United States: Buy the Best SIM Cards | 2024 Guide

The United States – the most famous country in the world.

Known for its many attractions, movies produced in Hollywood, and its influence worldwide.

While everyone knows at least something about this country, some forget that the United States is huge.

From tropical areas like Florida (FL) to an Arctic climate in Alaska (AK).

From densely populated urban areas like New Jersey (NJ) to vast middle-of-nowhere lands in Oklahoma (OK), the United States has something for anyone.

I honestly believe anyone who can afford it to make a long road trip across the nation – the experiences will be unreal.

Regardless of why you visit the United States, you certainly want to share your experiences online.

Do note that international roaming can be expensive.

That is why I recommend using local SIM cards, like an American one, to enjoy local rates.

But how expensive are SIM cards in the United States?

You can get an American SIM card for as little as 1 USD up to 59 USD (sold with a plan). SIM cards are widely available in the official stores of the mobile operators (like AT&T & T-Mobile) or resellers (like Best Buy or Target). Various international airports, like Los Angeles, Miami & New York, sell SIM cards too.

Those prices are not too bad! You often hear Americans complain about how expensive mobile services are.

Well, they can be. Just because the SIM cards are reasonably priced, the plans do not have to be.

But, the prepaid plans in the United States are quite good, especially compared to Canada‘s extortion.

Buckle up because we have a lot to go through.

In this guide, I will tell you everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in the United States. Let's go.

Original publication: 12th of December 2019. Last updated: 31st of October 2023.

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Table of Contents

Can You Buy a SIM Card in the United States?

Anyone living in or visiting the United States can buy an American SIM card from the mobile operator (AT&T & T-Mobile) or the Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs – Boost Mobile, Cricket Wireless & Metro by T-Mobile) in their stores or from resellers without any restrictions.

You do need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in the United States).

Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in the United States?

You can get an American SIM card in AT&T, Boost Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile & T-Mobile stores or from resellers (Best Buy, CVS, Walgreens & Walmart). Getting SIM cards at American airports is rare, with the exception of Newark Liberty International Airport.

You can expect to pay the following for American SIM cards:

• T-Mobile US: 9.99 USD
• AT&T: 4.99 USD
• Black Wireless: 9.99 USD
• Boost Mobile USA: 2.50 USD – 10 USD
• Consumer Cellular: 9.99 USD
• Cricket Wireless: 9.99 USD
• FreedomPop: 9.99 USD
• Good2Go Mobile: 4.99 USD
• Google Fi: 9.99 USD
• GoSmart Mobile: 0.99 (purchase with plan often required)
• H2O Wireless: 0.99 (purchase with plan often required)
• Lycamobile USA: 19 USD – 59 USD (sold together with plans)
• Metro by T-Mobile: 9.99 USD (+ 20 USD (!) activation fee)
• Mint Mobile: 2 USD (purchase with plan often required)
• NET10 Wireless: 0.99 USD (purchase with plan often required)
• Red Pocket Mobile: 5 USD – 10 USD
• Simple Mobile: 0.99 USD (purchase with plan often required)
• Straight Talk: 0.99 USD (purchase with plan often required)
• TracFone: 0.99 USD (purchase with plan often required)
• Ultra Mobile: 1.99 USD (purchase with plan often required)
• Unreal Mobile: 4.99 USD

The following mobile operators also have SIM cards targeting tourists:

• Ultra Mobile: 30 USD

TIP: Check out my SIM card prices lookup tool for a detailed overview of SIM card starter pack benefits (for American SIM cards and SIM cards worldwide).

Can You Use Your Phone in the United States?

The United States uses GSM and CDMA technology for mobile telecommunications services. Although CDMA is still being used actively, you would not be able to use CDMA networks unless you buy a phone from the CDMA mobile operator (Verizon) or roam.

Although Verizon has been using regular 4G/LTE & 5G NR, you still need an approved device, preferably the North American version, to use Verizon's network.

You also need to be aware of the ITU Regions to determine whether your phone will work in other parts of the world.

Although there are three ITU Regions, you only need to know these two terms: American Frequencies and European Frequencies.

The United States uses American Frequencies, which are used in the Americas (North-, Central, and South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2). Phones sold in the Americas typically have no issues when using their phone in other ITU Region 2 countries.

In Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe, and Oceania (ITU Regions 1 & 3), they typically use European Frequencies, meaning phones bought in those regions can be used in countries using European Frequencies without issues.

If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in the United States.

If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU Regions 1 & 3) and have a low/medium-end device without Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in the United States or can only use slower networks (3G or 2G).

If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in the United States (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE or 5G NR.

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in the United States

The United States has three mobile operators (mobile operators) offering nationwide coverage and 19 GSM Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:

• Verizon Wireless
• T-Mobile US
• AT&T
• Black Wireless (AT&T MVNO)
• Boost Mobile USA (T-Mobile MVNO)
• Consumer Cellular (AT&T MVNO)
• Cricket Wireless (AT&T MVNO)
• FreedomPop (AT&T MVNO)
• Good2Go Mobile (AT&T MVNO)
• Google Fi (T-Mobile & UScellular MVNO)
• GoSmart Mobile (T-Mobile MVNO)
• H2O Wireless (AT&T MVNO)
• Lycamobile USA (T-Mobile MVNO)
• Metro by T-Mobile (T-Mobile MVNO)
• Mint Mobile (T-Mobile MVNO)
• NET10 Wireless (AT&T and Verizon MVNO)
• Red Pocket Mobile (AT&T and Verizon MVNO)
• Simple Mobile (T-Mobile MVNO)
• Straight Talk (AT&T and Verizon MVNO)
• TracFone (AT&T and Verizon MVNO)
• Ultra Mobile (T-Mobile MVNO)
• Unreal Mobile (AT&T & T-Mobile MVNO)

The following frequencies are used by the GSM mobile operators in the United States:

• 2G: 1900 MHz
• 3G: 850 MHz, 1700/2100 MHz & 1900 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 600 MHz (Band 71), 700 MHz (Band 12, Band 14, Band 17 & 29 Band), 850 MHz (Band 5), 1700 MHz (Band 4 & Band 66), 1900 MHz (Band 2) & 2300 MHz (Band 30)
• 5G NR: 600 MHz (n71), 850 MHz (n5), 1900 MHz (n2), 2500 MHz (n41), 28 GHz (n261) & 39 GHz (n260)

You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.

To check whether your phone will work in the United States, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).

Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).

If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.

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A Note about Sprint & Verizon

Both Sprint and Verizon are CDMA mobile operators.

Well, not entirely – Sprint has been bought up by T-Mobile, and the merger was completed on the 1st of April 2020.

Sprint's 3G CDMA network is being decommissioned fast and should be shut down by January 2022.

Now, the United States has only 1 nationwide CDMA mobile operator – Verizon. The largest mobile operator in the country.

The technical difference between GSM and CDMA is beyond the scope of this section, of this guide for that matter, but all you need to know is that GSM is more popular. Much more popular.

Only a handful of mobile operators in Armenia, China, Japan, Myanmar, the United States & Uzbekistan use CDMA – the rest of the world uses GSM.

And many of the mobile operators in the aforementioned countries plan on shutting down their CDMA networks in the coming few years.

The CDMA and GSM discussion was only relevant with 2G & 3G – 4G/LTE is its own network completely. The same applies to 5G NR.

This means that, in theory, as long as your GSM phone supports the right 4G/LTE & 5G NR frequencies, it could be used on a CDMA network. Or the other way around.

However, Verizon has a relatively short list of approved GSM devices, especially phones not sold by Verizon directly.

Let alone phones not sold in North America – those are rarely approved for Verizon's network.

As a result, Verizon and Verizon-only MVNOs will not be covered in this guide.

Note that some MVNOs allow you to select which network you want to be on (AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon).

Unless you have confirmed your phone will work on the Verizon network, you should select the AT&T or T-Mobile network.

A Note about MVNOs in the United States

The United States is home to more than 100 Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), most using the networks of AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon.

The majority of MVNOs offer postpaid services only, which we travelers and tourists cannot get.

As a result, they will not be covered in this guide.

Moreover, only MVNOs that offer SIM cards in physical stores you can easily visit will be covered in this guide.

There are plenty of completely online-only MVNOs in the United States.

Many of them offer free shipping of SIM cards to US addresses.

However, shipping can take anywhere from 1 day to several weeks, depending on where you stay during your United States trip.

MVNOs that sell their SIM cards in like three stores per state have also been excluded (looking at you, Gen Mobile).

Even with all these exclusions, you still have plenty of choices in the United States.

A Note about Deprioritization

The mobile operator want to, or at least try to, ensure their customers get the best network experience at all times.

As a result, they practice something called deprioritization.

But what does that mean?

When the network is congested, the mobile operator will Prioritize the traffic of their own customers and Deprioritize the traffic of MVNO customers.

