I know it’s a broad question, but I currently have T-Mobile and the price is alright but I have an iPhone 11 and looking to get a 16 Pro Max for myself and a 16 Pro. But, T-Mobile has mentioned it will mean an increase in my plan from $89 a month, for my current 2 iPhone 11’s and 2 Apple watches, to $180 monthly for 5G.

But, I’m getting older, so less deal savvy, not to mention aware of all the current cellphone carriers or what’s a deal these days… I would appreciate if anyone here could share their thoughts or recommendations on the matter. Seeing in the past, theres a large pool of wisdom hidden in here. TIA.

  • Shimitar@feddit.it
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    6 days ago

    I pay 6€/month for unlimited calls and texts, plus 200Gb of data / month, whatever my current phone support (LTE/4G/5G).

    WTF

  • Applejuicy@feddit.nl
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    7 days ago

    T Mobile is expensive here, granted we’re probably not in the same country. It’s also usually cheaper for me to buy a phone and a separate sim/data subscription.

  • IHave69XiBucks@lemmygrad.ml
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    7 days ago

    Not trying to tell you what to do with your own money, but is there a reason you want a newer phone? Im using a pretty old android and intend to keep it until it breaks basically. Seems like new phones dont have much i need. When i bought this one i got it used for cheap too. If your current phones just going bad and u need a new one buying an old phone refurbished with a new battery in it could save u money.

  • Vaggumon@lemm.ee
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    7 days ago

    I’m assuming you are in the USA, so, If you have T-Mobile already, then I’d move to Mint. Same towers, $210 a year for unlimited phone and text and 5GB of 5G data. Then just buy your phone outright. Even if you did it on credit though Apple, you’d save quite a bit over a year.

    • edric@lemm.ee
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      7 days ago

      Just wanted to add that you do get deprioritized over TM, so it might be slow especially in crowded places (i.e. concerts).

      • Vaggumon@lemm.ee
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        7 days ago

        Not an Apple user so didn’t even think of that. I do have a Samsung watch but it’s Bluetooth, so no issues with it at all for me.

    • RustyShackleford@literature.cafeOP
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      7 days ago

      I think you might be right, I’ll buy the 16 Pro Max and move to Mint. I don’t really travel as much as before so most of the time I’m at home so this is a far more attractive option and just requires me to buy the 2 phones outright. As far as my watches, I’ll just pair them with my phones and loose the cellular option I guess. Did i understand correctly? T-Mobile is trying to hard sell their increase and I honestly don’t even need 5G if it isn’t forced lol.

      • Vaggumon@lemm.ee
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        7 days ago

        I’ve not had any issues at all. Switched form T-Mobile 3 years ago. Though if you have coverage limits at home, you will probably still have those issues. I have a spot in my house that is pretty much just a dead zone, and it remained so after the switch. But yes, my watch connected via Bluetooth has no issues at all.

      • edric@lemm.ee
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        7 days ago

        Assuming you’re not in the US, that is cheap compared to the big carriers.

        • Kairos@lemmy.today
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          7 days ago

          To be fair I don’t use it all that much but I pay $5 a month for access to 3 carrier’s networks.

      • boydster@sh.itjust.works
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        7 days ago

        Oh sure, we pay a LOT compared to other places, but at least our telecom security is top notch… (Big ole /s, in case someone may not have heard about the SALT Typhoon stuff yet)

  • Python@programming.dev
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    7 days ago

    I have never seen a situation where buying a phone from a carrier is worth it. Is buying the phone you want separately not an option for you?

    My phone bill (unlimited calls/ 12GB mobile data) is 7€ a month. So even 89$ a month seems really extreme imo.

  • Walican132@lemmy.today
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    7 days ago

    I went from an iPhone X to a 15pro and didn’t see my bill increase. Are you sure they aren’t quoting for you to finance the phone through them?

  • Apytele@sh.itjust.works
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    7 days ago

    I’m about to get the unihertz atom (I’m trying to cut back on social media use) so I can tell you how that works out.

  • BarrelAgedBoredom@lemm.ee
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    7 days ago

    If you’re a first responder or service member you get 50% off 2+ lines with T-Mobile. Even retired for service. I’m an EMT but they only check if your license is current. If this applies to you, you could just keep your license up to date even if you’re retired.

  • CaptDust@sh.itjust.works
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    7 days ago

    All the big carriers are too expensive imo. If you’re not taking advantage of the streaming bundles, not doing much international calling, and just need cell service, check out US Mobile.

    Prices are great, Dark Star (AT&T) is strong 5G around me, they work with all 3 big carrier networks and allow you to jump between them. You’ll have to buy a phone out right, unlocked, but save so much in the long term. I’m paying $35/m for 35GB 5G Data + Apple Companion (watch) plan.

  • granolabar@kbin.melroy.org
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    7 days ago

    Buy your own phone, preferably second hand market, good savings.

    Chose any MVNO, if tmo works for you just get one of theirs. should be under 50 per month.

  • Pyrin@kbin.melroy.org
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    7 days ago

    Buy an unlocked phone. Then, go see about trying Mint Mobile or MyTello. I currently pay $6 a month for a 2GB data plan and no minutes (currently, but I have Wi-Fi calling). The most you’re looking to spend for an unlimited Data/Minutes plan is $25 a month through MyTello.

    What I’m saying is - you’re paying too much for what you’re dealing with. Do yourself a favor and save. The only thing you should be paying for that’s a little pricey is a decent phone.