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At a glance
- Value for money: Visible offer some good features within their plans including international calling.
- Coverage: Great coverage on the Verizon network.
- Customer experience: Not having a customer service number is a big issue for many, as they've found getting help has been frustrating.
- Transparency: Unlike some carriers where it's near impossible, you can find Visible plan terms, but you do have to dig around in the small print.
- Range of choice: There are only two plan options and neither are the cheapest.
Visible review: An in-depth analysis
Visible emerges as a top-notch choice for consumers seeking an affordable, uncomplicated single-line plan.
With its straightforward pricing model, Visible offers just two plans, so it eliminates the overwhelming feeling of having too many choices.
While it may not boast an array of features or plan options, I believe its simplicity and access to the Verizon network can make it a prime choice for some individuals.
What is Visible?
Visible is a low-cost carrier that operates on Verizon's network. It offers reliable coverage at a cheaper price.
While Visible doesn't offer fancy extras like streaming services, it can save you some money on your phone plan. And since Verizon runs it, you know it's got experience behind it.
What makes Visible different?
There are only two Visible plans to choose from, which can eliminate the confusion of too many choices. However, this means the plans lack flexibility with their allowances, as both are unlimited.
Both plans provide free calling to Mexico and Canada, with the Visible+ plan offering even more international features.
Now, it is worth mentioning that although both plans come with unlimited hotspot data, hotspot speed is limited to 5 Mbps. And is limited to one connected device.
Plans & pricing
Visible unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Visible unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
How does Visible compare to Verizon?
Verizon vs Visible comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $600 per year
Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|
Verizon | Verizon 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
Visible | Verizon 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $25/mo | $300/yr |
Savings | $50/mo | $600/yr |
How much does Visible cost?
At the time of publication, there are two options, both of which are unlimited plans. Visible is $25 a month, and Visible+ is $45 a month.
The + version comes with several extras, like Apple Watch service, 50GB of premium data, and international calling and texting. It also hooks you up with 5G Ultra Wideband access, as opposed to the regular plan, which gets regular 5G where available.
Is Visible a good value?
A single line with Visible can save a good chunk of money over a plan directly from Verizon without sacrificing your coverage. However, I think you could be better off with a different MVNO if you're looking for family phone plans.
Compare Visible vs other carriers
Visible | How do Visible plans compare? | ||
---|---|---|---|
See at Visible | See at Tello |
See at US Mobile
*30 Day FREE Trial
|
See at Mint Mobile
*$45 for 3 Months
|
Verizon 4G & 5G | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | T-Mobile 4G & 5G |
Unlimited data | Unlimited data | Unlimited data | Unlimited data |
$23/mo* | $25/mo | $15/mo* | $15/mo* |
$518/yr | $300/yr | $270/yr | $315/yr |
1.5 on Trustpilot | 4.5 on Trustpilot | 4.6 on Trustpilot | 3.1 on Trustpilot |
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- Visible vs Verizon
Network coverage
Does Visible have good network coverage?
Verizon is known for its extensive coverage area, including many rural areas. Before signing up, it's worth checking our Visible coverage map to check coverage where you live.
The majority of individuals throughout the US will have a reliable signal with this provider. But if you're new to Verizon, you can check the best coverage in your area to determine which network is the most robust.
Does Visible have 5G coverage?
Visible uses Verizon's 5G network. If you want to know how Verizon's 5G network performs in your area, you can check out this 2023 OpenSignal 5G Experience Report for more information.
Visible 5G coverage map
How fast are Visible data speeds?
Data speeds can vary depending on your network, location, and device. Visible's website notes that typical 4G LTE & 5G download speeds are 9-56Mbps and that video streams in SD.
The Visible+ plan has access to 5G Ultra Wideband, while Visible Basic does not.
Customer service
Does Visible have good customer service?
The Visible Trustpilot rating is poor, and our Visible customer reviews are only slightly better. Overall, most people have commented that the service is good as long as you don't need to contact customer support.
Visible's customer service seems to be the main reason for the bad reviews, which could be due to the lack of phone support.
Although there are other ways to contact someone 24/7, many people have commented on their frustration at not being able to speak to someone.
- Live chat: Via the website or app 24/7
- Social media: X (@visiblecare) & Facebook Messenger
User experience
What are reviewers saying about Visible?
Customers like access to the Verizon network and have found the overall service good. But most are not happy with the customer support.
Visible customer reviews roundup
- Visible MoneySavingPro rating: 2.6 stars (163)
- Visible Trustpilot rating: 1.5 stars (1,000+)
- Visible Amazon rating: 3.5 stars (132)
- Visible Google rating: 4.5 stars (40,000+)
What are some common complaints about Visible?
Although most people have positive experiences, some common issues crop up.
Some people have experienced long wait times to reach customer support. Others report frustration with speeds during network congestion due to deprioritization.
