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Last Updated: November 2024
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Cell Phone Plans: All the Basics
Whether you just bought a new phone or are simply switching your cell phone carrier, the next step is to find your best-fit cell phone plan.
The biggest companies are called MNOs, or Mobile Network Operators. MNOs create and maintain their own cellular networks. When you purchase a phone plan from an MNO, you’re being given access to a phone plan that operates on the company’s own telephone lines, 4G/5G networks, and other operating services.
On the flip side, there are smaller, lesser-known service providers called MVNOs, or Mobile Virtual Network Operators. MVNOs do not own their own network—instead, they lease their network space from MNOs at a discounted rate and then connect their customers to this leased network space.
MNOs
MVNOs
Prepaid vs. Postpaid Phone Plans
Prepaid
With a prepaid phone plan, you can skip a credit check and keep an eye on your finances as you only pay for the phone services you use. At the start of the month, you select plan details such as calling minutes, text messaging, and data. If you exceed your purchased amount, you can simply buy more minutes/data.
The great thing about prepaid is that you won’t be charged more than what you agreed up-front. Unfortunately, that means that any unused minutes or data will feel like “wasted money.” Additionally, if you use your cell phone more than most, you may pay more over the course of a month than a postpaid customer.
Postpaid
Sometimes called “Bill Pay,” postpaid mobile plans allow you to use your phone however you like and then pay the fixed monthly price each billing cycle.
Postpaid phones are extremely convenient: you can use your phone when and how you want and never worry about losing access to the network. Unfortunately, they tend to be pricier, may require a contract, and might stick you with extra charges for bonus services like international calling.
How Much Do Cell Phone Plans Cost?
On the low end, you may pay as little as $15/month for one line; on the higher end, you may pay as much as $65. The cost of your phone plan could vary quite a bit depending on the following factors:
MNO vs. MVNO
Prepaid vs. Postpaid
Data Limits
Number of Lines
How to Switch to a New Phone Provider
1. Confirm network compatibility
Double-check that your new or old phone is compatible with your potential new network by searching on your new wireless provider's website.
2. Keep your old service
To port your old phone number and other important information to your new wireless plan, don’t cancel your old wireless plan just yet.
3. Purchase your new plan
Select your favorite plan and confirm your purchase.
4. Enter SIM card and activate
Your new provider will send either a physical SIM card in the mail or a digital eSIM card to your phone. Enter your SIM, activate your new carrier, and transfer your old network information.
5. Breakup with your old carrier
Confirm the transfer with your old provider. Once you get the all-clear, your new phone should be ready to go and functioning properly.
How to Choose the Best Phone Plan for You
The best phone plan is the one that best fulfills your needs. Are you a sports- and TV-streaming diehard? An unlimited plan would be your best bet. Own a business? You’ll want a carrier that offers multiple lines for you and your team to work together. Chatting on a budget? A simple prepaid service might save you the most money.
When thinking about your best-fit cell phone service, consider the following details of mobile plans:
Pricing
Wireless Coverage
Compatibility
Family Plans
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