Giving TracFone as a Gift

Affordable and Easy, TracFones Make for Great Gifts

Do you know someone who doesn't own a cell phone? Maybe a son or daughter, niece or nephew, grandfather or grandmother, or other friends. If you are looking for a gift idea, a TracFone might be it! 

Nothing says 'I want to talk with you more often' than giving someone a cell phone. And prepaid phones make it easy to manage costs and avoid the hassle of contract phones.

How Easy is it to Give a Cell Phone?

It is actually quite easy. There are two general decisions to make when buying a TracFone. The first is which phone to buy, and the second is what airtime cards or plans to get.

We will cover both below, starting with cell phone buying options.

Buying a TracFone

TracFones are available in many locations and are easy to find. Retail stores such as Walmart and Target sell  a few varieties of the phones and you can also buy directly from TracFone.com. Amazon is another internet location where you can often find TracFones on sale for less.

What can be challenging is choosing which phone to get. So we will provide a few options below to help give you some ideas. If you want to view more phone options, just visit TracFone.com and browse their phone selection.

LG 500G

LG 500g - One of the least expensive but most dependable phones from TracFone, this cell phone has a full QWERTY keyboard which makes texting easy and simple. This is a great phone for people of all ages, especially younger people. The small keys may make it hard for older people to use, but it is easy to get accustomed to and there is no bothering with learning to use T-9 or something else.

Financially, this phone makes a lot of sense typically priced at $20, and sometimes even less from Amazon. 

LG 840G

LG 840g - This is one of TracFones top of the line options. It is a touchscreen with a sleek appearance and great functionality. It includes 2GB of memory, and is 3G/Wifi enabled. It also comes with Triple Minutes for life, making this a great choice for those who might use their phone more often. 

This phone is typically priced well under $100, and can be purchased through Amazon with minutes included for a good deal. This is another option that almost anyone can enjoy and use.

For more phones and reviews by us, visit our Cell Phone Reviews page!

Buying Minutes for your TracFone

Getting minutes for a TracFone is quite simple to do. There are two prepaid options: pay as you go minute cards or monthly installment plan.

Pay as you go means you buy minute cards and load them onto the phone, giving you anywhere between 60-800 minutes and 90-365 days of service, depending on which card you buy.

Monthly Installment plan means that you pay each month for 30 days of service, and a certain number of minutes to use that month.

The monthly installment plan offers simplicity, and is very financially enticing. Plans can be as low as $10 a month for 50 minutes.

1 Year and 400 Minutes

The pay as you go option simply means you buy airtime cards whenever you need them. Talking on the phone more this month than you usually do? Just buy an extra card and load the minutes on your phone.

Pay as you go is convenient because you can get a 1 year/400 minutes of service card for less than $100 and  not need to worry about the phone for the whole year! If at any time the phone starts to run low on minutes, you can just get more from many stores and even online.

What about Activation and other Quesitons?

Activating a new TracFone follows simple steps and can be completed in less than an hour! For those who might want to use an existing phone number, that can also usually be done at no extra cost.

For other questions, feel free to ask in the comments section.

Interested in more information? Visit our Overview of TracFone page for more info.

LG 840G Review - Tracfone

A Newer Phone From TracFone with 3G and WiFi

Welcome to TracfoneReviewer, we share news, reviews and information about Tracfone Wireless!

The LG 840G is a touchscreen phone from Tracfone that offers a smartphone feel and look but with a no-contract prepaid cell phone.

It is basically a much improved LG 800G with only a slightly higher price tag.

Many people agree that the LG840G is Tracfone's best offering yet (excluding smartphones), with a handful of great features that give this phone a similar feel to other smartphones on the market. But be aware this phone does not compare with top of the line phones from other major contract companies.

The LG 840G is not a smartphone, and does not use Android operating system like most smartphones. Airtime on the LG 840G is in a single 'pool' unlike all of the smartphones from Tracfone.

Learn more about what smartphones are currently available in our Latest Tracfone Smartphone List 2017.

LG 840G Features and Specs

This phone has most of the standard Tracfone features, but also includes several useful features worth spending a little extra for.

White LG 840G

• Triple Minutes for Life
• Mobile Web
• Media Player
• 2.0 MP Camera/Video
• Hands Free Speaker
• Voice Recorder
• Wall Charger
• 3-4 day normal use battery life
• 3G and WiFi Connectivity
• 2GB MicroSD Card
• About the size of an iPod Touch or iPhone

Likes and Dislikes for the LG 840G from Tracfone

Let's begin with the Likes:

There are quite a few features for the LG 840G that make it a very worthwhile upgrade from other phones. 

