Is Total Wireless GSM or CDMA? (Answered!)

We have seen a significant shift in the type of network technology used by service providers over the last few years. Previously, CDMA was widely used by major standard networks in the United States, but this has gradually shifted to GSM. GSM is currently used by all standard service providers to provide network services, and it has been shown to be a better option when compared to other networks

Despite the fact that GSM is known for being global and efficient, CDMA has advantages. Some service providers around the world continue to operate CDMA networks for devices that are incompatible with GSM. At this point, we’ll look into whether Total Wireless is GSM or CDMA.

Total Wireless is a major mobile virtual network operator in the United States. The service provider has been in business for over a decade and is well-known for its extensive selection of Total wireless compatible phones, among other benefits. TracFone, a prepaid, no-contract cell phone service provider, owns the service provider.

Total Wireless employs dependable network technology to ensure that customers receive faster internet speeds, fewer dropped calls, and no delays when sending and receiving messages. Despite the fact that Total Wireless does not provide nationwide coverage, it does provide adequate network coverage in the areas in which it operates.

We’ll clarify whether Total Wireless is GSM or CDMA in this post. We will also discuss the advantages of GSM over CDMA. The article will go into detail about Total wireless phone deals, phone compatibility, and much more. Let’s get started!

WHICH NETWORK DOES TOTAL WIRELESS USE?

Total Wireless relies on Verizon to provide network services. It functions as a Mobile virtual network operator, leasing network services from Verizon. Verizon is one of the top three service providers in the United States, and it is well-known for its extensive network coverage.

If you join Total Wireless, you are guaranteed 99 percent network coverage unless you travel to a rural area, in which case a portable cell phone signal booster would be the best option. In general, Total Wireless users have a low chance of experiencing slow internet or dropped calls, except during network congestion, when users on a post-paid plan with Verizon are prioritized.

UNDERSTANDING Total Wireless GSM AND CDMA

Though GSM and CDMA sound complicated, they are simply ways to describe the technology responsible for wirelessly transmitting data, voice, and text to and from your phone. While these systems essentially do the same thing, they do so in completely different ways.

WHAT IS GSM?

Global Systems for Mobiles (GSM) uses subscriber identification module (SIM) cards to connect you to a network. SIM cards also store information about your account settings and the services you’re permitted to use.

In theory, GSM network SIM cards should allow you to switch phones by simply inserting your SIM card into a new device; in practice, there are frequently complications. Although federal law requires providers to allow customers to transfer to another service as long as their bill is paid, some companies lock SIM cards to their networks.

GSM networks also support simultaneous voice and data use, allowing you to look up a restaurant’s address while on the phone with friends who want you to meet them there.

WHAT IS CDMA?

Total Wireless (via Verizon) and other Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) networks do not use SIM cards. Instead, the provider validates your account on a network server, which connects your phone and tailors its services to your plan. Because CDMA devices connect in this manner, only your carrier can transfer your service to another network.

CDMA service is slower than GSM, reaching speeds of only 3.6Mbps, whereas GSM can reach speeds of up to 42Mbps. CDMA also lacks the capability to support simultaneous voice and data use. However, CDMA networks connect to more cell towers at the same time than GSM networks, which can result in fewer data lags and dropped calls.

3G, 4G, and LTE

When cellular providers discuss speed, they refer to 3G, 4G, and LTE (Long Term Evolution) networks, which are actually generations of technology. And, because an old phone may not be compatible with the newer technology, the speed you choose will determine the phone you buy, or vice versa.

Although 3G is the oldest network available, it was the first to be fast enough to support smartphones. 4G came after and is faster, but it’s important to note that 4G and 4G LTE are not the same thing.

Although LTE is the fastest network currently available, if a carrier advertises 4G without specifically stating that it is 4G LTE, it is most likely offering a High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA) network, which is a faster version of the 3G GSM network. Although it is not as fast as LTE, it is faster than 3G. Total Wireless provides 4G LTE phones and data plans.

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WHAT DOES THE CDMA vs GSM DIFFERENCE MEAN? 

One significant difference between GSM networks and CDMA networks is that the former allows you to make voice calls while also transmitting data, whereas the latter does not. However, there is a catch.

GSM and CDMA standards are used for 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Carriers began transitioning to LTE in 2010, and LTE allows for simultaneous voice and data use. Furthermore, because LTE is a global standard for 4G networks, Verizon and all other carriers have switched, regardless of whether their 2G or 3G connectivity was supported by GSM or CDMA networks.

