Below, I take a deep dive into one of the giants in the telecom industry – Verizon. While exploring their services, I found some interesting points to discuss and evaluate. Hold onto your seats, folks. We’re about to embark on an in-depth review of Verizon’s offerings.
Based on genuine feedback, here’s a straightforward breakdown of the highs and lows customers have shared about their experience:
Review Overview
| Source | Rating (Out of 5) | Total Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| BestCompany.com | ★★★★ (4/5) | 2,31 |
| ConsumerAffairs | ★ (1.3/5) | 7,882 |
| Trustpilot | ★ (1.4/5) | 5,010 |
| Reviews.org | ★★★★✬ (4.5/5) | N/A |
| Feedback Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Reliability | ★★★★★ |
| Employee Excellence | ★★★★★ |
| Helpful Chat | ★★★★★ |
| Return & Support | ★★★★☆ |
| Undelivered Order | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Shipping & Stock | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Misleading Contract | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Unauthorized Charges | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Outdated Network | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Verizon has been a dominant player for years, but does it still hold up? Are its services worth your hard-earned cash? Well, that’s exactly what we’ll uncover today. From coverage to customer service and everything in between – this review will shed light on all things Verizon.
Overview of Verizon Telecom
Let’s dive right into the heart of our subject – Verizon Telecom. I have to tell you, this company isn’t just any old telecom provider; it’s one of the largest in the United States. With millions of customers coast to coast, they’re a significant player in the industry.
What makes them stand out?
- Extensive Coverage. It doesn’t matter if you’re tucked away in a small town or smack dab in the middle of bustling NYC; there’s a good chance Verizon has got you covered. And we’re not just talking about your basic phone service here either. They offer high-speed internet and top-notch TV services too.
- Customer Satisfaction. Because that’s where things get interesting! According to J.D Power’s 2020 U.S Residential Internet Service Provider Satisfaction Study:
| Statistic | Rank |
|---|---|
| Overall Customer Satisfaction Index Ranking (East) | 2nd |
| Overall Customer Satisfaction Index Ranking (West) | 3rd |
- Reliability. You don’t want to be left hanging when you need your service most, right? Well, that’s another area where Verizon shines. Backed by its powerful network infrastructure, it offers reliable connectivity even during peak usage times.
- Innovation. Always striving to stay ahead, they’ve been moving toward implementing 5G technology nationwide. That means faster internet speeds and more reliable connections on the horizon!
Service Offerings
When it comes to service, Verizon has got you covered. Let’s dive into the specifics!
Wireless Plans
Verizon’s wireless plans are a crowd-pleaser. They’ve got something for everyone – from the budget-conscious college student to the high-data user.
Unlimited Plans
Ready to dive into the world of Verizon’s unlimited plans? Let’s get the lowdown on what they offer.
- Unlimited Welcome: Stepping into the 5G world? This plan is your gateway. Reliable and fast 5G ensures you’re always on the move and never miss a beat.
- Unlimited Plus: Fasten your seatbelts because this is where speed meets reliability! With 5G up to 10 times faster than 4G LTE, you’re set for a smooth ride, no matter how much data you munch through.
- Unlimited Ultimate: This isn’t just any plan; it’s the big kahuna! Imagine everything you love about Unlimited Plus but with a twist. You’re getting double the mobile hotspot data, so you’re always connected, and international connectivity keeps you in touch no matter where you roam.
Here is a breakdown of their Plans.
| Features | Unlimited Ultimate | Unlimited Plus | Unlimited Welcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price for 1 line | $100/line | $90/line | $75/line |
| Price for 4 lines | $65/line | $55/line | $40/line |
| Data | 5G Ultra Wideband | 5G Ultra Wideband | 5G |
| Unlimited premium data | Included | Included | — |
| Mobile Hotspot | 60 GB | 30 GB | — |
| International data, talk, & text | 210+ Countries | Mexico & Canada | Mexico & Canada |
| Verizon Home Internet | As low as $25/mo | As low as $25/mo | As low as $40/mo |
| Device savings | High | Mid-High | Low-Mid |
| Bring your own device | Up to $540 promo credit | Up to $360 promo credit | Up to $180 promo credit |
| Connected device data plan | Up to 50% off 2 device plans | Up to 50% off 1 device plan | — |
| Streaming quality | Up to 1080p HD | Up to 720p HD | Up to 480p HD |
Prepaid Plans
Ready to dive into the world of prepaid plans? Verizon has got you covered! From essential talk and text options to the full-blown experience of unlimited 5G Ultra Wideband, there’s a plan tailored just for you.
