Are you a current Sprint customer considering making the jump to Verizon? Whether you‘re looking for better coverage, faster data speeds, the latest phone deals, or just overall better value, switching cell phone carriers can seem like a daunting task. But it doesn‘t have to be!
As one of the "Big Three" wireless carriers alongside AT&T and T-Mobile, Verizon has established itself as an industry leader in terms of network reliability, coverage, and performance. According to independent studies by third parties like RootMetrics, Verizon consistently ranks first in overall performance, network reliability, call performance, and data performance. For many consumers, that makes Big Red an attractive option.
If you‘ve weighed the pros and cons and decided that Verizon is the right carrier for you, you‘ve come to the right place. Consider this your comprehensive, step-by-step guide to a seamless transition from Sprint to Verizon. We‘ll walk you through the entire process from start to finish – from checking compatibility to activating your new service and beyond. Let‘s get started!
Before You Switch: Is Verizon Right for You?
First things first: before you pull the trigger on switching carriers, it‘s important to do your homework and make sure Verizon is the best fit for your needs. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Coverage: Verizon is known for having the most extensive 4G LTE coverage in the nation, covering over 99% of Americans. But coverage can still vary depending on your specific location. Be sure to check Verizon‘s coverage map to confirm you‘ll have reliable service where you live, work, and travel. You can also compare coverage between carriers using independent reports from firms like OpenSignal and RootMetrics.
Plans and pricing: Verizon offers a variety of unlimited and tiered data plans for individuals, couples, families, and businesses. Take a look at the current options and see how the pricing and features compare to your Sprint plan. Keep in mind, you may be able to get additional discounts through your employer, university, or other associations.
Phones and devices: Want to keep your current phone? Prefer to upgrade to the latest iPhone or Android flagship? Verizon lets you bring your own compatible device or buy a new one. If you‘re bringing your Sprint phone, you‘ll need to make sure it‘s unlocked and compatible with Verizon‘s CDMA network. More on device compatibility in a bit.
Network speeds: In addition to leading in 4G availability, Verizon‘s network also delivers some of the fastest download and upload speeds according to testing from Ookla Speedtest Intelligence. Of course, data speeds can fluctuate based on location, network conditions, and device. 4G LTE currently remains the backbone, but Verizon‘s growing 5G Ultra Wideband network is now available in parts of over 1700 U.S. cities.
Perks and promos: Carriers frequently run promotions to attract new customers, such as free phones, gift cards, bundle discounts, or even contract buyouts. See what new customer deals Verizon is offering at the time you plan to switch. Beyond limited-time promos, also consider included perks like free streaming subscriptions, mobile hotspot data, and international coverage.
Still not sure if Verizon is right for you? Check out reviews and comparisons from authoritative sources like CNET, PCMag, Tom‘s Guide, and Consumer Reports. Hearing directly from real customers on forums and social media can provide helpful insights too.
How to Switch from Sprint to Verizon: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to make the move to Verizon? Great! Let‘s go through the process step by step. To ensure a smooth transition, we recommend completing these steps in order.
Step 1: Check Your Device Compatibility
Want to bring your current Sprint phone to Verizon? Start by making sure it‘s compatible with Verizon‘s network. Verizon uses CDMA technology for its 4G LTE network, while Sprint used a combination of CDMA and GSM. Most newer phones support both network types, but some older Sprint models may not have the right bands and radios to work on Verizon.
The best way to check is by using Verizon‘s IMEI compatibility checker. Go to Verizon‘s Bring Your Own Device page and enter your device ID (IMEI, MEID, or ESN) to see if it‘s compatible. You can find this number in your phone‘s Settings.
If your phone isn‘t compatible, you‘ll need to buy a new Verizon device. You can purchase one outright at full retail price, or take advantage of Verizon‘s phone deals and payment plans. As a new customer, you may be able to get a free or discounted flagship device depending on current promotions.
Step 2: Confirm Your Phone is Unlocked
In addition to being technologically compatible, your Sprint phone also needs to be carrier unlocked in order to work on Verizon. Carriers lock devices to prevent them from being used on other networks. But thanks to new unlocking regulations, all carriers must now unlock devices upon request, as long as they meet certain criteria like being paid off.
To confirm your Sprint phone is unlocked, contact Sprint customer support. If it‘s not unlocked already, request a carrier unlock. The unlocking process can take a few days, so be sure to start this step well before your planned switch date.
Step 3: Choose a Verizon Plan
Now it‘s time to choose your Verizon plan. For most customers, the main decision is between one of Verizon‘s three unlimited plans, or a tiered data plan if you don‘t need endless data:
- 5G Start Unlimited: Verizon‘s cheapest unlimited plan includes unlimited talk, text, and 5G Nationwide/4G LTE data along with 6 months of Disney+, Apple Music, and gaming.
- 5G Play More Unlimited: Stepping up to the Play More plan gets you 25GB of premium network data, 50GB of mobile hotspot data, and other perks like HD streaming and bundled subscriptions.
