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Looking for a prepaid plan that doesn't cost a fortune? Red Pocket and Total Wireless both offer contract-free phone service at lower prices than the big carriers, but they take different approaches.
Red Pocket lets you pick your network-AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile-giving you the flexibility to choose the best coverage for your area. Total Wireless, owned by Verizon, runs exclusively on Verizon's network and offers multi-line discounts, but at higher starting prices.
So, should you go with Red Pocket for its budget-friendly pricing and network flexibility, or is Total Wireless' family discounts and Verizon coverage reliability worth considering?
Red Pocket vs Total Wireless plans
Winner: Red Pocket
Red Pocket is one of the most affordable prepaid carriers on the market, with plans starting at just $10 per month. You can choose between AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, ensuring you get the best service in your area.
Total Wireless offers plans starting at $30 per month, but all plans are powered by Verizon's network. They offer multi-line discounts, which can be a good option for families who want to bundle lines together.
If you want the lowest prices and the ability to pick your network, Red Pocket is the perfect choice. If you want Verizon's coverage with family plan discounts, Total Wireless may be a better fit.
Red Pocket plans
Red Pocket unlimited data plan
- AT&T coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Red Pocket Mobile phone plans are powered by the AT&T wireless network. And if you're looking for multi-line discounts, they're one of the best MVNOs for family plans, with a $20 discount for each additional line added.
You also get free international calls to 80 countries, so you can stay connected with loved ones abroad.
Pros
- AT&T 5G & 4G LTE coverage
- Free international calls to 80 countries
- Roaming available in Mexico and Canada
- Mobile hotspot access on all plans
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- Limited international roaming
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Pocket 1GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $10/mo |
| Red Pocket 10GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 10GB | $20/mo |
| Red Pocket unlimited data plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $30/mo |
| Red Pocket unlimited data plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $40/mo |
Total Wireless plans
Total Wireless unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Pros
- Verizon 5G coverage
- Good hotspot data
- Great phone deals
Cons
- Only unlimited data plans
- More expensive than others
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Wireless unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $40/mo |
| Total Wireless unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $50/mo |
| Total Wireless unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $60/mo |
Red Pocket vs Total Wireless coverage
Winner: Red Pocket
Red Pocket lets you choose between AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, meaning you can switch networks if coverage isn't great in your area.
Total Wireless only operates on Verizon's network, so if Verizon coverage is weak in your area, you won't have another option. While Verizon has strong nationwide coverage, AT&T and T-Mobile may be better choices in some locations, according to RootMetrics' 2024 report.
Due to the network flexibility and the ability to switch if needed, Red Pocket plans came out as the best here.
Red Pocket coverage
Red Pocket is powered by AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
Total Wireless coverage
Total Wireless is powered by Verizon 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
View Total Wireless coverage map
Data speeds: Which carrier delivers better performance?
Winner: Red Pocket
Data speeds are largely the same, but Red Pocket gives you the freedom to pick a different network if needed.
With Total Wireless unlimited plans you get unlimited data, while Red Pocket's Premium and Elite unlimited plans offer 30GB of high-speed data.
Due to the plan prices and network flexibility, Red Pocket just beats Total Wireless. But if unlimited data is a priority for you, Total Wireless could be a good option.
Best for features and perks
Winner: Total Wireless
Red Pocket focuses on low-cost plans and network flexibility, making it a great option for budget-conscious consumers. They also offer some great international calling options and roaming in Mexico and Canada.
Total Wireless also offers some great international calling, texting and roaming features, along with Disney+ access. So if you're looking to bundle some entertainment features for your family this could be a good option.
For the international features and entertainment subscriptions, Total Wireless is the winner for additional features. But, if you're not looking entertainment bundles but want international calling at a cheaper price, Red Pocket is a great choice.
Red Pocket vs Total Wireless plan features
| Carrier Features | Red Pocket | Total Wireless |
|---|---|---|
| Networks | AT&T, T-Mobile & Verizon | Verizon |
| Data Speed | 5G & 4G LTE | 5G & 4G LTE |
| 3G Network | CDMA & GSM | CDMA |
| Mobile Hotspot | ||
| Bring Your Phone | ||
| Keep Your Number | ||
| Contract | Prepaid | Yes - Prepaid |
| Credit Check | ||
| Customer Service | Mon-Sun 5am to 9pm | Mon-Sun 8am to 11.45pm |
| Money Back Guarantee | Yes - 7 days | |
| 5G | ||
| Taxes included | Varies by Location | Varies by Location |
| VoLTE | ||
| WiFi Calling | ||
| Visual Voicemail | ||
| Multi-line Discounts | ||
| Multi-month Discounts | ||
| International Calls | Yes - Includes 80 countries | Yes - As add-on |
| International Roaming |
Final verdict: Who has the better deal?
- Best for value for money plans → Red Pocket
- Best for network flexibility → Red Pocket
- Best for extra perks → Total Wireless
- Best for international features → Total Wireless
If you want the cheapest plans and the ability to choose your network, Red Pocket is the better choice. If you need multiple lines, lots of additional perks, and want a Verizon prepaid plan, Total Wireless is worth considering.
Learn more with our Red Pocket review
Check out our Total Wireless review for more
Red Pocket vs Total Wireless FAQs
The main difference between Red Pocket and Total Wireless are plan prices and features. Both offer cheap cell phone plans powered by the major networks.
Red Pocket is powered by AT&T, T-Mobile & Verizon and Total Wireless runs on Verizon.
Most newer handsets are compatible if they're unlocked, but if you're not sure you can check phone compatibility with our IMEI checker.
If your Red Pocket phone is unlocked it should work with Total Wireless. Most of the latest handsets are compatible but you can check your phone's compatibility with the carrier before purchasing.
Why you can trust me
I've helped thousands of people ditch overpriced phone plans while keeping the coverage they need. At MoneySavingPro, we don't just look at pricing-we analyze network performance, customer experiences, and hidden fees to make sure you're getting the best deal.
I've tested Red Pocket, Total Wireless, and other prepaid carriers to compare speeds, coverage, and pricing. If there's a better way to save on your phone bill, you'll hear about it here first.
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