| Feature/Plan | Talk & Text | 15 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited Plus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $35/mo | $45/mo | $60/mo | $70/mo |
| Auto Pay Discount | $5/mo | $10/mo | $10/mo | $10/mo |
| Loyalty Discounts | None | Up to $10/mo | Up to $10/mo | Up to $10/mo |
| 5G Access | 2G only | Yes | Yes | Yes (Ultra Wideband) |
| 4G LTE | Yes (2G speeds) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Data Allowance | None | 15 GB | Unlimited | 50 GB premium |
| Mobile Hotspot | None | Yes | 5 GB | 25 GB premium |
| International Text | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| International Talk & Text | No | Mexico & Canada | Mexico & Canada | Global Choice |
| Digital Secure | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Device Types | Up to 10 | Up to 10 | Up to 10 | Up to 10 |
Home Internet Services
But Verizon isn’t just about phone services; they’re also a big player in home internet services.
Now, Verizon is stepping up its game with two 5G Home Internet plans that promise speed and reliability. Let’s compare Verizon’s 5G Home Plus and 5G Home plans, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck.
| Feature/Plan | 5G Home Plus | 5G Home |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $80/mo | $60/mo |
| Download Speeds | Higher-speed | High-speed |
| Video Streaming | Ultra HD 4K | 1080p HD |
| Router Included | Yes (Wi-Fi 6) | Yes (Wi-Fi 6) |
| Price Guarantee Duration | 3-Year | 2-Year |
| Cloud Storage | Verizon Cloud Unlimited for up to 5 users ($19.99/mo value) | None |
Business Solutions
And let’s not forget about businesses! Whether running a small local shop or managing a multi-location enterprise, Verizon has tailored solutions that can help drive your business forward.
Verizon’s Business Unlimited 5G Smartphone Plans
Navigating the world of business mobile plans can feel like a maze, but with Verizon’s Business Unlimited 5G smartphone plans, you’re set for clear skies ahead. Dive in, compare, and find that sweet spot for your business needs. It’s all about staying ahead without breaking the bank!
| Features/Plans | Business Unlimited Start 5G | Business Unlimited Plus 5G | Business Unlimited Pro 5G |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Per line per month) | $30 | $40 | $45 |
| Price for 5 lines | $150 | $200 | $225 |
| Price without AutoPay & paper-free | $35 | $45 | $50 |
| 5G/4G LTE | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| 5G Ultra Wideband | — | ✔ | ✔ |
| Unlimited Talk, Text & Data | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Mobile Hotspot Data | 5 GB, then 600 Kbps | 100 GB, then 600 Kbps/3 Mbps | 200 GB, then 600 Kbps/3 Mbps |
| Call Filter | Basic | Basic or Plus | Basic or Plus |
| Video Streaming | 480p | Up to 4K | Up to 4K |
| TravelPass | — | 2 days/month | 4 days/month |
| Security Features | — | Business Mobile Secure | Business Mobile Secure |
| Tablet Plan Discount | — | — | 50% off |
Business Fiber Plans
In today’s fast-paced digital age, staying connected is more critical than ever for businesses. Verizon recognizes this and offers a range of fiber-optic business plans tailored to meet the unique needs of every enterprise. Dive into our plans below and find the perfect fit to keep your business at the forefront of the digital curve.
