Selectel Wireless Pros and Cons: All You Need to Know Before You Sign Up

Selectel Wireless is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that delivers affordable prepaid wireless plans using Verizon’s robust network. Renowned for its reliable coverage and customer-first approach, Selectel Wireless is a strong contender for users in rural and underserved areas who value dependable service without the commitment of long-term contracts. In this review, we’ll explore Selectel Wireless’s offerings, its pros and cons, and whether it’s the right choice for your wireless needs.

Selectel Wireless Pros and Cons

There are a lot of cell phone providers on the market, and it can be overwhelming to decide which one fits your needs. This section highlights the pros and cons of Selectel Wireless to help you determine whether this carrier aligns with your priorities. Key factors include pricing, coverage, plan flexibility, and customer service.

PRO — Plans for Light Users

Selectel Wireless offers budget-friendly plans, starting at just $15 per month for basic talk-and-text service. This makes it an excellent option for light users who don’t need a lot of data or additional features. Selectel’s selection contains plans up to 45 GB of high-speed data, giving it a nice breadth of data allocations if you aren’t sure how much you need each month. We recommend starting with a more expensive plan, as this no-contract provider lets you switch your plan every month. 

PRO — Reliable Coverage with Verizon’s Network

Selectel Wireless operates on Verizon’s robust network, providing excellent nationwide coverage. Verizon’s nationwide 4G LTE network provides Selectel customers with fantastic coverage in almost every state. Unfortunately, Selectel does not have access to Verizon’s 5G networks, but you will not be wanting for solid coverage throughout the continental US. Make sure to check your local coverage maps for information regarding the best cell phone coverage in your area! 

PRO — Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Flexibility

Selectel Wireless allows customers to bring their own unlocked devices, making the transition easy and cost-effective. Make sure your cell phone is unlocked before attempting to make the transition. Selectel is compatible with most cell phones, including the latest models and older, more affordable ones. Being able to bring your own device is a great boon, and it is easy to check compatibility on their website. 

Bringing your own device is an excellent way to save on your cell phone bill. New cell phones are incredibly expensive, and cell phone payment plans can lock you into a carrier for years. Bringing your own device keeps you from getting stuck with a carrier that you don’t like. There are lots of devices available at places like Backmarket and Amazon, and each of these online stores offers more expensive devices as well as older, more affordable ones. Backmarket has entirely used devices, though they put each one through rigorous testing to ensure you know what you’re getting. 

PRO — Straightforward and Responsive Customer Service

Selectel Wireless is known for its personalized customer service, especially in smaller communities. You can get the help you need when you have trouble with any part of the process. Cell providers have streamlined the switch and activation process to make it very easy most of the time, but any complications get very difficult to solve on your own. That’s where Selectel shines! They can guide you through the process, keeping it painless. 

CON — Limited High-Speed Data Options

Selectel Wireless plans cater primarily to light and moderate data users. Their most robust plan offers 45 GB of high-speed data, which is a good value for moderate data users, but anyone who likes to stream on the go or game on their phone will run into trouble with only 45 GB per month, but the majority of people use less than that each month. 

We recommend checking your monthly data usage before starting a new plan, but if you join Selectel, you can spend a month or two on their highest data plan while you figure out what you need before switching to a more affordable cell phone plan! 

CON — No Multi-Line Discounts

Unlike some competitors, Selectel Wireless does not offer significant savings for multi-line accounts. This makes it best for single-line users, as you will lose a lot of value unless you join a carrier that offers multi-line savings. There’s a lot of opportunity for families or groups of friends to get amazing deals with major wireless carriers and MVNOs like Mint Mobile, Cricket Wireless, and Total by Verizon. 

CON — Data Deprioritization During Congestion

As an MVNO, Selectel Wireless receives slower data during congestion. This makes Selectel Wireless, among other MVNOs, unreliable in terms of data speeds. Anytime there is a danger of congestion within their parent network, the high-speed data given to Selectel Wireless customers is slowed down to allocate more bandwidth to major wireless customers. 

This congestion is seen most in big cities around the United States. In those cities, networks are robust but not strong enough to handle the city's residents and the commuters coming in for work. 

