Total Wireless is a prepaid mobile carrier that is owned by Verizon and operates exclusively on the Verizon 5G and 4G LTE networks. Positioned as a value-focused brand, it offers no-contract wireless plans that are particularly advantageous for customers seeking multi-line or family discounts. The service aims to provide the reliability of a top-tier network at a more accessible price point, distinguishing itself with features like a five-year price guarantee and transparent pricing that includes most taxes and fees in the advertised monthly rate.
This comprehensive guide provides a definitive analysis of the Total Wireless service. You will gain a deep understanding of the brand’s history, its strategic position within the Verizon corporate structure, and the technical specifics of its network connection. We will explore a granular, head-to-head comparison of Total Wireless plans against Verizon’s own prepaid and postpaid offerings, clear up common misconceptions surrounding the brand’s identity and service quality, and deliver actionable, step-by-step advice for prospective customers and entrepreneurs interested in its retailer program. By the end of this guide, you will have all the necessary information to determine if Total Wireless is the right mobile carrier for your needs.
The Core Explanation: What Exactly is Total Wireless?
To fully grasp the value and positioning of Total Wireless, it is essential to understand its corporate lineage, its relationship with its parent company, and the technical foundation of its service. This section provides a foundational overview of the brand’s journey from a TracFone subsidiary to a key player in Verizon’s prepaid strategy.
From TracFone Sub-Brand to Verizon Value Pillar
The history of Total Wireless is a story of strategic acquisitions in the telecommunications industry. The brand was originally launched as a sub-brand of TracFone Wireless, a major player in the U.S. prepaid market. This changed significantly in November 2021, when Verizon Communications completed its landmark acquisition of TracFone and its entire portfolio of wireless brands.
Following the acquisition, Verizon reorganized its approach to the prepaid market. It established a new division known as “Verizon Value,” an organizational umbrella designed to manage its diverse portfolio of prepaid and value-oriented brands. This portfolio now includes Total Wireless alongside other well-known names such as Straight Talk, Visible, Simple Mobile, and Verizon’s own in-house Verizon Prepaid service. This structure allows Verizon to execute a sophisticated multi-brand strategy, targeting different consumer segments without diluting the premium status of its primary postpaid brand. Each brand within the Verizon Value ecosystem has a distinct mission; for instance, Visible is tailored for tech-savvy individuals, while Total Wireless is strategically aimed at value-conscious families who prioritize multi-line savings.
The Verizon Network Connection: What It Means for Your Coverage
One of the most critical questions consumers ask is, “what network does Total Wireless use?” The answer is simple and is a primary selling point: Total Wireless operates exclusively on the Verizon network, utilizing its nationwide 5G and 4G LTE towers for coverage. This gives Total Wireless customers access to what is consistently ranked as one of the most reliable and extensive wireless networks in the United States.
However, while the marketing often emphasizes using the “same network as Verizon,” there is a crucial distinction. Total Wireless plans do not include the domestic roaming agreements that benefit Verizon’s postpaid customers. Verizon maintains partnerships with smaller, regional carriers to fill in coverage gaps in very remote areas. Postpaid customers can “roam” onto these partner networks, often seamlessly. Total Wireless customers do not have this privilege. For the vast majority of users, this difference is unnoticeable. However, for those who live or travel in specific rural locations, it could result in service dead zones.
Decoding the Service: 5G, Hotspot, and Key Features
Total Wireless provides its customers with access to modern network technologies. All of its service plans include connectivity to Verizon’s nationwide 5G network. A key feature reserved for its higher-tier plans is access to Verizon’s “5G Ultra Wideband” network, which delivers significantly faster download and upload speeds.
In addition to 5G access, the Total Wireless service supports other essential features. The Total Wireless hotspot is a popular feature, with data allowances varying by plan. Higher-tier Total by Verizon hotspot plans offer generous data buckets, with some even providing unlimited hotspot data at capped speeds. The service also supports Voice over LTE (VoLTE) for high-quality calls and Wi-Fi Calling.
The Deep Dive: Total Wireless vs. Verizon – A Head-to-Head Analysis
The central question for many is how Total Wireless stacks up against Verizon’s own offerings. This section provides a detailed comparison of Total Wireless plans against both Verizon Prepaid and the premium Verizon Postpaid services.
A Granular Look at Total by Verizon Plans
Total Wireless has streamlined its offerings into three core no-contract, total wireless prepaid plans. All include unlimited talk, text, and data, with the primary differences being the amount of high-speed mobile hotspot data, video streaming resolution, and international perks. The multi-line discounts are a significant draw, dramatically lowering the per-line cost for families.
- Base 5G Unlimited: The entry-level option with a modest mobile hotspot allowance and standard definition video streaming.
- Total 5G Unlimited: The mid-tier plan, which adds access to the faster 5G Ultra Wideband network, increases the mobile hotspot data, and includes more robust international features, such as a Total by Verizon international calling card credit.
- Total 5G+ Unlimited: The top-tier plan offering the most features, including unlimited mobile hotspot data (at capped speeds) and HD video streaming.
Total Wireless vs. Verizon Prepaid: Which Is Better?
When conducting a Verizon vs Total Wireless comparison, the sub-brand often presents a more compelling value. One of the most apparent differences is in pricing transparency. Total Wireless advertises an all-in price, with taxes and fees included in the monthly rate. In contrast, Verizon Prepaid plans typically have additional taxes and fees.
