Cricket Wireless is among the mobile virtual network operators that provide services through a partnership with AT&T’s 4G LTE network. However, this parent carrier is the second-best after Verizon Wireless. Cricket is often availing great deals on different phones from old to new models. These devices include the latest iPhones and Samsung Galaxy devices, in addition to cricket wireless flip phones, for those looking for a budget cell phone that does the basics.
On the other hand, Cricket Wireless is an excellent carrier to consider since it offers free or cheap phone deals that include cricket deals for existing customers. You may get savings on phones when you switch to the carrier and occasional price drops on plans. In this case, Cricket deals require new customers to subscribe for wireless service, transfer from a different wireless carrier, and port in a phone number.
You can purchase new Cricket cell phones and activate them using cricket cell phone plans for a new customer. Cricket provides a wide selection of devices from Samsung, Apple, LG, Motorola, and more to match your needs. If you don’t want to purchase a new phone and wish to keep your previous phone, this carrier supports bringing your own phone program. You only need to comply with the rules as described later in here.
Transferring Your Phone to Cricket Wireless
Generally, switching carriers can be hectic since many US carriers rely on different cellular technologies. Therefore a phone designed to function on a specific network won’t necessarily operate on another. However, for Cricket bring your own phone; the following are some basic rules:
Moreover, when switching to Cricket Wireless, you can opt to buy a new cell phone or keep your current device as long as it’s compatible. Whichever the case, you can retain your phone number. The following is the process for BYOP to Cricket.
i) Unlock Your Device
Your device will need to be unlocked to work on the Cricket network. If it isn’t already unlocked, your original wireless carrier will unlock it for you as long as you meet their requirements.
ii) Check Device Compatibility
Ensure your unlocked phone is compatible with the Cricket network. Some unlocked devices aren’t compatible with our network. You can check for cricket phone compatibility using the carrier’s device ID (IMEI) checker. Notably, other carriers’ 5G devices may not have access to Cricket 5G service at this time.
iii) Select a SIM Card and Plan
You’ll add the Universal Cricket SIM card kit to your cart and then select the plan for your device. Choose from high-speed data and unlimited talk/text, or Data Only Plans for tablets and mobile hotspot devices.
Why Choose Cricket Wireless?
Cricket Wireless is one of the leading mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) in the US. Besides, this company avails Cricket emergency broadband benefits for qualified members during this ongoing pandemic. If cell phone network coverage matters to you, choosing Cricket Wireless as your next plan is a wise move.
Other benefits of Cricket Wireless include:
- No credit check
- Inexpensive plans
- All-in pricing – taxes and fees included
- Convenience – Cricket is available in 4,300 stores across all 50 states.
What Are the 6 Best Cricket Wireless Flip Phones?
1) Alcatel GO FLIP V 4051S Verizon 4G LTE
This device support 4G LTE speeds that allow you to enjoy excellent call quality on the classically-styled GO FLIP V. Besides, it has everything you require to stay connected and productive on the go. It features Voice over LTE (VoLTE), HD Voice, and Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi). Plus, share you can share the connection via mobile hotspot with up to 10 devices. The cell phone has a memory capacity of 8GB, sufficient for keeping helpful multimedia features. You can safely store pictures, videos, and contacts.
Moreover, the large backlit keys and easy-to-navigate features, like dedicated text and camera buttons, make this phone simple to use, especially for elders. You can comfortably use the 2.8″ internal display to read emails, text messages, or phone numbers check your calendar, contacts, and more. Interestingly, a compact and durable design keeps your buttons and screen protected while in your bag, purse, or pocket.
Pros
- Affordable
- Powerful quad-core processor
- Expandable internal storage
- Compact and durable design
- Long-lasting battery
Cons
- Slow web connection
2) Kyocera DuraXV Extreme E4810 16GB Verizon
If you are hunting for an intelligent, compact, and virtually indestructible flip phone, the ultra-rugged DuraXV Extreme thrives under even the most challenging conditions. Besides, it features military Standard 810G for dust, shock, vibration, temperature extremes, blowing rain, low pressure, among other extremes, and its IP68 for dustproof, waterproof up to 6.5 ft. (2m) up to 30 minutes. A sizeable removable 1770mAh battery allows for full-day operation.
Additionally, the customizable menu helps to set frequently used apps. Besides, there are multiple programmable keys such as SOS*, Push To Talk, Speaker key, Call List key, and 4-way navigation keys. The large font, tactile keypad, and clear display provide for superior readability. You can experience fast operations thanks to a fast 1.2GHz Quad-Core A53, 64-bit CPU, and 2GB RAM. The internal storage has 8GB with expandable memory up to 512GB.