Triple Minutes for Life means that if you add a 60 minute card, you would get 180 total minutes! (and don't forget to use a promo code!) 

The battery life is advertised to last 4hrs of constant talk time, or 13 days on standby. Users have determined that with normal use, the battery lasts an impressive 3-4 days.

Large view of LG 840G

Another big plus for this phone is the included 2GB MicroSD card. On previous phones such as the LG 500G or 530G, one would have to buy a MicroSD card separably in order to use the Media player or store more than a small amount of data on the phone. But the LG 840G delivers with it's included MicroSD card. 

Finally, one of the best features for the 840G is the 3G/WiFi. When connected to WiFi networks, such as in your home, at work, or other locations with free WiFi, browsing does not deduct from your prepaid minutes. This makes it possible to actually use the Mobile Web without draining your prepaid minutes in a hurry. 

Additionally, the previous standard minute rate for web browsing of .5 units per minute has been changed to a ratio of actual data used, instead of time spent online. This also makes web browsing more economical than in the past.

New - Check out our post on How to Install Google Maps on the LG840G

Dislikes for the LG 840G

This phone does a good job of correcting a lot of the Dislikes we had about previous Tracfones. The included SD card, WiFi connectivity and Triple Minutes for Life leaves only a small handful of possible dislikes, which we will quickly mention here.

The phone runs a java based proprietary operating system which allows the installation of .jar apps, and is not a smartphone. This means that android apps etc. won't work on this phone. But, with a little effort, apps such as Google Maps can be installed on the phone.

Another interesting dislike is the QWERTY keypad that appears when texting or entering a web address. The problem occurs when one navigates to a website that has open text areas for entering information (such as registering for a website). No keypad appears and so it is impossible to enter any information. Using a different browser such as Opera Mini, is one way to get around this problem. Hopefully this issue will be addressed in the near future.

Finally, it is important to mention again that this phone is a good phone, with some great features and a good price, but it doesn't run on a standard OS, like Android for example.

If you are interested in a great phone with a QWERTY keypad, consider the LG 530G.

Overall Opinion and Review of the LG 840G

The LG 840G is stylish, modern and faster than previous Tracfone mobile phones with the feel of an iPod touch or iPhone. It provides plenty of useful features such as the microSD card, WiFi, and Triple Minutes for Life.

This phone is a great upgrade from other Tracfones, but those who are thinking of switching from a contract smartphone to the LG 840G may be a little disappointed with some of the limitations.

You should really check out Tracfone's Android Smartphones if you are looking for features and the ability to use apps.

Tuff Silicon Cover for LG 840G

The cellphone retails for $59.99 most places, with occasional sales at various locations. However, it can sometimes be found for much less from Amazon (last check it was $40 w/ free shipping!)

With any touchscreen phone, covers and cases are very valuable in protecting the phone from scratches or other damage. Here is a link to LG 840G Covers on Amazon with lots of options to suit anyone's needs and preferences.

Looking for more info on other phones? Check out our other Tracfone Reviews

Leave a comment with your thoughts or questions, and be sure to browse all the comments below, as there are plenty of great tips and answers there!

TracFone Review - LG 530G

A Newer Phone with Great Features

LG 530g from Tracfone

The LG 530G from TracFone is similar to the LG 500G but with a few upgrades and the biggest bonus, Triple Minutes for Life.

This phone has a good feel with a full QWERTY keypad and large screen it offers great functionality whether you want to call, text or surf the web.

LG 530G Features

The LG 530G is fully equipped with all the typical cell phone features one would expect and with good battery life and Triple Minutes, it is a very appealing prepaid phone.

• Triple Minutes for Life
• Full QWERTY Keyboard
• Mobile Web Surfing
• 1,000 entry Phone Book
• 1.3 MP Camera/Video Recorder
• SMS and MMS Picture Messaging
• MP3 Player (Cables and Micro SD cards not included)
• Hands-Free Speaker
• Bluetooth® Wireless Technology
• Voicemail, Call Waiting, and Caller ID
• Voice/Sound Recorder
• Alarm Clock
• Battery talk time up to 3.8 hours
• Standby time up to 6.3 days
• Includes Battery, Charger, Activation Card, Services Guide and User Manual

Likes and Dislikes for the LG 530G

Let's begin by looking at Tracfone Reviewer's LIKES about this phone:

Some of the best features for this phone are the QWERTY Keyboard, MP3 player, Triple Minutes for Life, and overall sleek appearance.