| Plans | Features | Speed | Price | PlanA Includes | Promos |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200/200 Mbps | Symmetrical speeds for supporting local apps, email, and Wi-Fi-connected devices. | Up to 200/200 Mbps | $69/mo. Plus taxes, fees, and equipment charges. | – 1-year price guarantee<br>- Unlimited data<br>- 30-day money-back guarantee on 2-year term<br>- +$20/month for one Business Digital Voice line | – Up to a $1,500 credit to switch, with a 2-year term. |
| 500/500 Mbps | Symmetrical speeds for high-volume streaming, secure, and reliable data transfers and backup. | Up to 500/500 Mbps | $129/mo. Plus taxes, fees, and equipment charges. | – 2-year price guarantee – Unlimited data – No activation fee – 30-day money-back guarantee on a 2-year term – +$20/month for one Business Digital Voice line | – Up to a $1,500 credit to switch, with a 2-year term. |
| Gigabit Connection | For businesses needing a high-capacity connection for large file transfers or video conferences. | Up to 940/880 Mbps | $249/mo. Plus taxes, fees, and equipment charges. | – 3-year price guarantee – Unlimited data – No activation fee – Router rental fee included – 30-day money-back guarantee on a 2-year term – +$20/month for one Business Digital Voice line | – Up to a $1,500 credit to switch, with a 2-year term – Save $80/mo with a Business Unlimited Pro smartphone plan. |
Verizon 5G Business Internet
Harness the transformative power of 5G for your business with Verizon’s dedicated business internet plans. From small office setups to advanced robotics and heavy cloud applications, experience blazing-fast speeds tailored to your needs. Plus, enjoy the security of a 10-year price guarantee. Dive in to find the perfect plan that can elevate your business to new digital heights.
| Speed | Best For | Monthly Cost | Inclusions | Promotions & Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 Mbps | Small to medium office, full-office VOIP, construction sites, digital kiosks, basic guest Wi-Fi. | $69/mo (+ taxes, fees, and Economic Adjustment Charge) | – Self setup – 10-year price guarantee – Verizon-provided router (monthly payment plan) – 30-day satisfaction guarantee | – Up to $1500 switch cover – Save $40/mo with Business Unlimited smartphone plan – Online Only: Get one month on us |
| 200 Mbps | Heavy video conferencing, webinar hosting, cloud-based apps, high-volume guest Wi-Fi. | $99/mo (+ taxes, fees, and Economic Adjustment Charge) | – Self setup – 10-year price guarantee – Verizon-provided router (monthly payment plan) – 30-day satisfaction guarantee | – Up to $1500 switch cover – Save $40/mo with Business Unlimited smartphone plan – Online Only: Get one month on us |
| 400 Mbps | Heavy cloud app usage, streaming media, advanced devices, and robotics. | $199/mo (+ taxes, fees, and Economic Adjustment Charge) | – Professional install – 10-year price guarantee – Verizon-provided router – 30-day satisfaction guarantee | – Up to $1500 switch cover – Save $40/mo with Business Unlimited Pro smartphone plan – Online Only: Get one month on us |
Business Digital Voice (VoIP)
- Experience a dependable, feature-packed Voice over IP system without compromising ease of use. No matter where you are, stay linked and efficiently manage those crucial calls with dynamic mobile and desktop apps.
- Enjoy the flexibility of unlimited nationwide calling and the convenience of mobile apps that keep you productive. Plus, the little game-changers like automatic call forwarding, voicemail directly to your inbox, and seamless call transfers across devices start at just $25/mo.
One Talk
- Tailored for today’s dynamic work environment, One Talk is the next-gen mobile-first business phone solution. With over 50 features, this system ensures you’re always connected, minimizing those missed call moments.
- Collaborate effortlessly with conference calling and shift seamlessly across devices. Are you curious about pricing? Just reach out to their customer service team.
Webex Calling
- Step into the future with a virtual PBX VoIP business system. It’s all about collaborating smoothly, managing expenses effectively, and simplifying business operations.
- Install effortlessly over your current broadband service, savor the benefits of pay-as-you-go services, and manage everything with user-friendly tools. Plus, you’re always prepared with built-in disaster recovery and business continuity features.
Network Coverage and Performance
Navigating the vast landscape of wireless connectivity can be a journey, but when it comes to Verizon, there’s a lot to unpack. Let’s dive deep into what makes Verizon stand out in network coverage and performance. Grab your gear; it’s time for a closer look!
Analysis of Verizon’s Network Reach
I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “Can you hear me now?” It’s Verizon’s famous tagline and speaks to their extensive network coverage. Let’s dive into what makes them a standout in this arena.
