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Consumer Cellular vs Total Wireless: Which Carrier is Better?

November 21, 2024
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When evaluating Consumer Cellular vs. Total Wireless, the two carriers differ significantly in their offerings. Consumer Cellular, called Consumer Cellular, is known for its reputation for friendly customer service and ease of purchasing plans online. It emphasizes affordable, customizable plans on T-Mobile and AT&T networks, making it a popular choice for cost-conscious users and seniors. In contrast, Total Wireless leverages Verizon’s reliable network to deliver budget-friendly prepaid options, appealing to families and users with moderate to heavy data needs.

We’ll explore what each carrier has to offer, including:

  • A detailed comparison of coverage to understand how they measure up
  • An in-depth look at pricing and plan features for both providers
  • A breakdown of each carrier’s standout features to help you make the right choice

Compare Consumer Cellular to other Carriers

  • Mint Mobile, a T-Mobile MVNO, delivers affordable prepaid plans with nationwide 5G coverage, ideal for budget-conscious users seeking premium service.
  • Google Fi, a T-Mobile MVNO owned by Google, offers flexible plans with extensive international roaming.
  • Boost Mobile, owned by Dish Network, is the fourth-largest wireless carrier in the United States, offering affordable prepaid plans with nationwide coverage.
  • AT&T, the third-largest wireless carrier in the U.S., is known for its expansive 5G network and versatile plan options.
  • Visible, a digital-only prepaid carrier by Verizon, offers affordable unlimited plans on Verizon's reliable 5G and 4G LTE networks.
Hand holding a smartphone with consumer cellular on the screen

Consumer Cellular Overview

Consumer Cellular, a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), utilizes AT&T and T-Mobile networks to deliver reliable nationwide coverage. Known for its affordable and flexible plans, it caters to a wide range of users, particularly seniors who value its simple options and outstanding customer support. With no long-term contracts, easy plan adjustments, and budget-friendly pricing, Consumer Cellular is an excellent choice for those seeking dependable service at an affordable cost.

Total Wireless Overview

Total Wireless operates as an MVNO on Verizon’s network, delivering reliable coverage, excellent service, and a variety of cell phone plans. While its pricing may lean higher, the significant multi-line discounts make it a competitive option for families. Known for its no-contract plans, Total provides a great opportunity to experience its service with a prepaid option, offering flexibility and value for those looking to save on multiple lines.

Consumer Cellular Coverage

Consumer Cellular service utilizes AT&T's 4G LTE/5G networks to provide reliable coverage. Since it doesn’t own its own network infrastructure, its users may experience slower speeds during peak times or in congested areas. However, it remains an excellent choice for those who primarily use their phones for calls, texts, or light browsing, offering dependable coverage at an affordable price.

To check coverage in your area, simply check Consumer Cellular’s coverage map.

Total Wireless Coverage

Total by Verizon operates on Verizon’s network, delivering some of the fastest speeds available. As an MVNO, Total by Verizon leases coverage from a major network—in this case, Verizon—while other MVNOs may use AT&T or T-Mobile networks. However, in densely populated areas, network congestion can sometimes result in slower performance for basic tasks.

Total by Verizon provides a detailed coverage map, allowing you to see the location of cellular towers and evaluate which carrier offers the best service for your needs.

Standing phone with total wireless logo on the screen

Coverage Comparison

Consumer Cellular uses AT&T and T-Mobile networks, providing reliable coverage in urban and suburban areas, though rural performance may vary. On the other hand, Total Wireless, now Total by Verizon, operates on Verizon’s network, known for its strong reliability and excellent reach in rural and remote locations. To determine the best fit for your area, it’s essential to check the coverage maps for both providers.

Consumer Cellular Plans

Unlimited Data Plan

This plan includes unlimited talk and data with 50GB of high-speed usage each month. Choosing an unlimited data plan enables users to stream videos and utilize their smartphones more effectively without data concerns, especially when multiple lines are involved. After exceeding 50GB, data speeds reduce to 2G, suitable for basic activities like browsing, emailing, or texting. For more intensive tasks like streaming or gaming, connecting to WiFi is recommended. Hotspot access is included but follows the same speed reduction after the 50GB limit. With no overage fees, this plan is ideal for users with high data demands who want to save money.

Cost: $55/month ($50 with Autopay)

Pros: Great value for users with high data usage

Cons: Reduced speeds after 50GB

Best for: Data-heavy users looking for affordable plans

10GB Plan

This plan offers 10GB of data per month, with hotspot access included within the data allowance. Once the 10GB cap is reached, data access stops, providing a clear limit for users to manage their usage effectively.

