What is Selectel Wireless & is it worth it?
Pros
Plans for light to heavy users
Unlimited talk and text
Mobile hotspot capability
Unlimited 2G data
National roaming coverage available
Cons
No family plans
Confusing plans between carrier and independent dealers
Higher pricing than other MVNOs
Selectel Wireless, headquartered in Nebraska, started out in 2008 in the landline business then expanded to cell phone service in 2013.
This MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) offers mobile service on the nationwide Verizon network. MVNOs rent space on one or more of the big three carrier networks and sell it to you at a discount.
Selectel may not offer the cheapest cell phone plans out there, but when you consider they operate on the top-rated wireless network in America it's a pretty good value for the money. They offer a range of data buckets, complete with features many wireless customers look for, like HD streaming.
Keep reading to find out if Selectel Wireless is the right choice for your mobile service needs.
Selectel Wireless Prepaid Plans
| Plan | Data | Network | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selectel Wireless 5GB | 5GB | Verizon | $30/mo |
| Selectel Wireless 10GB | 10GB | Verizon | $40/mo |
| Selectel Wireless 15GB | 15GB | Verizon | $50/mo |
| Selectel Wireless 45GB | 45GB | Verizon | $60/mo |
Selectel plans come in sizes to fit virtually anyone's data usage. Choose from 100MB per month all the way up to an unlimited data plan (which is actually 22GB of 4G data, then throttled to 2G).
All plans come with unlimited talk, text, and 2G data. The top four plans come with HD video streaming. Mobile hotspot use is available on Apple iPhones automatically, and on Androids like the Samsung Galaxy series upon request.
Plans can be purchased online, in Selectel Wireless stores, or through independent dealers. Some of the plans available through independent sellers may differ from those on the carrier website. For example, for an additional monthly fee you can get voice roaming across the nation. This means when you go out of the Verizon service area, their partner networks have you covered.
Some plans available through dealers also include unlimited calling to mobile and landline numbers in Canada and Mexico. Be sure to speak to a representative before purchasing to make sure you get exactly what you want in your plan.
Selectel Wireless Savings
Verizon vs Selectel Wireless comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $360 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | Verizon 4G & 5G | Unltd* | $80/mo | $960/yr |
| Selectel Wireless | Verizon 4G & 5G | 15GB | $50/mo | $600/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $30/mo | $360/yr | |
Selectel Wireless Coverage
Selectel service is delivered on the 4G Verizon network. This means you get the same call quality and speed you get with Verizon. That's a big deal, considering Verizon beat out all of the other major networks in the most recent RootMetrics report for speed, reliability, and overall performance.
If you're not sure whether your area is covered, check our Selectel Wireless coverage map for details.
If you travel outside of the United States you'll need to pick up a local SIM card at your destination or use Wi-Fi for your calling and data needs.
Selectel Wireless Cell Phone Plans
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
5GB
4G/5G data
$30/mo
Powered by: Verizon
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
10GB
4G/5G data
$40/mo
Powered by: Verizon
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
15GB
4G/5G data
$50/mo
Powered by: Verizon
Selectel Wireless Phone Deals
When it comes to your device options, you can choose from the very limited selection of Samsung smartphones or a flip phone available through the carrier website. Selectel does not provide device financing.
The more affordable choice is to bring your own phone. You can bring your paid-off, off-contract Verizon device, of course. Universal unlocked phones from companies like Motorola and Samsung are typically compatible as well.
If you don't own a Verizon phone, we connect you with great deals on refurbished Selectel Wireless compatible smartphones.
If you BYOP you'll need to purchase a Selectel Wireless SIM card through the website or a dealer. You may also need to adjust your phone's APN settings.
Key Considerations
Undecided? Ask yourself a few questions:
- Does Verizon provide service in your area?
- Are you a light, moderate, or heavy data user?
- Do you want mobile hotspot capability?
- Will you bring your own phone or buy a new or used device?
Recap
On the whole, this Verizon MVNO offers a good deal on cell phone plans to fit a wide range of people. There are no family plans and no international roaming. If you need those features you should compare cell phone plans from our other great carriers.
Don't forget to maximize your savings by shopping top-rated refurbished smartphones to bring to your new carrier!