Verizon boasts one of the largest 4G LTE networks in the United States. They cover an impressive 98% of the U.S. population. That’s not all – they’re also constantly expanding their 5G Ultra Wideband network. As of mid-2021, it reached over 70 cities nationwide.
Here is the coverage area for Verizon:
Speed and Reliability Tests
Moving on from the coverage area, let’s talk about speed and reliability because what good is coverage if your internet crawls at a snail’s pace? I’ve got some interesting stats for you here as well.
In independent tests conducted by RootMetrics, Verizon consistently ranked first for overall network performance among all major carriers from late 2013 through mid-2021. Impressive, right?
For download speeds specifically:
- In urban areas, average speeds ranged between 32-66 Mbps
- In rural areas, the average dropped slightly to around 25-58 Mbps
Comparison with Other Service Providers
When diving into wireless service, a clear picture of what’s on offer is essential. Let’s examine the key differences between Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile: their coverage, pricing, data speeds, and overall customer feedback.
Coverage
- Verizon: With 4G LTE coverage that reaches 70% of the U.S., Verizon offers extensive reliability.
- AT&T: While they provide coverage similar to Verizon, their 5G network extends to 29% of the U.S., surpassing Verizon’s 12%.
- T-Mobile: While they offer fast data speeds, their rural coverage doesn’t match Verizon’s.
Pricing and Plans
- Verizon: Their plans are priced higher, with offerings like the Unlimited Plus, which provides unlimited data and 30GB of mobile hotspot for $65/month.
- AT&T: They offer more data for a competitive price. Their Unlimited Extra plan, priced at $75/month, includes unlimited data and a 15GB mobile hotspot.
- T-Mobile: Their plans are more affordable than Verizon’s, but there’s a limited variety.
Data Speeds
- Verizon: In 2023, they lead in 5G performance, offering fast data speeds.
- AT&T: Their data speeds are competitive, offering higher data caps than Verizon.
- T-Mobile: Their data speeds are faster in urban areas compared to Verizon.
Perks
- Verizon: They have a range of customizable plan options for their users.
- AT&T: Their plans include more data, which benefits users who consume a lot of data.
- T-Mobile: Their fast data speeds benefit users who prioritize internet connection speed.
Customer Satisfaction
- Verizon: Users appreciate the coverage but have mentioned customer service and pricing concerns.
- AT&T: Coverage is a strong point, but there are mentions of customer service needing improvement.
- T-Mobile: Users are satisfied with the pricing and data speeds but note a lack of coverage in rural areas.
Customer Service Evaluation
Let’s dive right into the customer service aspect of Verizon Telecom. It’s pretty well known that good customer service can be a game changer when it comes to choosing a telecom provider. I’ve spent quite some time researching and gathering data on this area, so let’s break it down.
- BestCompany.com (4 stars):
- Here, Verizon is shining with a solid 4-star rating. It’s a good indication that there’s a bunch of happy campers enjoying Verizon’s services. The typo in the total reviews might need a fix, but it’s a smaller crowd voicing their opinion than other platforms.
- ConsumerAffairs (1.4/5):
- Over at ConsumerAffairs, the scenario flips. With a rating of 1.4 out of 5 from a hefty 7,882 reviews, there’s some room for Verizon to roll up its sleeves and address the concerns causing this dip in ratings.
- Trustpilot (1.3/5):
- Trustpilot echoes a similar tune as ConsumerAffairs, with a 1.3 rating from 5,010 folks voicing their experiences. It’s a nudge for Verizon to tune into these channels and amplify their service game.
- Reviews.org (4.5/5):
- On a positive note, Verizon scores a high five with a 4.5 out of 5 rating on Reviews.org. Though the total number of reviews plays hide-and-seek (N/A), this high score reflects good reviewer satisfaction.
Positive Feedback
- Reliability: A two-decade-long Verizon customer praises their consistently reliable service over the years, emphasizing the seamless streaming experience.
- Employee Excellence: A visit to the Verizon store in Clarksville, Ga, introduced one client to an employee who demonstrated remarkable patience and expertise, especially when handling a compromised email issue. Her dedication was noted not once but twice.
