But there are some significant differences between Visible and T-Mobile. The short story is this: Visible offers an affordable and powerful unlimited data plan, but data speeds will be slow-ish. T-Mobile is pricier, but it has more plans to choose from and better overall performance. We’ll go over all the details of these two carriers below so that you can make the right decision for your lifestyle. But first, let’s talk about the basics of choosing a plan.
Data: Be sure to know how much data you actually use each month, so that you can get a plan that has enough for you. You should also consider what data speeds you need. People who game, work, or do creative projects on their phones may want premium data speeds. Price: Obviously, you want to get a good deal. You may be surprised at how cheap some cell phone plans are if you do the work of comparing different carriers. Coverage: All three major networks—AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon—offer great coverage in metropolitan areas. But there is a difference in rural areas and certain neighborhoods. Be sure to check the coverage maps. Performance: Does the plan come with 5G data? Does it include hotspot data? You’ll want to think about these kinds of questions to make sure you’re getting the overall performance you need.
Unlimited talk, text, and data Access to 5G networks where available (and with a 5G-capable device) Coverage on Verizon’s huge network Unlimited hotspot data Deals on the newest phones
Visible’s unlimited plans easily makes the list of the best cell phone plans out there right now. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to stream, post, scroll, watch, listen, and play on their phone all day without breaking the bank. If you decide to go with the cheaper unlimited plan for $30/month, there’s really only one major problem to speak of … With Visible your 4G LTE data will always be throttled at 5–12 Mbps (normal speeds on Verizon’s network would be closer to 25–30 Mbps). If you’re on 5G then your speeds will be higher than that but still throttled below the normal 5G speeds. Another concern is deprioritization. Because Visible is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), its customers will be at the back of the line when it comes to getting bandwidth. So if the network is busy during peak hours, their speeds may be reduced to keep normal Verizon customers’ speeds up. Here’s a look at T-Mobile’s current unlimited data plans.
Essentials: This plan is actually very similar to Visible’s plan, but it’s pricier and only comes with 3G hotspot speeds. Your data is subject to deprioritization at all times with this plan, meaning you won’t get the same speeds as you would on Magenta or Magenta Plus. Magenta: This is where T-Mobile starts to offer a plan that’s more powerful than Visible. Magenta plans are not deprioritized, come with 5 GB of 4G hotspot data, unlimited DVD-quality streaming, and 100 GB data cap. Magenta MAX: This plan has it all, from 40 GB of 4G hotspot data to free in-flight calling. There is no data cap to speak of, 4K video streaming, and a free Netflix subscription to boot.
Basically, if you want a stripped-down plan with just the basics, Visible has a better deal. But if you’re willing to shell out some extra cash for the fancy stuff, go with Magenta or Magenta MAX. But, if money isn’t the biggest issue for you, then T-Mobile’s amazing performance could very well be worth the cost. Besides all the basics that you’ll get with these family plans, like unlimited data, you’ll also get some exclusive family plan perks, like subscriptions to Netflix and free lines. Yes, T-Mobile is actually running a deal right now where you get your third line for free (that free line price is reflected in the plans featured above). You can see the most popular cell phones that each company sells right here.
Plans: Visible offers two plans, but it’s cheap and powerful. The only real problem for some will be data throttling and deprioritization. T-Mobile’s higher-tiered plans come with faster data and more perks, but the prices go up fast. Family plans: Only T-Mobile offers family plans currently, so if you’re planning on bundling a bunch of lines together, you’ll get better value with T-Mobile over Visible. Coverage and performance: Visible runs on Verizon’s amazing nationwide network, which offers unparalleled coverage. But T-Mobile’s 5G network is bigger, and its data speeds are much more impressive than Visible’s.
That’s all we’ve got for this Visible vs. T-Mobile review. We hope that it’s helped you find the perfect plan. If you’re still not sure, then maybe check out these other highly rated options.