- 5G Get More Unlimited: Verizon‘s most expensive unlimited plan increases the premium data to 50GB per month and mobile hotspot to 50GB. It also includes expanded subscription perks like Disney+ and Apple Music.
- Tiered data plans: If you don‘t need unlimited data, Verizon offers several plans with set amounts of high-speed data, ranging from 5GB to 100GB per month.
If you want to see how Verizon‘s plans and pricing compare to your current Sprint plan, check out our Verizon vs. Sprint comparison.
Consider which features matter most to you – such as hotspot data, streaming quality, 5G access, and entertainment perks. Then pick the plan that fits your needs and budget. Keep in mind you may be able to get additional discounts through your employer, university, or other organizations.
Step 4: Order a Verizon SIM Card
Once you‘ve confirmed device compatibility and selected your Verizon plan, it‘s time to order a Verizon SIM card. If you‘re bringing your own device, you can get a SIM card for free.
On the Verizon website, add the appropriate SIM card for your device to your cart along with your selected plan. Proceed through checkout and enter your shipping information. Verizon will then mail you a SIM card kit within 2-3 business days.
If your phone supports eSIM, you also have the option of activating service digitally without the need for a physical SIM card. Follow the prompts to use eSIM during the checkout process on Verizon‘s website.
Step 5: Activate Your Verizon Service
After your Verizon SIM card arrives, it‘s time to activate your new service. Make sure your Sprint account and device are still active – don‘t cancel your Sprint service yet.
The quickest way to activate is online:
- Go to Verizon‘s Activate or Switch Devices page
- Enter your order number and billing zip code
- Follow the on-screen prompts to activate your SIM card and plan
- When prompted, select "Transfer an existing number" and enter your Sprint account number and billing address.
Transferring your number from Sprint to Verizon typically completes within 4 hours, but could take up to 24 hours. Your Sprint service will automatically cancel once the port out finalizes. To check the status of your port, contact Verizon customer service.
Step 6: Configure Your Phone Settings
After you activate your Verizon SIM card, there are a few final steps to optimize your device for the Verizon network:
- Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth to clear old carrier settings.
- Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks and make sure "Global" or "Automatic" is selected for network mode.
- Go to Settings > System > Advanced > Backup and make sure your data and contacts are being backed up. You can back up to Google, Samsung Cloud, iCloud, OneDrive, etc.
It‘s also a good idea to update your voicemail and any other customized settings. Familiarize yourself with Verizon‘s services and take advantage of new features like Call Filter spam blocking and Verizon Cloud.
Sprint to Verizon FAQs
Let‘s wrap up by answering some common questions about switching from Sprint to Verizon:
Does Verizon charge to switch from Sprint?
Verizon does not charge any activation or carrier switching fees. However, you may need to pay off any remaining device or service charges on your Sprint account.
Will Verizon pay off my Sprint contract?
Verizon frequently runs promotions for switchers offering Visa gift cards or account credits to offset remaining charges with your previous carrier. Check Verizon‘s current deals to see if any contract buyout offers are available.
Can I transfer my Sprint lease to Verizon?
Unfortunately, Verizon cannot directly assume leases or loans from Sprint. You will need to pay off any remaining balance with Sprint before switching. However, Verizon may offer promotional credits to help reimburse you for those charges.
How much does it cost to switch from Sprint to Verizon?
If you‘re bringing your own compatible device, you‘ll just pay for your selected Verizon plan. If you‘re buying a new phone, you‘ll pay the retail price or activate a payment plan. Again, Verizon may offer gift cards or account credits to help offset switching costs.
Can I keep my phone number when I switch to Verizon?
Yes! As long as your Sprint account is in good standing and you activate your Verizon service within 30 days of closing your Sprint account, you can bring your number with you. The porting process typically takes under 24 hours.
What happens to my Sprint account when I switch to Verizon?
After you activate your Verizon service and initiate the number transfer process, your Sprint service will automatically disconnect once the port finalizes. You‘ll receive a final bill from Sprint for any unpaid balances.
How do I cancel Sprint after switching to Verizon?
Once your number transfers to Verizon, your Sprint service automatically cancels. No need to manually cancel. If you‘d like to confirm the cancellation or discuss remaining charges, contact Sprint customer support.
The Bottom Line
Switching cell phone carriers may seem like a hassle, but it doesn‘t have to be. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can transfer your Sprint service to Verizon with minimal interruptions.
Remember, the keys to a smooth switch are:
- Making sure your device is compatible and unlocked.
- Selecting a Verizon plan that fits your needs.
- Ordering your Verizon SIM card or eSIM.
- Activating your new service and porting your number.
Throughout the process, don‘t hesitate to contact Verizon or Sprint customer support if you have any questions or issues. Explanatory guides and tutorials are also available on both carriers‘ websites.
Ultimately, if Verizon‘s leading network quality, speeds, and perks are a better fit for you than Sprint, making the switch is well worth the effort. Hopefully this guide has given you the confidence and know-how to make your move to Verizon. If you‘re ready to get started, head to Verizon‘s switch and save page now.
