Walmart Straight Talk Review: Is the Wireless Service Any Good?

Updated
Lou Carlozo
BY:
Contributing Writer
Straight Talk Review

Awhile back, we asked our readers to review Walmart's Straight Talk Wireless service, which is almost unbelievably cheap. And now that we're moving further away from carrier contracts, it seems even more important to discuss whether these plans are worthwhile.

We've updated our feature on the details for Straight Talk, and we hope existing customers continue to weigh in on their thoughts. Has the service helped you save money on your cell phone bill? How do you feel about the customer service?

Below is a basic Straight Talk Wireless review, culled from plan details as well as reader comments. So, what is Straight Talk and is it any good?

Straight Talk Wireless: How It Works

Straight Talk is a month-to-month wireless service sold by Walmart and supported by TracFone. The latter is a company that claims to have "coverage in 99.6% of the cellular populations" and is contracted with major carriers, to purportedly "bring the same level of coverage through the same cell towers." A representative from Straight Talk also claims that it provides service in "more ZIP codes than any other single carrier."

What Makes Straight Talk Wireless Great

The up-front price of $45 per month includes unlimited minutes, texts, and data. In the past, users who went over 2.5GB of LTE data per month were then throttled to 2G speeds, but now that limit has been expanded to 5GB of data per month. However, some users have sworn up and down that they experience throttling before the limit, although there are many factors that could contribute to that perception. In order to take advantage of the 4G LTE speeds, you must have a 4G LTE capable device and purchase one of Straight Talk's 4G LTE SIM cards.

Still, Straight Talk is by far the cheapest plan that allows for so much data per month. (T-Mobile, for example, charges $50 per month for 1GB.) The service also includes numerous high-end handsets that you can port over to the service, or purchase directly through Straight Talk. However, it doesn't appear to allow financing for any models at this time, which is a downside for anyone who doesn't want to pay the full-price for a high-end phone upfront. There are many lower-end models available though at more affordable prices.

SEE ALSO: Switching to Straight Talk: Which Phones Will Work?

For folks who want to save the most money, it makes sense to use your current phone rather than buying a new one, and Straight Talk allows new customers to use their current GSM or CMDA smartphone on the Straight Talk network. GSM phones have SIM cards and must be unlocked to operate on Straight Talk's compatible frequencies, 850MHz and 1900MHz. CDMA phones, on the other hand, require additional registration and activation to verify compatibility with Straight Talk. For more details on Straight Talk cell phones, check out our guide.

Straight Talk Can Save You $180 a Year — If You Need 5GB

Compared to the plans now available from the big four carriers of Sprint, T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon, Straight Talk offers a lot more data for your money. Sprint charges $15 more per month for unlimited data, while T-Mobile charges $25 more per month for 5GB. However, if you don't need as much data, these carriers offer cheaper plans as well. Verizon, for example, offers 3GB for $45, which is the same cost as Straight Talk.

If you need a fair amount of data, then Straight Talk can save you $180 or more per year on your service bill. But if you're nowhere near 5GB of data per month, then there are other comparably priced options with potentially more reliable carriers. It's important to be attentive to your needs and compare plans.

Straight Talk Controversy: Coverage, Data Plans, Customer Service

The clear-cut savings aside, there are unmissable customer complaints about Straight Talk coverage and the throttling of its data plans. While the service touts an extensive coverage map, a common complaint amongst our own users is the strength of signal.

But perhaps the most focused point of contention amongst DealNews readers pertained to Straight Talk's customer service, or lack thereof. From the inability to even reach a customer service rep to a representative's failure to address a number of issues in a timely manner, we now understand some of the stresses involved in having to deal with Straight Talk Wireless customer service. As such, we want to offer some tips and techniques for reaching Straight Talk Wireless customer service and prompting the department to resolve your issues.

