Tello is a budget-friendly mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that offers flexible phone plans with no contracts, allowing you to build your own plan or choose from some ready-made plans.

MVNOs like Tello are popular for budget-conscious consumers who want to avoid high prices. But how do Tello’s plan features and mobile coverage compare to the major carriers? We explore what Tello has to offer in this full review. 

Tello is an Atlanta-based mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that operates on the T-Mobile network. Founded in 2016, Tello is owned by KeepCalling, which has its headquarters in Romania. 

What Does It Offer?

Tello is known for its low-cost cell phone plan options. You can expect to find plenty of different plan options and savings opportunities to suit your budget. Here’s a closer look at Tello’s plans and key features: 

Mobile Plans

Tello gives you the option to build your own plan, with a customized amount of data, minutes, and texting. But it also offers four pre-made plans that might suit your needs.

Here’s a breakdown of Tello’s pre-made plans, which are also its most popular:  

As you explore your options, the wide range of price points can help you find the right fit. For example, getting a plan with just 100 minutes, no data, and unlimited text would cost you $5 per month. You can use the minutes for calls to over 60 countries.

Plans automatically renew every 30 days. So, you have the option to cancel your coverage at any time. You can also change your plan without any extra fees.

Coverage

Tello offers nationwide 4G LTE/5G coverage, so you shouldn’t worry about dropped calls or slow data speeds. That said, you should check the coverage in your area before you sign up. Tello offers a free tool to check coverage by address. Make sure to test out several locations you regularly frequent, like your home, office, and anywhere else you visit often. 

Unfortunately, you won’t have the option to test drive the coverage until you make the switch.

Compatible Phones

If you already have a phone that you like, you might be able to bring it with you. Check out your phone’s compatibility through Tello’s compatibility tracker.

Keep in mind that you don’t have to bring your own phone. Tello also gives you a chance to purchase phones through the company. Most of the available options are refurbished phones, which come with a more affordable price tag. 

International Calls

Unlike some MVNOs, Tello offers strong support for international calls. Regardless of your plan, you can make free calls to over 60 countries, including Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, China, and the U.K. I should note that in some countries, you can only make free calls to landlines. If the country you wish to call is not on Tello’s list, you can still add Pay As You Go and contact people in other countries at reasonable rates. 

24/7 Customer Support

Tello offers 24/7 human customer support so that you can speak with a live agent no matter the time, day or night. Contact details are included further down. 

Are There Any Fees?

As mentioned, monthly plans range from $5 to $25 per month, and you can create a plan to suit your budget or choose from pre-made plans. Please note that taxes aren’t included in the upfront cost. Depending on your location, taxes could add quite a bit to your total. 

Tello is one of many companies offering affordable cell phone plans. 

In terms of price points, Tello offers some of the lowest options. While you won’t get too much from the $5 per month plan, it might be all that you need to get by. 

Another option is Visible, by Verizon. Its pricing is higher than Tello’s, with plans ranging from $25 to $45 a month, not including any new customer discounts you might receive. One benefit to Visible is that with the top two plans, you get access to unlimited premium data on Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network. However, note that free international calling beyond Canada and Mexico is only available with the most expensive plan (Visible+ Pro).  

Mint Mobile is yet another company offering affordable plans. But what sets Mint Mobile apart is the ability to give your new coverage a test drive. When you sign up with Mint Mobile, you’ll get a 7-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the coverage, you can cancel without incurring any penalties. 

How Do I Open An Account?

Want to work with Tello? The first step is to determine whether you are bringing your phone with you or getting a new phone. 

If you are bringing your phone, start by confirming it is compatible with Tello’s network. The compatibility checker will ask for your phone’s IMEI, which might be in the settings area of your phone. 

Once you’ve confirmed your phone is compatible, you can select a plan that suits your needs. From there, Tello will ask for your billing information. The company sends you a Tello SIM, which you must activate to use the service. You can activate the SIM by entering the nine-digit code on the back of the card on Tello’s website. 

After the SIM is activated, you can start using the phone on Tello’s network.

How Do I Contact Tello?

If you need to get in touch with Tello, you have many options. You can send an email, live chat on the website, call +1-866-377-0294, or dial 611 from your Tello phone. 

Tello has earned an excellent rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with over 13,000 reviewers. While it’s not a guarantee you’ll have an excellent experience, it’s an indicator that the company provides a consistently high level of service. 

Since you’ll be in physical possession of your phone, you are responsible for keeping it safe. According to the company’s privacy policy, it will not share your information with third parties. But if you have questions about keeping your information safe, you can contact Tello at [email protected].

Tello offers a broad range of cell phone plans at very affordable price points. Not only are its prices reasonable, but we love how flexible the plans are. We also like the free international calling and the fact that you are never locked into a contract. And Tello’s high customer service ratings are a good omen for future customers.

One drawback is the lack of an opportunity to test out your service before committing is a potential hurdle. That’s always a consideration when you’re dealing with an MVNO. 

That said, if you don’t want to keep paying more to work with a major carrier, then switching to a budget-friendly cell phone service might be the right move. 

However, Tello isn’t the only opportunity for low-cost plans. Take the time to consider all of your cell phone plan options to find the right fit for your budget and coverage needs.