So after trying most of the prepaid providers in the States I have now settled for Straight Talk. Here's why:
Price: At either $30 for the 1000 minute, 1000 text and 30mb data, or $45 for unlimited everything - this is a really good deal. The free 411 calls just sweeten the deal so much more. As... More
So after trying most of the prepaid providers in the States I have now settled for Straight Talk. Here's why:
Price: At either $30 for the 1000 minute, 1000 text and 30mb data, or $45 for unlimited everything - this is a really good deal. The free 411 calls just sweeten the deal so much more. As a matter of fact, I have been unable to find anything better for quite some time.
Oh, I see unlimited offers at around the same price all the time from smaller carriers - but I quickly learned to pay attention to coverage maps. If you don't you will rack up the roaming charges.
Coverage: Straight Talk uses the nationwide Verizon network. I could actually just stop right there but let me spell it out - Verizon is my favorite network, it not for nothing that they consistently get the highest score on coverage and network quality with the various reviewers in the industry (I'm thinking JD Power & Associates etc). I travel quite a bit and time and again, when I can use my phone where others can't, I realize that they really do have the largest, best quality network. Why don't I just use Verizon then? Well, look at my first point, price, and you'll know why. ;-)
Availability: Available at Walmart and online - it is readily available wherever I go. They also have the option to auto-refill your selected plan, very handy for a forgetful old bugger like me.
Customer service: I've only had to deal with their CS once, and yes they do outsource their CS (LIKE MOST OTHER CARRIERS!), but I had a real friendly young girl on the other side and because I spoke slowly and clearly we resolved my problem in no time. Their CS is not as bad as some of the horror stories I could tell you about other companies.
General: I already mentioned the free 411 calls but if you think that most carriers charge up to $2 for these calls, it is worth repeating. They have been improving their phone selection lately and even sport a fancy touch screen Samsung now. Cheap service doesn't necessarily mean low quality phones.
A word to people 'reviewing' cell (or any other) services - don't just slate a company for your one bad experience and call that a 'review'. Look at the service as a whole and point out the pros and cons. Otherwise your review is actually just a bi.. eh, complaint. ;-)
And that is why I love Straight Talk. If I look at the complete package I find it serves my needs completely at the lowest possible price in the most convenient way. All you can ask in this world.
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