Visible is an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) backed by Verizon Wireless. What does this mean? You get the same great Verizon coverage for about half the price.
You may be wondering what the catch is. Afterall if it's the same, why is it under a different brand?
Like most MVNOs, Visible operates solely online meaning all you have to do is download the Visible App and from there you can order your SIM card, set up your account, and pay your bill.
That also means you don't have the luxury of walking into a Verizon store for help if you really need it. But let's be honest, when was the last time you did that? You will, however, have access to a 24/7 Chat tab in the app that can provide you with assistance.
So how does it compare? Read on to find out.
Visible Highlights
- Coverage provided by its parent company, Verizon Wireless
- Prepaid - no contract, credit check, or activation fee
- Bring your own compatible device or buy a Visible phone
- Keep your phone number
- Mobile hotspot/tethering supported
- No international use supported
- Customer support available by chat 7am to 12am EST weekdays and 10am to 10pm weekends, and by phone by request
Visible Prepaid Plans
| Plan | Mins/Texts | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visible - Unlimited Data | Unltd/Unltd | Unltd | $40 |
Keep in mind that just because the price is cheap, doesn't mean you're sacrificing call quality or service.
If you've already decided that Verizon offers the best cell phone coverage for you, you'll get the same 4G LTE data and connection that you get through the "name brand" carrier".
Visible Savings
Verizon vs Visible Price Comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $480 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | Verizon 4G LTE | Unltd* | $80/mo | $960/yr |
| Visible | Verizon 4G LTE | Unltd | $40/mo | $480/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $40/mo | $480/yr | |
Visible as a company prides itself on being simple or "without the fluff". They currently only offer one plan and that's their unlimited plan. This includes unlimited calls, texts, and data all on the Verizon network.
The chart above proves that by switching to Visible, you can cut your Verizon bill by almost half.
If you're just not sure if this is the right fit for you, you can search for a better plan that fits your needs with our cell phone plan comparison tool.
Visible Coverage
It's important to note that while Verizon does have strong coverage throughout most the nation there are some weak coverage areas in spots throughout the middle South and Northeast as well as larger areas across the western US and along the west coast.
If you're already a Verizon customer you should know whether or not their service is right for you. If you are not, check out the Visible coverage map to see if service is available in your area.
Keep in mind that just because the price is cheap, doesn't mean you're sacrificing call quality or service. If you've already decided that Verizon offers the best cell phone coverage for you, you'll get the same 4G LTE data and connection that you get through the "name brand" carrier".
Visible Cell Phone Plans
| Network | Verizon |
|---|---|
| Data Speed | 4G LTE |
| 3G Network | CDMA |
| Mobile Hotspot | n/a |
| Bring Your Phone | Yes |
| Keep Your Number | Yes |
| Contract | No - prepaid |
|---|---|
| Credit Check | No |
| Customer Service | 24/7 |
| International Calls | n/a |
| Money Back Guarantee | n/a |
Visible Phone Deals
Generally, with most MVNOs you have two options: purchase the phone through their website or bring your own phone (BYOP). Visible, however, doesn't currently offer any phones through their site so they are exclusively BYOP.
Visible phones need to be CDMA compatible meaning if you BYOP it needs to be from either the Sprint or Verizon network. Keep in mind that if you BYOP you need to make sure you own it outright. So if you're currently making monthly payments on your phone through a carrier you'll need to finish paying that bulk sum off before you can switch.
There is another option. You can purchase a refurbished phone compatible with Visible. You can use our cell phone comparison tool to find the best price on a certified-refurbished device of your choosing.
Either way, you'll need to adjust the Visible APN settings for whatever capable device you bring.
Once you have your device you can download the Visible app and order your Visible SIM card.
Key Considerations
If you're not familiar with MVNOs, it's understandable if you have more than a few questions. You've probably already heard of a few of these low-cost carriers before such as Cricket Wireless and Metro by T-mobile.
Before switching to Visible here are a few things you need to know:
- Does the Verizon Wireless network cover your area?
- Do you have a CDMA device?
- Do you have a compatible phone?
- Are you OK with operating entirely online?
Recap
A Visible plan gives your Verizon 4G LTE network for almost half the price. That's some major moo-la you'll be saving! Or you can compare them to other Verizon MVNOs before making your decision.
Find out what real customers are saying with our Visible Mobile user reviews.
You can save even more by purchasing a refurbished phone instead of paying out of pocket for a new phone.
