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Tello Mobile Cell Phone Plans Review (2023)
- By Yassine Malik
- Last updated: June 24, 2023
Tello stands out as an incredibly affordable and flexible wireless carrier, offering users the freedom to customize their plans according to their precise needs. The options include selecting the desired number of texts, minutes, and data without any convoluted contracts or hidden fees. Tello operates on the reliable T-Mobile network with access to 5G technology, giving customers all the advantages of a major carrier without the exorbitant price typically associated with it.
Pros
- No extra fees
- Upgrade your plan at any time
- Free international calling to 60+ countries
- Tethering included
Cons
- No multi-line discounts
- Tello doesn’t sell the latest devices
- Data slows down to 2G after monthly limit is exceeded
Tello Mobile's best deals
Tello Mobile
1GB phone plan
$10/mo
Tello Mobile
2GB phone plan
$14/mo
Tello Mobile
5GB phone plan
$19/mo
Tello Mobile
Unltd phone plan
$29/mo
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Tello Mobile Plans and Pricing
When selecting a Tello plan, you have the flexibility to choose your preferred amount of data and call minutes. Rest assured that once you have a plan with some minutes included, unlimited texting is automatically provided at no extra cost.
Tello offers various plans to suit your needs. The starting plan costs only $5 per month, providing 500 MB of data without any minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for a plan with 100 minutes and no data. If you require unlimited data and minutes, the most expensive plan is priced at just $29 per month. For more flexibility, there are also mid-range plans available that offer different combinations tailored to your preferences. Moreover, Tello provides pre-made plans if you prefer not to customize everything yourself.
Signing up for the service and finding a suitable plan was incredibly easy. I simply selected my desired data and minutes, logged in using my Google account, confirmed the order, and was good to go. As per my preference, I opted for a new number with my plan. However, like any other MVNO, Tello also provides the option to transfer an existing number.
In the world of Tello, your minutes are not confined to local calls alone. With Tello, you have the power to reach out to numerous destinations such as the U.S., Canada, Mexico, China, and Romania without any constraints. Just imagine the possibilities! We don’t stop there – Tello connects you with over 60 different countries at no additional cost. However, it is essential to note that some ‘free’ nations may involve charges for mobile numbers. Nevertheless, with this extensive coverage, there’s an excellent chance for significant savings if you ever find yourself in need of making overseas calls.
Every plan includes hotspot/tethering use by default. This is a great freebie considering that some other MVNOs charge an additional $10/month for this feature. Moreover, you have the flexibility to reconfigure your plan anytime based on your usage habits. Your plan will automatically renew every 30 days for added convenience.
All of the information mentioned emphasizes that Tello Mobile offers remarkable affordability. It would be preferable if taxes were already included within the monthly rate, following a similar approach as Metro by T-Mobile. However, this minor concern pales in comparison to the multitude of benefits Tello provides.
Tello Network and Coverage
Tello previously relied on Sprint’s network for its service. However, starting from 2021, the company has officially made the switch to T-Mobile. This transition brings exciting news as it promises even broader wireless coverage compared to before. Moreover, Tello now supports 5G on T-Mobile’s network at no additional cost.
The phone calls I made on Tello were satisfactory for both the individuals I conversed with and myself. Texting was consistently reliable without any issues of messages failing to send. In general, everything operated seamlessly in accordance with one’s expectations for a wireless service. Additionally, should you ever encounter difficulties with making phone calls, all Tello plans include Wi-Fi calling at no additional cost.
Take a look at Tello’s coverage map to determine whether Tello will work in your area. Afterward, click on the map to view the available bands for your location. If you find yourself on the fringe of LTE 600 coverage, there is a possibility of experiencing connectivity issues.
Ensure that you verify your coverage, even if you have previously used T-Mobile service. T-Mobile and certain carriers affiliated with T-Mobile extend their coverage through roaming agreements not accessible to Tello. Nevertheless, as long as you are within the covered area, you can expect reliable service with satisfactory LTE speeds.