The distinction is becoming less important and, sooner rather than later, will be completely irrelevant (more on that below). However, for the time being, 2G and 3G networks continue to serve as a backup in areas where 4G LTE coverage is limited. Moreover, until recently, many phones relied solely on LTE for data and relied on GSM or CDMA for voice and text.

The distinction between GSM and CDMA is unlikely to be significant in everyday use. Today’s CDMA phones work on GSM networks, which is why you can use your Verizon phone in places where GSM is used, such as Europe and Asia.

TOTAL WIRELESS GSM OR CDMA

Total Wireless operates on a GSM network. The network is provided by Verizon Wireless. Verizon previously used CDMA technology. It was named the largest service provider in the United States that used CDMA network technology.

However, since upgrading to GSM last year, Verizon has outperformed most service providers because it has been able to capitalize on the better perks found on GSM networks. The following are some of the advantages of using GSM network technology:

1. Phone Compatibility

Many manufactures create devices that are compatible with GSM network technology. Since Total Wireless uses GSM, you are assured of the most recently manufactured devices compatible with the network. Also, some phones may support CDMA and GSM simultaneously, which is a great advantage to many people.

2. International Roaming Is Supported

If you have Total Wireless and are in another country, international roaming may be possible if the cell phone towers use GSM network technology. Despite its high cost, roaming is an excellent option for many users who do not want to switch sim cards.

This is a fantastic benefit for people who travel frequently and want to keep their phone numbers for a while. International roaming on GSM has fewer restrictions, and internet speeds are also consistent.

3. Lower Cost Of Equipment

GSM is simple to maintain and construct. GSM-based cell phone towers can be quickly built on a low budget, ensuring customers of reliable network coverage at an affordable price. This is also a factor in the low prices of Total wireless phone plans.

4. High-speed Internet access

When compared to CDMA, GSM transmits signals at a high intensity. This ensures that signals reach a wide range and have a low signal loss ratio. This facilitates the acquisition of faster internet services.

Except when there is network congestion, you can be confident that the internet will be fast. Network priority may be granted to Verizon Wireless post-paid customers, but only for a limited time.

5. Faster Messaging

When compared to CDMA, GSM allows for faster signal transmission and thus faster message sending and receiving. However, you must be in a location where Total Wireless provides consistent network coverage. If not, a cell phone signal booster can be a great option.

These are some of the benefits of using GSM from Total Wireless. The only disadvantage of GSM is that it frequently suffers from dropped calls when compared to CDMA, especially during network congestion. This should not be a major issue because network congestion is uncommon in some areas.

WHICH PHONES ARE COMPATIBLE WITH TOTAL WIRELESS?

There are several phones that are compatible with Total Wireless For a phone to be compatible with Total Wireless. GSM network technology must be used. Total Wireless provides a convenient way to check phone compatibility in the device, which we will discuss later in the article.

There are many phones that are compatible with the network since Total Wireless GSM. Here are some of the brands that are most likely to collaborate with Total Wireless:

Samsung, Nokia, Motorola, ZTE, OnePlus, and Xiaomi are just a few examples.

Some previous phones from the aforementioned manufacturers may not work because they may have used CDMA. To be sure, it is best to check Total Wireless compatibility. If your phone is incompatible, Total wireless phone deals provide impressive devices ranging from low-cost to high-end. To purchase one, you can go to their online or physical store.

WHAT ARE THE BEST PLANS FOR THE TOTAL WIRELESS GSM NETWORK?

There are several plans you can get from Total WirelessThe plans include:

1. Single line plans

The plan is further subdivided into three sections. For $25 per month, you get 1 GB of data as well as unlimited talk and text. For $35, you get 5 GB of high-speed data as well as unlimited talk and text. The third option is $50 per month and includes unlimited high-speed data.

2. Plans for multiple devices

This is a good plan for people who want to get more than one sim card. It is regarded as a low-cost plan with unlimited everything. The first tier is $60 and includes 30 GB of data. The second option is $85 and includes 60 GB of data spread across three lines.

The final option is to pay $100 for unlimited high-speed data. However, speeds begin to slow at 100 GB.

DOES TOTAL WIRELESS OFFER FREE PHONE PLANS?

Total Wireless is not authorized by the federal government to offer free phone plans, but you can get affordable cell phone plans. If you are looking for a free phone and plan, you should contact your local lifeline office to find out how you can get one.