This could mean that at the same location and at the same time – and even the same phone for that matter, someone with an AT&T SIM card will have faster speeds than someone with an H2O Wireless SIM card (AT&T MVNO).

And the mobile operator take deprioritization seriously.

Both T-Mobile & Verizon are the worst offenders in terms of deprioritization – it can be aggressive.

AT&T is relatively mild (in most cases) with its deprioritization practices, which can be a selling point for using an AT&T MVNO.

But many AT&T MVNOs have a speed cap of 8 Mbps at all times, so be aware of that.

But what about postpaid vs. prepaid prioritization?

AT&T does not deprioritize prepaid customers. You will get the same speeds, if conditions allow, on both prepaid and postpaid AT&T SIM cards.

T-Mobile deprioritization can be all over the place, especially in urban areas. However, T-Mobile prepaid is treated much better than T-Mobile MVNOs in terms of priority.

Verizon's deprioritization methods are aggressive, even for Verizon prepaid users. In fact, even postpaid customers get throttled quickly because of congested networks.

Keep these thoughts in mind when selecting a SIM card.

5G NR in the United States

Commercial 5G NR has been available in the United States since late 2018, and it is also available to most prepaid users.

Unlike many developed countries where 5G NR is (still) restricted to postpaid customers, 5G NR is also available to prepaid customers and MVNOs (almost is unheard of in 2021).

Even though 5G NR may be available in your area, you need to have a compatible device to use the 5G NR networks of the mobile operator.

This could mean that while your phone supports 5G NR, you cannot use it because your device was not approved by the mobile operator (yet).

Throughout the guide, I will mention which mobile operator offers 5G NR and whether all or only select plans are eligible for 5G NR.

Spoiler alert: the majority of mobile operators offer 5G NR at no additional cost.

Let's take a look and see which mobile operator offers the best 5G NR experience.

T-Mobile currently has the most extensive 5G NR coverage and the fastest 5G NR speeds.

Its 5G NR availability is about 70%.

Its median 5G NR download speed is around 100 Mbps.

Best SIM Card in the United States

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Best eSIM in the United States

Unfortunately, none of the mobile operators offer eSIM (to prepaid customers) in United States yet.

However, you can also get a travel eSIM from various eSIM providers.

The list below is not exhaustive – many more providers have eSIMs for United States.

But these are the ones I have tried and had pleasant experiences with.

Moreover, they are reasonably priced, which I find very important (you will not see me recommending an eSIM I would not buy myself).

So here are the six best eSIMs for United States:

• Airalo Change eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (best value for money)
• Alosim United States eSIM with unlimited data for 7 to 30 days (priced roughly the same as Airalo with a bit more options)
• Holafly United States eSIM with unlimited data for 5 to 90 days (unlimited data eSIMs – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off)
• Nomad United States eSIM with five choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (best value for money… too – use code ADU123 for 3 USD off)
• Airalo Discover(+) eSIM (formerly Discover Global) with 12 choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (extensive global coverage (130+ countries) at attractive prices) + ability to make and receive calls & send and receive SMS (new) – read my ongoing Airalo Discover(+) (Global) eSIM review too!
• AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM through SimOptions with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported countries (53/143) at a reasonable price but with a short validity)
• Airalo Americanmex eSIM
• Alosim North America eSIM
• Holafly North America eSIM
• Nomad North America eSIM

Because this is the SIM card buying guide for United States, I will not spend too much time about travel eSIMs here and throughout this guide (but I will still do here and there).

If you want to learn more about the best eSIMs for United States, you better check out my United States eSIM buying guide.

It is as helpful and comprehensive as this guide but about eSIMs instead 😜.

SIM Card Registration in the United States

SIM card registration using your passport information is not needed when buying a SIM card in the United States. However, if your purchase your SIM card from a third-party reseller, you will need to activate the SIM card on the operator's site or by visiting their (partner) stores.

Taxes & E911 Emergency Fee in the United States

The United States is one of the few countries where the price tag is not the final price you pay.

The sales tax is added upon check out, increasing the price by 13.5%, depending on the state and county.

Some states, like Delaware (DE), Montana (MT), New Hampshire (NH) & Oregon (OR), have no sales tax, meaning that the advertised price is the final price.

In most states, however, the sales tax ranges from 2.9% (Colorado – CO) to 13.5% (Arab, Alabama – AL).

These taxes affect all purchases, including buying a SIM card, recharging your SIM card, and buying plans.

Because the taxes differ per state, and county for that matter, the prices listed in this guide are without tax.

But we are not done yet with fees. Introducing the E911 Emergency Fee.

The E911 fees, as AT&T puts it nicely, are “charges imposed on the customer pursuant to state or local law to finance Enhanced 911 services in a particular jurisdiction”.

In short, many states charge these fees to recover state or local government costs related to building and operating enhanced 911 services.

In Massachusetts (MA), Nevada (NV) & Puerto Rico (PR), these are monthly fees of 1 USD, up to 1 USD & 0.50 USD, respectively.

In the majority of states, however, this fee is charged upon topping up your SIM card. This could be a flat fee or a percentage of your refill.

And there is no nationwide structure of how things are charged.

For example, Alaska (AK) charges 0.01 USD for its AK Telecom Relay Service.

Illinois (IL), however, charges 3% for the IL State 911 Service Fee & 0.07% for the IL Telecom Relay Service. If you are in Chicago, another 7% will be slapped for the Chicago 911 Service Fee.

I have probably already bored you enough with all these numbers, so I will let you be. For more information related to the E911 fees, visit AT&T’s help page.

United States Mobile Internet Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights

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North American Roaming in the United States

Many Canadian and Mexican operators offer free international roaming or roaming at attractive rates than standard Pay As You Go roaming rates.

Do note that if your mobile operator offers free international roaming in the United States, you may have a roaming (data) allowance or roaming at reduced speeds (often @ 128 Kbps, which is extremely slow).

Even then, I would recommend checking whether your operator offers such a feature, because why pay extra when it is already provided for free?

Currency in the United States

The United States uses the US Dollar with the symbol USD (which will be used throughout this guide).

Prices in the United States are listed in just $.

American Prepaid SIM Cards

Below, I will guide you through T-Mobile US, AT&T, Black Wireless, Boost Mobile USA, Consumer Cellular, Cricket Wireless, FreedomPop, Good2Go Mobile, Google Fi, GoSmart Mobile, GoSmart Mobile, H2O Wireless, Lycamobile USA, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, NET10 Wireless, Red Pocket Mobile, Simple Mobile, Straight Talk, TracFone, Ultra Mobile & Unreal Mobile, and go through:

• Background information
• Mobile coverage
• SIM card types, prices, and availability
• Recharge/top-up information
• Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs) 

With that being said, let’s see what the United States has to offer.

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T-Mobile US

T-Mobile US, just T-Mobile, is the second-largest mobile operator in the United States.

It purchased and merged with Sprint, which was the smallest mobile operator of the Big Four – now Big Three.

T-Mobile is known for its Un-Carrier campaigns, including free roaming in Canada & Mexico, free texting on planes (Gogo Inflight internet) & allowing for data rollover (Data Stash).

Let's not forget about T-Mobile Tuesdays, where you could get rewards, such as free food from various fast-food chains, Lyft ride credits & Shell gas discounts.

T-Mobile uses the following frequencies:

• 2G: 1900 MHz
• 3G: 1700/2100 MHz & 1900 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 600 MHz (Band 71), 700 MHz (Band 12), 850 MHz (Band 5), 1700/2100 MHz (Band 4 & Band 66) & 1900 MHz (Band 2)
• 5G NR: 600 MHz (n71), 2500 MHz (n41), 28 GHz (n261) & 39 GHz (n260)

This is what you will learn about T-Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a T-Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – T-Mobile US

T-Mobile has extensive coverage throughout the United States. It also has the widest 5G NR coverage, covering more than 40% of the country.

As explained in the 5G NR section, T-Mobile uses low 5G NR frequencies for nationwide 5G NR coverage.

Although this improves speed compared to 4G/LTE, it still sacrifices even faster speeds for coverage. But the distance the 5G NR waves can reach is further than millimeter wave (mmWave) 5G NR.

Do note that T-Mobile has the worst 4G/LTE coverage, covering 62% of the United States. Reception in rural areas can be really spotty with T-Mobile.

In fact, in none of the states does T-Mobile have the best 3G nor 4G/LTE coverage (compared to AT&T & Verizon).

T-Mobile's 4G/LTE best states are Connecticut (CT), New Jersey (NJ), Delaware (DE), South Carolina (SC) & Indiana (IN).

South Carolina (SC), New Jersey (NJ), Minnesota (MN), Indiana (IN) & North Carolina (NC) are the best states for T-Mobile's 5G NR coverage.

