Qlink Wireless Plans: How to Choose
Qlink Wireless is a cell phone service provider that offers subsidized wireless plans and phones to eligible low-income consumers in the United States. The company partners with Lifeline, a government assistance program, to provide discounted or free cell phone service to qualifying customers.
Qlink aims to connect underserved communities and provides an important service for those who may not otherwise be able to afford a cell phone plan. They offer a selection of phones, including both basic phones and Android smartphones, that customers can obtain for free or at a subsidized rate.[1]
However, Qlink has faced some criticism regarding their customer service and allegations of enrolling ineligible customers. Reviews on third-party sites like SiteJabber report issues such as hidden fees, poor network coverage, and difficulties contacting customer support.[2] Still, for eligible consumers, Qlink presents an opportunity to gain access to cell phone service and remain connected.
[1] https://bestcompany.com/cell-phones/company/q-link-wireless
[2] https://www.sitejabber.com/reviews/qlinkwireless.com
Qlink Wireless Plan Options
Qlink Wireless offers three main monthly Lifeline plan options for qualifying low-income customers including Basic, Smart, and Unlimited plans [1]. These plans may vary slightly by state.
The Basic plan includes 1,000 minutes of talk time, unlimited texts, and 1GB of data for a $0 monthly fee. The Smart plan offers unlimited talk and text with 6GB of data for $10/month. The Unlimited plan includes unlimited talk, text, and data for $20/month [2]. All plans include nationwide coverage.
Customers who do not qualify for Lifeline can also choose between pay-as-you-go options or monthly no-contract plans like the $20, $30, and $40 options. Pay-as-you-go allows customers to add money as needed for talk, text, and data [3].
Features of Each Plan
Qlink Wireless offers 3 main plans: Lifeline (Basic), Lifeline (Enhanced), and ACP.
The Lifeline Basic plan includes (Qlink Wireless):
- 1000 monthly minutes
- Unlimited texts
- 4.5GB of data
- Voicemail
- Free SIM card
The Lifeline Enhanced plan provides (Qlink Support):
- Unlimited minutes
- Unlimited texts
- 5GB of data
- Mobile hotspot
- Voicemail
The ACP plan offers (Qlink Wireless):
- Unlimited minutes
- Unlimited texts
- Unlimited data
- Mobile hotspot
- Voicemail
Network Coverage
Qlink Wireless utilizes the 4 nationwide networks of the major providers in the United States – AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Sprint (which merged with T-Mobile in 2020) to deliver coverage across the country. According to Qlink’s Free Phone Service Coverage Map, the provider offers nationwide coverage reaching over 99% of Americans.
Qlink uses multiple networks in order to provide reliable service nationwide. By leveraging the major networks, Qlink can fill coverage gaps and offer connectivity even in remote areas. The provider states its networks reach more than 280 million people in the U.S. Customers can check coverage for their area using Qlink’s coverage map.
Qlink also offers access to 5G on supported devices and in coverage areas. Customers with 5G-capable phones can take advantage of faster speeds and lower latency when connected to 5G networks. This allows Qlink to stay competitive by providing the latest network technology to its users.
Bring Your Own Device
Qlink allows customers to bring their own compatible device instead of purchasing a new phone from them. To check if your current phone is compatible, you can use the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. This is a unique number that identifies your specific device.
To find your phone’s IMEI number, dial *#06# on your phone’s dial pad. You can also locate the IMEI on the phone itself, often under the battery or on the packaging. Once you have the IMEI, you can check compatibility on the Qlink website at https://qlinkwireless.com/byop.aspx.
In general, most unlocked GSM smartphones are compatible with Qlink if they support 3G and 4G LTE bands used by the service. This includes many iPhone, Samsung, LG, Motorola, and other popular models. According to Qlink’s site, compatible operating systems include Android, iOS, and Windows 10 Mobile. It’s best to check each device’s IMEI for confirmation.
Phone Options
Qlink Wireless offers a variety of phone options to choose from when signing up for service. Customers can either bring their own compatible device or purchase a phone directly from Qlink.