How to Reach Straight Talk Wireless Customer Service

Thanks to GetHuman.com, you can reach a Straight Talk Wireless customer service rep in less time. Dial 877-430-2355. Press 1 for English, then press press 5; 5; and 2. (A customer service rep in our comments also noted the following number as well: 1-888-442-5096.)

Notice how we didn't say, "you can reach a Straight Talk Wireless customer service rep in no time"? That's because the average wait time is 30 minutes when the customer service desk is open Monday through Sunday from 8 am to 11:45 pm ET.

Other Ways to Reach Straight Talk Wireless Customer Service

Our research shows that Straight Talk does some monitoring of social media channels and comment boards (and our own comment section below), so a rep may reach out to help address a complaint in response to a posted comment. If Twitter and Facebook aren't for you, we found an email address: ST.CorpResolutionTeam@straighttalk.com that may be helpful in getting questions answered. When reporting an issue with phone service, it's important to include your phone number and the serial number of your phone in the email.

Straight Talk Wireless won't win any awards for its customer service. Likewise we can't predict how much more restrictive Straight Talk's — or any carrier's — "unlimited" plans might get over time, or how hard it might be to resolve any problems you'll have with your new (or old) device on its network. But it's worth noting that Straight Talk's LTE coverage and continued fixed monthly service cost remain a serious consideration for budget-minded shoppers.

Readers, what do you think of Straight Talk Wireless service? Do you have any further pros or cons to add to our review? Please add to the discussion in our comments below.

Related DealNews Features:
Lou Carlozo
Contributing Writer

Lou Carlozo is a DealNews contributing writer. He covers personal finance for Reuters Wealth. Prior to that he was the Managing Editor of WalletPop.com, and a veteran columnist at the Chicago Tribune.
DealNews may be compensated by companies mentioned in this article. Please note that, although prices sometimes fluctuate or expire unexpectedly, all products and deals mentioned in this feature were available at the lowest total price we could find at the time of publication (unless otherwise specified).

