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Quick Summary
Tracfone is Verizon-owned and runs on Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile towers. Which network your specific device uses depends on the SIM card inside. Plans start from $10/mo. Coverage is broadly strong across all three networks. The main limitation: Tracfone doesn't always make it clear which network your device is on. For explicit network choice, Red Pocket ($6/mo) and US Mobile ($10/mo) are more transparent alternatives.
Key Takeaways
- Tracfone is a Verizon-owned company that operates on Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile towers — which network you get depends on your specific device and plan
- Tracfone-compatible devices are SIM-locked to specific networks — verify which network your device uses before checking coverage
- Most Tracfone plans start from $10/mo on whichever network applies to your device — affordable pricing across all three major networks
- Verizon acquired Tracfone in 2021 — some Tracfone devices now default to Verizon's network, though AT&T and T-Mobile options remain available
- For transparent multi-network selection, Red Pocket ($6/mo) and US Mobile ($10/mo) allow users to explicitly choose their host network at signup
Tracfone is powered by the Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks, offering the same coverage without the expensive price tag.
With an MVNO - Mobile Virtual Network Operator, you could save up to $600 a year on your cell phone bill, without sacrificing the features you love.
Below you'll find further information to help decide if Tracfone has the right coverage for you.
Tracfone 4G LTE network coverage
Tracfone 4G LTE coverage map
Tracfone operates on the Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile networks, so you'll have access to the same nationwide 4G LTE coverage, and 5G where it's available.
Even if you've had a plan with Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile before it's always worth checking cell phone coverage in your area, which you can easily do with our ZIP code checker for availability at your address.
Compare network performance
| NETWORK | ROOTMETRICS | OPENSIGNAL | OOKLA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon network | 95 | 9.8 | 74% |
| AT&T network | 93 | 9.5 | 80% |
| T-Mobile network | 87 | 88 | 79% |
Sources: RootMetrics, OpenSignal, and Ookla.
Does Tracfone have 5G?
Yes, Visible 5G coverage is available with a 5G compatible device.
Tracfone 5G coverage map
Tracfone 5G coverage map
Tracfone cell phone plans
Verizon vs Tracfone comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $540 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | Verizon 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Tracfone | Verizon 4G & 5G | 10GB | $30/mo | $360/yr |
| Savings | $45/mo | $540/yr | ||
Tracfone benefits
As an MVNO, Tracfone can offer many benefits compared to plans with the three major networks;
- Lower prices: without hundreds of physical stores and sales staff they can pass on the low-costs to you. With possible savings of up to $600 a year.
- Flexible plans: you won't feel stuck paying for features you don't need, you can customize your plan to suit you.
- Keep your phone and number: pocket the savings from not upgrading to the latest handset and bring your own phone. You can also easily port your number across.
- Easy to switch: if you're keeping your own phone the switch over is simple and you'll be all set within a few days.
- No commitment: there's no contracts, so you pay as you go. If you're not happy or you need to amend your plan you can do this at any time.
Tracfone features
Tracfone coverage FAQs
Powered by Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile you'll receive nationwide 4G LTE coverage.
Tracfone is powered by the Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile networks.
Low-cost carriers pass on the savings to you. Without the overheads of physical stores or expensive advertising campaigns you can halve your monthly cell phone bill. With Tracfone you pay for what you need while still receiving nationwide 4G LTE coverage.
Most unlocked phones are compatible with Tracfone. They operate on the Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile networks.
Recap
Tracfone makes it possible to get a cell phone plan on the Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile network without the big ticket prices.
Offering the same nationwide coverage with 4G LTE and the 5G network, where it's available.
With MVNOs you'll get flexible plans with no contracts, so you're free to amend or cancel without any additional fees.
If you're not sure Tracfone plans are right for you, there's a large selection of MVNOs across all networks you can compare to find your perfect low-cost plan.
Tracfone guides
Tracfone info
| Founded | 1996 |
| Headquarters | 9700 NW 112th Ave, Miami, FL 33178 |
| Employees | 501-1,000 |
| Customer service | (800) 867-7183 |
| Website | Tracfone's Website |
| Wikipedia | Tracfone's Wikipedia |
| Tracfone's Facebook | |
| Tracfone's Twitter |