The states with the spottiest T-Mobile coverage (3G, 4G/LTE & 5G NR) are Alaska (AK), Nebraska (NE), Oregon (OR), Maine (ME) & West Virginia (WV).

In fact, I would highly discourage you from using T-Mobile in both Alaska & Nebraska.

In Maine, Oregon & West Virginia, you may only want to use the T-Mobile network when staying in urban areas.

Below is T-Mobile US's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see T-Mobile US's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – T-Mobile US

You can buy a T-Mobile SIM Card for 9.99 USD in T-Mobile stores and from many other retailers, including grocery stores, electronic shops & convenience stores.

You might have to activate your SIM card online if you did not purchase it in a T-Mobile store or from an autuhorized reseller, such as Best Buy.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – T-Mobile US

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – T-Mobile US

T-Mobile has four data-featured prepaid plans:

• T-Mobile Connect (combo)
• Simply Prepaid (combo)
• Prepaid Data Plans
• Add-ons

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

T-Mobile Connect – T-Mobile US

The T-Mobile Connect plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

T-Mobile Connect can be activated on the T-Mobile app:

Price	Data 1	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
10 USD	1 GB	1000 minutes	1000 SMS	30 days
15 USD	3.5 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
25 USD	6.5 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
35 USD	12 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ video streaming @ 1.5 Mbps – I recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction

Simply Prepaid – T-Mobile US

The Simply Prepaid Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Simply Prepaid can be activated on the T-Mobile app:

Price	Plan	Data	Music Streaming 3	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
40 USD	10 GB	10 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
50 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited 1, 2	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
60 USD	Unlimited Plus	Unlimited 1, 2	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ speed may be throttled during busy times when having used more than 50 GB/month
² video streaming @ 1.5 Mbps – I recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction
³ Music Unlimited apps:

Prepaid Data Plans – T-Mobile US

The Prepaid Data Plans are, as the name implies, data bundles (with 5G NR access).

Simply Prepaid can be activated on the T-Mobile app:

Price	Data	Validity
10 USD	“Unlimited”, 2 GB	30 days
20 USD	“Unlimited”, 5 GB	30 days
30 USD	“Unlimited”, 10 GB	30 days
40 USD	“Unlimited”, 30 GB	30 days
50 USD	“Unlimited”, 50 GB	30 days

Add-Ons – T-Mobile US

The Add-Ons are combo add-ons (with 5G NR access) for Canada & Mexico roaming, or international calls & SMS. They are exclusively for Simply Prepaid and cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Add-Ons can be activated on the T-Mobile app:

Price	Roaming Data 1	Roaming Minutes 1	International Minutes 3	Roaming SMS 1	International SMS 3	Validity
5 USD	5 GB 2	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	N/A	Until plan expires
15 USD	N/A	N/A	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	Until plan expires

¹ in Canada & Mexico
² unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance
³ Stateside International – from the US, Canada & Mexico to 70 countries (landline), of which 30 to both landline and mobile numbers:

APN/Internet Settings – T-Mobile US

• Name: T-Mobile
• APN: fast.t-mobile.com

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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AT&T USA

AT&T USA, standing for American Telephone and Telegraph Corporation, is the oldest mobile operator in the United States and the oldest telecommunications company in the world.

Although being this old, it is the smallest mobile operator in the country, behind Verizon and T-Mobile.

AT&T uses the following frequencies:

• 2G: N/A – phased out in 2017
• 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 12, Band 14, Band 17 & 29 Band), 850 MHz (Band 5), 1700 MHz (Band 4 & Band 66), 1900 MHz (Band 2) & 2300 MHz (Band 30)
• 5G NR: 850 MHz (n5), 1900 MHz (n2), 28 GHz (n261) & 39 GHz (n260)

This is what you will learn about AT&T:

* Coverage
* How to Get an AT&T SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – AT&T USA

AT&T has extensive coverage in the United States. It also has the best 3G coverage.

All the 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, are covered by AT&T.

Delaware (DE), Indiana (IN) & New Jersey (NJ) have basically perfect state-wide coverage.

The states with excellent coverage are:

• Arkansas (AR)
• Connecticut (CT)
• Florida (FL)
• Georgia (GA)
• Illinois (IL)
• Kansas (KS)
• Kentucky (KY)
• Massachusetts (MA)
• Ohio (OH)
• Rhode Island (RI)
• South Dakota (SD)

The states with the spottiest AT&T coverage are Alaska (AK) & Maine (ME).

Users in Arizona (AZ), Nevada (NV) & Wyoming (WY) will also experience spotty coverage out of urban areas.

Below is another coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see AT&T USA's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – AT&T USA

You can buy an AT&T SIM card for 4.99 USD in AT&T stores and from many other retailers, including grocery stores, electronic shops & convenience stores.

You might have to activate your SIM card online if you did not purchase it in an AT&T store or from an authorized reseller, such as Best Buy.

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – AT&T USA

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – AT&T USA

AT&T has two data-featured prepaid plans: combo plans & data plans.

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Combo Plans – AT&T USA

The Combo Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Combo Plans can be activated on the myAT&T app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes 4	Local SMS 4	International SMS 6	Validity
30 USD	5 GB 1, 2, 3	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
33 USD	8 GB 1, 2, 3	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
40 USD	15 GB 1, 2, 3	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
65 USD	Unlimited 1, 2, 3, 5	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
300 USD	16 GB/month (192 GB) 1, 3	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	360 days

¹ high-speed data. Unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance
² video streaming @ 1.5 Mbps – I recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction
³ 5G access
⁴ also to Canada & Mexico, except for the 30 USD plan
⁵ speed at 3 Mbps – speeds may be throttled even more after using 22 GB
⁶ to 241 countries and territories:

Data Plans – AT&T USA

The Data Plans are, as the name implies, data bundles (with 5G NR access).

They are aimed at tablet and mobile hotspot use. However, these plans can be used on phones as well (but you may have to get an AT&T data-only SIM card first).

The following Data Plans are available:

Price	Data	Validity
35 USD	15 GB	30 days
55 USD	50 GB	30 days
90 USD	100 GB	30 days
300 USD	20 GB/30 days (240 GB)	360 days

APN/Internet Settings – AT&T USA

• Name: ATT NXTGENPHONE
• APN: NXTGENPHONE

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Black Wireless

Black Wireless is an AT&T MVNO.

It is one of the many AT&T MVNOs out there.

To learn about Black Wireless's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Black Wireless:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Black Wireless SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Black Wireless

Black Wireless is an AT&T MVNO, meaning Black Wireless uses the AT&T network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Black Wireless, jump to the AT&T Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Black Wireless

You can buy a Black Wireless SIM Card for 10 USD from independent dealers, including convenience stores, grocery stores, and electronic shops.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Black Wireless

Black Wireless SIM cards can only be topped up online with (international) debit and credit cards. Your balance can be checked online too.

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Black Wireless

Black Wireless has two data-featured prepaid plans: Monthly Plans (combo) & Add-Ons.

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Monthly Plans – Black Wireless

The Monthly Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Monthly Plans can be activated online:

Price	Plan	Data 1	Local Minutes	International Minutes 2	Local SMS	Validity
15 USD	Plus	500 MB	200 minutes	200 minutes	200 SMS	30 days
20 USD	Saver 1 Month	1 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
30 USD	Best Value 1 Month	“Unlimited”, 10 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
40 USD	High Data 1 Month	“Unlimited”, 22 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance
² to 50+ countries – may call up to 10 unique international phone numbers every billing cycle

Add-Ons – Black Wireless

The Add-Ons are data add-ons (without 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Add-Ons can be activated online:

Price	Data	Validity
5 USD	250 MB	Until the billing cycle expires
10 USD	1 GB	Until the billing cycle expires
15 USD	2 GB	Until the billing cycle expires
50 USD	10 GB	Until the billing cycle expires

APN/Internet Settings – Black Wireless

• Name: Black Wireless
• APN: ERESELLER

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Boost Mobile USA

Boost Mobile USA, just Boost Mobile and not to be confused with Boost Mobile Australia, is a T-Mobile MVNO.

It used to be a Sprint MVNO until Sprint was purchased by T-Mobile.

Now, Boost Mobile is owned by Dish.

Dish is currently a T-Mobile MVNO until it builds up its own network.

However, its current agreement requires Dish (and Boost Mobile) to use the T-Mobile network for 5-7 years.

To learn about Boost Mobile's frequencies, jump back to T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Boost Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Boost Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Boost Mobile USA

Boost Mobile is a T-Mobile MVNO, meaning Boost Mobile uses the T-Mobile network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Boost Mobile, jump to the T-Mobile Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Boost Mobile USA

You can buy a Boost Mobile SIM Card for between 2.50 USD and 10 USD in Boost Mobile stores and from many other retailers, including grocery stores, electronic shops & convenience stores.