- Helpful Chat: Another customer found solace in the online chat feature, where a Verizon representative helped clarify international travel questions and saved Ann $80.
- Return & Support: A customer with Verizon since 1998 shared an interesting journey. They temporarily switched to Mint Mobile for budgetary reasons, only to realize the grass wasn’t greener on the other side. They expressed gratitude to a kind and competent Verizon agent who assisted them in navigating the tricky process of porting their original number back from Mint to Verizon.
Negative Feedback
- Undelivered Order: A customer expressed disappointment when they tried to capitalize on a special offer on Verizon’s website to replace an older iPhone. The new iPhone 15 Pro never arrived, and the advised solution was unsatisfactory, leading to considerations of changing carriers.
- Shipping & Stock Issues: A client upgraded their account, spending $1800 on hardware. However, shipping delays, miscommunication, and unavailability of stock created frustration. The customer contemplated using Verizon’s 30-day cancellation policy.
- Misleading Contract: Another user felt trapped in a contract they didn’t want, with the seller allegedly providing misleading information. Their attempts to resolve the issue with customer service only compounded their problems.
- Unauthorized Charges: Trust issues arose for an 8-year Verizon patron. They experienced unauthorized service additions and inconsistent billing. After switching carriers, they faced another hurdle when a paid debt was sent to collections, negatively affecting their credit score.
- Outdated Network & Practices: A former client characterized Verizon’s network as outdated, accusing it of adopting monopolistic tendencies and not prioritizing customer complaints.
Pros and Cons
Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of Verizon Telecom. As with any service provider, there are pros and cons.
Advantages
- Network coverage is one of its biggest selling points. I’ve found them to have one of the most extensive networks in the U.S., offering 4G LTE coverage to about 98% of the country. You can count on a strong signal in a bustling city or rural area.
- Internet speed. It’s another area where Verizon truly shines. They offer some seriously fast speeds across their range of plans – perfect for those heavy data users who love streaming, gaming, or just surfing the web at a lightning-fast pace.
Disadvantages
Not everything is rosy, though; Verizon Telecom has downsides worth noting.
- Pricing structure. Compared to competitors like T-Mobile and Sprint, Verizon tends to be pricier – especially if you want unlimited data plans tailored towards families.
- Customer Service Experience. While my personal interactions have generally been positive, I’ve seen mixed reviews online – and we all know how important quality customer support can be when dealing with tech issues!
Innovations and Technology
Regarding technological advancements, Verizon has consistently been at the forefront. Their network is a prime example of their commitment to innovation. Just consider their super-fast 5G technology. With this, they’re not just making waves in the telecom sector; they’re creating tsunamis.
- Verizon’s Intelligent Edge Network for a moment. It’s like an adrenaline shot to your device’s performance when you need it most. This game-changer provides enhanced bandwidth, lower latency, and increased security for all your data needs.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in Verizon’s operations. This isn’t just some fancy tech jargon thrown around, folks; these tools have significantly improved network reliability and customer experience.
- AI aids in predicting potential network disruptions before they occur.
- ML helps tailor personalized experiences based on individual usage patterns.
- Internet of Things (IoT). They’ve capitalized on IoT technology by offering services like asset tracking solutions and smart city applications. Can you believe we’re living in an era where our devices communicate with each other? It feels straight out of a sci-fi movie!
References
Studies and Reports:
- Opensignal’s Mobile Network Experience Report for the US. https://www.opensignal.com/reports/2023/07/usa/mobile-network-experience
- Statista’s Market share of wireless subscriptions held by carriers in the U.S. https://www.statista.com/statistics/199359/market-share-of-wireless-carriers-in-the-us-by-subscriptions/
Organizations:
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC). https://www.fcc.gov/
- CTIA – The Wireless Association. https://www.ctia.org/
Website Resources:
- Wireless Week. https://www.wirelessweek.com/
- Fierce Wireless. https://www.fiercewireless.com/
- Light Reading. https://www.lightreading.com/
- Verizon Official Website. https://www.verizon.com/business/?cmp=vcgref
- FCC Arcgis Maps. https://fcc.maps.arcgis.com/
Video References:
Flying Canvas Productions
twenty7 Technology Group
Marcus Stone
Stetson Doggett