Trying to save on your phone bill but not sure if Metro by T-Mobile or Total Wireless is the better deal?
While Total Wireless focuses on budget-friendly unlimited plans, Metro by T-Mobile offers extra perks, like Amazon Prime and high-speed hotspot data, but comes with higher prices.
So which low-cost carrier suits your needs best?
Total Wireless vs Metro by T-Mobile plans
Winner: Total Wireless
If you're looking for an affordable unlimited plan, Total Wireless offers a better price. Their unlimited plan starts at $40 per month, making it one of the cheapest options for single-line users.
Metro by T-Mobile's unlimited plans cost more, but they come with additional perks like Amazon Prime, high-speed hotspot data, and exclusive discounts through T-Mobile Tuesdays.
If keeping costs low is your priority, Total Wireless gives you the best deal. But if you value extra features like streaming perks and hotspot access, Metro by T-Mobile may be worth the higher price.
Total Wireless plans
Total Wireless unlimited data plan
- Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Wireless unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $20/mo |
| Total Wireless unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $30/mo |
| Total Wireless unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $50/mo |
Metro by T-Mobile plans
Metro by T-Mobile unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro by T-Mobile unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $40/mo |
| Metro by T-Mobile unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $50/mo |
| Metro by T-Mobile unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $60/mo |
Total Wireless vs Metro by T-Mobile coverage
Winner: Metro by T-Mobile
Total Wireless operates on Verizon's network, while Metro by T-Mobile is powered by T-Mobile's network. Both offer nationwide coverage, but their performance varies based on location.
Verizon is known for its strong rural coverage and according to RootMetrics' 2024 report, Verizon ranks highest for overall reliability, making Total Wireless a solid choice for those in remote areas. Metro by T-Mobile benefits from T-Mobile's industry-leading 5G availability, as per this OpenSignal 2025 analysis providing faster speeds in cities and suburbs.
Total Wireless coverage
Total Wireless is powered by Verizon 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
View Total Wireless coverage map
Metro by T-Mobile coverage
Metro by T-Mobile is powered by T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
View Metro by T-Mobile coverage map
Data speeds: Which carrier delivers better performance?
Winner: Total Wireless
Total Wireless offers unlimited plans with access to Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband, where it's available. Metro by T-Mobile's unlimited plans includes 35GB of high-speed data, and starts at $50 a month.
If you're looking for the most affordable unlimited plan, Total Wireless gives you the best value. But if you don't need unlimited data and are looking for extra perks, Metro by T-Mobile may be worth the higher price.
Extra features: Which carrier gives you more?
Winner: Metro by T-Mobile
- Total Wireless offers unlimited data and free phone deals.
- Metro includes perks like Amazon Prime, Google One storage, and high-speed hotspot data, giving it an edge for users who want extras.
- Both carriers allow mobile hotspot use.
If you want the cheapest unlimited plan, Total Wireless is the better pick. If you want premium perks and extra hotspot data, Metro by T-Mobile is worth considering.
Total Wireless vs Metro by T-Mobile plan features
| Carrier Features | Total Wireless | Metro by T-Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Networks | Verizon | T-Mobile |
| Data Speed | 5G & 4G LTE | 5G & 4G LTE |
| 3G Network | CDMA | GSM |
| Mobile Hotspot | Yes | Yes |
| Bring Your Phone | Yes | Yes |
| Keep Your Number | Yes | Yes |
| Contract | Yes - Prepaid | Prepaid |
| Credit Check | No | No |
| Customer Service | Mon-Sun 8am to 11.45pm | 24/7 |
| Money Back Guarantee | No | No |
| 5G | Yes | Yes |
| Taxes included | Varies by Location | Varies by Location |
| VoLTE | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi Calling | Yes | Yes |
| Visual Voicemail | No | Yes |
| Multi-line Discounts | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-month Discounts | Yes | No |
| International Calls | Yes - As add-on | No |
| International Roaming | No | No |
Final verdict: Which carrier is the best deal?
- Best for unlimited data → Total Wireless
- Best for perks → Metro by T-Mobile
- Best for overall coverage → Metro by T-Mobile
See how Total Wireless compares.
Read our full Metro by T-Mobile review.
Why you can trust me
Selecting a phone plan doesn't need to be overwhelming, but big carriers often make it so with their bundled pricing and hidden fees, causing customers to overpay.
At MoneySavingPro, we simplify the details and uncover the subtle tactics used to raise your bill.
I've personally tested Total Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, Boost Mobile and many more. I evaluate their speeds, coverage, and pricing. If there's a way to enjoy the same service at a lower cost, you'll find out about it here first.
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