Choosing the right cell phone plan is a smart way to save money. If you are a senior or just someone looking for a better deal, you have probably seen ads for Consumer Cellular and Pure Talk.
Both of these companies promise low prices and great coverage. But which one is actually better for you? In this guide, we will look at Consumer Cellular vs Pure Talk to see how they stack up. We will compare their networks, their prices, and their special deals.
By the end, you will know exactly which carrier should get your business.
What Network Do They Use?
This is the most important question. A cheap plan is no good if you don’t have a signal!
Both Pure Talk and Consumer Cellular are MVNOs. This means they do not own their own towers. Instead, they use towers from the “big guys.”
- Pure Talk network: Pure Talk uses the AT&T network. If you have a signal with AT&T, you will have a signal with Pure Talk.
- Consumer Cellular network: Consumer Cellular also uses the AT&T network for most of its customers. In some areas, they might also use T-Mobile towers.
Since they both mostly use AT&T, the Consumer Cellular vs Pure Talk coverage is almost identical. You get 99% coverage across the United States.
Consumer Cellular vs Pure Talk: Price Comparison
When you compare Pure Talk vs Consumer Cellular plans, you will see that they are very competitive. Both companies want to be the most affordable option on the market.
| Plan Type | Consumer Cellular | Pure Talk |
| Basic Plan | $20 (1GB Data) | $20 (3GB Data) |
| Middle Plan | $35 (10GB Data) | $30 (10GB Data) |
| Unlimited Plan | $50 | $55 |
Quick Tip: If you only use a little bit of data, Pure Talk gives you more “bang for your buck” on the basic plan. However, Consumer Cellular is slightly cheaper for their unlimited plan.
Special Discounts: AARP vs. Veterans
One of the biggest differences in the Consumer Cellular vs Pure Talk battle is who they give discounts to.
Consumer Cellular and AARP
Consumer Cellular is famous for its partnership with AARP. If you are an AARP member, you get a 5% discount on your monthly bill. You also get a longer “risk-free” trial period. This makes them a top choice for seniors.
Pure Talk and Veterans
Pure Talk focuses heavily on supporting the military. They offer a 15% discount for veterans and active-duty military members. They also have a program where you can “round up” your bill to donate to veteran charities.
Customer Service and Support
When something goes wrong with your phone, you want to talk to a human. Both of these companies are known for having great customer service.
- Consumer Cellular: They have won many awards for their support. Their team is based in the United States. They are very patient and helpful with seniors.
- Pure Talk: They also have 100% US-based customer service. They pride themselves on being friendly and fast.
In the Consumer Cellular vs Pure Talk debate, you really can’t go wrong with either one when it comes to service. They both beat the “big” carriers in this category.
Consumer Cellular Vs Pure Talk: Pros and Cons
Let’s look at the Consumer Cellular vs Pure Talk pros and cons to make your choice easier.
Consumer Cellular Pros
- AARP Discount: Great for seniors who are members.
- Available in Stores: You can find their SIM cards and phones in stores like Target.
- Flexible Plans: You can change your plan at any time.
Consumer Cellular Cons
- Less Data for the Money: Their $20 plan has less data than Pure Talk.
- Speed: Like all MVNOs, your data might slow down if the network is very busy.
Pure Talk Pros
- More Data: You get 3GB of data for $20, which is a great deal.
- Veteran Support: The 15% discount for military is one of the best in the industry.
- Hotspot Included: Most plans allow you to use your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Pure Talk Cons
- No Senior Discount: They don’t have a specific discount just for being over 50.
- Online Only: You usually have to order your SIM card online rather than picking it up at a store.
Does Consumer Cellular Use the Same Towers as Pure Talk?
Yes! For most people, the answer is a big yes. Since both companies use the AT&T network, you are getting the same level of service.
If you live in a place where AT&T has a strong signal, both will work great. If you live in a “dead zone” for AT&T, neither will work well. Always check the Consumer Cellular coverage map for your specific neighborhood before you switch.
Which One Should You Choose?
The winner of Consumer Cellular vs Pure Talk depends on your specific situation.
- Choose Consumer Cellular if: You are an AARP member or if you like to shop in person at Target. They are perfect for people who want a simple experience and a trusted name.
- Choose Pure Talk if: You are a veteran or if you need more data for a lower price. Their 3GB plan for $20 is hard to beat for a budget user.
Final Thoughts
Both Consumer Cellular and Pure Talk are excellent choices. They provide the same high-quality coverage as the major networks but for a fraction of the price.
Switching is easy. You can keep your phone number and most modern phones will work with either company. If you are tired of paying $80 or $90 a month for your phone, it is time to make a move.