You might have to activate your SIM card online if you did not purchase it in a Boost Mobile store.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Boost Mobile USA

Boost Mobile top-up vouchers are sold in Boost Mobile stores, grocery stores, gas stations & electronics shops throughout the United States.

To top up your Boost Mobile SIM card, dial #233 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial #255 to check your Boost Mobile balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the My Boost app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Boost Mobile USA

Boost Mobile has three data-featured prepaid plans:

• Monthly Plans (combo)
• One-Time Data Packs
• Ongoing Data Packs

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Monthly Plans – Boost Mobile USA

The Monthly Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Monthly Plans can be activated on the My Boost app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
15 USD	5 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
25 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
40 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
60 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

One-Time Data Packs – Boost Mobile USA

The One-Time Data Packs are, as the name implies, data packs (without 5G NR access).

One-Time Data Packs can be activated on the My Boost app:

Price	Data	Validity
5 USD	1 GB	30 days
10 USD	2 GB	30 days
15 USD	5 GB	30 days
20 USD	10 GB	30 days

Ongoing Data Packs – Boost Mobile USA

The Ongoing Data Packs are, as the name implies, data packs (without 5G NR access) that auto-renew each billing cycle until you cancel it.

Ongoing Data Packs can be activated on the My Boost app:

Price	Data	Validity
5 USD	1 GB	Until plan renews
10 USD	2 GB	Until plan renews
15 USD	5 GB	Until plan renews
20 USD	10 GB	Until plan renews

APN/Internet Settings – Boost Mobile USA

• Name: Boost
• APN: boost.data

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Consumer Cellular

Consumer Cellular is an AT&T MVNO.

It is targeted at the elderly, but anyone can use its SIM cards.

To learn about Consumer Cellular's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Consumer Cellular:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Consumer Cellular SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Consumer Cellular

Consumer Cellular is an AT&T MVNO, meaning Consumer Cellular uses the AT&T network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Consumer Cellular, jump to the AT&T Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Consumer Cellular

You can buy a Consumer Cellular Fi SIM card for 10 USD in Target throughout the United States.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Consumer Cellular

Consumer Cellular SIM cards can only be topped up online with (international) debit and credit cards. Your balance can be checked online too.

You can also use the My Consumer Cellular app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Consumer Cellular

Consumer Cellular has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Monthly Plans (combo). It includes data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Plans can be activated online or on the My Consumer Cellular app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
20 USD	1 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
25 USD	5 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
35 USD	10 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
50 USD	Unlimited 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance

Be aware that if you go over your data allowance, your plan will automatically be upgraded to a higher plan and stay there until you reserve it in the next billing cycle.

APN/Internet Settings – Consumer Cellular

• Name: ConsumerCellular
• APN: ccdata

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Cricket Wireless

Cricket Wireless, also known as simply Cricket, is an AT&T MVNO directly owned by AT&T.

Cricket Wireless competes directly with Metro by T-Mobile and Visible by Verizon – both budget brands directly owned by the Big Three.

Unlike most MVNOs in the United States, Cricket Wireless has stores you can visit.

To learn about Cricket Wireless's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Cricket Wireless:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Cricket Wireless SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Cricket Wireless

Cricket Wireless is an AT&T MVNO, meaning Cricket Wireless uses the AT&T network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Cricket Wireless, jump to the AT&T Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Cricket Wireless

You can buy a Cricket Wireless SIM Card for 9.99 USD in Cricket Wireless stores and from many other retailers, including grocery stores, electronic shops & convenience stores.

You might have to activate your SIM card online if you did not purchase it in a Cricket Wireless store or from an authorized reseller, such as Best Buy.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Cricket Wireless

Cricket Wireless top-up vouchers are sold in Cricket Wireless stores, grocery stores, gas stations & electronics shops throughout the United States.

The following top-up options are available:

Top-Up	Validity
10 USD	30 days
25 USD	30 days
35 USD	90 days
40 USD	90 days
50 USD	90 days
60 USD	90 days

The following online top-up options are available:

Top-Up	Validity
10 USD – 29 USD	30 days
30 USD – 99 USD	90 days
100 USD	356 days

To top up your Cricket Wireless SIM card, dial *729 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

You can also top up and check your balance on the myCricket app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Cricket Wireless

Cricket Wireless has two data-featured prepaid plans: Cell Phone Plans (combo) & Add-On.

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Cell Phone Plans – Cricket Wireless

The Cell Phone Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Cell Phone Plans can be activated on the myCricket app:

Price	Plan	Data	Roaming Data	Local Minutes	Local SMS	International SMS	Validity
30 USD	5 GB	5 GB 5	No	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	30 days
40 USD	10 GB	10 GB 5	No	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	30 days
55 USD	Cricket More	Unlimited 1	Yes	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
60 USD 4	Cricket Core	Unlimited 6, 7	Yes	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ @ 8 Mbps. Video streaming @ 1.5 Mbps – I recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction
² Canada & Mexico only – use AT&T Mexico for fastest speeds
³ to 37 countries: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada (excluding Northern Territories), China, Colombia, Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Nigeria, Paraguay, Peru, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom & Venezuela
⁴ 5G access as long as you have an AT&T 5G NR compatible device
⁵ unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance
⁶ Video streaming @ 1.5 Mbps – I recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction

Add-On – Cricket Wireless

The Add-On is a 1 GB data add-on costing 10 USD. The data is valid until your Cell Phone Plan expires. The Add-on cannot be purchased as a standalone plan.

Price	Data	Validity
10 USD	1 GB	Until plan expires

APN/Internet Settings – Cricket Wireless

• Name: Internet
• APN: endo

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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FreedomPop

FreedomPop is an MVNO by Red Pocket Mobile, which, in turn, is also an MVNO.

Red Pocket Mobile owns various prepaid MVNO brands, which will also be covered in this guide.

FreedomPop is one of the many AT&T MVNOs in the United States.

To learn about FreedomPop's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about FreedomPop:

* Coverage
* How to Get a FreedomPop SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – FreedomPop

FreedomPop is an AT&T MVNO, meaning FreedomPop uses the AT&T network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with FreedomPop, jump to the AT&T Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – FreedomPop

You can buy a FreedomPop SIM card for 5 USD in Best Buy and Target throughout the United States.

Do note that many, if not all, starter kits are preloaded with 3-month plans. You will pay for those three months upfront.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – FreedomPop

FreedomPop SIM cards can only be topped up online with (international) debit and credit cards. Your balance can be checked online too.

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – FreedomPop

FreedomPop has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Customize Plan (combo). It includes data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Customize Plan can be activated online:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
15 USD	1 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
25 USD	4 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
30 USD	10 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

APN/Internet Settings – FreedomPop

• Name: FreedomPop
• APN: ERESELLER

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Good2Go Mobile

Good2Go Mobile is an AT&T MVNO.

It is one of the many AT&T MVNOs out there.

To learn about Good2Go Mobile's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Good2Go Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Good2Go Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Good2Go Mobile

Good2Go Mobile is an AT&T MVNO, meaning Good2Go Mobile uses the AT&T network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Good2Go Mobile, jump to the AT&T Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Good2Go Mobile

You can buy a Good2Go Mobile SIM card for 5 USD in Best Buy throughout the United States.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Good2Go Mobile

Good2Go Mobile SIM cards can only be topped up online with (international) debit and credit cards. Your balance can be checked online too.

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Good2Go Mobile

Good2Go Mobile has two data-featured prepaid plans: Monthly Plans (combo) & Add-On.

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Monthly Plan – Good2Go Mobile

The Monthly Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Monthly Plans can be activated online:

Price	Auto Pay Credit	Data 1	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
15 USD	10 USD	1 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
20 USD	15 USD	3 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
30 USD	25 USD	5 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
35 USD	30 USD	10 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
40 USD	35 USD	15 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
50 USD	45 USD	20 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
55 USD	50 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance

Add-On- Good2Go Mobile

The Add-On is a 1 GB data add-on costing 10 USD. It is valid until your plan expires. It cannot be purchased as a standalone plan. Activation is done online.

Price	Data	Validity
10 USD	1 GB	Until plan expires

APN/Internet Settings – Good2Go Mobile

• Name: Good2Go Mobile
• APN: att.mvno

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Google Fi

Google Fi, by Google, is a T-Mobile & UScellular MVNO.

Google Fi is unique because it will automatically select the best network automatically and constantly, unlike some other MVNOs that will choose the best network upon activation.

Google Fi is also popular because it allows for free international roaming in 200+ countries.

With Google Fi, you will mostly be on the T-Mobile network, unless you are staying in the midwestern United States (think of Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska & Wisconsin).

UScellular's 4G/LTE covers about 10% of the United States.

For comparison, T-Mobile covers 62% of the United States.

