Would appreciate advice on smartphones.

[skypilot]

I originally posted this in GD where it was alerted on and locked so I'm reposting it here in the lounge.

I use Verizon for internet and home (land line) phone service. I've been using a prepaid flip phone for a year now and want to upgrade to a smart phone to take with me for a trip out west next month. Want access to Google Maps and Uber. I've had no trouble with my prepaid flip phone which I use only for calling and texting but I know that there is a bit more to smart phones with data, wifi, etc.

After trying to do some research my brain is half fried from all the negative reviews I've read about different providers and their plans. Everyone seems to hate all of the "Big Four" carriers for one reason or another. A coworker recommended a TracPhone but I'm seeing all kinds of bad reviews for them as well. So many people complain that they are told one thing regarding their phone plan but end up receiving and getting billed for something else and then enduring terrible customer service to resolve the issue.

My situation is this: I'm not a big phone user. If I get a smart phone I won't be streaming music or movies. I just want a phone and a plan that allows me to call, text, take pictures, download a couple apps and get Google Maps, which I think comes with most phones these day. I just want to go to my provider (or a new one) pre-armed with some input from impartial sources.

Thanks in advance to all who reply.

[left-of-center2012]

1. I have a Motorola from Consumer Cellular

I bought my first smart phone a couple years ago for the same reason you now want one.
I paid $100, but the current models I think are $125 - $150.

I asked my brother what his $700 iPhone can do that mine can't and he couldn't say.
He also uses Consumer Cellular at the same rate I pay.

I think C.C. uses the AT&T network. Unlimited phone calls, texts, etc runs me about $37 each month, all fees, taxes, included.
I've had no problem with the phone, and the few times I've called C.C. to ask any questions they have been very nice and helpful.

https://www.consumercellular.com

phones:
https://www.consumercellular.com/Products?iphone&android

[skypilot]

5. Thanks.

This is getting a little more complicated than I expected. I've seen commercials for all these phone companies but I never really paid much attention to them. And now all of them are being mention in response to my post. Guess I'd better start paying attention now.

[TreasonousBastard]

2. I had TracFone for a while, but it constantly screwed up. Eventually, I ended up with Boost...

50 bucks a month and I get pretty much everything. It uses the Sprint network, and I haven't had any problems with coverage. And no contract, so it's month by month.

I didn't spring for a big bucks phone, either. Got an LG Stylo for around a hundred bucks and it does everything the Samsungs and iPhones, do, albeit sometimes a little slower. Google maps works great on it.

I've been thinking of going to one of the cheaper providers, like Cricket, but haven't gotten around to giving them a test run.

Verizon and AT&T may have somewhat better coverage, but they have contracts.

[Lochloosa]

3. I have Cricket. It uses ATT network so no issues with coverage.

30 a month and no contract.

[NBachers]

6. I've been with Ting.com for several years; I love 'em. Best customer service, great prices, and

you can look at the phones they've got for sale, and see if you like any of 'em. You can also bring your own phone.

Real people you can call and talk to; or chat with online. They love to do nice things for you. What a concept!

I rarely rave about a company I do business with, but Ting has me for a loyal customer for as long as I'll be around.

https://ting.com/

That said, I'm extremely happy with the OnePlus 6 I bought a couple of months ago, but the $500+ price tag may be out of your price range. I've had plenty of phones I was disappointed in, but I'll probably stay with this phone and manufacturer for a long time.

[mnhtnbb]

9. I have a OnePlus 5 bought a year ago.

It is my first smart phone and I've found it very easy. Bought it online and took it to AT&T to activate it.

I use it for texting, calls, the camera, and limited access to a few favorite web sites. My techie son recommended it.
It charges very quickly and holds the charge for more than a full day based on my usage.

I've had no problems with it at all.

[TexasBushwhacker]

7. I have an LG Stylo 3

It was $99. I use Boost Mobile. It's $35 a month for unlimited talk, text and data. The first 3 GB per month are high speed.

[skypilot]

8. Thanks to everyone for the responses.

I have a lot of shopping around to do.