Consumer Cellular Cell Phone Plan Review 2024
We give Consumer Cellular high marks for its affordable phone plans, AARP discounts, and senior-friendly phones.
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(855) 643-4847
Consumer Cellular is known for budget-friendly phone plans that start at $20 a month. For this year’s review, I took Consumer Cellular’s phone plans and products for a spin. I tested the IRIS Easy Flip, Consumer Cellular’s trademark flip phone, and the GrandPad, a senior-friendly tablet that lets you set up a private network for photo sharing and video chatting with family.
I found that Consumer Cellular provides older adults with flexibility, affordability, excellent customer service, and 5G data speeds. I’m a big fan of its no-contract policy and senior-focused devices. Consumer Cellular’s wireless service is powered through several cellular networks, including AT&T. If you live in a rural area, though, you may occasionally get spotty service. Overall, Consumer Cellular’s service is reliable and a great choice for people who want a simple plan. The carrier even made our list of the best cell phone plans for seniors!
Testing out the IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular
Pros and Cons
Pros About Consumer Cellular
- No contracts or cancellation fees: If you need to cancel your plan for any reason, you'll get a prorated charge for the number of minutes and data you used that month, and that’s it!
- Use your own phone: You can use your old phone (as long as it’s unlocked and compatible) on the Consumer Cellular network.
- Additional AARP discount: Consumer Cellular already offers low rates, so that extra 5 percent discount on monthly plans from AARP is the cherry on top. Members also get an extended 45-day risk-free guarantee.
- Excellent customer service: All my experiences with Consumer Cellular’s customer-service team have been positive. Its representatives are kind and helpful.
- Unique GrandPad tablet: I’m a big fan of Consumer Cellular’s GrandPad tablet, which has large fonts and buttons. It offers a wide range of features, including safe video chatting, email, phone service, and games that keep older adults connected and engaged.
Cons About Consumer Cellular
- No in-phone medical alert features: While some providers we’ve reviewed, like Lively, offer phones with built-in medical alert features or add-on services, Consumer Cellular does not. Consumer Cellular’s Ally is a pocket-size medical device you can purchase separately.
- Must call to bring your own phone: When I signed up for Consumer Cellular, I discovered that you can’t sign up online if you want to bring your current phone with you. Instead, you’ll need to call the carrier to sign up.
The Buying Experience With Consumer Cellular
Consumer Cellular makes it easy to purchase a plan and phone that fit your needs. I found their website to be informative and user-friendly. Here’s how to purchase a plan online:
- Click on the “Plans” tab at the top of the home page.
- Select how many phone lines you need.
- Select the amount of text and data you think you’ll use.
- Click “Add to Cart” for your chosen plan.
- Select your device.
- Choose if you want to add a protection plan or roadside assistance.
- Enter payment information and check out.
While Consumer Cellular’s sign-up process is simple, there’s one caveat: If you want to bring your own phone, you’ll need to call the carrier to sign up. When I tried to add a phone plan without a new device online, the website wouldn’t let me move forward to checkout. This is a bit of a drawback, as other carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T allow you to bring your own phone when you sign up online. Still, if you have a phone you love, it’s worth making the call.
Good news: Shipping is free! If you prefer to make your purchase in person, most Target stores carry Consumer Cellular products. You can also make a purchase by calling the customer service number listed on the Consumer Cellular website.
I called Consumer Cellular to ask about the process for bringing your own device, and I waited about two minutes before Angel in Phoenix came on the line. She was willing to answer all of my questions without asking me for any personal information. After providing me with important details, she did update me on some promotions, but she kept it short. All in all, I was pleased and didn’t feel like I was being pushed into anything. I felt I was given the right tools to make an informed decision.
Savings Tip: Customers ages 50 and over are eligible for two lines with unlimited talk, text, and data for just $30 per month per line!
Consumer Cellular is one of our top picks for cell phone plans thanks to its budget-friendly prices and contract-free plans tailored to seniors’ needs.
Choosing a Cell Phone
With several device options that are all senior-friendly, it’s hard to go wrong with a device from Consumer Cellular. Whether you’re hunting for the best smartphone for seniors all the frills or a bare-bones flip phone, you can get the phone you need from Consumer Cellular.
