This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.
00:00:00 – 00:07:29
Michael evaluates Consumer Cellular, an MVNO that partners with AT&T and T-Mobile, as a potential cost-effective option for low data users, particularly seniors. The service offers affordable plans starting at $25 per month for 3GB and $55 for unlimited data, with additional discounts for AutoPay, E-Billing, and AARP members. While Michael's 30-day test showed reliable performance on AT&T's network, he suggests alternatives like Visible and US Mobile for those preferring Verizon. Key features include automatic plan upgrades when exceeding data limits, compatibility with unlocked GSM phones, and financing options for new devices. Consumer Cellular stands out for its highly-rated U.S.-based customer service, often recognized in surveys like J.D. Power, and in-person support available through Target. Despite its high customer service ratings, the downsides include pricier unlimited plans and limited phone deals. Michael encourages viewers to weigh these factors and share their experiences in the comments.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, Michael discusses whether Consumer Cellular is worth the savings advertised in their TV commercials. He explains that Consumer Cellular is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that partners with major networks like AT&T and T-Mobile to provide coverage. MVNOs typically offer cheaper plans compared to major networks. Michael provides an overview of his recent 30-day test using AT&T’s network, where he experienced no issues with call, text, and data performance, achieving an average 5G download speed of over 70 Mbps. He notes that similar service quality can be expected if you’re already using AT&T or T-Mobile, but suggests alternatives like Visible and US Mobile for Verizon users. Additionally, Michael mentions that Consumer Cellular’s plans are economical for users with low data needs, highlighting that a plan with unlimited talk, text, and 3GB of data costs $25 per month, while an unlimited data plan is $55 per month. Extra charges apply for taxes and fees, and there’s a $5 monthly discount for AutoPay and E-Billing. The service also allows adding up to three lines to share the same data plan, with additional costs per line.
00:03:00
In this segment of the video, several key aspects of Consumer Cellular’s service are discussed:
1. **Data Limit and Plan Upgrades**: If you exceed your data limit, Consumer Cellular will automatically upgrade you to a more expensive plan. You’ll receive a usage alert when approaching your limit, and while there are no overage penalties, you’ll have to pay more for the upgraded plan unless you downgrade.
2. **AARP Member Benefits**: AARP members get a 5% discount on their monthly service, which averages to $24 savings per year, and an extended 45-day risk-free guarantee.
3. **Postpaid Service**: This is a postpaid service, meaning you’ll receive a bill for the previous month at the end of your cycle, similar to Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.
4. **Phone Options**: Consumer Cellular allows you to either bring your own phone (it must be unlocked and compatible with GSM network technology) or purchase a new one from their selection, including various Apple and Android phones. Payment options include paying in full or 0% financing over 24 months with a possible down payment.
5. **Customer Service**: Consumer Cellular is highly rated for its customer service, often ranking #1 in surveys like those from J.D. Power. The customer service is U.S.-based, and while phone support involves a wait time of 8-15 minutes, chat support may be faster. They also partner with Target for in-person support.
00:06:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the pros and cons of Consumer Cellular. The main advantages include affordable plans for light data users, an AARP discount, and highly rated customer support. The disadvantages mentioned are the expensive unlimited plan and the limited phone deals. The speaker also emphasizes that there are alternatives for seniors, like Visible and Mint Mobile, which offer unlimited data plans for a lower cost than Consumer Cellular’s 3GB plan. The segment encourages viewers to consider how much they value top-ranked customer support when choosing a provider and invites those with experience using Consumer Cellular to share their thoughts in the comments.