If you are an audiophile, you can enjoy loud music with 100dB+ front-facing, dual loudspeakers, and dual-mic noise cancellation that delivers HD voice for crystal clear calls. With mobile hotspot capability, you can support up to 10 devices, plus you can capture unforgettable moments with a 5MP auto-focus camera with LED flash and video recorder.
Pros
- Extra durable
- Ease of use with customizable menu
- Large memory capacity
- Good battery life
- Weatherproof
Cons
- Relatively costly
3) Alcatel Go Flip 3 4GB 512MB RAM 4052W-2AALUS3 US Version
Alcatel Go Flip 3 is an overall great phone for seniors who frequently use the internet, Google assistant, and WhatsApp. This device is a suitable weapon for people who don’t require a flat-screened smartphone but still want to receive their WhatsApp messages. You can experience an incredible performance thanks to Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 and 512GB RAM. The internal storage is 4GBB, and it’s expandable through a MicroSD slot up to 32GB.
On the other hand, the rubbery keys physically press pleasantly with no stress, and a display of 2.4 inches provides better viewing while scrolling. Suppose you work or reside in a loud environment. In that case, this flip phone works hard to cancel out any surrounding noise, resulting in a few audio distortions and generally an intelligible speech and listening experience.
Pros
- Very pocket friendly
- Better call quality
- Tactile backlit keyboard
- Loud and clear speakers
- Google assistant enabled
Cons
- Small RAM
4) Kyocera DuraXV LTE E4610 (Renewed)
Kyocera DuraXV LTE E4610 is the most network-flexible device and future-proof. You can operate on Verizon’s 3G and 4G networks, in addition to foreign roaming networks. Besides, the separated keys are well spaced, and the presence of a bright 2.6-inch helps invisibility of sending and reading messages, calls, and other usages.
Moreover, the durable, full-featured flip phone protects against shock, water damage, solar radiation, and more. Kyocera’s DuraXV LTE get designed to handle your rugged lifestyle. The DuraXV LTE features a version of Android on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 processor and has a traditional menu system with no downloadable apps. This flip phone also has dual-band Wi-Fi, including 2.4GHz and 5GHz, and helps you make calls over Wi-Fi.
Pros
- Versatile network coverage
- HD Voice Compatible
- Waterproof and rugged
- Support WIFI calling
- Excellent overall performance
Cons
- Not new
5) Jitterbug Flip2 Cell Phone for Seniors- Red
The Jitterbug Flip2 features a large screen, big buttons, powerful speaker, simple list-based menu, and Amazon Alexa to navigate the phone and place calls effortlessly. You can get instant help by using a dedicated urgent response button that connects to emergency help, nurses, and doctors 24/7. Besides, the large screen, big buttons, and speed dial make dialing effortless, and a backlit keypad assists in low-light areas.
However, the Lively Link app keeps friends and family updated on your health and safety by alerting their smartphone if you call Urgent Response. Jitterbug Flip2 is a simple smartphone that assists the process from calling and texting, to email and internet access, to sharing photos and getting driving directions to get organized in a single list on one screen. The Amazon Alexa helps you make calls, write texts, check the weather, and more using just your voice.
Pros
- Reliable and affordable
- Easy, list-based menu
- Urgent Response button
- Alexa enabled
- Crystal clear display
Cons
- Carrier locked
6) Plum Ram 8 – 4G Rugged Flip Phone Unlocked
The Plum Ram 8 4G is the best cricket wireless flip phone. The above device is compatible with T-Mobile, Metro, Simple Mobile, Straight Talk, Lyca, Mint, Walmart Mobile, Consumer Cellular, and many more. However, Ram 8 is the latest in a line of 4G devices ever made, and it’s waterproof, dustproof, and even rated IP68 certified military-grade for protection against shock and water.
It comes with great features: a 5MP camera with flash, a 2. 4″ display, extensive and easy-to-use Keypad, Dual SIM, and many valuable features. You can enjoy loud built-in wireless radio that can play with or without hands-free music or calls with a big loudspeaker in place. Besides, it has a 5MP camera, 1200mah battery that lasts 120 hours on standby, 128MB internal storage, and 64MB RAM.
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Well-spaced keypads
- Durable built quality
- Excellent battery life
- Programmable navigation keys
Cons
- Not Compatible with AT&T, Verizon, or Boost Mobile
Bottom line
Cricket Wireless is a no-contract subsidiary of AT&T that offers customers a way to acquire affordable flip phones and smartphones with cheap prepaid plans. Many of Cricket’s cellphones get priced pretty reasonably, and some special cricket wireless flip phones stand out right now as listed above.