It is harder to predict the congestion in less populated cities and rural areas around the country. Festivals, concerts, and sporting events are typical times when a lot of congestion hits the area. If you’ve ever been to a football game and tried to access your phone for just about anything, we are certain that you’ve seen what it feels like to try to use data with congestion. 

At maximum congestion, no one can load anything on their device, but MVNO customers are slowed down far before major provider users are slowed down. Selectel Wireless’ service operates without contracts, letting you decide whether or not this service is exemplary for you after a couple of months.  

MVNOs like Selectel Wireless, which offer limited-data plans, are best for users who can control their data usage during the month. 

Selectel Wireless Summary

Selectel Wireless is a reliable MVNO that combines affordable pricing with the trusted coverage of Verizon’s network. Known for its straightforward plans and responsive customer service, Selectel Wireless is a solid choice for users who prioritize value and reliability.

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While it doesn’t offer all the bells and whistles of larger carriers, Selectel Wireless delivers dependable service at a price point that works for many budget-conscious customers. Switching carriers can be a hassle, so it’s essential to weigh your options carefully. This section will cover what makes Selectel Wireless stand out, its plan offerings, pricing, and other key details to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.

What Sets Selectel Wireless Apart?

Selectel Wireless stands out for its focus on simplicity and reliability. Unlike many competitors, it emphasizes straightforward plans without unnecessary extras, making it an excellent option for users who want affordable service without distractions. Additionally, its customer service receives consistent praise, particularly from users in smaller communities who value personalized support.

Price of Selectel Wireless Plans

Selectel Wireless offers a range of prepaid plans designed to fit different budgets. Starting at just $15 per month for a basic talk-and-text plan, the carrier also provides options with data at higher price points. The cell phone plans at Selectel Wireless are priced higher than the competition, ranging from $15 for talk-and-text to $60 for 45 GB of high-speed data.

What Kinds of Plans Does Selectel Wireless Offer?

Selectel Wireless offers several plans, from talk-and-text options to plans with light and moderate data allocations. These plans are ideal for low data users, such as those who primarily use Wi-Fi or don’t consume much mobile data. Users seeking unlimited or high-data plans find Selectel Wireless less accommodating compared to competitors with more robust data options.

What Network Does Selectel Wireless Use?

Selectel Wireless operates on Verizon’s network, giving customers access to one of the most reliable and extensive networks in the United States. This ensures excellent coverage, particularly in rural and underserved areas, making it a great choice for those who live outside major metropolitan areas.

Can You Bring Your Own Cell Phone?

Yes! Selectel Wireless allows you to bring your own unlocked device, provided it is compatible with Verizon’s network. This flexibility makes it easy for users to switch without the added cost of purchasing a new phone. Simply check compatibility on their website, and you’re good to go.

Selectel Wireless Cell Phone Plans

Selectel Wireless offers a variety of cell phone plans designed to cater to users with different data needs, ranging from minimal usage to high-data plans. Here’s a breakdown of their current offerings:

$15 per Month for 100 MB

This plan is perfect for users who rarely use mobile data and primarily rely on Wi-Fi. With just 100 MB of high-speed data,  it’s best suited for basic tasks like occasional email checking or messaging. It’s economical for those needing a no-frills plan with reliable talk and text.

$25 per Month for 500 MB

For users who need slightly more data, this plan provides 500 MB of high-speed data. The difference between .1 and .5 GB is very small, with this plan remaining in the hyper-low data bracket. 

$30 per Month for 6 GB

This plan caters to light data users who want a little more flexibility with their high-speed data. You may browse the internet, stream music occasionally, and use maps throughout the month. 

$40 per Month for 10 GB

Designed for moderate data users, this plan offers 10 GB of high-speed data, making it suitable for slightly more data usage throughout the month. 

$50 per Month for 15 GB

This plan is perfect for users who need moderate amounts of data for browsing social media, streaming music, and watching videos throughout the month. Really heavy use will chew through this data, but many moderate data users stay under 15 GB each month!

$60 per Month for 45 GB

The most robust option, this plan is ideal for power users who rely heavily on mobile data for work, entertainment, and everything in between. With 45 GB of high-speed data, it’s an excellent choice for those who need reliable, high-capacity service.