SIM activation
Is it easy to switch?
Activating your Visible SIM card is super easy and takes just a few moments if you choose eSIM activation.
Does Visible support eSIM?
Yes, Visible supports eSIM devices. The activation process for your eSIM is quick and much more convenient. You can buy your plan and immediately proceed with installation without having to wait for a SIM card to arrive in the mail.
Phone selection
What phones do they have?
If you're in the market for a new phone, you can choose from a decent selection of the most popular smartphones. The carrier offers the latest iPhone, Samsung Galaxy model, and Google Pixel, among others. Device financing is available through Affirm.
Can I bring my own phone to Visible?
You can boost your savings by keeping your current device and bringing your own phone to Visible. You can also transfer your current phone number. Just ensure that your device is compatible with the Verizon network.
Is my phone compatible?
While most 4G and 5G smartphones are compatible with any network, you'll be able to check on Visible's site during sign-up.
Visible features
Is Visible any good?
Short answer: Visible is an MVNO started by Verizon in 2018. The beauty of this carrier is that it gives you Verizon's extensive coverage at a much lower price. This can be attractive if you're not interested in paying for a bunch of features you don't need at a high cost. However, if customer care is important to you, Visible currently has a poor Trustpilot score of 1.4, with customer service being a chief complaint.
Is Visible worth it?
The Visible website is easy to navigate, and it offers good transparency regarding taxes and fees and any terms and conditions regarding things like mobile hotspot access and data speeds.
Saying that, with Visible's basic plan at $25 a month offering mobile hotspot access and free calls to Mexico and Canada, you can cut the cost of your bill compared to going directly to Verizon.
It's great for people who just need one line, but if you need multiple lines or want more options for your money, other MVNOs might be a better fit.
Would I use Visible?
Short answer: Visible can certainly save you money, and the coverage is good if Verizon's network is available where you live. After using the service myself, I had a great experience in terms of coverage and pricing. However, I have to echo many other reviewers who were disappointed with the lack of customer support. Without a phone number to call, I found it frustrating to get help when I needed it.
Visible FAQs
Visible SIM cards are available online, and shipping takes around 1-2 business days.
Although you can also buy them from third-party retailers like Walmart, eBay, and Amazon, I suggest buying directly from the carrier to make the process more straightforward.
There are several options with multi-line discounts on the Verizon network, including Red Pocket Mobile and US Mobile. You can compare family phone plans from all MVNOs to find the best deal.
The Visible+ plan includes roaming in Mexico and Canada, plus the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. However, data speeds are reduced to 2G after 0.5GB/day. Roaming is not available on certain devices, so make sure to check Visible's help center for more information.
No. Customer support is available exclusively through chat and social media.
Yes. This carrier does run promotions from time to time. A previous promotion was for new customers, offering $5 a month off the basic plan and $10 off the plus plan if you commit to 24 months.
Yes. Visible offers $20 off your next month of service if you refer a friend, and your friend will receive $20 off their first month.
Yes. With basic, you get free calls to Mexico and Canada. With Plus, you get calls to 30+ countries and text messages to over 200 countries.
Recap: Is Visible the best cell phone plan?
Visible currently has two plans, with the basic plan starting at $25 a month and providing access to the Verizon network.
The taxes and fees are included in the monthly price, and you get free calls to Mexico and Canada. The Visible+ plan also includes an extra 30+ countries and 50GB of premium data.
However, other low-cost carriers offer cheaper plans with more flexible features and better customer support.
It's important to consider the following essential factors when determining if this carrier is the one for you:
- Plans: With two wireless plans, the carrier keeps it nice and simple, but most of us don't need unlimited data. So, you could save even more money by choosing a plan with a smaller data allowance.
- Coverage: Service on Verizon's network means reliable coverage for the vast majority of users.
- Phones: Bring your own phone or choose from a wide range of new devices.
- Customer experience: The general user experience is frustration about the lack of a customer service phone number.
- Promotions: Keep your eyes peeled for discounts, as Visible sometimes offers decent deals for new customers. But make sure to read the fine print, especially when it comes to offers.
How we reviewed Visible
To select the best carriers and plans, MoneySavingPro's team of experts evaluated over 30 different carriers.
Carriers were rated in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. We then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:
- Value for money: We compare carriers based on price, features, benefits, and promotions. It's not just about the lowest price but getting the most bang for your buck.
- Coverage: We examine network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US and use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
- Customer experience: We take into account items such as current user experience, website and app usability, ease of switching, and customer service in terms of availability, channels, and satisfaction ratings.
- Transparency: We assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. We examine the fine print to check for hidden fees, confusing terms or conditions, and misleading offers to ensure upfront, honest prices and advertising.
- Range of choice: We evaluate the diversity of plan options to determine whether they meet all customers' individual needs.
Read more about our carrier ratings methodology and our editorial process.