Cost: $40/month ($35 with Autopay)
Pros: Includes hotspot access
Cons: Data stops after 10GB
Best for: Moderate users who want hotspot functionality without overpaying

5GB Plan

Designed for lighter data needs, this plan provides 5GB of data per month and includes hotspot access. The hotspot feature can be used until the data cap is reached.

Cost: $30/month ($25 with Autopay)
Pros: Includes hotspot access
Cons: Limited data allowance
Best for: Light users who primarily rely on WiFi

1GB Plan

This plan is ideal for users with minimal data requirements. It offers 1GB of data per month, which can also be used for hotspot sharing. Data access halts once the limit is reached.

Cost: $25/month ($20 with Autopay)
Pros: Supports hotspot sharing
Cons: High cost per GB compared to other plans
Best for: Users who rely on WiFi but occasionally need mobile data

Family Plan Options

Consumer Cellular provides discounts for multiple lines, allowing up to seven lines per account. Adding lines increases savings, making it a budget-friendly choice for families.

Best for: Families looking for affordable and flexible multi-line plans

Total Wireless Plans

Unlimited+

The Unlimited+ plan is Total by Verizon’s premium option, offering the most features for customers seeking value. This plan includes unlimited data with high-speed access up to 30GB. After reaching the cap, speeds reduce to 2G, which is suitable for basic tasks like browsing and texting but may struggle with streaming and gaming without Wi-Fi. Additionally, the plan offers 20GB of mobile hotspot data, which slows once the limit is reached. As a bonus, a premium Disney+ membership is included as long as the plan is active.

Cost: $60/month for one line, $57/month with Autopay
Pros: Dedicated hotspot data, Disney+ included
Cons: Relatively low high-speed data cap for the price
Best for: Frequent travelers who need both high-speed and hotspot data

Unlimited

The Unlimited plan provides unlimited data with 30GB of high-speed usage. After reaching the limit, data speeds drop to 2G, making it less ideal for streaming or gaming without Wi-Fi. It also includes 10GB of mobile hotspot data, which slows down after the cap is reached. This plan comes with 6 months of Disney+ premium access, offering additional value for entertainment.

Cost: $50/month for one line, $47.50/month with Autopay
Pros: Separate hotspot allowance
Cons: Limited Disney+ access to 6 months
Best for: Average data users looking for a balanced plan

15GB

The 15GB plan includes 15GB of high-speed data per month, after which speeds drop to 2G. The data can also be used for hotspot access, but hotspot functionality stops once the data limit is reached.

Cost: $40/month for one line, $38/month with Autopay
Pros: Includes hotspot access, reasonable data allowance
Cons: Slower speeds after the cap is reached
Best for: Light to moderate data users

5GB

The 5GB plan is Total by Verizon’s entry-level offering, providing 5GB of high-speed data. After hitting the cap, speeds drop to 2G. Hotspot access is included but stops once the data limit is reached. This plan is best suited for users with minimal data needs.

Cost: $30/month for one line, $28.50/month with Autopay
Pros: Hotspot functionality included
Cons: Higher cost per GB compared to other plans
Best for: Users with light data requirements

Family Plan Options

Total by Verizon offers discounts for multiple lines, allowing up to 5 lines per account. Discounts are applied per line for the 15GB, Unlimited, and Unlimited+ plans, making them more affordable for families. The 5GB plan, however, does not include multi-line discounts.

Best for: Families seeking savings on larger data plans

Plan Comparison

Consumer Cellular plans focus on affordability with high-speed data options up to 50GB and multi-line discounts, making it a great choice for budget-conscious users and seniors. Total Wireless plans, powered by Verizon’s network, offer added perks like Disney+ and separate hotspot data allowances, though high-speed data caps are lower at 30GB.

Both carriers provide family plans, but Consumer Cellular emphasizes flexibility, while Total Wireless delivers entertainment-focused extras. Your choice will depend on your data needs and preference for additional features.

Key Differences Between Consumer Cellular and Total Wireless

Unlimited Data Prioritization and Throttling

Consumer Cellular offers plans with limited high-speed data, making them a great fit for users with moderate or occasional data needs. After reaching the data cap, speeds are reduced until the next billing cycle, but essential tasks like browsing or checking emails remain unaffected. These plans are a cost-effective option for those who prioritize basic phone use without overpaying for unused data.

Total’s Unlimited Data plans include high-speed data up to a set limit, such as 30GB or 40GB. After reaching this cap, speeds drop to 2G, which can affect activities like streaming or gaming. This throttling helps manage network traffic and maintain service quality for all users. Heavy data users may experience noticeable slowdowns once the high-speed data limit is exceeded.

Customer Service and Accessibility

Consumer Cellular is renowned for its outstanding customer service, offering support through phone and online chat. Consumers can contact Consumer Cellular via phone or online chat for assistance with plan inquiries or other support needs. Designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind, the company is especially popular with seniors and individuals less experienced with mobile technology. Their knowledgeable support team provides clear, step-by-step guidance, ensuring users feel confident managing their plans and devices.