The full QWERTY keyboard (which means it has a button for every letter in the alphabet, like a computer keyboard) is easy to get used to and makes texting much faster. No more hitting the numbers multiple times to get a text message written, every letter has its own button and makes texting simple for anyone.

The MP3 player is a convenient feature that allows you to download songs via TracFone (for a price) or add your own songs to the phone. The songs can be played through the headphones attached to the standard headphone jack, or through the speakers which are decent.

If you plan to use the MP3 player, be sure to buy a Micro SD card (up to 32GB) and a USB cable for the phone, as these are not included. (MicroSD cards are usually around $10 or less for a 4GB card, which is more than enough space for most people)

The included Triple Minutes for Life makes this phone an incredible deal. For every minute you add, you get 2 minutes free. So if you add a 60 minute prepaid card, you get 180 total minutes! This is the best deal TracFone has, and if you also use a Promo Code when adding your phone card, you will get even more free minutes!

Finally, the overall design of the phone is sleek and stylish - perfect for those looking for a phone they can enjoy everything about. It looks good and is easy to get accustomed to.

Time for a few DISLIKES about the LG 530G:

First of all, the phone does come with Mobile Web, but it is not all that great, and costs a lot to use. Few people use the Mobile Web feature, and it is not really necessary anyway. But if you are someone who likes to check email or Facebook from your phone, this might not be the phone for you.

Another dislike is that the phone does not come with an Micro SD card or USB cables. While not including these items does help keep the price down, it would be nice for the phone to come with them since it adds a lot to the overall functionality of the phone.

Overall this phone is a fantastic phone for those who like texting often and but still want to have a no contract prepaid phone. The Triple Minutes for Life is a huge bonus that makes this phone extremely reasonable to use.

Also, check out more Tracfone Reviews or read about How to Make your Prepaid Minutes Last Longer

Great Buying Option for the LG 530G:

This phone typically retails for $49.99 from most stores and on the Tracfone website. But it can be found on Amazon for closer to $30-35, a $15 to $20 savings!

View Amazon'z price for the LG 530G Prepaid Phone With Triple Minutes (Tracfone)

Cheapest Prepaid Cell Phone Plan

What is the Cheapest Prepaid Cell Phone?

While many people buy a cell phone based on the features, coverage, ability to surf the web and other things, some people just want a cheap cell phone for backup, emergencies or because they want to save money.

Save A Big stack of coins with Prepaid

If you buy a cell phone from one of the major service providers such as Verizon, Sprint, AT&T, T-Mobile or any of the others, you will typically pay a few hundred dollars just for the phone, pay around $70 per month for service, and sign a contract that lasts 2 years.

You could be paying around $1000 a year just to use a cell phone.

While this does usually include unlimited talking, texting and web browsing, not everyone needs that.

Lets look at the extreme opposite end of the cell phone spectrum. What about a cell phone plan that costs less than $10 a month?

Cheapest Prepaid Plan - Less Than $10 a Month

Imagine paying $10 a month, or $120 a year for your cell phone. You could be saving $880 a year, or $1760 with a standard 2 year contract phone.

What would you do with $1760? We can think of lots of things! Like a new computer or TV.

So what is this prepaid plan? Well, it is very simple, and many of the major prepaid cell phone companies have plans that cost less than $10 per month. Some of the prepaid companies are Net 10, Straight Talk, Cricket, and Tracfone.

But Here at TracfoneReviewer, we are going to look at the options from Tracfone.

How to Pay Less Than $10 a Month for a Prepaid Plan:

If you are looking for a way to save money, but still have a cell phone, here is how to do it.

LG500g from Amazon

Tracfone offers several phones for $9.99. The 376g (click to read our review) is a simple but durable flip phone. It is an older model, so it might not be available everywhere. The Samsung S125G is another phone option from Tracfone that is a little newer.

Another option is the LG500g (click for our review!) with full QWERTY keypad, and many other impressive features. It is currently on sale from Amazon for $9.99! It usually sells for $29.99 from Tracfone.


After you choose which cell phone, (and make sure it comes with Double Minutes) buy a 60 minute phone card for $20 from Tracfone.

Thus, you get a cell phone, 3 months of service, and 120 minutes (with double minutes) plus bonus minutes from a promo code, all for $30, which works out to $10 a month for the first three months, and about $6.65 for every month after that.