To learn about Google Fi's frequencies, jump back to T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Google Fi:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Google Fi SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Google Fi

Google Fi is (mostly) a T-Mobile MVNO, meaning Google Fi uses the T-Mobile network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Google Fi, jump to the T-Mobile Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Google Fi

You can buy a Google Fi SIM card for 5 USD in Best Buy and Target throughout the United States.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

Before purchasing a Google Fi SIM card, make sure your device is compatible with Google Fi.

Currently, some devices from these manufacturers are compatible with Google Fi:

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Google Fi

Google Fi SIM cards can only be topped up online with (international) debit and credit cards. Your balance can be checked online too.

You can also use the Google Fi app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Google Fi

Google Fi has only one data-featured prepaid plan: The Plans (combo). It includes data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

I will list all the prices in USD (United State Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Plans can be activated on the Google Fi app:

Price	Plan	Data 9	Local Minutes 8	International Minutes	Roaming Minutes	Local SMS	Roaming SMS	Validity
35 USD	Flexible	10 USD/1 GB 1, 2, 5	Unlimited	Unlimited 4	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
80 USD	Simply Unlimited	Unlimited 3	Unlimited	Unlimited 4	N/A	Unlimited	N/A	30 days
110 USD	Unlimited Plus	Unlimited 3, 5, 7	Unlimited	Unlimited 10	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ you pay per 1 GB
² unlimited data @ 256 Kbps after using more than 15 GB
³ unlimited data @ 256 Kbps after using more than 22 GB
⁴ to Canada & Mexico only
⁵ also in Canada & Mexico
⁶ 10 USD/1 GB for roaming in 200+ countries
⁷ also for roaming in 200+ countries
⁸ also to Canada & Mexico
⁹ video streaming @ 480p – recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction
¹⁰ to 56 countries:

APN/Internet Settings – Google Fi

• Name: Google Fi
• APN: h2g2

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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GoSmart Mobile

GoSmart Mobile is an MVNO by TracFone, which, in turn, is also an MVNO and the mobile brand of América Móvil (known as Claro in Central & South America and A1 in Central Europe).

TracFone owns various prepaid MVNO brands, which will also be covered in this guide.

Unlike some other TracFone-owned MVNOs, GoSmart Mobile does not allow you to select the network you want to use.

Instead, it uses the T-Mobile network only.

To learn about GoSmart Mobile's frequencies, jump back to T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about GoSmart Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a GoSmart Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – GoSmart Mobile

GoSmart Mobile is a T-Mobile MVNO, meaning GoSmart Mobile uses the T-Mobile network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with GoSmart Mobile, jump to the T-Mobile Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – GoSmart Mobile

You can buy a GoSmart Mobile SIM card for 0.99 USD from GoSmart Mobile retailers, including Total Wireless (TracFone brands reseller), pharmacies & convenience stores.

You might have to activate your SIM card online if you did not purchase it in a Total Wireless store.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – GoSmart Mobile

GoSmart Mobile top-up vouchers are sold by GoSmart Mobile dealers, such as budget stores, convenience stores & Total Wireless stores throughout the United States.

To top up your GoSmart Mobile SIM card, text ADD to 611611 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text USAGE to 611611 to check your GoSmart Mobile balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the GoSmart Mobile My Account app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – GoSmart Mobile

GoSmart Mobile has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Monthly Plan (combo). It includes data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

I will list all the prices in USD (United State Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

All Monthly Plans allow for free data roaming in 16 Latin American countries and include 300 roaming minutes and unlimited roaming SMS when in those countries.

The 16 Latin American countries are:

Service Plans can be activated on the GoSmart Mobile My Account app:

Price	Data 1, 3	Local Minutes	International Minutes 4	Local SMS	International SMS	Validity
15 USD	250 MB	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
25 USD	1 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
35 USD	5 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
45 USD	20 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
55 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited 2	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ up to 8 Mbps. Unlimited data @ 64 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance (not for the 55 USD plan)
² + 10 USD international call credit – may call up to 15 unique international phone numbers every billing cycle
³ unlimited Facebook & Facebook Messenger @ 4G LTE speeds
⁴ to 69 countries, of which 29 to both landline and mobile numbers may call up to 15 unique international phone numbers every billing cycle:

APN/Internet Settings – GoSmart Mobile

Most phones will automatically retrieve the correct APN settings when inserting a SIM card – the same counts for GoSmart Mobile SIM cards.

If that does not automatically happen, you can text APN to 611611 to download the APN settings.

If that does not work, you will have to add the settings manually by filling in these fields:

• Name: GoSmart
• APN: multibrand

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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H2O Wireless

H2O Wireless is an AT&T MVNO.

Although it is advertised as a budget option, there are far many cheaper AT&T MVNOs out there.

To learn about H2O Wireless's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about H2O Wireless:

* Coverage
* How to Get a H20 Wireless SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – H2O Wireless

H2O Wireless is an AT&T MVNO, meaning H2O Wireless uses the AT&T network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with H2O Wireless, jump to the AT&T Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – H2O Wireless

You can buy an H2O Wireless SIM card for as little as 1 USD in various stores, including convenience stores, electronic shops & budget stores. However, you may be required to buy a plan together with your SIM card.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – H2O Wireless

H2O Wireless top-up vouchers are sold by H2O Wireless dealers, such as budget stores, convenience stores & electronic shops throughout the United States.

To top up your H2O Wireless SIM card, dial *111*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *111*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial #777# to check your H2O Wireless balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the my h2o app (Android/iOS). Do note that the app has not been updated since April 2017.

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – H2O Wireless

H2O Wireless has two data-featured prepaid plans: Monthly Plans (combo) & LTE Data Top Ups.

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Monthly Plans – H2O Wireless

The Monthly Plans are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Monthly Plans can be activated online or on the my h2o app:

Price	Plan	Data 1	Roaming Credit 2	Local/International Minutes 3	Local/International SMS	International Call Credit	Validity
20 USD	Basic Plan	3 GB	N/A	Unlimited	Unlimited	1.50 USD	30 days
30 USD	Value Plan	10 GB	N/A	Unlimited	Unlimited	5 USD	30 days
40 USD	Premium Plan	20 GB	N/A	Unlimited	Unlimited	5 USD	30 days
50 USD	Unlimited Plan	Unlimited	10 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	5 USD	30 days
60 USD	Unlimted XL With Hotspot	“Unlimited”, 20 GB 4	20 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	5 USD	30 days

¹ @ 8 Mbps – video streaming @ 480p – I recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction. Unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance
² Canada & Mexico only
³ 70 undisclosed countries to landline numbers only. Unlimited calls to mobile phones countries: China, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Mexico, Pakistan, Portugal, Singapore & South Korea
⁴ with 20 GB hotspot

LTE Data Top Ups – H2O Wireless

The LTE Data Top Ups are data add-ons (with 5G NR access). The Top Ups do not expire as long as you keep your plan(s) active. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

LTE Data Top Ups can be activated online or on the my h2o app:

Price	Data	Validity
10 USD	1 GB	Until plan expires
20 USD	2 GB	Until plan expires

APN/Internet Settings – H2O Wireless

• Name: H2O APN
• APN: PRODATA OR att.mvno

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Lycamobile USA

Lycamobile USA, just Lycamobile, is a T-Mobile MVNO.

Lycamobile, as a brand, is known for offering low rates for international calls abroad, and it is active in various other European countries.

To learn about Lycamobile's frequencies, jump back to T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Lycamobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Lycamobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Lycamobile USA

Lycamobile is a T-Mobile MVNO, meaning Lycamobile uses the T-Mobile network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Lycamobile, jump to the T-Mobile Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Lycamobile USA

You can buy a Lycamobile SIM Card from independent dealers, including convenience stores, grocery stores, and electronic shops. They are often sold together with a plan (starting from 19 USD).

Dial *613# to see your Lycamobile phone number.

You might have to activate your SIM card online

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Lycamobile USA

Lycamobile top-up vouchers are sold by Lycamobile dealers, such as grocery stores, gas stations & electronics shops throughout the United States.

To top up your Lycamobile SIM card, dial *611*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *611*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *611# to check your Lycamobile balance.

Although Lycamobile has apps (Android/iOS), they have performance issues.

Personally, its Android app has worked well for me, but many other users have problems with it to this day.

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Lycamobile USA

Lycamobile has two data-featured prepaid plans: Monthly Plans (combo) & Add Plan/Data Add on.

