An Honest Review of Verizon’s Phone Service

Should You Switch to Verizon?

Thinking about jumping ship to Verizon? You're not alone. Whether you're fed up with spotty coverage, rising phone bills, or just plain curious, Verizon tends to land on most people’s radar. It’s one of the biggest names in wireless—but does "big" mean "better"?

We put together this Verizon review to help you figure that out. We’ll walk through their plans, coverage, and what customers are really saying online.

Verizon at a Glance

Verizon has been around since 2000 and quickly rose to the top of the wireless game. Today, it’s one of the Big Three U.S. carriers (alongside AT&T and T-Mobile), known for its strong coverage and reliable service. It’s also a major network provider for several MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators), meaning even some smaller carriers run on Verizon’s backbone.

But what does all that mean for you, the customer? Let’s dive in.

Verizon’s Plan Offerings

Verizon offers a wide range of plans to fit different needs. Whether you're into unlimited streaming or just want a reliable line with decent data, there's something here for you.

Verizon Unlimited Ultimate

Verizon’s top-tier plan gives you unlimited premium data, 60GB of hotspot, roaming in 194 countries, and the option to add streaming perks like Disney+, Apple One, and Netflix or Max. It starts at $90/month.

Verizon Unlimited Plus

This one’s a step down at $80/month but still includes unlimited premium data, 30GB of hotspot, roaming in just two countries, and access to the same add-on perks.

Verizon Unlimited Welcome

The most affordable unlimited postpaid plan at $65/month. You get no premium data or hotspot, but can still access streaming perks. Ideal for light users who want to be on Verizon’s postpaid network.

Verizon Prepaid Unlimited

At $60/month, this prepaid plan offers 0GB of premium data and 5GB of hotspot, plus roaming in 4 countries. It’s one of Verizon’s most flexible options.

Verizon Prepaid Unlimited Plus

A $70/month upgrade with 50GB of premium data and 25GB of hotspot. Still prepaid and still includes 4-country roaming.

Verizon also has several other prepaid options based on data limits, including 150GB, 100GB, 25GB, 15GB, 5GB, and even talk-and-text-only plans. These can work well if you're watching your budget or want a backup line.

Network Coverage & Performance

Verizon’s biggest bragging right? It's nationwide 4G LTE and 5G coverage. While other networks shine in urban areas, Verizon often wins when it comes to rural and suburban reach.

Want to know how Verizon stacks up in your exact neighborhood? Check Goji’s coverage map and find out.

What I Liked & Disliked About Verizon’s Phone Service

What I Liked

• Excellent coverage, especially outside major cities
• Flexible mix of postpaid and prepaid plans
• High hotspot limits on top-tier plans
• Premium data included in most plans
• Ability to bundle streaming perks

What I Didn’t Like

• Price hikes and extra fees are common
• Some plans lack hotspot or premium data
• Expensive...better value may be found through MVNOs

My Review of Verizon’s Phone Service

I rated Verizon based on five key factors: pricing, coverage, performance, customer support, and overall value. Here’s how it did:

Verizon’s Prices: B

Verizon is rarely the cheapest option. Even their base unlimited plans are more expensive than competitors like T-Mobile or some MVNOs. That said, you get access to premium data, strong roaming features, and potential discounts (especially for teachers, first responders, and certain employers).

Coverage & Reliability: A+

If you want coverage that just works, Verizon delivers. Whether you're in the city, on a road trip, or out in the countryside, it's one of the most reliable networks available. It's consistently praised for its reach.

Performance & Data Speeds: A

Users consistently report fast and dependable speeds. While it's not always the fastest in every single area, it rarely disappoints, and premium data means you don’t get slowed down during network congestion (on higher-tier plans).

Customer Support: C

Here’s the catch: Verizon’s customer service used to be top-tier, but many recent reviews point to long wait times, billing issues, and unhelpful reps. This could be a dealbreaker if support is important to you.

Overall Value: B+

Verizon isn’t the cheapest, but you get what you pay for—excellent coverage, strong performance, and a variety of plans. If you’re willing to pay a little more for peace of mind, it’s worth considering. Just make sure you actually need the premium features.

What Are People Saying About Verizon?

Verizon users online have a lot to say—and it’s a mixed bag:

• Coverage praise: Many say Verizon is the most reliable service they've used, even with a wide reach.
• Cost complaints: Rising prices and unexpected fees are common concerns. Some say the value just isn’t there unless you’re getting a discount or bundled perk.
• Customer service issues: A recurring theme is frustration with Verizon’s support team. Billing disputes, long wait times, and lack of resolution pop up frequently.
• MVNO love: Some former Verizon users have switched to MVNOs like Spectrum or Visible (which use Verizon’s network) and report paying less for nearly the same quality.
• Perks and extras: Verizon's streaming bundles, new phone trade-in deals, and international roaming options are a big draw for users who want more than just basic talk and text.

Bottom line: People love the coverage but hate the cost. And if you’re not using perks or getting a discount, alternatives might give you the same quality for less.

Verizon Compared to the Competition

How does Verizon hold up against its biggest rivals? Here's a quick breakdown:

• Coverage: Verizon is the overall winner here, especially in rural areas. If you need a signal in the middle of nowhere, it's probably your best bet. AT&T offers solid nationwide coverage, while T-Mobile excels in cities but struggles in remote zones.
• Pricing: Verizon tends to be on the pricier side. AT&T sits in the middle of the pricing pack, and T-Mobile generally offers the most affordable postpaid unlimited options.
• Data Speeds: Verizon's premium data means you're less likely to slow down during congestion. T-Mobile often leads in speed tests, while AT&T offers reliable but not always blazing-fast speeds.
• Perks & Add-ons: Verizon offers bundles with Disney+, Apple One, and other streaming services. AT&T includes HBO Max with select plans, while T-Mobile gives you perks like Netflix and free in-flight Wi-Fi on certain flights.
• MVNO Options: Don’t forget the alternatives. Verizon’s network powers MVNOs like Visible and Spectrum Mobile. These carriers can give you similar service for a lot less. Likewise, AT&T has Cricket Wireless and Consumer Cellular, while T-Mobile has Mint Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile.

If you like Verizon’s network but not the price, MVNOs like Visible or Spectrum Mobile might be your sweet spot.

Would I Recommend Verizon’s Phone Plans?

If reliable coverage is your #1 priority and you're okay paying a little more for it, then yes—Verizon is a solid pick. For many users, the consistent service outweighs the extra dollars.

However, if you’re budget-conscious, hate dealing with customer support, or don’t need premium data or global roaming, other carriers or MVNOs might make more sense.

FAQ: Verizon Phone Plans & Service

Is Verizon worth the cost?
If reliable coverage is your top priority, many people feel Verizon is worth paying a bit more. It may not be the cheapest, but it’s consistently one of the most dependable networks.

Does Verizon have good coverage in rural areas?
Yes, Verizon is often considered the best carrier for rural coverage. But to be sure, check Goji's coverage map to see how it performs where you live.

What’s the difference between Verizon's postpaid and prepaid plans?
Postpaid plans usually come with more perks, better roaming options, and access to premium data. Prepaid plans are more budget-friendly but may have slower data during peak times.

Are there any discounts on Verizon plans?
Yes! Teachers, nurses, first responders, military members, and employees at partner companies can often get monthly discounts.

What’s an MVNO, and how does it compare?
MVNOs like Visible and Spectrum Mobile use Verizon’s network but offer cheaper plans. You might miss out on perks, but you’ll likely save money.