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.

  • BarrelAgedBoredom@lemm.ee
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    56 minutes 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.

  • Vaggumon@lemm.ee
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    7 hours 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.

    • RustyShackleford@literature.cafeOP
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      6 hours 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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        6 hours 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 hours 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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        6 hours 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.

  • Theo@lemmy.world
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    7 hours ago

    If you decide to stay with T mobile, they have a bring your own phone option. You can find a deal for that model elsewhere, and it would be unlocked. Then you can just buy or transfer the SIM card on their end.

  • Python@programming.dev
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    7 hours 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 hours 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?

  • AmazingAwesomator@lemmy.world
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    6 hours ago

    i became friends with someone who worked there. even after they quit, i still have the same plan.

    unlimited everything, 3 lines, free netflix, free HBO max, $90

    employees get like 5 of those plans to give out to friends and family. its worth

  • Apytele@sh.itjust.works
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    7 hours 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.

  • Pyrin@kbin.melroy.org
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    6 hours 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.

  • granolabar@kbin.melroy.org
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    7 hours 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.

  • CaptDust@sh.itjust.works
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    7 hours 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.