Complete guide to cell phone plans with smartphone: how to compare and choose the best offers in Canada
Cell phone plan with smartphone or SIM-only? In Canada prices are among the highest worldwide. Our guide shows how to compare offers, avoid hidden fees, keep your number when switching to a better carrier and find the right plan with family bundles or unlimited data.
What are the best cell phone plans with unlimited data in Canada?
When it comes to finding the best cell phone plans with unlimited data in Canada, the three major carriers – Rogers, Bell, and Telus – offer competitive options. These plans typically include unlimited Canada-wide calling, texting, and data, with a set amount of high-speed data before throttling occurs.
Rogers, for example, offers their Infinite plans, which provide unlimited data with reduced speeds after reaching the full-speed data allotment. Bell and Telus have similar offerings with their Unlimited plans. These plans often come with additional perks such as 5G network access, mobile hotspot capabilities, and international texting.
It’s important to note that while these plans are marketed as “unlimited,” they do have fair usage policies. After reaching the full-speed data limit, speeds are typically reduced to 512 Kbps, which is suitable for basic browsing and messaging but may not support high-quality streaming or large downloads.
How do family bundles with Rogers, Bell, and Telus compare?
Family bundles are an excellent way to save money on multiple lines while enjoying the benefits of Canada’s top carriers. Rogers, Bell, and Telus all offer family-oriented plans that can accommodate multiple devices under one account.
Rogers’ Share Everything plans allow families to share data across multiple lines, with each additional line receiving a discount. Bell’s Family plans offer similar benefits, allowing families to add up to 10 lines on a single account. Telus provides Family Discounts on their Peace of Mind plans, with savings increasing as more lines are added.
When comparing family bundles, consider factors such as:
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The total amount of shareable data
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Individual line costs
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Additional perks like streaming subscriptions or device upgrades
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Network coverage in your area
What are the cheap SIM-only deals for students and young users in Canada?
For students and young users looking for budget-friendly options, SIM-only deals can offer significant savings. These plans typically don’t include a new device, allowing for lower monthly costs. Several providers cater to this market with attractive offers:
Fido, a subsidiary of Rogers, offers reasonably priced plans that include data, talk, and text. Their plans often come with bonus data for students.
Freedom Mobile, known for its affordable rates, provides plans with generous data allowances at competitive prices, especially in urban areas.
Public Mobile, owned by Telus, offers no-frills, low-cost plans that are popular among budget-conscious consumers. They frequently run promotions targeting students and young users.
When choosing a SIM-only deal, consider factors like data allowance, network coverage, and any student-specific discounts or promotions.
How can you switch carriers and keep your number in Canada?
Switching carriers while keeping your phone number in Canada is a straightforward process thanks to number portability regulations. Here’s how to do it:
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Check if your current contract has ended to avoid early termination fees.
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Research and choose a new plan from a different carrier.
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Contact the new carrier and inform them you want to port your number.
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Provide your current phone number, account number, and any other required information.
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The new carrier will initiate the transfer process with your old provider.
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Keep your old phone active until the transfer is complete, which usually takes a few hours to a day.
It’s important not to cancel your old service before initiating the transfer, as this could result in losing your number.
What unlimited data and roaming options are available for US travel?
For Canadians traveling to the US, several carriers offer roaming options to keep you connected without incurring excessive charges:
Rogers offers Roam Like Home, which allows customers to use their Canadian plan in the US for a daily fee.
Bell’s Roam Better and Telus’ Easy Roam work similarly, charging a daily rate for customers to access their Canadian plan’s features while in the US.
Some plans, particularly higher-tier options, may include a certain number of days of US roaming at no extra cost.
| Provider | Plan Name | US Roaming Cost (Daily) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rogers | Roam Like Home | $8 | Use your Canadian plan in the US |
| Bell | Roam Better | $9 | Access your plan’s data, talk, and text |
| Telus | Easy Roam | $9 | Use your plan in the US as you would in Canada |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
When choosing a plan with US roaming options, consider the frequency of your travel, the duration of your trips, and whether the daily fees are more cost-effective than purchasing a local US SIM card for longer stays.
In conclusion, selecting the right cell phone plan with a smartphone in Canada requires careful consideration of your needs, budget, and usage patterns. By comparing unlimited data options, family bundles, SIM-only deals, and roaming features, you can find a plan that offers the best value for your specific requirements. Remember to regularly review your plan and stay informed about new offers to ensure you’re always getting the best deal possible in Canada’s dynamic mobile market.
