Total STARTER Review
Total Wireless's entry plan — unlimited 5G on Verizon's network, all-in pricing and a 5-year price lock, though the BYO tier beats it on value.
At a Glance
How Total STARTER Scores
We scored Total STARTER against the same four pillars we use for every plan. Here’s how it broke down.
Pricing: All-In, But Undercut by Its Own Sibling
STARTER is $35/mo with AutoPay ($40 without), all-in with taxes and fees included and a 5-year price lock — a fair entry rate on Verizon's network.
The problem is internal: Total's own MAX 5G BYO is $25 and adds Ultra Wideband plus unlimited hotspot — strictly more plan for less, if you bring your own phone. STARTER earns its keep for international callers and buyers taking a Total phone deal (where BYOD pricing doesn't apply).
What You Get
What You Don't Get
How Total STARTER compares
The comparison that matters is STARTER versus Total's own MAX 5G BYO — same network, and the BYO tier is cheaper with more plan.
Who should choose Total STARTER
Who should skip it
Final Verdict
STARTER is a competent Verizon-network entry plan — all-in pricing, a 5-year lock, and unusually generous international calling for the tier. But it's undercut by Total's own MAX 5G BYO for anyone bringing their own phone, so its sweet spot is narrow: international callers, Verizon-coverage seekers who want retail support, and buyers pairing it with a Total phone deal. Pure value shoppers should look at the BYO tier or a $25 MVNO.
See plan details →Frequently asked questions
Is Total STARTER all-in pricing?
Yes — taxes and fees are included in the advertised rate. The main variable is the $5 AutoPay discount.
What network does Total STARTER use?
Verizon. Total Wireless is a Verizon-owned prepaid brand. STARTER uses nationwide 5G, not Ultra Wideband.
Does Total STARTER have a contract?
No — it's prepaid with no contract and no credit check, plus a 5-year price guarantee.
Can I bring my own phone?
Yes — but if you're bringing your own phone, Total MAX 5G BYO at $25/mo is a better deal than STARTER. Check compatibility with Total's BYOD tool before activating.
Is the hotspot fast?
The 10GB hotspot runs at high speed until you hit the cap. For unlimited hotspot, step up to MAX 5G (5 Mbps) or ALL ACCESS (10 Mbps).
Will my data be slowed?
As a prepaid plan, STARTER data may be deprioritized during congestion. In normal conditions, performance is strong.
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 STARTER, from carriers we rate independently. Worth a look before you commit.