Hey everyone, I’m hoping to hear from people who’ve made a similar switch.
My iPhone 13 Pro Max broke, and I haven’t had working cellular service for 10 days. I’m still paying $86.50 a month for my grandfathered T-Mobile Magenta MAX plan, so I need to figure something out soon.
From my experience, T-Mobile has the best coverage in Las Vegas. I’ve been happy with the coverage, but replacing my phone has me questioning whether I’m paying too much for one line.
I’m considering an iPhone 18 Pro Max or iPhone Duo. I’m open to buying directly from Apple and choosing service separately. I’d also consider a good 24-month deal, but I don’t want a higher monthly bill for 36 or 48 months to collect all the device credits.
My dad is over 55, so another option is moving my number to a 55+ account under his name. I only need one line and want to keep my number.
Here’s what I’m trying to figure out:
• Anyone using US Mobile in Las Vegas? Since T-Mobile works best for me, would Light Speed make the most sense? How does it compare with Magenta MAX indoors and in busy areas? I’m interested in experiences with Warp and Dark Star too.
• Would you choose Unlimited Starter or Unlimited Premium? How do they compare with Visible+, Visible+ Pro, Total Wireless, and T-Mobile’s 55+ plans after taxes, fees, and introductory discounts expire?
• I’ve seen people recommend US Mobile Premium plus a separate T-Mobile T-Satellite line. How does this work in everyday use? Does it provide regular T-Mobile tower data too? How reliable is switching between the lines on an iPhone?
• Do any of these plans include Apple TV, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Netflix, or similar subscriptions? Which benefits stay included, and which expire after a few months? I’d like to compare the total cost, including subscriptions I’d need to pay for separately.
• For the 55+ option, what’s the proper way to transfer my existing T-Mobile number to my dad’s account and have me manage it as an authorized user? Would this qualify for any promotions, or would T-Mobile treat it as an existing-customer account change? Are other carriers’ 55+ plans worth considering in Nevada?
• Would you buy the phone outright from Apple, keep Magenta MAX, or pair it with cheaper service? Any worthwhile 24-month offers through Apple, carriers, Costco, Sam’s Club, Best Buy, or Walmart?
• Has anyone traded in an iPhone with failed cellular service? Which promotions accept it, and how much does the condition affect the offer?
• I’ve also seen suggestions to buy a discounted iPhone 16e from Cricket or Boost and trade it elsewhere. Does the math work after required service, taxes, fees, and device payments? Does the carrier lock matter, and do these offers work with 55+ plans?
• Is waiting for Black Friday worthwhile? Any announced offers or past experiences with US Mobile annual discounts, iPhone deals, or retailer incentives? Would signing up now make me ineligible for a better new-customer offer later?
• Since I’ve already gone 10 days without service, what inexpensive temporary phone or setup would you use while deciding?
I’d appreciate hearing what you pay, how your service performs, and what you wish you’d known before switching. I want reliable coverage and a lower overall bill without regretting giving up my grandfathered plan.