BYOP stands for "bring your own phone". It refers to the practice of keeping your device when you change wireless carriers.
When it comes to BYOP on the T-Mobile network you have more options than you may think. Thanks to the uptick in smaller mobile providers called MVNOs, you and your smartphone can waltz right past T-Mobile's high prices and hook yourself up with a cheaper cell phone plan.
You can use your current phone and still have reliable wireless service on the carrier's nationwide 4G LTE network.
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Whether you need an unlimited plan, a family plan, or extra features like international calling or mobile hotspot usage, there are BYOP plans to fit your needs.
Stay tuned to learn more about BYOP plans from top MVNOs and how you can save 50% off your cell phone bill without sacrificing the quality and coverage of the T-Mobile network.
In This Guide
Keep Your T-Mobile Phone and Number and Switch to a Cheaper Plan
Switching is simple.
- Choose a carrier. There are plenty of carriers offering cheap T-Mobile service. Each one provides different plans and features, so you should have no trouble finding one to fit your data needs and budget.
- Check that your phone is compatible. T-Mobile uses the GSM network, which means you'll have the best luck if you already have a device that runs on either the T-Mobile or AT&T network. You can quickly check compatibility on most carrier websites.
- Order a SIM card. Most MVNOs operate solely online, which makes it very easy to sign up. You just order a T-Mobile SIM card kit, pop it into your phone, and activate service following the carrier's instructions.
You'll want to be sure your device is unlocked from your last carrier. Need help? Read simple instructions on how to unlock your phone. You should also know how to change your APN settings just in case you need to make some adjustments in your phone.
Benefits of MVNOs
Here are just some of the advantages of bringing your own device to a T-Mobile MVNO:
- Get blazing LTE speeds on the fastest wireless network in America.
- Save 50% or more on your cell phone bill.
- Choose from custom plans - only pay for what you really need.
- Keep your phone number.
- No contracts, credit checks, or early termination fees.
- Enjoy great customer service.
- Buy online for fast and easy signup.
T-Mobile MVNOs
There are several great options when it comes to activating your phone on the T-Mobile network. Let's take a look at some of the best MVNOs with BYOP no-contract plans.
TextNow
TextNow is unique in that this carrier uses both Wi-Fi and the T-Mobile network to deliver reliable service to your device. They offer a range of plans from free, ad-supported Wi-Fi only coverage all the way up to an affordable unlimited data plan.
Mint Mobile
Formerly known as Mint SIM, this carrier offers three different plan options: 2 GB, 5 GB, or 10 GB of high-speed data. Unlimited texting and calling are included. Mint provides T-Mobile coverage and saves you money on this service by selling its plans in bulk. You can choose from three, six, or 12 months at a time. The more you buy, the deeper the discount.
US Mobile
This T-Mobile MVNO offers two monthly plan options - a custom cell phone plan built by you, or an unlimited data plan. Prices are fairly competitive and you can easily bring your own phone.
Not finding the right fit among these three? Check out our comprehensive list of other T-Mobile MVNOs.
Keep in mind that you may not even need an unlimited data plan - most people don't. Calculate your needs quickly and simply with our handy data usage calculator.
Refurbished Phone Options
Are you ready for an upgrade? Smartphone on its last legs? Save over half-off retail price on your next device by buying used or refurbished.
Benefits of Buying a Refurbished Smartphone
- It's cheaper - typically 50% or more off MSRP of a brand-new phone.
- Third-party repair companies make it easy and affordable to fix your device.
- New smartphone prices are growing by the year, with some nearing $1000.
- Changes to new models are typically minor.
- Reputable sellers offer perks like warranties and 30-day returns.
Think about it this way: you could spend $600-$800 on a phone that will be obsolete almost as soon as you buy it. Or, you could spend $200 or less and get a similar, slightly older iPhone or Android phone that has almost identical features.
Key Considerations When Buying a Used Phone
Here are a few factors to keep in mind when shopping for a refurbished smartphone:
- Warranty: Sellers provide anywhere from no warranty up to a one-year guarantee.
- Certified devices: In some cases, phone sellers provide certification through an extensive inspection and testing process.
- Shipping: Most sellers provide postage for free.
- Returns: Check to make sure there's a no-hassle return policy, just in case.
- Insurance: You can purchase third-party phone insurance if you wish, for extra peace of mind.
- Payment plans: Some sites offer phone financing through third parties like Affirm. This is rarely a good deal due to interest charges. You're better off paying in full if possible.
Ready to shop? Compare unlocked GSM phones to find the best deals on popular devices like iPhone and the Samsung Galaxy series.
After you get your new device, don't forget to sell your old phone for cash!
Save Even More - Sell Your Old Phone
According to Statista, the average selling price of a used smartphone is $229. So why let that unused device just sit in a drawer?
Maybe you've put off selling your phone because you don't want to be bothered with taking photos, putting up a listing, and dealing with interested buyers. Great news - you don't have to.
We make it simple by showing you the best offers from reputable buyers who will take that old phone off your hands for cash. See how easy it is to sell your phone.
Recap
Tired of paying ridiculous prices for your phone and cell service?
- Choose a cheap cell phone plan on one of the best T-Mobile MVNOs.
- Bring your own phone to your new carrier.
- Save over 50% off retail - compare prices on refurbished and used phones.
- Sell your old phone for cold, hard cash.
Not sure yet? Find out exactly how much you could save over your current phone bill by using our cell phone savings calculator. It's fast, easy, and can save you hundreds over the next year!
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