Perhaps the most surprising differentiator is in data priority. On cellular networks, some plans are given higher priority during times of congestion. Remarkably, the top-tier Total Wireless prepaid plans offer unlimited priority data, which is technically superior to what is offered on some of Verizon’s own prepaid plans. This makes Total Wireless a potentially better choice for a heavy data user who values consistent speeds.
The Prepaid vs. Postpaid Showdown
When compared to Verizon’s primary postpaid plans, the differences become even more stark. The most significant advantage for Total Wireless is cost and flexibility. Its plans are substantially cheaper, require no contracts, and have no hidden fees. Verizon’s postpaid service, conversely, is built around contracts, often lasting 36 months, which are tied to its aggressive device promotions.
This leads to the second major trade-off: device deals. Verizon postpaid is known for offering deep discounts on high-end smartphones. Total Wireless offers more modest incentives. The final “catch” is customer service. Verizon’s postpaid service includes access to a large network of corporate retail stores. Total Wireless, as a cost-saving measure, relies heavily on outsourced call centers and online chat support, which is a frequent source of customer complaints.
Clearing Up Confusion: Debunking Common Myths
The complex history and branding of Total Wireless have led to several common misconceptions. This section directly addresses and clarifies these points.
Myth #1: Total Wireless service is IDENTICAL to Verizon service.
This is the most common misconception. While Total Wireless is Verizon in terms of using the same core network, the service is not identical. The entry-level plan is subject to data deprioritization, and as mentioned, Total Wireless lacks access to Verizon’s domestic roaming partners. So, is Total by Verizon the same as Verizon? No, it is a distinct service with specific trade-offs.
Myth #2: ‘Total by Verizon’ and ‘Total Wireless’ are different companies.
This is a point of confusion stemming from recent branding changes. “What is Total by Verizon?” is a question many have asked. “Total by Verizon” and “Total Wireless” are the same company. The brand was known as Total Wireless, then rebranded to “Total by Verizon” after the acquisition, and has since reverted to the Total Wireless name to reduce customer confusion. So, is Total by Verizon the same as Total Wireless? Yes, they are the same entity.
Myth #3: Prepaid means unreliable coverage and slow speeds.
This is an outdated stereotype. Because the service is built on Verizon’s robust network, the coverage is highly reliable. Furthermore, with access to the high-performance 5G Ultra Wideband network on its top-tier plans, Total Wireless can deliver exceptionally fast speeds.
Practical & Actionable Advice: Your Guide to Getting Started
This section provides concrete guidance for consumers and entrepreneurs.
Who Should Choose Total Wireless?
Total Wireless is an excellent fit for specific user profiles:
- Families and Multi-Line Accounts: This is the ideal customer due to aggressive multi-line discounts.
- Budget-Conscious Users: Single-line users can also find significant savings, especially if they bring their own device.
- Users Who Value Price Certainty: The 5-year price guarantee is a unique and compelling feature.
Making the Switch: A Step-by-Step Guide
Switching to Total Wireless is straightforward.
- Check Your Phone’s Compatibility: Most unlocked 5G and 4G LTE phones that work on the Verizon network are compatible.
- Choose Your Plan and Get a SIM: Select one of the three unlimited plans and purchase a SIM kit or opt for an eSIM for faster activation.
- Gather Your Account Information: To keep your existing phone number, you’ll need your account number and a Number Transfer PIN from your current carrier.
- Activate Your Service: Visit the activation page on the Total Wireless website to complete the process.
For Entrepreneurs: Guide to Become Total Wireless Retailer
For those interested in how to become a Total Wireless retailer, the process involves partnering with a master agent and meeting specific requirements. Prospective dealers must demonstrate significant financial capacity, typically requiring liquid capital between $70,000 to $100,000 per store. Becoming an exclusive dealer means a commitment to selling only Total Wireless plans, devices, and approved accessories. The path to becoming a dealer is usually facilitated by a “Master Agent” who assists with every stage of the process, from location scouting to store design and marketing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Verizon own Total Wireless? Yes. Verizon acquired Total Wireless in November 2021 as part of its purchase of TracFone Wireless. Is Total Wireless owned by Verizon? Absolutely, it is a key brand within the Verizon Value division.
What network is Total Wireless on? Total Wireless runs on what network? It uses Verizon’s 5G and 4G LTE network exclusively. The Total Wireless carrier provides the same core coverage as Verizon but without domestic roaming.
Is Total by Verizon the same as Verizon Prepaid? No, they are two separate brands owned by Verizon. Total Wireless vs Verizon Prepaid reveals different plan structures, pricing, and features. A key difference is that Total Wireless plans typically include taxes and fees.
Can I use my current Verizon phone on Total Wireless? Yes, in most cases, a phone that works on Verizon will be compatible. If the phone is locked, it must meet Verizon’s unlocking policy first.
Is Total Wireless prepaid? Yes, Total Wireless is prepaid. It offers no-contract plans that are paid for at the beginning of each service month.
Conclusion
Total Wireless has carved out a distinct and compelling position within the competitive U.S. wireless market. By leveraging the premium Verizon network, it offers a powerful value proposition, particularly for families seeking to control costs. Its unique benefits, including a five-year price guarantee and all-inclusive pricing, set it apart. The service provides a legitimate, no-contract alternative for those who want access to top-tier 5G speeds without the higher costs of postpaid plans.
However, this value comes with a trade-off, primarily in customer support and the lack of domestic roaming. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your priorities. For the consumer who values cost savings, price predictability, and network performance above all else, Total Wireless presents an exceptionally strong choice.
لا تعليق