Total by Verizon provides customer service exclusively through remote channels, as it does not have physical stores. Support is available via chat or phone daily from 8 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. EST. Whether you prefer online messaging or speaking directly with a representative, Total’s customer support is designed to deliver efficient assistance without requiring in-person visits.

The Verdict

Consumer Cellular and Total by Verizon cater to different user preferences. Consumer Cellular offers affordable, flexible plans with high-speed data options up to 50GB, appealing to budget-conscious users and seniors seeking simplicity and excellent customer service.

In contrast, Total by Verizon provides plans with added perks like Disney+ subscriptions and separate hotspot data allowances, though its high-speed data caps are lower at 30GB. Both carriers offer family plans, but Consumer Cellular emphasizes flexibility, while Total by Verizon delivers entertainment-focused extras.

Your choice should depend on your data needs and preference for additional features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which carrier is better for family plans?

Both Consumer Cellular and Total Wireless provide service with multi-line discounts, but their offerings differ in scope. Consumer Cellular allows up to seven lines per account, making it an excellent choice for larger families. Consumer Cellular's service is known for the reliability and performance of their phone plans and devices, ensuring consistent call and text performance, affordability, and excellent customer service. Plans include unlimited talk and text, which is a key factor for families who prioritize simple communication without hidden fees. On the other hand, Total Wireless offers discounts for up to five lines, with certain plans featuring dedicated hotspot data—a valuable addition for families needing mobile connectivity across multiple devices.

Can I switch between plans easily with these carriers?

Flexibility is a major factor when choosing between two providers. Consumer Cellular customers can easily adjust their plans at any time without incurring activation fees. Using Consumer Cellular's website, customers can conveniently manage their accounts and plans online. Whether you need a senior plan, two lines, or a single line, their straightforward process ensures you only pay for what you need. Total Wireless also supports plan adjustments, but changes may take effect at the start of your next billing cycle. Both carriers provide a smooth transfer process for existing numbers and current phones, making it easy for users to switch plans without hassle.

Do these carriers support Wi-Fi calling?

Yes, both Consumer Cellular and Total Wireless support Wi-Fi calling, enhancing their phone service for users in rural areas or urban areas with spotty cell tower coverage. This feature works on compatible devices, including Consumer Cellular devices like the Iris Flip and other flip phones, ensuring older adults and those with basic phones can stay connected. For many users, Wi-Fi calling is a game-changer, reducing the likelihood of dropped calls in low-signal zones.

How do the hotspot features compare?

Hotspot functionality is another key factor for many customers. Consumer Cellular’s plans include hotspot usage, but it counts toward your data cap, making it ideal for light or moderate use. In contrast, Total Wireless offers separate hotspot data allowances on select plans, like 20GB with the Unlimited+ plan, giving more flexibility to families or individuals who rely on hotspot connectivity for work or travel. Both options cater to different needs, allowing users to make an informed decision based on personal experience.

Are there activation fees for bringing your own phone?

Neither Consumer Cellular nor Total Wireless charges activation fees for customers who bring their own phone or device. Both carriers support phone compatibility checks on their websites, simplifying the transfer process for users with current phones. Consumer Cellular’s service is particularly popular among AARP members and older adults who prefer using their existing number and familiar devices. Additionally, both carriers make it easy to activate a new device or switch between two phones, ensuring a seamless experience for new customers.

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Consumer Cellular 1GB

1GB
data
1GB, then data stops
Hotspot access
Yes, all plan data
Best for:
Lightest data users
More Details

Consumer Cellular 5GB

5GB
data
5GB, then data stops
Hotspot access
Yes, all plan data
Best for:
Light data users
More Details

Consumer Cellular 10GB

10GB
data
10GB, then data stops
Hotspot access
Yes, all plan data
Best for:
Lighter than average data users
More Details

Consumer Cellular Unlimited

Unlimited (50GB)
data
50GB, then 2G speeds after
Hotspot access
All plan data, slows after 50GB
Best for:
Heavy data users
More Details

Total by Verizon 5GB

5GB
data
5GB
Hotspot access
All plan data (stops at 5GB)
Best for:
Light data users
More Details

Total by Verizon 15GB

15GB
data
15GB
Hotspot access
All plan data (stops at 15GB)
Best for:
Light to average data users
More Details

Total by Verizon Unlimited

Unlimited
data
30GB
Hotspot access
10GB
Best for:
Heavy data users
More Details

Total by Verizon Unlimited Plus

Unlimited Plus
data
30GB
Hotspot access
20GB
Best for:
Heavy data users
More Details

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