Finding an affordable phone plan without sacrificing coverage or data has never been more challenging. Two low-cost carriers worth considering are Visible and TracFone Wireless.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Visible and TracFone cell phone plans to help you choose which budget provider is best for your needs. We’ll examine:
- Network coverage and speeds
- Plan options and features
- Device selection and financing
- Customer support reputation
- Potential drawbacks
- And more to select the top bargain wireless carrier!
Whether you want unlimited data or more flexibility, read on for an in-depth breakdown of Visible and TracFone. Time to compare and save!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Visible | TracFone |
| Network | Verizon only | AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint |
| Plans | $40/month unlimited | Prepaid buckets & unlimited options |
| Phone Selection | iPhone & Android models | Similar selection to Visible |
| Financing | 24 month device payment plans | No financing, prepaid only |
| Customer Support | Chat, email & forums only | Phone, chat, email & stores |
| Potential Drawbacks | Data throttling, no roaming | Slower speeds, prepaid system |
In-depth Comparison of Features Between Visible Vs. TracFone
Network Coverage and Speeds
The network a low-cost carrier uses heavily impacts performance you’ll experience.
Visible operates on Verizon’s nationwide 4G LTE network. TracFone utilizes AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon and Sprint towers.
Coverage reach – TracFone wins with access to 4 major networks. Visible relies solely on Verizon which still provides extensive coverage.
Data speeds – Visible on Verizon’s strong network typically delivers faster speeds and lower latency. But congestion can sometimes slow Visible data.
Call and text – Both offer unlimited calls and texts without any network restrictions. Reliability is excellent.
So while TracFone works on more networks, Visible generally delivers faster data and a better overall user experience on Verizon’s premium infrastructure.
Plan Options and Features
When it comes to plan choice flexibility, TracFone has an advantage. But Visible provides unlimited data on all plans.
Visible only offers one plan: $40/month for unlimited talk, text, and data. Taxes and fees included. No contract required.
TracFone has a range of options starting at $15/month for low data needs or prepaid buckets of minutes. Unlimited plans start at $50/month.
For perks, Visible customers get 5 mbps hotspot usage and unlimited calling to Canada and Mexico. TracFone’s pricier unlimited plans include 10-15 GB hotspot data.
So TracFone offers more flexibility if you don’t need unlimited high-speed data. But Visible can’t be beat for unlimited talk, text and data on Verizon’s network at just $40/month.
Also Read: Comparison Between Visible Wireless And Straight Talk.
Device Selection and Financing
Both providers offer popular devices, but financing options are limited.
Visible and TracFone support iPhone and popular Android phones like Galaxy, Pixel, and Motorola. Selection focuses on mid-range models.
Financing – Visible allows spreading device cost over 24 months. TracFone only offers prepaid, full retail pricing.
BYOD – Bring your own device to save money monthly. Both support unlocked phones including CDMA and GSM models.
Overall, device selection meets most buyers’ needs. But purchasing the latest high-end devices requires paying full price upfront with these budget carriers.
Also Read: Comparison Between Tracfone and Simple Mobile
Customer Support Reputation
When issues arise, customer service is vital. TracFone edges Visible when it comes to support.
Visible offers customer assistance through chat, email and their online community forum. No phone support. Mixed reviews on wait times and resolution.
TracFone provides phone, chat and email support with generally solid ratings and shorter waits. Also has retail stores for in-person help.
Both carriers rely heavily on account management through apps and online tools. But TracFone’s more traditional support options earn them better marks.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While Visible and TracFone provide affordable rates, some compromises exist.
Visible – Data subject to throttling when network congested. No roaming coverage outside US. Must enroll in Party Pay discount plan for advertised $40 rate.
TracFone – Slower data speeds than postpaid carriers. Phones locked to TracFone for 12 months. Must buy airtime cards to fund prepaid accounts.
Make sure each carriers’ limitations work for your usage needs before signing up. The value pricing comes with some sacrifices.
Also Read: Comparison Between Verizon And Cspire
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Visible and TracFone are not cross-compatible. Visible only provides service for devices specifically purchased and activated on their network.
TracFone is similarly restricted to approved devices active on their supported networks. To switch carriers, you would need to buy a new phone number and compatible device from the new provider. There is no merging Visible and TracFone service on the same phone.
Some potential downsides of using TracFone include:
Slower data speeds than contract carriers
Must purchase airtime cards upfront to fund prepaid accounts
Phones locked to TracFone network for the first year
Prepaid buckets expire if not used in time allotted
No financing options for devices or installment plans
Limited tech support and store presence for issues
The lower monthly costs of TracFone come with some compromises in speed, convenience and support.
No, Verizon is not getting rid of TracFone. In fact, Verizon now owns TracFone after acquiring the wireless provider in 2021. Verizon maintains TracFone as its prepaid value brand that utilizes Verizon’s network capabilities along with AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint.
The goal is for Verizon to expand access to affordable wireless through their TracFone prepaid MVNO service. Verizon continues to grow and invest in TracFone plans and offerings rather than getting rid of the subsidiary brand.
There are no plans for TracFone service to be discontinued. TracFone remains a top prepaid wireless provider since its founding in 1996. After being acquired by Verizon in 2021, TracFone gained additional resources to expand its coverage and plan options.
TracFone continues reliably servicing millions of customers on America’s leading networks. While their phone selection and plans adjust over time, TracFone’s focus on budget-friendly prepaid service remains. There are no indications that TracFone plans to discontinue service, especially now under Verizon ownership. Their affordable wireless service plans to keep running into the foreseeable future.
Also watch the review of Visible!
The Bottom Line
Here are the key differences to consider when choosing between Visible and TracFone:
- Network – TracFone uses 4 major networks while Visible relies solely on Verizon LTE
- Plans – Visible unlimited data for $40/month, TracFone has prepaid buckets and options
- Devices – Both offer iPhone and popular Android models at full retail pricing
- Support – TracFone has better reputation with phone and store options
- Potential Issues – Visible has throttling. TracFone has slower data and prepaid requirements
In summary, Visible takes the lead if you want unlimited high-speed data on Verizon’s strong network for the lowest flat rate. TracFone is better for light data users who want more flexibility.
Matching your usage and priorities with the right carrier will ensure you get premium features at a budget-friendly price.