Welcome to the world of mobile service providers, where options seem endless and choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze. In this digital age, staying connected is essential, but finding a carrier that meets your needs without breaking the bank can be quite the challenge.
Two popular contenders in this fiercely competitive market are Consumer Cellular and Verizon. Both companies offer reliable coverage and an array of plans to suit different budgets and lifestyles. So, how do you decide which one is the best fit for you? Let's dive into a comparison between these two giants of wireless communication: Consumer Cellular vs Verizon!
About Consumer Cellular
Consumer Cellular, founded in 1995, has positioned itself as a leading provider of affordable wireless service for the aging population and those looking for simplicity. While it may not have the same brand recognition as some of its competitors, Consumer Cellular has built a loyal customer base with its focus on reliability, user-friendly plans, and excellent customer service.
One of the key selling points of Consumer Cellular is its flexible plan options. They offer both individual and shared data plans to cater to different needs. With no-contract options available, you won't be locked into a long-term commitment if you decide to switch providers or adjust your usage requirements.
Another noteworthy feature is their easy-to-use website and mobile app that allows customers to track their usage, make payments, and manage their account effortlessly. This level of convenience can be especially beneficial for older users who may prefer simplicity when it comes to technology.
Whether you're an older adult looking for an uncomplicated phone plan or simply someone who wants reliable service at an affordable price point – Consumer Cellular offers a compelling option worth considering.
About Verizon
Verizon is a well-established telecommunications company that has been providing wireless services for many years. With its extensive coverage and robust network infrastructure, Verizon offers reliable service to millions of customers across the country.
One of the key advantages of choosing Verizon is its impressive nationwide coverage. Whether you're in a major city or a rural area, chances are you'll have access to Verizon's network without any issues. This can be particularly beneficial if you frequently travel or live in areas where other carriers may struggle to provide consistent service.
In addition to its expansive coverage, Verizon also offers a wide range of plans and options to suit different needs and budgets. From unlimited data plans for heavy users to more affordable options for those who don't need as much data, there's something for everyone with Verizon.
Plans and Pricing: Consumer Cellular VS Verizon
When you’re considering the differences between Verizon and Consumer Cellular, Pricing is the most important difference. While Verizon has done away with long-term contracts, their plans tend to be more expensive.
There are, however, talk-only plans available from Consumer Cellular. For $15 per month, you can get 250 minutes of talk (and not data), or $20 per month, you can get unlimited talk. A plan with unlimited talk, text, and data, on the other hand, would cost $60 per month..
Consumer Cellular plans
| Plan | Monthly Price |
| Unlimited talk, text and 1GB of data | $20 |
| Unlimited talk, text and 5GB of data | $25 |
| Unlimited talk, text and 10GB of data | $35 |
| Unlimited talk, text and data | $50 |
If you wanted a basic flip phone from Verizon, the cheapest plan you could get would be their Basic Phone Plan, which includes unlimited talk, text, and 500MB of data. Unlimited data plans start at $60.
Verizon unlimited plans
| Plan | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon Play More Unlimited | Unlimited | $80 | $960 |
| Verizon Do More Unlimited | Unlimited | $80 | $960 |
| Verizon Get More Unlimited | Unlimited | $90 | $1,080 |
Consumer Cellular offers drastic discounts when you purchase more than one phone line. For example, if you wanted three phone lines with unlimited talk, text, and data, you would only pay $30 per line.
Overall, Consumer Cellular would be the more affordable option by far if you only plan to use your phone for some calls and the occasional web search. It is, however, more affordable if you plan on using your phone heavily with data. However, Verizon's service offers faster speeds if you plan to use your phone heavily with data.
Phone Options
It is understandable that Consumer Cellular is a budget brand, so the company would only offer budget phones. However, Consumer Cellular offers the most modern smartphones available, including the iPhone 13 Pro and Galaxy Z Fold 4. Verizon, as you might imagine, also offers the latest smartphones from Samsung and Apple. Both providers offer a selection of flip phones for users who just want to make calls and send the occasional message.
You can also purchase a phone through monthly installments from both providers. Oddly enough, the devices are the same price from both providers. In terms of devices, Verizon allows you to trade in an existing device and apply it toward paying for a new one. Consumer Cellular does not offer a similar feature.
Consumer Cellular vs Verizon coverage
Both Consumer Cellular and Verizon offer extensive coverage across the United States. However, Verizon has a larger network and covers more rural areas than Consumer Cellular. According to OpenSignal's 2021 report, Verizon has the best coverage in the country with 70% coverage in rural areas compared to Consumer Cellular's 58%. In terms of overall coverage, Verizon covers 70% of the country while Consumer Cellular covers about 98%.
In urban areas, both carriers have similar coverage with Verizon covering 99% and Consumer Cellular covering 97%. This means that in most cities and towns, both carriers are likely to have reliable service.
Ultimately, if you live in a rural area or frequently travel to remote locations, Consumer Cellular may offer better coverage than Verizon. However, if you primarily stay in urban or suburban areas, both carriers should provide reliable coverage. It is always recommended to check coverage maps for your specific location before choosing a carrier.
Customer Service and Support
When it comes to customer service and support, Consumer Cellular takes the lead over Verizon. The company prides itself on providing exceptional assistance to its customers, ensuring that their needs are met promptly and efficiently.
Additionally, Consumer Cellular offers various channels for reaching out to their customer support team. Whether you prefer phone calls or online chat options, they make sure there's a convenient way for you to get in touch with them.
Verizon also provides decent customer service but falls short compared to Consumer Cellular's dedicated approach. While Verizon does offer 24/7 support through multiple channels like phone calls and live chat, some customers have reported longer wait times and difficulty connecting with representatives who can address specific issues effectively.
Which one is better?
| Consumer Cellular | Verizon | |
| Editor's Ratings | 4.4 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Price Range | $15 – $40/mo |
$30 – $100/mo
|
| Overage Fees | No fee –– automatic upgrade to next tier of minutes, messages, or data |
All Verizon plans have unlimited talk and messages
$10 per GB of data |
| Bring Your Own Device | Yes | Yes |
| Contract Required | No | No |
| Contract Length | N/A |
Up to 2 years if buying the phone from Verizon
|
| Prepaid Plan Options | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited Data Options | Yes | Yes |
| Family Plans | Yes | Yes |
| Nationwide Coverage | Yes | Yes |
| International Coverage | Yes | Yes |
| Website | View Packages |
Conclusion
Consumer Cellular offers affordable plans for most people. It is a great option for AARP members who want a top-of-the-line phone with unlimited talk, text, and data options.
If you are willing to pay a little more for faster service, Verizon is a good choice.
Consumer Cellular has lower monthly plans, no overage fees, and no contracts, so I would recommend it over Verizon Wireless. Verizon Wireless, however, might be a better choice if you want to have a wide selection of the latest smartphones and cell phones and travel internationally.