Some of the most popular phones available through Qlink include models from Apple, Samsung, LG, Motorola, and ZTE. For Apple, Qlink offers iPhone models ranging from the iPhone 6 up to the latest iPhone 14 (https://qlinkwireless.com/customer). Samsung models available include the Galaxy S7, S8, S9, S10, as well as A Series models like the A10e and A20. LG options include phones like the K30, Aristo 5, and Tribute Dynasty. For Motorola, Qlink offers models like the Moto E and G series. ZTE phones like the ZMax and Avid Plus can also be purchased through Qlink.
In addition to smartphones, Qlink offers basic and QWERTY keyboard phones for customers looking for simpler device options. There are also mobile hotspot devices available for adding data connectivity (https://qlinkwireless.com/customer/shop/topups/hotspot).
Qlink aims to provide a wide selection of devices to meet any budget and need. Phones range from more basic models under $50 to higher end smartphones over $200. There are constant sales and promotions that can help lower costs as well. Customers can browse all phone options on Qlink’s website and compare models, prices, features and specs.
Adding Data
Qlink Wireless offers several options for adding high-speed data to your plan. You can purchase data add-ons through their website or app in increments of 1GB, 3GB, and 10GB bundles (Shop Add-Ons & Refills). Data add-ons allow you to customize your data usage based on your needs. For example, the 1GB data bundle provides an extra 1GB of high-speed data for $25 (Add More Data To Your Mobile Plan).
According to Qlink, buying data bundles is a convenient way to get more high-speed data without changing your entire wireless plan. Data bundles can be purchased at any time during your current service cycle. The added high-speed data allowance will be available for use immediately after purchase and will expire at the end of your current 30-day plan cycle (Buying Minutes Is Easier than Ever!).
Limitations & Restrictions
Qlink Wireless offers subsidized wireless plans to qualified low-income households through the federal Lifeline program. As such, there are some limitations and restrictions to be aware of:
– Only one Qlink Wireless account is allowed per household. Having more than one Lifeline account per household is prohibited (https://support.qlinkwireless.com/are-there-any-restrictions-for-the-lifeline-program/).
– Qlink reserves the right to modify, suspend, interrupt, discontinue or cancel services at any time without notice (https://www.reddit.com/r/NoContract/comments/xtfl4b/for_those_of_you_who_have_or_are_familiar_with/).
– Data services may be prioritized behind other customers during network congestion (https://qlinkwireless.com/terms/). This could result in slower data speeds at times.
– There may be limitations on calling, texting, or data usage depending on the plan. Customers should review included minutes, texts, and data for each plan carefully.
– International calling and texts are not included and will incur additional fees.
– Tethering and hotspot usage may be restricted or result in throttled data speeds.
– Content filtering and blocking may be implemented at Qlink’s discretion.
Customer Service
Customer service and support is a crucial factor when choosing a cell phone provider. Based on reviews, Q Link Wireless receives mixed feedback on their customer service.
On Trustpilot, Q Link Wireless has an average rating of 5 stars based on over 54,000 reviews, indicating high customer satisfaction overall (source). However, on SiteJabber, they have a lower rating of 2.9 stars out of 761 reviews, suggesting many customers have been dissatisfied with their experience (source).
On Amazon, Q Link’s bring your own phone SIM card has a 4 star rating based on customer reviews, but only 10% of reviews are 4 stars (source). This indicates mixed feedback.
When weighing your options, be sure to take into account multiple customer service reviews to get a balanced perspective on Q Link’s service quality and support.
Choosing the Right Plan
When choosing a Qlink Wireless plan, first consider your usage needs. Qlink offers both unlimited talk and text plans as well as options with unlimited data. If you rely heavily on your smartphone and use a lot of data, an unlimited data plan like the Qlink Unlimited Plan is recommended. This plan includes unlimited talk, text, and 4G LTE data without any speed reductions.
For lighter data users who mainly require talk and text, the Qlink Talk and Text Plans provide options like the 1GB plan with 1000 talk minutes or the Basic 200 plan with 200 minutes. Just keep in mind any overages with these plans can lead to expensive fees.
It’s also important to consider network coverage in your area. According to Qlink’s website, they use the T-Mobile network for 4G LTE coverage. Be sure to check coverage maps to verify T-Mobile offers strong service where you live, work, and travel regularly.
Lastly, factor in any devices you need. Qlink offers a selection of free phones on plans or you can bring your own device. Just know they only support certain phones like iPhones 6 and newer. To choose the right plan, take stock of your monthly usage habits and find an option that fits your needs and budget.
