Total MAX 5G BYO Review

At $25/mo with AutoPay ($30 without), all-in, you get 5G Ultra Wideband, premium data, unlimited hotspot and 100GB cloud, a feature set that costs $35+ elsewhere. It undercuts Total's own STARTER by $10 while offering more.

The defining condition is in the name: you must bring your own phone. The value also fades with scale. It ties STARTER at 3 lines and STARTER is cheaper at 4–5. For a solo user or couple, few Verizon plays beat it.

The value hero of Total Wireless's lineup: $25/mo all-in for Verizon Ultra Wideband, premium data, unlimited hotspot and a 5-year lock. Bring your own phone and, for one or two lines, it's hard to beat on Verizon's network. Just know its two edges: there's no device deal, and its price advantage flips to STARTER once you hit four lines.

Consider instead: Visible+ Plan. Need faster hotspot or no BYOD requirement? Visible+ is $35 on the same Verizon network with 10 Mbps hotspot and no bring-your-own condition: worth the $10 if that matters.

Do I have to bring my own phone?

Yes: that's the plan's defining condition and the reason it's $25. Check compatibility with Total Wireless's BYOD tool first.

What network does it use?

Verizon, including 5G Ultra Wideband and premium data, a step up from STARTER's nationwide-only 5G.

Is the hotspot unlimited?

Yes, but capped at 5 Mbps. Fine for browsing and email; slow for HD streaming. ALL ACCESS raises it to 10 Mbps.

Are taxes included?

Yes: all-in pricing. The main variable is the $5 AutoPay discount.

Is there a contract?

No. Prepaid, no credit check, with a 5-year price guarantee.

Is it cheaper than STARTER for a family?

Only up to 3 lines. At 4–5 lines, STARTER is actually cheaper: compare before you commit.

1. Total Wireless plan page and price label, checked Oct 25, 2026
2. Our scoring method: How we rank

Prices change often; confirm with the carrier before you order.