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Monthly Plans – Lycamobile USA

The Monthly Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Monthly Plans can be activated online or on the Lycamobile app:

Price	Data 1	Local Minutes	International Minutes 2	International Call Credit	Local SMS	Validity
15 USD	250 MB	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	30 days
19 USD	3 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	1.50 USD	Unlimited	30 days
23 USD	5 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	1.50 USD	Unlimited	30 days
29 USD	10 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	5 USD	Unlimited	30 days
33 USD	12 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	30 days
39 USD	15 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	10 USD	Unlimited	30 days
49 USD	40 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	5 USD	Unlimited	30 days
59 USD	60 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	5 USD	Unlimited	30 days

¹ unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance (except for the 50 USD plan)
² to 74 countries, of which 45 to both mobile and landline numbers:

Add Plan/Data Add on – Lycamobile USA

The Add Plan/Data Add on are, as the name implies, data add-ons (with 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Add Plan/Data Add on can be activated online or on the Lycamobile app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
15 USD	250 MB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
19 USD	2 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

APN/Internet Settings – Lycamobile USA

• Name: Lycamobile
• APN: data.lycamobile.com

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Metro by T-Mobile (formerly MetroPCS)

Metro by T-Mobile, formerly known as MetroPCS, is, as the name implies, a T-Mobile MVNO directly owned by T-Mobile.

With such a name, you will never forget about T-Mobile's involvement with Metro.

Metro by T-Mobile competes directly with Cricket Wireless by AT&T and Visible by Verizon – both budget brands directly owned by the Big Three.

Unlike most MVNOs in the United States, Metro by T-Mobile has stores you can visit.

To learn about Metro by T-Mobile's frequencies, jump back to T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Metro by T-Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Metro by T-Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Metro by T-Mobile (formerly MetroPCS)

Metro by T-Mobile is a T-Mobile MVNO, meaning Metro by T-Mobile uses the T-Mobile network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Metro by T-Mobile, jump to the T-Mobile Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Metro by T-Mobile (formerly MetroPCS)

You can buy a Metro by T-Mobile SIM Card for 10 USD in Metro by T-Mobile stores and from many other retailers, including grocery stores, electronic shops & convenience stores. A 20 USD activation fee applies.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Metro by T-Mobile (formerly MetroPCS)

Metro by T-Mobile top-up vouchers are sold in Metro by T-Mobile stores, grocery stores, gas stations & electronics shops throughout the United States.

To top up your Metro by T-Mobile SIM card, dial *99 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *99 to check your Metro by T-Mobile balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the myMetro app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Metro by T-Mobile (formerly MetroPCS)

Metro by T-Mobile has two data-featured prepaid plans: Prepaid Plans (combo) & Add-Ons (data).

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Prepaid Plans – Metro by T-Mobile (formerly MetroPCS)

The Prepaid Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Prepaid Plans can be activated on the myMetro app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
40 USD	10 GB 2, 3	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
50 USD	Unlimited 1, 2	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
60 USD	Unlimited 1, 2	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ speed may be throttled during busy times when having used more than 35 GB/month
² video streaming @ 1.5 Mbps – I recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction
³ Music Unlimited – unlimited data for music streaming apps:

For 10 USD, you can purchase the HD video add-on, allowing you to stream videos @ 1080p. Or you could use a VPN to circumvent this restriction.

Add-Ons – Metro by T-Mobile (formerly MetroPCS)

The Add-Ons are data add-ons (with 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Add-Ons can be activated on the myMetro app:

Price	Data	Validity
5 USD	2 GB	30 days
10 USD	5 GB	30 days
20 USD	10 GB	30 days

APN/Internet Settings – Metro by T-Mobile (formerly MetroPCS)

• Name: Metro by T-Mobile
• APN: fast.metrobyt-mobile.com

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Mint Mobile

Mint Mobile is a T-Mobile MVNO.

It used to be part of Ultra Mobile until it was spun off and become its standalone brand.

But it still technically operates as a subsidiary of Ultra Mobile.

Now, it is (partially) owned by Ryan Reynolds (the Deadpool actor).

Mint Mobile is one of the cheaper (T-Mobile) MVNOs out there.

However, do note that Mint Mobile does not sell monthly (30 days) plans like most other MVNOs.

Instead, the shortest plan lasts 90 days (3 months).

To learn about Mint Mobile's frequencies, jump back to T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Mint Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Mint Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Mint Mobile

Mint Mobile is a T-Mobile MVNO, meaning Mint Mobile uses the T-Mobile network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Mint Mobile, jump to the T-Mobile Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Mint Mobile

You can buy a Mint Mobile SIM card for 2 USD from Best Buy & Target. However, they are often sold together with a plan (starting from 45 USD).

Text MENU to 6700 to access the Mint Mobile menu.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Mint Mobile

Mint Mobile SIM cards can only be topped up online with (international) debit and credit cards.

The following top-up options are available:

Top-Up	Validity
5 USD	No expiry
10 USD	No expiry
20 USD	No expiry

Text BAL to 6700 to check your Mint Mobile balance.

Or you can use the Mint Mobile app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Mint Mobile

Mint Mobile has two data-featured prepaid plans: Cell Phone Plans (combo) & Data Add-Ons.

I will list all the prices in USD (United State Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Cell Phone Plans – Mint Mobile

The Cell Phone Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Do note that all Mint Mobile plans have a validity starting from 90 days. It is not possible to buy a plan for 30 days.

Cell Phone Plans can be activated on the Mint Mobile app:

Price	Data 1, 3	Local Minutes	International Minutes 2	Local SMS	Validity
75 USD	5 GB/month (15 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	90 days
105 USD	15 GB/month (45 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	90 days
135 USD	20 GB/month (60 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	90 days
120 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	90 days
120 USD	5 GB/month (30 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	180 days
150 USD	15 GB/month (90 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	180 days
180 USD	5 GB/month (60 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	360 days
210 USD	20 GB/month (120 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	180 days
210 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	180 days
240 USD	15 GB/month (180 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	360 days
300 USD	20 GB/month (240 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	360 days
360 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	360 days

¹ unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance. For unlimited plan, 35 GB of high-speed data before speeds are @ 128 Kbps
² to Canada & Mexico only
³ video streaming @ 480p

Data Add-Ons – Mint Mobile

The Data Add-Ons are, as the name implies, data add-ons (with 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Data Add-Ons can be activated on the Mint Mobile app:

Price	Data	Validity
10 USD	1 GB	End of 30-day cycle
20 USD	3 GB	End of 30-day cycle

APN/Internet Settings – Mint Mobile

• Name: Ultra
• APN: wholesale

Note: “Ultra” as Name is not a mistake from my end. Leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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NET10 Wireless

NET10 Wireless is an MVNO by TracFone, which, in turn, is also an MVNO and the mobile brand of América Móvil (known as Claro in Central & South America and A1 in Central Europe).

TracFone owns various prepaid MVNO brands, which will also be covered in this guide.

NET10 Wireless allows you to choose which network (AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon) you want to be on.

However, as Verizon has a relatively short list of approved GSM devices, especially phones not sold by Verizon directly, I recommend going with AT&T or T-Mobile.

Suppose you do not select an AT&T-, T-Mobile-, or Verizon-linked SIM card.

In that case, NET10 Wireless will activate your SIM card on the network that performs the best in the area of activation.

To learn about NET10 Wireless's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies or T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about NET10 Wireless:

* Coverage
* How to Get a NET10 Wireless SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – NET10 Wireless

AT&T and Verizon networks (you can only choose one), meaning NET10 Wireless does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with NET10 Wireless, jump to the AT&T Coverage section or the T-Mobile Coverage section, depending on the network you choose.

SIM Card Price – NET10 Wireless

You can buy a NET10 Wireless SIM card, regardless of what network you select, for 0.99 USD from NET10 Wireless retailers, including Total Wireless (TracFone brands reseller), pharmacies & convenience stores.

You might have to activate your SIM card online if you did not purchase it in a Total Wireless store.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – NET10 Wireless

NET10 Wireless top-up vouchers are sold by NET10 Wireless dealers, such as budget stores, convenience stores & Total Wireless stores throughout the United States.

To top up your NET10 Wireless SIM card, text ADD to 611611 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text USAGE to 611611 to check your NET10 Wireless balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Net10 Wireless My Account app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – NET10 Wireless

NET10 Wireless has two data-featured prepaid plans: Monthly Plans (combo) & Add-On Plans.

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Monthly Plans – NET10 Wireless

The Monthly Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Monthly Plans can be activated on the Net10 My Account app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	International Minutes 4	Local SMS	Validity
20 USD	2 GB 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
35 USD	5 GB 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
50 USD	“Unlimited” 2, 3	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
65 USD	“Unlimited” 2, 3	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ unlimited data @ 64 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance
² NET10 Wireless may review your account when using “a lot of data” (probably more than 60 GB/month – just like Straight Talk) and terminate it if they feel like it. I recommend staying below 60 GB
³ undisclosed fair-use limit
⁴ to 69 countries, of which 31 to both landline and mobile numbers – may call up to 15 unique international phone numbers every billing cycle:

Add-On Plans – NET10 Wireless

The Add-On Plans are data add-ons (with 5G NR access). Multiple Add-On Plans can be activated at a time. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Add-On Plans can be activated on the Net10 My Account app:

Price	Data	Validity
5 USD	500 MB	No expiry 1
10 USD	1 GB	No expiry 1

¹ if your Monthly Plan stays active

APN/Internet Settings – NET10 Wireless

Most phones will automatically retrieve the correct APN settings when inserting a SIM card – the same counts for NET10 Wireless SIM cards.