The company has really honed in on the needs of older adults over the years. For example, Consumer Cellular’s line has grown to include innovative products like a tablet designed to connect seniors and their loved ones. You’ll also find cell phones from major carriers that offer 5G service and plans featuring mobile hot spot data, a new addition that we appreciate. You can also bring your own phone if you prefer.
Here are a couple of devices that stand out to us:
IRIS Easy Flip
Taking a photo on the IRIS Easy Flip.
The IRIS Easy Flip is one of the most basic, senior-friendly phones Consumer Cellular offers. The features are tailored to the needs of older users, without any bells and whistles, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for simplicity. Priced at $59 outright or $2 per month, the IRIS Easy Flip offers excellent value. It’s cheaper than many other flip phones I’ve tested, including Lively’s Jitterbug Flip2, priced at $79.99.
The IRIS Easy Flip has a simple, list-based menu that allowed me to easily navigate to my calls, texts, contacts, camera, calendar, and settings. The phone even has internet access, which is great if you like to browse the web, get directions, or use social media. Some of Consumer Cellular’s older flip phone models, including the Verve Snap, didn’t offer internet, so this is a nice upgrade. The phone’s buttons were large and clearly labeled, perfect for those with arthritis or vision loss. The IRIS Flip’s display was well-lit, and the phone is hearing aid compatible for those with hearing loss.
Pro Tip: Visit our list of the best flip phones for seniors to compare the IRIS Flip to other user-friendly devices.
One of my favorite features is the phone’s calendar. You can add events to it, which is useful for staying on top of your schedule. I’m pretty forgetful, so I plugged in my upcoming social events and appointments for the month! I also snapped some photos with the camera. The photo quality is not the best thanks to the mediocre 5 MP camera, but it’s comparable to other flip phones I’ve tried. The photos were pretty grainy and the lighting wasn’t great, but it’ll do in a pinch! I zoomed in and out using the phone’s side volume buttons.
A photo taken on Consumer Cellular's IRIS Flip
GrandPad
Unboxing Consumer Cellular's GrandPad
It’s not a phone, but you can use the GrandPad to make touch-screen, no-dial calls and send messages. GrandPad is an 8-inch tablet designed with seniors in mind. It has large, clearly labeled buttons, a simplified menu, a camera, and entertainment features.
GrandPad keeps families connected through a private network you set up with a family administrator. On the network you can safely share photos, video chat, and more within your private circle. It runs on cellular data so you can use it on the go, even without Wi-Fi. I tried it around the house and at the park, and I always had a solid connection.
The GrandPad costs $299, or you can pay an $11 deposit followed by $12 monthly installments for 24 months. You’ll also pay a subscription price of $40 monthly to use the service. That’s comparable to buying a phone and then paying a monthly service fee to use it. The monthly subscription cost gives you unlimited data, ad-free music streaming, unlimited video calling, and more.
The tablet has tons of features for keeping users engaged. You can play a variety of games (by yourself or with loved ones), listen to music channels and the radio, check the weather, take photos, and more. I love that the GrandPad curates articles for GrandPad users. It even features photos of a dog and cat of the day (so cute!). I found an app called “Moods” where you can watch footage of animals, beautiful scenery, and tons of other topics, perfect for playing in the background. I played chess, read through articles with yummy recipes, listened to an awesome jazz station, took some photos, and played a video of a roaring fireplace in the background while I read a book.
Listening to music on the GrandPad's music app
The GrandPad makes it easy and secure to stay in touch. Through the private network, users send emails and texts, make calls, and video chat with loved ones via the Zoom app. I called my grandma on Zoom, and the video and audio quality was crisp and clear! The tablet connects to the GrandPad mobile app and online portal, which loved ones and caregivers can use to change settings on the tablet. You can also use the app to send photos and messages to the tablet and play online games with the GrandPad owner.
I’m a big fan of the tablet’s safety features; users can only call and text approved contacts, which I set up using the app. I also added approved websites that could be accessed from the tablet’s internet app.
Watch Jeff Hoyt’s video review below to learn more about the GrandPad!
Nationwide Coverage
Consumer Cellular uses AT&T and T-Mobile towers to provide nationwide coverage. They provide 4G data speeds in most rural areas and 5G speeds in most urban areas. This is pretty typical of most major telecommunication providers. Keep in mind that tall buildings, weather, and terrain can all affect cellular coverage, so it is best to test out your phone in places you frequent the first month you have it to make sure Consumer Cellular can deliver ideal service in your area.
