How To Switch From Cricket To Verizon In 2024: An In-Depth Guide
As a telecommunications analyst, I often advise consumers on finding the best carrier for their needs. Many Cricket customers wonder if switching to Verizon is the right move. My unequivocal opinion – Verizon offers superior connectivity and an all-around better wireless experience for most users.
Here is my comprehensive walkthrough for transitioning from Cricket to Verizon this year, along with insider knowledge on what sets them apart.
Why Choose Verizon Over Cricket?
First, what motivates people to switch? As America‘s largest wireless network, Verizon simply outperforms Cricket (owned by AT&T) in crucial areas:
Network Size and Reliability
| Carrier | 4G LTE Coverage | 5G Coverage | Network Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | 70% U.S. Population | 75% U.S. Population | 99% |
| Cricket | 61% U.S. Population | 14% U.S. Population | 97% |
With 22% more 5G and over 370 million customers, Verizon‘s bigger network suffers less congestion and disruption. This directly strengthens connectivity.
Data Speeds and Consistency
Verizon 5G offers 300% faster data speeds on average nationwide – up to 2 Gbps download rates. This enables smoother streaming, downloads, gaming and more. Their network optimization also neutralizes lags and buffering issues prominent with Cricket’s 4G network.
Perks, Deals and Rewards
Cricket only operates prepaid plans, while Verizon customers can access exclusive perks, device upgrade rewards and plan deals unavailable to prepaid subscribers. For the newest phones or latest plan rates, Verizon beats Cricket.
Take it from me – Verizon’s dominance in nearly all network metrics directly bolsters speed, reliability and overall performance of your wireless service. It‘s why they‘re entrusted by 95 million U.S. subscribers and maintains top network ratings year after year.
Step-By-Step Guide to Switch from Cricket to Verizon
Ready to leave Cricket behind for good? Here is precisely how to transition:
1. Confirm Verizon Coverage
Always verify serviceable signal strength beforehand using Verizon‘s 2023 Coverage Map Tool. Input your address then set filters for "5G" and "LTE" networks individually. Solid outdoor and in-building readings confirm Verizon is available in your vicinity.
Why It Matters: Without adequate regional infrastructure, customers risk dead zones, intermittent connections or peaks of 2G/3G fallback. Verify ample 4G and 5G signal levels before committing to ensure quality.
2. Select the Best Transition Date
I advise Cricket subscribers to switch during the final week of their billing cycle. This method prevents overlap charges or account closure fees.
Carefully determine when your next payment will process, then target a switch date approximately 5-7 days prior. Service should transition seamlessly by the time the new cycle starts.
Insider Tip: Most wireless carriers including Verizon will cover fees Cricket imposes for terminating service early or porting your number out. Never hesitate to request reimbursement.
3. Confirm Device Compatibility
Will your smartphone function properly on Verizon’s network bands? Avoid headaches by utilizing their BYOD Compatibility Quiz. Here you can:
- Input device make, model and IMEI to automatically scan for eligibility
- View detailed device specs and compatibility notes
- Confirm firmware is current and 5G or CDMA-enabled
Over 99% of unlocked devices successfully pass Verizon‘s stringency standards for HD Voice calling, WiFi Calling and top speeds on 4G LTE and 5G. Still, this tool also confirms compatibility across various plan types, identifies limitations, and even suggests alternative gadgets if needed.
Expert Tip: For mobile devices lacking eSIM support, request Verizon‘s free SIM card during sign-up. Then use this to locally provision service rather than over-the-air registration.
4. Transfer Your Phone Number
Bring your current wireless number to Verizon using their Prepaid Transfer Wizard. This will instantly check if your Cricket number qualifies and coordinate porting upon signup.
The automated process typically finishes within 24 hours. You will receive notifications outlining transition status via email and text message. Continue utilizing Cricket while migration completes to avoid disruption.
Why Porting Matters
| Reason | Impact |
|---|---|
| Preserves contacts/communications | No need to redistribute your number |
| Maintains account-linked profiles (banking etc.) | Avoids security risks from profile linking |
| Reduces account recovery verification needs | Logging into services stays uncomplicated |
Don‘t want to bring your old number? You can easily generate a new Verizon wireless number during activation too.
Expert Tip: If porting stalls beyond 24 hours, ping Verizon Support via live chat. Miskeyed account IDs commonly delay migrations but agents can quickly resolve these issues.
5. Select Your Ideal Verizon Plan
Now for the best part – choosing the optimal Verizon plan suiting your usage, budget and device needs! Recommending specific plans falls outside this switching guide‘s scope, so check my detailed 2023 Verizon Plan Comparison showcasing pricing tiers for individuals and families.
Be sure to also explore their prepaid options like Verizon Prepaid Unlimited which includes 5G access and unlimited hotspot data at a significant value.
Key Detail: Verizon offers a "Start Unlimited" plan without 5G that isn‘t worthwhile long-term. For $10 more per month, playIt Unlimited equates to far faster overall speeds.
Finally, ask Verizon reps about any promo incentives exclusive to new subscribers when signing up! Supported device purchase deals, activation bonuses and plan discounts provide huge perks for switching from Cricket.
6. Activate Verizon SIM and Complete Setup
Insert the Verizon SIM card into your phone upon arrival then power on to auto-activate. Follow any setup prompts to register your device with the network and configure your account preferences.
You‘re all set! Connectivity should be fully operational within minutes including number port completion. Begin enjoying Verizon‘s lightning-fast 5G speeds and premium nationwide coverage!
For help transitioning or questions regarding billing changes when service ends with Cricket, contact Verizon Support via phone, chat or their support pages. Agents can also confirm when your old Cricket account will close to avoid double payments.
Are You Ready for Better? Switch from Cricket to Verizon.
By now I hope you’ve realized – Verizon is hands-down the superior wireless carrier with advantages simply unmatched by discount providers like Cricket. Their premium network technologies enable faster speeds with enhanced security and expanded device options.
Beyond boosted connectivity itself, Verizon creates a better customer experience through reliability, incentives and support teams dedicated to your satisfaction.
Equipped with my detailed transition guide, you have everything needed to confidently switch carriers for a massive wireless upgrade. Still have questions? Feel free to contact me for individualized recommendations based on your specific needs. The time is now to leave Cricket in the dust!
