TextNow: 7 Pros and Cons of the Wireless Alternative — Is It Really Free?
Written by
Andrea Norris
Edited by
Elizabeth Constantineau, CFHC™
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TextNow, founded in 2009 by two college students needing cheaper cell phone service, is the nation’s first “freemium” wireless company. It provides talk, text and data service, but is it really free? Here’s a look at how TextNow works and the pros and cons of using this wireless alternative.
What Is TextNow?
TextNow began as a Voice over Internet Protocol service, allowing users to make phone calls and send text messages through a Wi-Fi connection to any phone number in the U.S. or Canada for free. Today, TextNow also offers its Free Nationwide Talk and Text Plan to users with compatible devices. Paid TextNow services include international calling, data plans and other upgrades and add-ons.
Is TextNow Really Free?
Yes, TextNow does offer two free, basic ad-based talk and text plans. So, while you won’t have a monthly fee with these plans, you will be shown ads when using the TextNow app.
TextNow’s data plans aren’t free, but you can add a plan for a reasonable monthly fee. You can also upgrade from a free ad-based plan to TextNow’s paid Ad-Free+ plan, which removes the ads from the app and provides other features, such as call forwarding and visual voicemail. The following table provides the cost of some of TextNow’s upgrades and add-on services.
| Upgrades and Add-Ons | Monthly Price |
|---|---|
| Ad-Free+ | $9.99 |
| 1 GB data | $8.99 |
| 2 GB data | $15.99 |
| 3 GB data | $19.99 |
| 5 GB data | $27.99 |
TextNow’s Free Plans: Pros and Cons
TextNow’s most significant pro, and perhaps only advantage over other cheap mobile providers, is its free basic plan. If you can’t afford or simply don’t want to pay for these services, TextNow’s free options will allow you to rid yourself of a cell phone bill.
Before signing up for a free plan from this wireless alternative, here are six cons to consider.
In-App Ads
TextNow’s free plans are supported by advertising. If you find in-app ads annoying, you may not like the TextNow app experience, even if it’s free.
No Data
The only way to access the internet with a free TextNow plan is to connect your phone or computer to a Wi-Fi network. Free plans do not include cellular data.
Can’t Receive Verification Codes
Free TextNow phone numbers are recycled and reissued after a wait time specified by industry standards. However, for security reasons, you might not be able to receive verification codes, such as for two-factor authentication, via text if you have a TextNow phone number without paying for an upgraded number.
May Need a New SIM Card
To use TextNow’s cellular plan, you’ll need a compatible device, or you’ll have to buy a TextNow SIM card. For 5G network access, you must purchase a GSM SIM card from TextNow for any phone.
No Video Calling
If you prefer video calling, TextNow doesn’t support it.
Limited 5G Coverage
TextNow’s GSM Nationwide Network is unavailable in some parts of the U.S. Additionally, 5G coverage may be unavailable in some areas and limited to 2G, 3G or 4G LTE coverage.
Final Take
If you can get by with a basic mobile plan, TextNow’s Nationwide Talk and Text is a good option to consider, providing there is coverage in your area. If you need data, you may want to compare prices across companies. Some wireless carriers such as Mint Mobile or Tello offer data plans for about the same price as TextNow’s plans.
FAQ
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding TextNow.- Is a TextNow number a real phone number?
- Yes, a TextNow number is a real phone number.
- Is it safe to use TextNow?
- TextNow can be a safe option if you take precautions when connecting your device to public Wi-Fi networks. Don't log into any accounts or access personal information on any site that doesn't show the lock symbol next to the site URL or that doesn't start with "https" when connected to public Wi-Fi. A hacker could potentially intercept your login or personal information.
- Why would someone use TextNow?
- TextNow provides a free way to communicate for anyone who has basic and limited mobile needs and doesn't want to pay for a pricey plan. Anyone needing an additional phone number might consider a free TextNow plan.
- Can I text anyone with TextNow?
- With TextNow, you can text anyone in the U.S. and Canada.
Data is accurate as of Nov. 7, 2023, and is subject to change.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.