Pro Tip: Consumer Cellular runs on AT&T’s network, offering widespread nationwide coverage. Read our review of AT&T Internet review to learn more about the carrier’s service.
I live on the West Coast and experienced reliable 4G and 5G coverage while trying out Consumer Cellular. It’s important to mention that you’ll need a 5G-compatible phone to access the carrier’s 5G coverage. While testing the IRIS Easy Flip, I realized it only offered 4G coverage, so I wasn’t able to get the fastest speeds Consumer Cellular offers. Still, my coverage was consistent. I was able to make calls and send texts, no problem!
Consumer Cellular's continental U.S. coverage map
Contracts and Warranty
Contracts
Consumer Cellular ditches all contracts to offer customers the best in flexibility and reassurance. They also have a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you want to return anything. We reviewed AT&T's plans and Verizon plans and foundfound that the two big guns impose contracts of up to two years in length. On the flip side, Consumer Cellular doesn’t lock you into a long-term contract, and you can cancel service at any time.
Warranty
New phones from Consumer Cellular come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. When purchasing a phone, you can add a protection plan for around $2 to $10 per month depending on the phone you select. The plan covers repairs to your phone if it is damaged or malfunctions. If you purchase an expensive phone and you’re accident-prone, the protection plan may be something to consider.
Compare Consumer Cellular to others
Consumer Cellular Senior Phone Plans at a Glance
Consumer Cellular Senior Phone Plans at a Glance
| Plan type | Cost for one line* | Minutes | Text |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Talk and Text + 1 GB of data | $20 per month | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Unlimited Talk and Text + 5 GB of data | $25 per month | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Unlimited Talk and Text + 10 GB of data | $35 per month | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Unlimited Talk and Text + 20 GB of data | $45 per month | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Unlimited Talk and Text + unlimited data for those aged 50+ | $50 per month** | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Unlimited Talk and Text + unlimited data for AARP members | $55 per month for two lines (no single-line option available) | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Unlimited Talk and Text + unlimited data | $70 per month for two lines (no single-line option available) | Unlimited | Unlimited |
*Price includes a $5 discount for opting in to AutoPay and paperless billing.
**Single-line unlimited data plan offer is only for customers age 50+. Age validation required.
Consumer Cellular Plan Details
There is no designated “senior plan” from Consumer Cellular since every plan is designed to benefit older adults. After all, the most basic plan is $20 per month, which is very affordable compared to other major carriers.
It’s important to note that Consumer Cellular does not offer any medical alert features. If you’re looking for safety features, check out Lively’s Health & Safety Packages, which include a direct line to urgent response agents and on-demand nurses.
Unlimited Talk and Text With 1 GB of Data for Basic Cell Phone Users
If you’re new to cell phones, need one for emergencies, or want to be reachable when you're away from your home, the unlimited talk and text plan with 1 GB of data is a great basic choice. When paired with the IRIS Easy Flip, this is a great bundle if you’re just getting started with a cell phone and want to keep it simple. At $20 per month, it is an affordable way to keep you just a phone call or text away from your loved ones no matter where you are. While this plan is very affordable, keep in mind that there are a few cheaper options on the market. For instance, Mint Mobile’s plans start at $15 per month for 5G speeds and 5 GB of data.
Unlimited Talk, Text, and 10 GB of Data for Smartphone Users
For older adults with a smartphone, purchasing a plan with a solid amount of data will help you get the full value and functionality out of your device. A plan with 10 GB will most likely be enough for one person to send emails, browse social media, view web pages, and watch occasional videos or shows online. If you have multiple lines with smartphones on your account or want to stream video on your phone when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi, then look at bumping up to the unlimited data plan.
Still not sure which type of plan is right for you? Visit our senior cell phone buyer’s guide to learn more about how to choose a plan and cell phone.
No Overage Fees
No matter which plan you choose, you can change it at any time without an extra charge. If you accidentally exceed the minutes or data on your plan, Consumer Cellular will automatically upgrade you to the next-highest plan. So you’re still getting the best deal without unexpected overage charges. I appreciate this transparency in pricing!