If that does not automatically happen, you can text APN to 611611 to download the APN settings.

If that does not work, you will have to add the settings manually by filling in these fields:

• Name: net10
• APN: tfdata (AT&T) OR wap.tracfone (T-Mobile)

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Red Pocket Mobile

Red Pocket Mobile, also known as simply Red Pocket, is an MVNO that owns several other MVNOs in the United States, which will also be covered in this guide.

The MVNO is famous for its lucrative refer-a-friend program (25 USD per referred friend – up to 500 USD a year).

Red Pocket Mobile allows you to choose which network (AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon) you want to be on.

However, as Verizon has a relatively short list of approved GSM devices, especially phones not sold by Verizon directly, I recommend going with AT&T or T-Mobile.

To learn about Red Pocket Mobile's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies or T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Red Pocket Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Red Pocket Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Red Pocket Mobile

Red Pocket Mobile is an MVNO using the AT&T and Verizon networks (you can only choose one), meaning Red Pocket Mobile does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Red Pocket Mobile, jump to the AT&T Coverage section or the T-Mobile Coverage section, depending on the network you choose.

SIM Card Price – Red Pocket Mobile

You can buy a Red Pocket Mobile SIM card for 5 USD in CVS and Target throughout the United States.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Red Pocket Mobile

Red Pocket Mobile top-up vouchers are sold by Red Pocket Mobile dealers, like CVS & Target, throughout the United States.

To top up your Red Pocket Mobile SIM card, dial *111*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *111*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text BAL to 3888 if you are on the AT&T network and BAL to 7039 if you are on the T-Mobile network to check your Red Pocket Mobile balance.

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Red Pocket Mobile

Red Pocket Mobile has three data-featured prepaid plans:

• Plans (combo)
• Data Only
• Data Top Ups

I will list all the prices in USD (United States Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Plans – Red Pocket Mobile

The Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Plans can be activated online:

Price	Data 2	Local Minutes	International Minutes 3	Local SMS	Validity
10 USD	1 GB 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
20 USD	5 GB 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
30 USD	20 GB 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
40 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ 5G
² unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance
³ calling to 79 countries, of which 47 to both landline and mobile numbers (marked with “(M)”)- may call up to 20 unique international phone numbers every billing cycle

Data Only – Red Pocket Mobile

The Data Only (plans) are, as the name implies, data bundles (with 5G NR access). They are exclusive to the AT&T network (GSMA). Those with T-Mobile-linked Red Pocket Mobile SIM cards cannot purchase Data Only (plans).

Data Only (plans) can be activated online:

Price	Data	Validity
10 USD	1 GB	30 days
25 USD	5 GB	30 days
40 USD	20 GB	30 days

Data Top Ups – Red Pocket Mobile

The Data Top Ups are data add-ons (with 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Data Top Ups can be activated online:

Price	Data	Validity
2 USD	100 MB	Until plan expires
5 USD	200 MB	Until plan expires
15 USD	1 GB	Until plan expires
20 USD	2 GB	Until plan expires

APN/Internet Settings – Red Pocket Mobile

• Name: Red Pocket Mobile
• APN: ERESELLER (AT&T) OR WHOLESALE (T-Mobile)

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Simple Mobile

Simple Mobile is an MVNO by TracFone, which, in turn, is also an MVNO and the mobile brand of América Móvil (known as Claro in Central & South America and A1 in Central Europe).

TracFone owns various prepaid MVNO brands, which will also be covered in this guide.

Unlike some other TracFone-owned MVNOs, GoSmart Mobile does not allow you to select the network you want to use.

Instead, it uses the T-Mobile network only.

To learn about Simple Mobile's frequencies, jump back to T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Simple Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Simple Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Simple Mobile

Simple Mobile is a T-Mobile MVNO, meaning Simple Mobile uses the T-Mobile network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Simple Mobile, jump to the T-Mobile Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Simple Mobile

You can buy a Simple Mobile SIM card for 0.99 USD from Simple Mobile retailers, including Total Wireless (TracFone brands reseller), pharmacies & convenience stores.

You might have to activate your SIM card online if you did not purchase it in a Total Wireless store.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Simple Mobile

Simple Mobile top-up vouchers are sold by Simple Mobile dealers, such as budget stores, convenience stores & Total Wireless stores throughout the United States.

To top up your Simple Mobile SIM card, text ADD to 611611 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text USAGE to 611611 to check your Simple Mobile balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Simple Mobile My Account app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Simple Mobile

Simple Mobile has two data-featured prepaid plans: Service Plans (combo) & Add-On Plans (data).

I will list all the prices in USD (United State Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Service Plans – Simple Mobile

The Service Plans are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

All Service Plans allow for free data roaming in 16 Latin American countries and include 300 roaming minutes and unlimited roaming SMS when in those countries.

The 16 Latin American countries are:

Service Plans can be activated on the Simple Mobile My Account app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	International Minutes 5	International Call Credit 4	Local SMS	Validity
25 USD	3 GB 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	10 USD	Unlimited	30 days
30 USD	5 GB 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	10 USD	Unlimited	30 days
40 USD	15 GB 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	10 USD	Unlimited	30 days
50 USD	Unlimited 2, 3	Unlimited	Unlimited	10 USD	Unlimited	30 days

¹ Unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance
² speeds may be reduced after using more than 40 GB
³ video streaming @ 480p – I recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction
⁴ to 100+ countries
⁵ to 69 countries, of which 30 to both landline and mobile numbers – may call up to 20 unique international phone numbers every billing cycle:

Add-On Plans – Simple Mobile

The Add-On Plans are data add-ons (without 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Add-On Plans can be activated on the Simple Mobile My Account app:

Price	Data	Validity
5 USD	2 GB	Until plan expires
10 USD	5 GB	Until plan expires
20 USD	10 GB	Until plan expires

APN/Internet Settings – Simple Mobile

Most phones will automatically retrieve the correct APN settings when inserting a SIM card – the same counts for Simple Mobile SIM cards.

If that does not automatically happen, you can text APN to 611611 to download the APN settings.

If that does not work, you will have to add the settings manually by filling in these fields:

• Name: simple
• APN: simple

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Straight Talk

Straight Talk is an MVNO by TracFone, which, in turn, is also an MVNO and the mobile brand of América Móvil (known as Claro in Central & South America and A1 in Central Europe).

TracFone owns various prepaid MVNO brands, which will also be covered in this guide.

Straight Talk allows you to choose which network (AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon) you want to be on.

However, as Verizon has a relatively short list of approved GSM devices, especially phones not sold by Verizon directly, I recommend going with AT&T or T-Mobile.

Suppose you do not select an AT&T-, T-Mobile-, or Verizon-linked SIM card.

In that case, Straight Talk Wireless will activate your SIM card on the network that performs the best in the area of activation.

To learn about Straight Talk's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies or T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Straight Talk:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Straight Talk SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Straight Talk

Straight Talk is an MVNO using the AT&T and Verizon networks (you can only choose one), meaning Straight Talk does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Straight Talk, jump to the AT&T Coverage section or the T-Mobile Coverage section, depending on the network you choose.

SIM Card Price – Straight Talk

You can buy a Straight Talk SIM card, regardless of what network you select, for 0.99 USD from Straight Talk retailers, including Total Wireless (TracFone brands reseller), pharmacies & convenience stores.

You might have to activate your SIM card online if you did not purchase it in a Total Wireless store.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Straight Talk

Straight Talk top-up vouchers are sold by Straight Talk dealers, such as budget stores, convenience stores & Total Wireless stores throughout the United States.

To top up your Straight Talk SIM card, text ADD to 611611 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text USAGE to 611611 to check your Straight Talk balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Straight Talk My Account app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Straight Talk

Straight Talk has two data-featured prepaid plans: Wireless Phone Plans (combo) & Add-Ons.

