Total Wireless vs Mint Mobile: who does it better?
Since it’s an MVNO, Total Wireless allows users to try 5G services without committing to an annual or bi-annual contract. In fact, this Verizon-owned prepaid carrier allows you to sign one-month plans, allowing you to try out its service and decide whether it’s right for you.
But it’s not the only MVNO in the US, and Mint Mobile is one of its major competitors. What’s the difference between the two?
For starters, Mint Mobile has three-month, six-month, or annual plans, so it’s definitely not as flexible as Total. Secondly, most of Mint’s plans come with a data cap (5GB, 15GB, or 20GB), while each of Total’s plans comes with unlimited data, including the cheapest ones.
That said, Mint Mobile’s plans are usually more affordable, with prices starting at $15/mo (or $45 for three months). In contrast, Total Wireless’s least expensive monthly plan stands at $40.
With Mint, the service is prepaid, meaning users need to pay upfront for all three months. While Total is also a prepaid carrier, it uses a “pay-as-you-go” approach. This allows users pay for the service each month, no contracts required.
Bottom line: although it’s a bit pricier than Mint Mobile, Total Wireless could be the better option for users who don’t want to feel restrained by monthly data caps.
Total makes switching easier than you’d think
Switching to Total Wireless might sound tedious, but it’s actually not. The MVNO gives you flexibility, allowing you to keep your number or get a new one from Total and get monthly data service without overpaying.
The carrier lets you choose whether you want to keep your current phone or buy a new one. If you’re currently looking to switch to Total and get a new device, the Moto G Power (2026) is a great choice for users on a budget.
Likely for a limited time, Total Wireless allows you to get Motorola’s latest durability champ for free when you port in your current phone number and verify your ID. This offer requires you to pick a 5G Unlimited plan.
Alternatively, users can get the device for just $39 when they get a new phone number and purchase any phone plan at Total Wireless.
Why Moto G Power (2026)?
While brands like Samsung aim to bring some high-tier hardware in their budget offers (such as adding OLED screens to sub-$200 phones), Motorola does things differently. The Moto G Power (2026) is a prime example.
This phone is a durability champion, featuring IP69 and IP68 ratings to ensure it’s harder to damage by water and dust. The device has also been tested in 14 MIL-STD-810H procedures to promise remarkable toughness.
Put simply, this option is for users seeking durability above all else. It also packs a 6.8-inch display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, as well as a hefty 5,200mAh battery for longer use on a single charge.
The model also offers pretty decent performance with daily tasks, though it’s certainly not the most powerful budget phone on the market.
The perfect package for value-oriented users
While some users just won’t be tempted by the idea to jump on this prepaid phone offer, I find it way too good to miss. Let’s face it — the Moto G Power (2026) can’t really give you much more than a super-durable body.
But when you can get it for free, things look a lot more exciting. Plus, Total’s plans are considerably more affordable than any of the Big Three.
