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Visible vs. PureTalk: Which carrier is better?

By
Allison Radziwon
October 12, 2024

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In this article, we plan to discuss the ins and outs of both carriers and what they offer. We’ll also cover:

  • What the coverage of both carriers looks like
  • How prices of their plans compare to how much data you get
  • The features each carrier offers for their plans 

Coverage & Reception

Visible is on the Verizon network, while PureTalk is on the AT&T network. 

Visible and PureTalk are mobile virtual network operators, or MVNOs. This means that they purchase service access wholesale from one of the three major networks that own infrastructure across the country – AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile – giving customers service at a much cheaper price. Visible is an MVNO of Verizon, while PureTalk is an MVNO of AT&T. 

Often, the quality of coverage comes down to your area. One carrier’s coverage may be better in New York, while another’s coverage may be better in California. It’s important to compare between providers on a coverage map of your specific city. Ookla’s coverage map allows you to see where cellular towers are located and which company owns them. This coverage map provides information about coverage from 2G to 5G for several providers.

A person holding iphone with Visible Wireless logo on the screen

Plan Options

Visible offers truly unlimited data, and PureTalk offers limited data plans. 

Like most plans you’ll see on the market, both carriers offer unlimited talk and texting options with any plan you choose. Visible offers premium data, which does not slow down no matter the amount of network traffic. Meanwhile, PureTalk offers several limited data plans. Both companies deprioritize data, meaning you’ll have slower connection speeds in high traffic areas like concerts venues and sports arenas.

Visible Plans

Both Visible plans offer unlimited data. 

Visible only offers 2 plans – Visible Base and Visible +. Visible + offers more features as well as premium data. Both plans offer a hotspot, with the data coming from your overall plan data. As an MVNO on Verizon’s network, Visible is on QCI tiers 8 and 9. Visible + has higher priority for its 50GB of premium data, tier 8, which will be further explained below. Visible Base is on tier 9.

Visible Plans
Image courtesy of Visible’s website.

It’s also important to note that Visible is a single line carrier – meaning you can only have one phone on an account. If you’re buying a plan for your family or with your significant other, you need to make separate accounts with separate plans for everyone. 

If you purchase your phone from Visible, your device will be locked for the first 60 days after activation. Both plans they offer renew monthly, and taxes and fees are included with the advertised price. 

Visible Base

This plan is always depriotized.

Like most plans you’ll see on the market, Visible’s base plan has unlimited talk and text. 

Visible Base also has unlimited data with no cap – meaning you have truly unlimited data that never slows down no matter how much you use. However, the Visible base plan is always deprioritized. Your data and connection will slow down at any point of high traffic in your area. 

The plan also includes unlimited mobile hotspot data. Again, your data is deprioritized and may slow down in times of high network traffic. 

Visible Base
Image courtesy of Visible’s website. 

The plan costs $25 per month. 

Visible +

This plan gives you 50GB of premium data, then unlimited deprioritized data. 

Visible + gives you access to Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network, which is their network for premium data. As such, the 50GB of premium data you get with this plan will not slow down no matter how much network traffic in your area. After you use the 50GB, your data is unlimited – but subjected to the same deprioritization as the other plan. The mobile hotspot is also premium data for the first 50GB, then deprioritized after. 

At this rate, you get the 50GB of premium data at $0.90 per GB. 

The plan costs $45 per month, with a $10 welcome discount for the first month.

PureTalk Plans

PureTalk offers 7 plans at varying data amounts. 

PureTalk offers 7 plans: 2 unlimited, 5 limited. All of their plans are deprioritized, which means you may experience slower speeds at times of high traffic. PureTalk also gives its users 50% off the first month. As an MVNO of AT&T, PureTalk’s QCI level is tier 8. 

PureTalk Plans
Image courtesy of PureTalk’s website

Certain plans also allow a discount on a new phone. 

PureTalk Plans
Image courtesy of PureTalk’s website

PureTalk allows up to 5 lines on one account. If you purchase your phone from PureTalk, your device will be sold to you already unlocked. The plans they offer renew monthly, and taxes and fees are not included with the advertised price. They also offer discounts 

3GB + 2GB Hotspot

This plan slows speeds to 2G after 3GB.

PureTalk offers 3GB of data with this plan, then unlimited data at 256 kbps, or 2G speeds. 2G speeds allow you to send texts and emails or scroll the internet. The plan also includes 2GB of hotspot access, which stops at the limit.

The plan costs $20 per month at full price. At this rate, you get 5GB at $4 per GB. 

5GB + 2GB Hotspot

This plan slows speeds after 5GB.

This plan comes with 5GB, then unlimited slow data at 2G speeds. It also includes 2GB hotspot access. Hotspot data stops after the cap. 

The plan costs $25 per month. At this rate, you get 7GB at $3.57 per GB. 

10GB + 5GB Hotspot

This plan offers hotspot access. 

PureTalk includes 10GB of full speed data, and later unlimited slow data at 2G speeds. The plan also includes a 5GB hotspot.

The plan costs $30 per month. At this rate, you get 15GB at $2 per GB. 

