Total MAX 5G BYO Review
One of the best-value unlimited plans on Verizon's network — $25 all-in for Ultra Wideband, premium data and unlimited hotspot, if you bring your own phone.
At a Glance
How Total MAX 5G BYO Scores
We scored Total MAX 5G BYO against the same four pillars we use for every plan. Here’s how it broke down.
Pricing: The Value Hero — With a BYOD Condition
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.
What You Get
What You Don't Get
How Total MAX 5G BYO compares
The natural comparison is MAX 5G BYO versus the pricier Visible+ on the same Verizon network.
Who should choose Total MAX 5G BYO
Who should skip it
Final Verdict
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.
See plan details →Frequently asked questions
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.
Related comparisons & plans
Other Total Wireless plans we’ve reviewed
Same carrier, same network — different price and data. Here’s how the rest of the Total Wireless lineup scored.
Same budget, different carrier
Plans priced within a few dollars of Total MAX 5G BYO, from carriers we rate independently. Worth a look before you commit.