Consumer Cellular is an AT&T and T-Mobile-based MVNO providing service primarily targeted to the retired demographic. They offer flexible monthly smartphone plans that do not 'officially' include the ability to tether according to their Terms of Service. However, Consumer Cellular representatives will inform you that tethering on these plans is permitted - just utilize your phone's mobile hotspot feature.
Plan Information
Consumer Cellular used to offer data-only plans that could be used on a mobile hotspot device that you purchased through them. Data-only plans are currently in retirement.
They also offer a multifunction device called a GrandPad that acts as a simple phone, photo, and tablet device for seniors with caregiver remote-management features.
Which carrier they assign you to is dependent upon the home zip code used, and which carrier provides the best coverage there.
They offer a 5% discount to AARP members.
Currently Available Plans:
The prices noted are with autopay.
- 10GB - $40
- 15GB - $45
- Unlimited (50GB of highspeed data) - $55
Plan Specifications:
- Carrier Networks Used: AT&T, T-Mobile
- Carrier Relationship: MVNO
- Plan Types Available: Phone - all plans include voice, text, and data.
- Device Types Permitted: Phones, GrandPad (Tablet)
- Unlimited: Yes, but with a high-speed data cap of 35GB
- High-Speed Mobile Hotspot Use: Yes, up to plan limit
- Throttling: Yes, after 50GB on the unlimited plan
- Network Management: Always prioritized behind native T-Mobile or AT&T postpaid plans.
- Video Streaming Resolution: 1080p
- 5G Access: Yes, with a 5G compatible device and in an area where 5G service is available
- eSIM: Yes
- Device Purchase Required: No, but can purchase a device
- Plan Period: Monthly
- International Roaming: Yes, with roaming fees.
- Domestic Roaming: Yes, with roaming fees.
- Data Roll Over: None
- Overage Charges: Yes. If you use more data than is on your plan, you will be automatically upgraded to, and billed for the next larger plan. After 50GB (their largest plan), your access to high-speed data will be reduced, and you will experience slower speeds for the remainder of your billing cycle.
- Lines permitted per account: Up to three
- Extras:
News, Videos & Status:
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