15GB + 5GB Hotspot

This plan gives you 15GB of full speed data. 

This plan gives users 15GB of full speed data. After this cap, PureTalk gives access to unlimited slow data and lowers speeds to 2G. You also get 5GB of hotspot access included.

The plan costs $35 per month. At this rate, you get 20GB at $1.75 per GB. 

Logo of PureTalk with a call to action to learn more at puretalk.com, emphasizing connectivity and communication services.
PureTalk offers competitive pricing for its mobile plans. This makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers.

25GB + 5GB Hotspot

This plan gives you 25GB at full speed, then unlimited slow data. 

As their biggest limited data plan, this plan offers 25GB of full speed data before slowing to 2G speeds. Puretalk also gives 5GB of hotspot access included. 

The plan costs $45 per month. At this rate, you get 30GB at $1.50 per GB. 

Unlimited + 20GB Hotspot 

This plan gives you 20GB of hotspot usage, then access stops. 

With this unlimited plan, PureTalk offers 60GB of full speed data. After 60GB, your data slows down to 2G speeds. This plan also offers 20GB of hotspot data. After 20GB, your data for hotspot usage will stop. 

The plan costs $55 per month. At this rate, you get 80GB at $0.69 per GB. 

Unlimited + 30GB Hotspot 

This plan also gives you 60GB of full speed data. 

Like their other unlimited plan, PureTalk offers 60GB of full speed data before slowing speeds down to 2G. This plan also offers 30GB of hotspot data, which stops after this cap. 

The plan costs $65 per month. At this rate, you get 90GB at $0.72 per GB. 

Features

Visible offers more features than PureTalk.

If you’re looking for a plan with more included features, such as international connection or domestic roaming data, it’s best to compare carriers with what they offer. Visible offers several more features than PureTalk, such as international connection and spam protection.

Domestic Roaming Data

Visible offers domestic roaming data on their plans. PureTalk does not offer this feature. 

Mexico & Canada Connection

Visible offers talk and text in Mexico and Canada. However, Visible does not include roaming data for Mexico and Canada with Visible Base. Visible + includes roaming data that slows down to 2G speeds after 0.5GB each day. PureTalk does not offer this feature.

International Connection

Visible does not give you international roaming data. However, Visible + gives you international talk and text. Visible Base does not offer this feature. PureTalk does not offer this feature.

Video Streaming Quality

Visible’s plans stream at 480p Standard Definition. All PureTalk plans stream at 1080p High Definition. 

Streaming Services

Visible and PureTalk do not offer this feature. 

Cloud Storage

Visible and PureTalk do not offer this feature. 

Device Financing

If you buy a phone from PureTalk, the carrier allows you to pay for your device in installments over time. Visible does not offer this feature. 

WiFi Calling

Both carriers offer WiFi calling, which allows you to send and receive phone calls over a WiFi connection rather than cellular reception. 

Spam Protection

Visible offers spam protection on both of their plans, which blocks spam calls and protects you from potential fraud. PureTalk does not offer this feature. 

Free Trial

Visible offers a 15 day free trial. PureTalk does not offer this feature.   

Visible vs. Puretalk - What’s the Customer Service Like?

Visible and PureTalk do not have physical stores, leaving all of their customer service to online support. 

Visible is a digital-only carrier, meaning they only offer customer support online. Visible offers 24/7 chat support from a live agent. PureTalk offers customer support over the phone at (855) 849-2701 from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. EST every day. You can also submit support tickets online at their website

MVNO Pricing Categories: Where Visible Fits In

MVNOs in the U.S. generally fall into four main categories based on their pricing and plan offerings: low-cost options, mid-tier providers, premium MVNOs, and pay-as-you-go carriers. Each of these serves a different type of user, with varying priorities for data, coverage, and cost. Visible’s two plans—Visible and Visible+—position themselves in the mid-tier category, offering unlimited data at competitive prices. But to better understand their value, let’s see how they compare to each type of MVNO.

Low-Cost MVNOs, like Mint Mobile, focus on providing the cheapest possible service by offering plans that require users to pay for several months upfront. Mint’s basic plan, for example, starts at just $15/month for 4 GB of data if you commit to a 12-month package. This is ideal for users with light data needs who prioritize savings above all else. However, once you use up that data, you’re throttled to slow speeds. Visible’s $25/month plan, in contrast, offers truly unlimited data at a slightly higher price but without needing to pay in bulk or worry about data caps, making it a better choice for moderate or heavy users who want simplicity and reliability.

Mid-Tier MVNOs, like Cricket Wireless or Total by Verizon, typically offer more robust plans with unlimited options but at a higher monthly cost. Cricket’s unlimited plans, for instance, start at $55/month, which includes unlimited data but can involve slower speeds during congestion or lack of premium features. Visible’s base $25 plan competes well here, providing unlimited talk, text, and data at a much lower price point. 

