Tello BYOP

Phone compatibility check

4 min read

Updated September 17, 2024

Written by

Rob Webber

Edited by

Amanda Webber

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Changing phone carriers used to be confusing and expensive, but when you switch to Tello you'll find affordable bring your own phone plans that can save you hundreds of dollars on your cell phone bill.

Tello makes it quick and easy to purchase a SIM card kit online and get your new plan up and running within a few days.

We've summarized the details below to help you find the best BYOD plan with Tello.

Tello bring your own phone plans

Tello have a range of low-cost plans available whether you're looking for unlimited data, family plans, unlimited talk and text, or a basic plan, there's something for everyone.

What are the benefits of bringing your own phone?

Bringing your own device to a low-cost carrier plan offers a number of benefits;

• Lower prices: with affordable plans, you can save up to $600 a year with an MVNO.
• Keep your number: there's no need to change your number, low-cost carriers make it easy to port it across.
• Flexibility: there's no contracts with these prepaid plans, so if your needs change you can cancel or amend your plan.
• Easy to switch: it's simple to switch providers, just pick your plan and your SIM card kit will be sent to you in the post.
• Quality coverage: powered by the same major US networks, you'll get the same coverage on the nationwide 4G LTE network that you're used to.

Tello compatible phones

If your current phone is not compatible, you can still find some affordable prepaid phones online. With a range of handsets from basic cell phones to the latest smartphones.

If your phone was purchased through a plan with, AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile you'll need to check the phone is unlocked. Phones purchased with the big three are locked to their network, but once the contract ends, as long as the phone has been paid off, they'll unlock the handset for you.

What are the benefits of Tello?

• Quality coverage: Powered by the T-Mobile network, you can expect the same nationwide coverage. To see if T-Mobile's network is the best coverage in your area, you can use the Tello coverage map.
• Value for money: Tello SIM cards offer value and simplicity with their plans. Although you'll find the same features and coverage as a plan direct from T-Mobile, Tello could save you up to $600 a year.
• No contracts: As a prepaid carrier, you won't have to sign a 24 or 36 months contract. So if you're not happy with your plan, there are no restrictions keeping you locked into their contract.
• Phone and plan bundles: If you're interested in upgrading your cell phone, you can find a range of the best Tello phones to choose from. Just like a phone and plan bundle from one of the major networks, but with affordable options.
• Easy set up: Being online-based, it's quick to choose and purchase your Tello SIM starter kit. Once your SIM card's arrived, it's easy to set up and you'll be up and running with a few simple steps.
• Unlimited talk & text: Most MVNOs provide unlimited talk and text with their plans.
• 4G LTE coverage: You'll receive their 4G LTE data speeds operating on the T-Mobile network.
• 5G high-speed data: If you have a 5G eligible device, you can access the fast 5G network (where it's available) at no extra cost with Tello 5G plans.
• Unlimited plans: Depending on your desired data, Tello unlimited plans offer unlimited everything at half the price of a T-Mobile unlimited plan.
• Multiple lines: Most prepaid carriers offer a discount for additional lines purchased, making a family plan a great money-saving option when buying more than one line.
• Multi-month discount: Tello offers a discount on the monthly price if you don't mind bundling for three months or six months.
• Personal hotspot: A data plan like Tello hotspot plans are great when you're traveling or away from home. You can use your mobile hotspot data to tether to your laptop so you can continue working without WiFi.
• Instant connectivity: With the latest technology a Tello eSIM can connect you to your new plan instantly. When you sign up you'll receive a QR code that once scanned activates your plan ready to use.
• Customer service: Find out what current Tello customers are saying with Tello customer reviews.
• Data only: If you're looking for data plans you'll find a range of Tello internet plans suitable for use with tablets and other mobile devices.

Read our full Tello review.

Tello coverage

Operating on the T-Mobile network you'll receive access to the same nationwide 4G LTE coverage at an affordable price. To make sure it's the right fit, you can use your ZIP code to check the cell phone coverage at your address.

Tello features

How to bring your own phone to Tello

Switching to Tello is easy, but you'll want to check a few things first. You'll need to make sure your current phone is unlocked, meaning it's not tied to a specific carrier, and that it's compatible with the Tello network.

If your current handset is not compatible there are options to purchase a new phone through Tello that won't leave you out of pocket.

Tello SIM card activation

It takes a few easy steps to get your phone set up with a Tello low-cost plan;

1. Check your phone is compatible and unlocked
2. Choose and order your Tello SIM card kit online
3. When it arrives, pop your SIM card into your phone and follow the activation instructions

Tello BYOP FAQs

Recap

With affordable plans, no commitment, and only paying for what you need, bringing your own phone to Tello gives you plenty of bang for your buck and can save you up to $600 per year.

Most unlocked phones made within the last few years should be compatible, but if your phone doesn't work with the Tello network, they do offer a variety of new handsets to choose from.

If you're unsure that Tello is a good fit, you'll find plenty of money saving deals by comparing the best MVNOs across all networks.

Tello guides

• Tello Plans
• Best Tello Plans
• Tello Unlimited Data Plans
• Tello Family Plans
• Best Tello Hotspot Plans
• Tello Review
• Tello Coverage Map
• Tello SIM Cards
• Tello eSIM Plans