Cost
It’s easy to see that compared to other plans out there with long-term contracts, hidden fees, and overage charges, Consumer Cellular is all about creating useful options. Depending on the plan you choose, single-line prices range from $20 to $50 per month. You’re getting a great deal if you’re using your phone for talking, texting, and light data usage. However, Consumer Cellular’s plans are fairly basic when it comes to features. If you’re looking for unlimited data and extra perks like service abroad and free in-flight Wi-Fi, check out T-Mobile’s unlimited 55 plans.
Consumer Cellular allows you to add up to three lines to your plan when ordering online. Each additional line is an extra $15 per month on rate-limited plans. For example, let’s say you’re paying $45 per month for unlimited talk and text and 20 GB of data. There is a $15 charge for every line you add to the plan. So, if you’d like to add your spouse to your plan, your bill will go up to $60 per month.
>> Seasonal Savings: Consumer Cellular Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals
The Bottom Line on Consumer Cellular
Consumer Cellular heavily values customer satisfaction. The proof is in its no-contract plans, affordable monthly rates, and money-back guarantee. Another area where they really shine is customer service. In terms of my own personal experience, I found a friendly, patient voice on the other end of the line.
Because the average Consumer Cellular customer is in their mid-60s, their representatives are trained to guide and teach, instead of robotically selling. I found the buying and user experiences to be relatively painless, even for those who may be uncomfortable with technology. Older adults can keep their independence and have fun with their device, knowing that Consumer Cellular is there to help along the way.
Our Methodology: How We Tested Consumer Cellular
Our tech experts spent 100 hours researching Consumer Cellular’s phones, tablet, and plan options. We also enlisted older adults to get their input on important attributes such as ease of use and functionality. We used Consumer Cellular over a weeklong period to get an accurate assessment of speed, service, and ease of use. Here’s a look at our testing process:
- Our team started by reviewing Consumer Cellular’s phone plans and other offerings on the company’s website. We reached out to their customer-service representatives to assess their knowledge and friendliness, as well as wait times.
- We purchased Consumer Cellular devices online to gauge the ease and speed of the process.
- Once our devices arrived, we spent lots of time using our phones and tablets in multiple locations both near and far from our homes.
- After the weeklong testing period, we compared notes on key attributes such as consistency of coverage and senior-friendly features.
Here are some of the key factors for which we evaluated Consumer Cellular’s devices and plans:
- Price and value: We consider a carrier’s pricing bang for your buck. Consumer Cellular’s plans are affordable and offer AARP discounts. There are no hidden fees or activation fees, which we rate highly.
- Coverage: It’s important to find a carrier that offers consistent, fast speeds. We like that Consumer Cellular uses AT&T cell towers to provide 4G and 5G coverage across the U.S. One of us has family in rural upstate New York. Their service was a tad slower than some of us who live in cities, but we had consistent service overall.
- Troubleshooting and customer service: We contacted Consumer Cellular’s customer-service team to ask questions about everything from setup to returning devices. We experienced short to no wait times and friendly personnel who were willing to spend as much time with us as needed. That’s important for seniors, who may require tech support or input about billing.
- Features and benefits for seniors: Overall Consumer Cellular offers senior-friendly devices and plans. For seniors who like the ease of use and compact feel of a flip phone, the IRIS Easy Flip is a great choice. We liked the large internal and external screens, the backlit keypad, hearing-aid compatibility, and large lettering. You can also input an emergency contacts group, a great plus for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Consumer Cellular
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What if I go over on my data with Consumer Cellular?
If you do surpass your data cap, you won’t face overage fees. Consumer Cellular will simply bump you up to the next-highest plan for that month. If you’d like to go back to your original plan the month following your overage, make sure you contact Consumer Cellular and let them know you want to switch back to your previous plan.
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What is the Consumer Cellular Home Phone Base?
The Home Phone Base is a portable wireless home phone converter that you can use to turn your landline into a cell phone. You can even take it with you when traveling and plug it into a hotel phone to avoid costly fees.
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What carriers are actually used for service, and how are they determined?
Based on your location, you’ll be assigned to either an AT&T or a T-Mobile tower. Then a free SIM card will be mailed to you, so you can activate your designated service.
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What if I accidentally damage my newly purchased phone?
If you do purchase a Consumer Cellular phone, you can buy a protection plan for incidents like these. It’s $2 per month for a basic flip model and can reach $8 per month for a smartphone.