tracfone is that it is affordable and flexible. Plans are available for as low as $99/year, or even $15/mo for unlimited talk and text, and you can always switch to different airtime plans depending on your usage. Plus, airtime has unlimited carry-over, so what you don't use is automatically added to the next month.

Tracfone is also very easy to get started using - just buy a phone (or bring your phone), buy an airtime card, and activate it. There are no contracts, credit checks or forms to fill out.

But there are some drawbacks to Tracfone that we'll share now:

Cons of Tracfone Wireless Prepaid Service:

1. Poor customer service - often inconsistent, difficult to access and hard to understand sometimes
2. No unlimited data plans available and extra data is $10 per 1GB
3. Must purchase a year of service to get the best deal on new unlimited talk/text plans (prices range from $144 w/ no data, to $384 w/ 10GB per month)
4. Reduced network speeds during times of heavy network congestion
5. Few premium phone options compared to postpaid carriers
6. No international roaming options 
7. Customers using AT&T or T-Mobile networks will likely have to switch to Verizon's network by the end of 2024.
8. Limited mobile hotspot capability.
9. Uncertain future due to Verizon acquiring Tracfone in 2021 (Verizon is working on consolidating the Tracfone family of brands)
10. Tracfone website can be buggy and hard to use
11. Must keep track of your airtime - if you run out, you will lose service until more airtime is added
12. Few new Tracfone promo codes in recent years for customers to use when adding an airtime card to get free airtime. Tracfone seems to be phasing them out.

One of the biggest complaints about Tracfone is their poor customers service. And while they have made a variety of changes and different ways to get support, there are still countless stories from customers spending hours, days or even weeks trying to fix a problem.

Additionally, with Verizon acquiring Tracfone in 2021, they will likely be shifting customers who are currently using AT&T or T-Mobile networks to Verizon's network by the end of 2024. And, Verizon is also planning to consolidate some of the Tracfone brands (such as Net10) in 2024 as well. We're not sure what this means for Tracfone yet.

While Tracfone service can be very cheap, it can quickly get expensive for anyone who uses a lot of data. There is no unlimited data option, and additional data is $10 per 1GB. For those that use more than a couple GB per month, there might be some better options, like some of the ones we list in our Best Alternatives to Tracfone post.

Is Tracfone a Good Deal in 2024?

For light users who don't use a lot of data, or just need a phone as a backup, Tracfone can be an excellent deal and is the cheapest option we can find. For some moderate users who are good at keeping track of airtime usage, it can also be a great deal, especially with some of their unlimited talk/text cards.

Tracfone recently updated their primary airtime options to offer a larger discount for those purchasing a year of service at a time. The $15/mo plan comes with unlimited talk/text but no data. If users purchase a year of that plan, it costs just $144, or $12/mo. To get any data, users have to bump up to $20/mo for 2GB data, $25 for 3GB, $30 for 5GB or $40 for 10GB per month. There are discounted prices for these plans when purchasing 3, 6 or 12 months at a time. This pricing model is very similar to Mint Mobile, but more expensive for the large amount of data.

For those that use their phone more regularly, or especially use a lot of data, there are alternatives to Tracfone that offer a better deal for more data or even unlimited data. 

The bottom line is that Tracfone is a good deal for some people that learn to make it work for them, and are okay with the lack of good customer service. 

***

That's it for our Pros and Cons list. Leave a comment below with any thoughts or questions and also join us on Facebook to connect with our growing community and get the latest info.

Don't miss out on our monthly list of Tracfone Deals, Discounts and Sales which also include unlocked phones and Tracfone smartphones.

Keep up with the latest in 5G network access with Tracfone including 5G Coverage maps! And a list of Tracfone 5G phones.

If you're new to Tracfone, start with our Beginners Guide which shares helpful information about how it all works.

And finally view our Tracfone Promo Code list with codes to get discounts or free minutes when adding airtime!

Thanks for visiting!