Selectel Wireless Versus the Competition

There are plenty of wireless providers vying for your attention, each offering unique features and pricing structures. Choosing the right provider can save you money and ensure your needs are met. Selectel Wireless is ideal for users who value personalized service and reliable coverage without paying for extras they don’t need. Let’s see how Selectel Wireless compares to both MVNOs and major carriers.

Selectel Wireless vs. Verizon Wireless

Selectel Wireless operates on Verizon’s robust network, providing excellent coverage and reliability across the country. These carriers have key similarities and differences.

• Coverage: Both offer the same coverage since Selectel uses Verizon’s network. This makes Selectel a great choice for rural and remote areas.
• Price: Selectel’s plans are more affordable, but provide far less data and add-ons than Verizon. Verizon offers unlimited high-speed data at a similar price point to Selectel’s 45 GB cell phone plan, but Selectel has a selection of more affordable plans with low data allocations.
• Data Prioritization: Like other MVNOs, Selectel customers may experience slower speeds during network congestion, whereas Verizon prioritizes its direct customers.

Selectel Wireless provides limited data plans that are more affordable than Verizon’s fare, but it falls short of other MVNOs for value per dollar spent. Let’s get into it. 

Selectel Wireless vs. Visible Wireless

Both Selectel and Visible are MVNOs operating on Verizon’s network, catering to slightly different audiences.

• Plan Simplicity: Visible offers straightforward unlimited plans with all taxes and fees included, while Selectel provides more flexibility with tiered data plans.
• Pricing: Visible’s single-line unlimited plan starts at $25, which is hard to beat. Selectel does not offer a set of plans to compete with Visible’s excellent unlimited plan. 
• Customer Service: Selectel stands out for its personalized customer service, while Visible’s digital-first approach may not appeal to those who prefer speaking with a representative.

Choose Visible if you want unlimited data at a low price and are comfortable with online-only support. Opt for Selectel if you value flexibility and hands-on customer service.

Selectel Wireless vs. US Mobile

US Mobile and Selectel Wireless both cater to users who want customizable plans and affordability, but they differ in execution.

• Customization: US Mobile allows you to build your plan by selecting specific amounts of talk, text, and data, while Selectel offers pre-designed plans with varying data caps.
• Network Options: US Mobile supports both Verizon and T-Mobile networks, giving you more flexibility, while Selectel exclusively uses Verizon.
• Perks: US Mobile’s premium unlimited plans include perks like streaming subscriptions, which Selectel doesn’t offer.

US Mobile may be a better fit if you prefer a fully customizable plan and value perks. For simplicity and a focus on Verizon’s network, Selectel is the way to go.

Selectel Wireless: Review Summary

Selectel Wireless is an MVNO that operates on Verizon's network, offering affordable prepaid plans with a focus on reliability and flexibility. Like any carrier, Selectel Wireless has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

The Good:

• Reliable Coverage: Selectel Wireless uses Verizon’s network, ensuring strong nationwide coverage, including rural and underserved areas.
• Affordable Plans: The carrier provides budget-friendly plans, making it a great option for users looking to save on their monthly phone bills.
• No Contracts: All plans are prepaid, allowing you to switch or cancel without being locked into a long-term commitment.
• Focus on Customer Support: Selectel Wireless is known for its responsive customer service, particularly for users in smaller communities.
• Variety of Plan Options: Offers plans that cater to different usage needs, from light talk-and-text users to those needing moderate amounts of data.

The Bad:

• Data Deprioritization: As an MVNO, Selectel Wireless customers may experience slower speeds during network congestion compared to Verizon’s direct customers.
• Limited Features: The carrier doesn’t offer extras like international roaming or perks such as streaming service bundles.
• Fewer Device Options: Selectel Wireless has a smaller selection of devices available for purchase, and financing options are limited.
• No Dedicated App: Account management relies on the website or phone support, which can feel outdated compared to competitors with user-friendly apps.
• High-Data Plans May Be Lacking: Selectel Wireless may not be the best choice for users needing unlimited or very high amounts of high-speed data.

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