I will list all the prices in USD (United State Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wireless Phone Plans – Straight Talk

The Wireless Phone Plans are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Wireless Phone Plans can be activated on the Straight Talk My Account app:

Price	Plan	Data	Local Minutes	Canada & Mexico Minutes	International Minutes 2	Local SMS	Validity
30 USD	Basic Phone	100 MB	1500 Minutes	N/A	N/A	Unlimited	30 days
35 USD	Bronze Unlimited	10 GB 1	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	30 days
45 USD	Silver Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	30 days
55 USD	Gold Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	30 days
60 USD	Unlimited International	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	30 days
65 USD	Platinum Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
130 USD	Unlimited Extended 3 Month Plan	Unlimited	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	90 days
255 USD	Unlimited Extended 6 Month Plan	Unlimited	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	180 days
495 USD	Unlimited Extended 1 Year Plan	Unlimited	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	365 days

¹ unlimited data @ 64 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance
² to 62 countries, of which 23 to both landline and mobile numbers – may call up to 15 unique international phone numbers every billing cycle:

Add-ons – Straight Talk

The Add-ons are data add-ons (with 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Price	Data	Validity
5 USD	1 GB	Until service expires
10 USD	2 GB	Until service expires

APN/Internet Settings – Straight Talk

Most phones will automatically retrieve the correct APN settings when inserting a SIM card – the same counts for Straight Talk SIM cards.

If that does not automatically happen, you can text APN to 611611 to download the APN settings.

If that does not work, you will have to add the settings manually by filling in these fields:

• Name: Straight Talk
• APN: tfdata (AT&T) OR wap.tracfone (T-Mobile)

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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TracFone

TracFone is an MVNO and the mobile brand of América Móvil (known as Claro in Central & South America and A1 in Central Europe).

TracFone owns various prepaid MVNO brands, which will also be covered in this guide.

TracFone allows you to choose which network (AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon) you want to be on.

However, as Verizon has a relatively short list of approved GSM devices, especially phones not sold by Verizon directly, I recommend going with AT&T or T-Mobile.

Suppose you do not select an AT&T-, T-Mobile-, or Verizon-linked SIM card.

In that case, TracFone will activate your SIM card on the network that performs the best in the area of activation.

To learn about TracFone's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies or T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about TracFone:

* Coverage
* How to Get a TracFone SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – TracFone

TracFone Wireless is an MVNO using the AT&T and Verizon networks (you can only choose one), meaning TracFone does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with TracFone, jump to the AT&T Coverage section or the T-Mobile Coverage section, depending on the network you choose.

SIM Card Price – TracFone

You can buy a TracFone SIM card, regardless of what network you select, for 0.99 USD from TracFone retailers, including Total Wireless (TracFone brands reseller), pharmacies & convenience stores.

You might have to activate your SIM card online if you did not purchase it in a Total Wireless store.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – TracFone

TracFone top-up vouchers are sold by TracFone dealers, such as budget stores, convenience stores & Total Wireless stores throughout the United States.

To top up your TracFone SIM card, text ADD to 611611 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text USAGE to 611611 to check your TracFone balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the TracFone My Account app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – TracFone

TracFone has two data-featured prepaid plans: Smartphone Plans (combo) & Extra Benefits (add-ons).

I will list all the prices in USD (United State Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Smartphone Plans – TracFone

The Smartphone Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Smartphone Plans can be activated on the TracFone My Account app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
15 USD	500 MB	500 minutes	500 SMS	30 days
15 USD	N/A	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
20 USD	2 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
25 USD	500 MB	500 minutes	1000 SMS	60 days
25 USD	3 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
30 USD	5 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
35 USD	1 GB	750 minutes	1000 SMS	60 days
40 USD	10 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
45 USD	1.5 GB	750 minutes	1000 SMS	90 days
50 USD	2 GB	750 minutes	1500 SMS	90 days
125 USD	1.5 GB	1500 minutes/month (18 000 minutes)	1500 SMS/month (18 000 SMS)	365 days
199 USD	24 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	365 days

Unused data will roll over to the next billing cycle as long as you renew your plan on time.

Extra Benefits – TracFone

The Extra Benefits are combo add-ons with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Extra Benefits can be activated on the TracFone My Account app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
5 USD	N/A	N/A	1000 SMS	Until plan expires
10 USD	N/A	500 minutes	N/A	Until plan expires
10 USD	1 GB	N/A	N/A	Until plan expires

APN/Internet Settings – TracFone

Most phones will automatically retrieve the correct APN settings when inserting a SIM card – the same counts for TracFone SIM cards.

If that does not automatically happen, you can text APN to 611611 to download the APN settings.

If that does not work, you will have to add the settings manually by filling in these fields:

• Name: Tracfone
• APN: tfdata (AT&T) OR wap.tracfone (T-Mobile)

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Ultra Mobile

Ultra Mobile is a T-Mobile MVNO.

It is one of the many budget MVNOs on the T-Mobile network.

To learn about Ultra Mobile's frequencies, jump back to T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Ultra Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get an Ultra Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Ultra Mobile

Ultra Mobile is a T-Mobile MVNO, meaning Ultra Mobile uses the T-Mobile network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Ultra Mobile, jump to the T-Mobile Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Ultra Mobile

You can buy an Ultra Mobile SIM card for 2 USD from Best Buy, Target & independent retailers. However, they are often sold together with a plan (starting from 15 USD).

Be aware that there are two types of Ultra Mobile SIM cards: Orange & Purple.

Purple Ultra Mobile SIM cards are sold for a minimal fee (from 2 USD). They need a payment to be made active.

Orange Ultra Mobile SIM cards are preloaded with a plan (starting from 15 USD). You will pay for the SIM card and the plan when purchasing the starter kit. Orange SIM cards do not need to be activated after purchase.

Short-term visitors and tourists can also get the Ultra Mobile Tourist SIM card.

For 30 USD, you will get 3 GB of data, unlimited local minutes, 100 international minutes, unlimited local SMS & unlimited international SMS – all valid for 21 days.

Price	Data	Local Minutes	International Minutes 1	Local SMS	International SMS	Validity
30 USD	3 GB	Unlimited	100 minutes	Unlimited	Unlimited	21 days

¹ to 81 countries, of which 52 to both landline and mobile numbers (marked with “(M)”):

Do note that Ultra Mobile Tourist SIM cards cannot be recharged, nor can they be renewed. Moreover, you cannot buy a plan when you are out of data.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Ultra Mobile

Ultra Mobile top-up vouchers are sold by Ultra Mobile dealers, such as grocery stores, gas stations & electronics shops throughout the United States.

To top up your Ultra Mobile SIM card, text RECHARGE VoucherCode to 6700.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would text RECHARGE 123456 to 6700.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text BAL to 6700 to check your Ultra Mobile balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Ultra Mobile app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Ultra Mobile

Ultra Mobile has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Monthly Plans (combo). It includes data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

I will list all the prices in USD (United State Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Plans can be activated on the Ultra Mobile app:

Price	Data 1	Local Minutes	International Minutes 3	International Call Credit	Local SMS	International SMS	Validity
15 USD	250 MB	Unlimited	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
19 USD	2 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	1.50 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
29 USD	6 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	5 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
39 USD	15 GB 2	Unlimited	Unlimited	5 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
49 USD	40 GB 2	Unlimited	Unlimited	10 USD	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your data allowance (except for the 15 USD plan – hard data cap)
² video streaming @ 480p – I recommend using a VPN to circumvent this restriction
³ calling to 81 countries, of which 52 to both landline and mobile numbers (marked with “(M)”):

APN/Internet Settings – Ultra Mobile

• Name: Ultra
• APN: wholesale

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Unreal Mobile

Unreal Mobile is an MVNO by Red Pocket Mobile, which, in turn, is also an MVNO.

Red Pocket Mobile owns various prepaid MVNO brands, which will also be covered in this guide.

Unreal Mobile allows you to choose which network (AT&T or T-Mobile) you want to be on.

To learn about Unreal Mobile's frequencies, jump back to AT&T's frequencies or T-Mobile's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Unreal Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get an Unreal Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Unreal Mobile

Unreal Mobile is an MVNO using the AT&T & T-Mobile networks (you can only choose one), meaning Unreal Mobile does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Unreal Mobile, jump to the AT&T Coverage section or the T-Mobile Coverage section, depending on the network you choose.

SIM Card Price – Unreal Mobile

You can buy an Unreal Mobile SIM card for 5 USD in Best Buy and Target throughout the United States.

You might have to activate your SIM card online.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Unreal Mobile

Unreal Mobile top-up vouchers are sold by Unreal Mobile dealers, like Best Buy & Target, throughout the United States.

To top up your Unreal Mobile SIM card, dial *111*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *111*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text BAL to 3888 to check your Unreal Mobile balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Unreal Mobile app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Unreal Mobile

Unreal Mobile has only one data-featured prepaid plan: The Plans (combo). It includes data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

I will list all the prices in USD (United State Dollar).

To convert USD to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Plans can be activated on the Unreal Mobile app:

Price	Data	Local Minutes	Local SMS	Validity
20 USD	10 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
40 USD	25 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

APN/Internet Settings – Unreal Mobile

• Name: Unreal Mobile
• APN: ERESELLER

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in the United States

Getting a SIM card from AT&T, T-Mobile, Google Fi, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, or Ultra Mobile would do you well when considering an American SIM card.

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