Meanwhile, the $45 Visible+ plan adds 50 GB of premium data and 5G Ultra Wideband access, features that mid-tier carriers often limit or charge more for, making Visible a stronger value proposition for anyone who needs more performance at a reasonable price. If you want more information about how Visible compares to Total by Verizon, check out Total by Verizon vs. Visible Pros and Cons on our website!

Premium MVNOs, such as Google Fi, stand out by offering high-end features like multi-network access and excellent international coverage. Google Fi’s unlimited plans start around $50/month, and while it delivers on flexibility and global usage, it’s priced higher for the same data perks offered by Visible+. For $45/month, Visible+ gives users 50 GB of premium data on Verizon’s network and international calling, which may not match Google Fi’s seamless international roaming but still offers strong global support at a lower cost. For users who mostly stay within the U.S. but want some international capabilities, Visible+ can be a better value than the more expensive premium options.

Pay-As-You-Go MVNOs, like Ting, are designed for ultimate flexibility. With Ting, you only pay for what you use, making it perfect for ultra-light users who rarely need mobile data. However, the downside is that if you ever start using more data, costs can quickly add up, making Ting much less predictable. Visible’s plans, even at their lowest $25/month, provide the peace of mind that comes with unlimited data and no surprises on the bill. For anyone using more than a few gigabytes a month, Visible’s straightforward pricing is a clear winner over pay-as-you-go models.

Overall, Visible’s two plans hit a sweet spot in the market. The $25 base plan offers excellent value for unlimited data, while the $45 Visible+ plan provides premium features at a cost well below traditional premium MVNOs. This makes Visible a strong contender against low-cost and mid-tier competitors, and even a viable alternative to some premium options—all while providing the simplicity of just two straightforward, affordable plans.

The Verdict

Visible offers better unlimited deals.

As Visible offers unlimited data with no cap on one plan and premium data that doesn’t slow down on their bigger plan, they offer better deals on their unlimited plans than PureTalk. However, PureTalk still offers great deals on all of their plans, including unlimited. Their limited data plans also have the advantage if that’s what you’re looking for, as Visible doesn’t offer limited data plans. 

We’d recommend checking your data usage before committing to a plan.

Want to compare other carriers?

Really.com helps users compare between features, coverage, price, reviews, and more!

Are you still unsure which carrier to choose, or which phone plan to pick? Use really.com to compare your top choices and find the best deal to fit your needs. Really allows you to compare and sort between most phone plans on the market without the hassle!

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Visible+

Visible+
data
50GB premium, unlimited deprioritized data after
Hotspot access
Unlimited access
Best for:
Those who want more features
More Details

Visible Base

Visible Base
data
Unlimited deprioritized data
Hotspot access
Unlimited access
Best for:
Those who want to save the most money
More Details

Visible Base

Visible Base
data
Unlimited deprioritized data
Hotspot access
Unlimited access
Best for:
Those who want to save the most money
More Details

PureTalk 3GB + 2GB Hotspot

3GB + 2GB Hotspot
data
3GB
Hotspot access
2GB
Best for:
Lightest data users
More Details

PureTalk 5GB + 2GB Hotspot

5GB + 2GB Hotspot
data
5GB
Hotspot access
2GB
Best for:
Lighter data users
More Details

PureTalk 10GB + 5GB Hotspot

10GB + 5GB Hotspot
data
10GB
Hotspot access
5GB Hotspot
Best for:
Lighter data users
More Details

PureTalk 15GB + 5GB Hotspot

15GB + 5GB Hotspot
data
15GB
Hotspot access
5GB
Best for:
Light data users
More Details

PureTalk 25GB + 5GB Hotspot

25GB + 5GB Hotspot
data
25GB
Hotspot access
5GB Hotspot
Best for:
Average data users
More Details

PureTalk Unlimited + 20GB Hotspot

Unlimited + 20GB
data
60GB
Hotspot access
20GB
Best for:
Heavy data users
More Details

PureTalk Unlimited + 30GB Hotspot

Unlimited + 30GB Hotspot
data
60GB
Hotspot access
30GB
Best for:
Heaviest Data Users
More Details

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your questions,
answered

does this phone service work everywhere?

Yep, we offer premium wireless service on the nation’s largest and fastest 5G network. If you are in our dewi coverage areas, you’ll also get access to our decentralized phone network powered by the people which will give you even faster speeds and better coverage.

is there a contract?

Nope, it’s pay as you go.

is this prepaid?

yep! You put your card on file and prepay each month so that you never experience any disruption.

does my phone need to be unlocked?

Yep, but it’s super easy to unlock your device as long as it’s paid off. Chat with us and a real human can help you here.

what if I want a new phone?

We have some recommendations on what we think you should get, from iPhones to Droids. Check out our list here which includes affordable places online to get a good deal.

what does decentralized wireless (dewi) mean?

It means we are building a phone network that is powered by the people. Your neighbors put small radios on their roof and help extend the phone network to cover deadzones™ and get even faster speeds. Right now our DeWi network is available in Austin, but we’ll be expanding to other cities REALLY soon. Learn more about DeWi here.

can I keep my phone number?

yup! you can port your current number in a snap. need help? hit up your VIP concierge.