If 40 minutes a month is not enough, you can always purchase another minutes card, or even get the 120 minute card which costs $30 and comes with 3 months of service. With double minutes for life, that's 240 minutes for 3 months, or about 80 minutes a month, (20 per week) for $10 per month.

Tracfone offers some even better options with their Tracfone Family Value Plan. You can get 50 minutes a month and 30 days of service for $10 for the first person, and 40 minutes/30 days of service for only $6 a month for each additional person! To learn more, read our full Tracfone Family Value Plan review.

The Bottom Line - How Much Can You Save?

While some people do need to use their cell phones a lot for work or to keep in touch with needy friends or family, not everyone needs an unlimited plan from a major cell phone provider. 

The $10 a month plan described here works great for those who only make a few calls or texts a week.

For those who use their phone a little more often, there are plenty of prepaid options.

For example, a 200 minute phone card from Tracfone is $40. With a double minutes, that is instantly turned into 400 minutes for 3 months, or about $13 per month, for 133 minutes per month!

Perhaps it is time to start saving money, by looking at your prepaid cell phone options. Just think about what you could do with the money saved?

Interested in more money saving tips? Check out our article on How to Make your Minutes Last Longer!

Tracfone Review - LG 800G Touchscreen

The LG 800G Touchscreen phone from Tracfone with Triple Minutes for life

LG 800G from TracFone

This is a phone for anyone who likes the freedom of prepaid cell phones, but wants a touchscreen phone with a little more features.

The LG 800G is one of TracFone's more expensive phones at $50, but it delivers on features, performance, and overall value.

Check the end of this post to see where you can get this phone for closer to $15!

LG 800G - Features

The LG 800G comes with plenty of features as most phones usually do. Here are some of the most important features:

• Triple Minutes for Life
• Touchscreen
• Mobile Web Browsing
• 2 Mega Pixel Camera and Video recorder
• Speaker Phone
• 1000 entry phone book
• Voice Recorder
• Space for Additional Memory (Micro SD card, but does not come with purchase)
• Alarm Clock
• Wall Charger
• 3.06 ounces total weight 
• Good battery life - 8 days on standby
• Calculator with advanced functions

The triple minutes for life is a huge bonus to this phone making texting, calling, and surfing the web much more cost effective compared to other Tracfone options.

Likes and Dislikes for the LG 800G

This phone comes with several features that we really like - Triple Minutes for Life, 2 MP Camera and Mobile web.

Triple Minutes for Life means that for every minute of airtime you add, it will be turned into 3. So if you add a 60 minute prepaid card you will get 120 total minutes! And of course you will use a Promo Code to get a few extra bonus minutes!

The 2 Mega Pixel camera and video recorder is adequate for taking pictures or video if you don't have any other devices handy, and you can store these on the MicroSD card (which unfortunately is not included). Mobile web is also a nice feature for this phone, but it will cost you airtime.

What we were not such a huge fan about was the somewhat unresponsive touchscreen. While you can get used to it and some may even like it, for those who have used newer devices with modern touchscreens, it may be a little disappointing.

While the LG 800G does bring some great features, it is nowhere near a smartphone, so be aware of what you are actually getting for your money.

If you are looking for a phone with a few more features, like WiFi and a better touchscreen, you should deffinatly check out the newer, LG 840G and our full review.

Customer Reviews of the LG 800G:

Most people give the LG 800G a favorable review of 4 out of 5 stars.

Customers liked the size of the touchscreen, the ability to have a no contract smartphone, and the overall value of the phone with triple minutes.

Some customers thought that the LG 800G lacked the full functionality that other smartphones have, and the customer service was also not up to par.

The touchscreen is not always as responsive as users would like. However, the included Triple Minutes for Life is a great bonus for this phone.

Overall, the LG 800G from Tracfone is a very good value for the money. For those who have experience using Tracfone prepaid cell phones, it is a nice upgrade from many of their other phones. For those who have not used a Tracfone before, or don't have experience with prepaid cell phones, this might be a little challenging to get accustomed to.

You might find some of our other recent articles useful in shopping for a cell phone including:
Top LG cell phones from Tracfone
Top Samsung cell phones from Tracfone
The Best Tracfone Cell Phones

Update - Cheapest Place To Buy:

LG 800G on Amazon

Tracfone Reviewer suggests buying the LG 800G from Amazon, where the phone is currently on sale at a discounted price (last check it was on sale for $15!): Click the image to the right to go to see the phone on Amazon.

Want more Reviews? Visit our Cell Phone Reviews page!

Read our Overview of Tracfone for more information about prepaid cell phones