Comments

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276 comments
OrangePeel
Straight Talk is a fraud. They advertise "unlimited 4G data", but
it is really very limited and heavily throttled. Today, my data
rate started at 130 KB/sec, but after a while they cut it down
to 33 KB/sec, then to 20, then 18, then 12, and now it's 9.
All of yesterday, it was 5, and didn't improve until 11:30PM.
They even throttle at 2AM when you have no competition for
bandwidth.
What is most maddening is that you can start a download and
it says, "2 hours to finish." But halfways through, they cut
the data rate in half, so that it's still 2 hours to finish.
Then halfways through that, they cut the data rate in half
again, so it's still 2 hours to finish. It's like trying
to walk to the horizon. The goal keeps receding in front
of you as you approach it.
It is impossible to watch YouTube videos at such slow data
rates, or even to listen to streaming music. It starts and
stops and stutters, and takes up to an hour to download a
5-minute video.
Find an honest phone company.
October 17, 2018
svgone24
I am very upset and but not surprised with straight talks horrible customer service, not only will they not help you at all they show blatant disregard and respect for their customers by yelling and swearing and/or hanging up on you, I had actual bonifide proof of the problem I was dealing with and they still refused to help us . I have been a customer of them for a year and every month like clock work I had problems purchasing minutes for my phone and they never went 30 days either they always cut me off after 26 or 27 days. Absolutely the worst customer service of ANY company I ever had to deal with so they get top honors....Good job Straight Talk....you just lost another customer. Oh yea....the phones suck too....seriously they really do...in one year I ended up needing to buy 4 different phones....
June 9, 2018
Sll
Strighttalk is would lie to you just to avoid reimbursement.
Bad experience
Incompetent customer support
June 4, 2018
jackisnothappy
These phones are horrible. I have had one for a while and i'm dumping this crap. I have contacted them MULTIPLE TIMES and all i ever get is the same thing. Turn your phone off and you know the rest. This last time i contacted them today because the phone as usual will not load a page or do anything as far as that goes, i was told to take it back to the store because it was a BYOP phone. I bought this crap with STRAIGHT TALK PACKAGING. It's their phone, but they say its not theirs and they won't fix it so take it back. Worst phone company ever and i hope they go broke soon........ Never again!!
May 23, 2018
iseefrance
Poor phone service, poor quality refurbished phones, worst customer service ever. Impossible to communicate with customer service people, they never do what they say they are going to do " send you an email within 24 hours" "send you a replacement phone" "give you a refund". They simply say " they have no record" . I consistently gave them second chances over the course of 2.5 years and there was hardly a month where I wasn't extremely frustrated with their poor service. Look elsewhere for a cheap phone service this one is not worth the headache.
May 9, 2018
tracfonesucs
i just spent a half hour online w/tracfon. i got the company line about service, coverage, signal strength etc multiple times. i live in the philly area and have a walmart/tracfone plan which is supposed to have really strong coverage/service in the area. their service coverage stinks. my phone loses service 5 to 6 times a day where i have to restart it. myfamily was good w/t-mobile providing service but i would strongly recommend you stay away from myfamilymobile w/tracfone providing service. its ludicrous that they can't provide a strong signal in the philly metro area. stay away from their service.
February 18, 2018
Bbrostek
6 mth ago I bought a att based iPhone 5s. Went to Walmart bought byop SIM card pack. Inserted sim and downloaded via WiFi went to ST activation site5 mins later phone all good. 4mth ago loved service and iPhone so much bought a Verizon linked iPhone 8. Went to Walmart bought byop sim pack went to ST site 5 mins later phone is good. Just follow the step by step instructions. I buy the 55$ unlimited plan. Have been in 3 states with no issues. I stream Hulu,netflix, YouTube and listen to SiriusXM for Howard Stern. I am a power user. No issues at all. No throttling. Why? Because I subscribed to the 55 dollar unlimited plan not the 45$ which is 10gig high speed then 2g. Called customer service once. Brief hold and speedy resolution. I love this service. Saving money and enjoying my iPhone. Why? Because I know what I bought. I followed the instructions. I subscribed to the correct plan for me. I guarantee if you use this formula you too will save money and be enjoying your smart phone.
January 1, 2018
Pooncraving
So I just want to start out by saying, no I'm not on here to rage or vent. I am truly disgusted by what strait talk calls phone service. I've been using their service for about a year now and I must say it has been a terrible experience. I'm not talking about just the terrible data service, their phone service is absolutely broken. I have to literally (and I'm not just pulling this outta my ass) call about five to six times before it goes through, not to mention incoming calls, and that's with four bars mind you. And their data plans are a joke. I've been paying the $50 plan with 9 gigs of "high speed" data then after that is gone its unlimited 3g, and let me tell you, it's the most frustrating feeling when you've got four bars and high speed data and a YouTube video takes ten minutes to load and also buffers all the way through. So my suggestion to anyone that is planning on signing up, don't. Just save yourself the frustration and pay out the extra cause it is worth every penny.
December 30, 2017
Bo42
I've been a straight talk customer for two years. Using an activation kit I was able to set up the phone myself quickly and smoothly, and was happy with the cell coverage at a great price point.

