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If you're tired of handing over more money than necessary for phone service, you're not alone. The big carriers have spent years convincing people that high prices mean better service, but that's simply not the case.
Tello and Consumer Cellular prove you can get reliable coverage for less-but these two carriers take very different approaches.
Tello is all about flexibility, letting you customize your plan so you're not paying for data you don't use. While Consumer Cellular, on the other hand, keeps things simple, offering preset plans with a strong focus on customer service, especially for seniors.
So, which one actually gives you the best deal for your money? Let's take a closer look.
Tello vs Consumer Cellular plans
Winner: Tello
Tello lets you build your own plan, choosing exactly how much data, talk, and text you need. Plans start as low as $5 per month, and even its unlimited plan is just $25 per month with high-speed data up to 35GB. You're only paying for what you need with no overpriced extras.
Consumer Cellular takes a simpler, preset approach with tiered data plans. Their cheapest option starts at $20 per month for 1GB of data, and their unlimited plan costs $50 per month per line, which is double the price of Tello. Although the high-speed data limit is 50GB.
If you want to have control and be able to customize your plan, Tello is the better option. But if you prefer an easy, no-customization plan, Consumer Cellular keeps things simple.
Tello plans
Tello unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Tello phone plans keep things simple with their wireless service. None of those hidden fees or long-term contracts that'll leave you feeling trapped.
With free international calls to 60+ countries on all plans, including Canada and Mexico, and a range of data allowances suitable for light to heavy users.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free international calling to 60+ countries
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- No multi-line discounts
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tello unlimited talk & text plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 0GB | $8/mo |
| Tello 1GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $9/mo |
| Tello 2GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 2GB | $10/mo |
| Tello 5GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $14/mo |
| Tello 10GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 10GB | $19/mo |
| Tello unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $15/mo |
| Tello 15GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 15GB | $24/mo |
Consumer Cellular plans
Consumer Cellular unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Pros
- Simple, solid plan options
- AARP discount
- Competitive pricing for light to medium users
- Device payment plan
- US-based customer service
Cons
- Small plan selection
- Expensive unlimited data plan
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consumer Cellular 1GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $20/mo |
| Consumer Cellular 5GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $25/mo |
| Consumer Cellular 10GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 10GB | $35/mo |
| Consumer Cellular unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $50/mo |
Tello vs Consumer Cellular coverage
Winner: Consumer Cellular
Tello operates on T-Mobile's network, which provides fast 5G speeds and strong coverage in metro areas. However, T-Mobile's rural coverage isn't as widespread as AT&T or Verizon.
Consumer Cellular runs on both AT&T and T-Mobile's networks, allowing you to choose the one that works best in your area. AT&T consistently performs well in rural areas, according to RootMetrics 2024, making Consumer Cellular a better option if you live outside a major city.
If you spend most of your time in a city or suburb, Tello's low-cost access to T-Mobile's network is a great deal. But if you travel often or live in a rural area, Consumer Cellular gives you more flexibility.
Tello is powered by T-Mobile and Consumer Cellular is powered by T-Mobile. Coverage can vary depending on your location. You can check their availability in your area by using our coverage checker.
Tello coverage
Tello is powered by T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
Consumer Cellular coverage
Consumer Cellular is powered by T-Mobile and AT&T 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
View Consumer Cellular coverage map
Data speeds: Which carrier performs better?
Winner: Tie
Both carriers provide access to 5G and 4G LTE speeds, but your experience depends on network congestion and location.
Tello's unlimited plan includes high-speed data up to 35GB per month, which is great for users who want a high-data allowance without breaking the bank.
Consumer Cellular offers 50GB high-speed data on their unlimited plan, but this also comes at a higher price.
If you stay under 35GB per month, Tello is the better low-cost option. But if you want the ability to switch between AT&T and T-Mobile for better speeds, Consumer Cellular has the advantage.
Extra features: Which carrier gives you more?
Winner: Tie
Both carriers offer some great perks, and it really comes down to what you need from your cell phone plan. While Consumer Cellular is built for ease of use and customer service, Tello provides affordability and international calling.
Tello includes free international calling to over 60 countries, making it a great choice for staying connected globally without extra fees.
Consumer Cellular, meanwhile, provides AARP discounts and highly rated customer service, which makes it a popular choice for seniors.
If you want the cheapest plan with free international calling, Tello is the better option. If you prioritize customer support and AARP savings, Consumer Cellular is the way to go.
Tello vs Consumer Cellular features
| Carrier Features | Tello | Consumer Cellular |
|---|---|---|
| Networks | T-Mobile | AT&T & T-Mobile |
| Data Speed | 5G & 4G LTE | 5G & 4G LTE |
| 3G Network | GSM | GSM |
| Mobile Hotspot | ||
| Bring Your Phone | ||
| Keep Your Number | ||
| Contract | Prepaid | Prepaid |
| Credit Check | ||
| Customer Service | 24/7 | Mon-Fri 5am to 6pm / Sat-Sun 6am to 5pm |
| Money Back Guarantee | ||
| 5G | ||
| Taxes included | Varies by Location | Varies by Location |
| VoLTE | ||
| WiFi Calling | ||
| Visual Voicemail | ||
| Multi-line Discounts | ||
| Multi-month Discounts | ||
| International Calls | Yes - Includes 60+ countries | Yes - As add-on |
| International Roaming |
Final verdict: Which carrier is the better deal?
- Best for saving money → Tello
- Best for coverage → Consumer Cellular
- Best for international calling → Tello
- Best for customer support & senior discounts → Consumer Cellular
If you want affordable, customizable plans with no contracts, Tello is the clear winner. If you value customer service, AARP discounts, and rural coverage, Consumer Cellular may be a better fit.
See how Consumer Cellular compares
Tello vs Consumer Cellular FAQs
The main difference between Tello and Consumer Cellular are plan prices and features. Both offer cheap cell phone plans powered by the major networks.
Tello is powered by T-Mobile and Consumer Cellular runs on T-Mobile.
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 Tello phone is unlocked it should work with Consumer Cellular. 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 spent over a decade testing mobile carriers, breaking down pricing tricks, and helping people save money without sacrificing service. At MoneySavingPro, we don't just compare plans-we test networks, analyze fine print, and uncover hidden fees so you don't have to.
I've personally tested carriers like Tello, Mint Mobile, and Visible, comparing their speeds, coverage, and pricing against the big networks. If a provider isn't worth your money, I'll tell you. And if there's a better way to cut your phone bill, you'll hear about it here first.
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