If you have participated in a Federal Assistance program, you may be eligible for a free phone and plan. You may be eligible if your income is less than 135 percent of the federal poverty level.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A TOTAL WIRELESS NETWORK?

Here are some incentives for using Total Wireless for a new or existing customer:

1. Affordable plans

The cell phone plans offered by Total Wireless are pretty affordable when compared to other service providers. They lease network services hence have no overhead costs on maintaining the network towers or equipment.

2. Adequate customer support

The customer support team has good etiquette and proper communication skills. You can also reach out to them via several means like email, phone calls, and other options.

3. Wide range of phone compatibility

Total Wireless GSM; hence you get a wide range of compatible phones. If you wish to bring your phone to Total Wireless process is straightforward. You can also choose to purchase a phone from them.

4. Simple Application process

If you wish to join Total Wireless application process is straightforward and digitized to ensure anyone can apply at the comfort of their home. There are no background checks or complicated procedures.

GSM AND CDMA CARRIERS

Different carriers in the United States use different bands. AT&T and T-Mobile are the only GSM carriers. Sprint’s old 3G network (now owned by T-Mobile), US Cellular, and Verizon are all CDMA carriers.

The frequency band supported by smartphones sold by respective carriers across the United States is also influenced by the network used. AT&T and T-Mobile, for example, only sell GSM-compatible phones. Verizon is the only exception, as it sells phones that support both GSM and CDMA bands despite having a CDMA network.

Does Your Phone Use CDMA or GSM? Here’s How to Check:

There are five different ways of checking whether your phone uses GSM, CDMA, or supports both.

1. Does Your Phone Have a SIM Card Slot?

In the past, one of the simplest ways to determine the type of band supported by a phone was whether or not it had a SIM card slot. CDMA phones lacked a SIM card slot, whereas GSM phones did. Because the phone number is linked to the device, CDMA phones do not require a SIM card.

However, with the advent of 4G and 5G networks, and the inclusion of SIM cards in many smartphones, it is no longer an efficient method. However, if your device does not have a SIM card slot, it will use CDMA. However, the introduction of eSIM has changed things yet again, which is why looking for a SIM slot isn’t a reliable option.

2. Using the Settings App

On an Android or iOS device, you can also check by going into the Settings app.

• Open the Settings app on iOS, go to General, and then About.
• Open the Settings app on Android, then tap About phone, then Status.

Keep in mind that due to the fragmented nature of Android, precise steps will vary from device to device. Scroll down the About (iOS) or Status (Android) page and look for a MEID, ESN, or IMEI number. If your phone has a MEID or ESN number, it is CDMA; if it has an IMEI number, it is GSM. If you see both, your phone is compatible with both GSM and CDMA networks.

3. Where Did You Buy Your Device?

Devices bought directly from manufacturers commonly support both CDMA and GSM for better compatibility. So, for example, if you bought your phone direct from Samsung or Apple, chances are it supports both.

Carrier-locked devices, on the other hand, are typically associated with a specific network band. As previously stated, various carriers support various bands. Every wireless carrier sells devices that are network band compatible.

AT&T and T-Mobile smartphones are GSM-compatible because both carriers use GSM technology, as does the majority of the rest of the world. Verizon, on the other hand, is a CDMA carrier that sells smartphones that support both GSM and CDMA. That means a Verizon unlocked smartphone will work perfectly on T-Mobile or AT&T’s GSM networks.

4. Check Your Phone Model Information

Another simple way to determine whether your iOS or Android device is GSM or CDMA is to look up the model number online. The model number of your phone can be found on the back or in the packaging box it came in. Once you’ve determined the model number, you can look it up online to see if your device supports GSM, CDMA, or both.

5. Please consult the manufacturer’s documentation.

The documentation that comes with your device also includes information about the network band that your device supports. However, if you know your specific device model, you can look it up on the manufacturer’s website without needing the paperwork.

CONCLUSION on Total Wireless GSM or CDMA

Total Wireless is an easy-to-use network technology that provides users with fast internet access, seamless messaging, and fewer dropped calls. GSM is considered ideal for many, and it is also a component of the recently launched 5G network.

If you have a 5G device, it may work with Total Wireless. The article also covered some of the benefits of GSM, so you now have all the information you need to decide which is better between GSM and CDMA.

FAQ Total Wireless CDMA vs GSM