Tello vs The Competition
Mint Mobile, an independent carrier owned by Ryan Reynolds, utilizes T-Mobile’s network strength. With Mint, you have multiple options for affordable plans. You can enjoy unlimited data, or opt for 15GB of 4G LTE or 5G access at only $30 per month. Additionally, there are added perks such as free international calling to Mexico and Canada and the freedom to use your hotspot without restrictions within your plan’s limits. Moreover, Mint provides the option of paying in advance for service months in exchange for discounted rates.
Visible is an excellent choice if you seek a prepaid unlimited option. It offers unlimited talk, text, and data for only $25 per month during the current promotion period, which will end after May. After that, the price will revert to $35 per month. What sets Visible apart is its affordability at just $6 more than Tello’s so-called “unlimited” plan while truly delivering limitless service. Personally, I have used 100GB or more in a single month without any issues. Additionally, Visible provides unrestricted access to hotspot services.
Cricket Wireless, owned by AT&T, is recognized as one of the top prepaid options available. Despite its affiliation with AT&T, Cricket independently manages its features and plans while offering a wide range of phones. Notably, unlike many other prepaid carriers, Cricket provides device financing options and special discounts on phones for customers who stay with the company for a certain duration. The most advantageous plan offered is Cricket More, serving as an exclusive unlimited option. With this plan, subscribers enjoy unlimited talk, text, data, along with 15GB of hotspot data.
Bottom Line
If you have minimal data requirements and make short phone calls, Tello’s affordable and customizable plans are a great choice. They offer basic plans at prices comparable to a few cups of coffee. Additionally, Tello provides excellent customer service without any binding contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
RephraseIs Tello a good phone service?
If you’re searching for a fantastic deal, absolutely! However, it’s not without its flaws. T-Mobile’s other services take precedence, and there are no fancy extras. Nonetheless, you’ll find straightforward plans and excellent prices. What more could one possibly desire?
Does Tello have overage charges or hidden fees?
In the case of your phone purchase, the only costs you’ll encounter include the price of the device itself, service charges, and any local taxes that apply. [
Tello eliminates hidden charges by following a prepaid monthly system. You have the freedom to upgrade or downgrade without incurring any early termination fees.
Does Tello charge an activation fee?
Activation fees can be quite burdensome, reaching as high as $30-$45 with some providers. However, Tello sets itself apart by not charging any activation fees for phones.
Does Tello let you bring your own phone?
Save money by bringing your current phone to Tello. However, please note that CDMA devices are no longer compatible with Tello Mobile.
Can I keep my phone number?
You can keep your number, friend. When you sign up, let Tello’s customer service reps know, and they’ll help set it up.
Does Tello offer a trial period?
Tello does not offer trial periods for its plans. However, customers have the flexibility to change or cancel their Tello plan anytime, which means they only need to pay for one month of service to give it a try.
What’s Tello’s return policy and early termination fee?
Customers enjoy a 30-day return period with free shipping on phone purchases. This ensures hassle-free returns and eliminates any additional delivery charges. Please note that the service
Does Tello have mobile hotspot?
Tello’s free mobile hotspot feature allows users to utilize their monthly data balance by connecting any hotspot-capable phone.
Does Tello offer a money-back guarantee?
Tello provides customers with a 100% money-back guarantee. If any dissatisfaction arises regarding a product or service, Tello will refund the full amount as long as the claim is made within a few days of the purchase date.
How do I cancel my Tello cell phone service?
If you find yourself unsatisfied with Tello or wish to switch to another service provider, the process of canceling your plan is simple and straightforward. You can log in to your account online or through the Tello app and proceed to cancel your plan. Any remaining balance within the current billing cycle will still be valid until its completion. Additionally, you have the flexibility to downgrade your plan to a more cost-effective option whenever you choose.
How do I get Tello cell phone service?
Follow these steps to get new cell phone service with Tello:
- Sign up for Tello on their website.
- The ideal plan for your needs awaits you. Take a moment to consider the options and select the one that suits you best. Afterward, simply create an account with T
- Tello offers two options for getting started. You have the choice to buy a new phone and SIM card directly from Tello or use your existing phone and SIM card.
- Once a plan is purchased and the phone and SIM card are in hand, activation of the SIM card is necessary to begin using Tello.
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