However, I recently attempted to purchase a new phone from straight talk's website which has been a very bad experience. I placed the order on the website and received confirmation, but later found there was no record of my order in straight talk's system. I was on the phone with customer service for around 40 minutes and no one could track down my order information, and eventually they recommended placing the order again. The price for the item had increased, and they said they couldn't honor the price on my original order or confirmation page I had received, and that I would have to pay the higher price though the cause was a straight talk system error. Though polite on the phone, they were not able to resolve any concerns nor were they able honor information on their website.
November 29, 2017
freakinpissed
ok so FAIR WARNING TO ANYONE THINKING STRAIGHTTALK IS A GOOD IDEA, um ITS NOT. i am a stressed high school student with no wifi and LOTS of projects so pretty much i NEED good data and this pos "unlimited data" bit has be BeNt. i hate straighttalk more than i hate my ex. spend ur 55 dollars literally anywhere else. get a puppy. but it food and cute toys and clothes. i'd rather give my money away to a pretend hobo than pay for one MORE. MONTH. of this hot garbage of a phone service. what a scam. it's over. cancelled. i literally cannot deaaaaaaal. i have a test that literally DEFINES MY WHOLE LIFE TOMORROW (jk just if i graduate or not) and i can't even get a FREAKIN youtube video to load. i can't even PROCRASTINATE on twitter bc that leads to staring at GREY blocks where my relatable memes should be. so here i am. bye.
November 29, 2017
LBell1960
I bought an Iphone 6 on Black Friday. Transferred my Verizon number. It is Monday and after several calls and chats to Straighttalk, I still CANNOT receive calls. Last agent told me to return it to the store. I am not sure they will take back an opened phone not to mention the 45.00 card I already bought. Very disappointed.
November 27, 2017
Surrab
Buyer beware. Your bill will never be due on the same day. You lose a day each month. What a ripoff...never heard of such a thing. Not to mention the Trac phone I got would not ring when someone called. Customer service was notified and would not send me a new phone. Stay away from Walmart straight talk phones!!
November 9, 2017
Surrab
My bill was always due a different day of month. Every month it was a day earlier. What a ripoff!!! Never heard of such a thing.
Not to mention the Trac phone I got would not ring when someone called. Customer service was notified and would not send me a new phone. Stay away from Walmart straight talk phones!!
November 9, 2017
Sc
Their customer service is the worst. Google will give you more answers then them. I have talked to probably ten different techs in the past month about my voicemail icon and the voicemail alert staying on constantly despite no messages. They blamed my phone even though it worked fine for six months prior to this. I managed to get Apple to give me a new phone under warranty due to Bluetooth and overheating issues. Set that new phone up not from backup losing everything and had the same issue. I told them something was wrong in their settings. They denied it but managed to change the voicemail language to Spanish from English and did not know how to change it back. They denied it despite it being English prior to the call. After googling it myself, I managed to fix that issue along with not being able to send photos to Android phones which they also couldnot tell me how to fix.

I am switching back to ATT since they now have a prepaid no contract plan cheaper than ST.
October 29, 2017
Silvinogu
I ad straight talk phone service for 8 months. Within the first 6 months there data was cut off 2 a week even though I had still had some to burn 3g or more. And in which you would have to call there customer service up to get it fixed. Trust me me it gets aggravating. Now for these last two months my data only stay working for 10-15min at a time then I would have to periodically turn off the phone and restart this phone. I'm done with straight talk for good there service sucks don't waste your time.
October 8, 2017
sgfsteelers
Part 3:

It's also gotten really old to have to argue with the reps when they want you to remove the battery. The battery on a Gal S7 is not removable, but they will get mad at you when you won't remove it! Just like the woman got mad at me when I was home alone & couldn't read the SIM card #s to her. She told me I should try harder or get my partner to read them. I wasn't sure which she didn't understand - the numbers were literally too small for my eyes or I was home alone... I told her she was being rude.

If you tell them they're being rude, instead of saying, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be" or similar, I get, "NO, I'M NOT!" & yes, in all caps! I let the woman know I was not happy & she told me, "It sucks to be you!" I do have chat records! Sadly, not any worse than AT&T though...
September 20, 2017
sgfsteelers
It's also gotten really old to have to argue with the reps when they want you to remove the battery. The battery on a Gal S7 is not removable, but they will get mad at you when you won't remove it! Just like the woman got mad at me when I was home alone & couldn't read the SIM card #s to her. She told me I should try harder or get my partner to read them. I wasn't sure which she didn't understand - the numbers were literally too small for my eyes or I was home alone... I told her she was being rude.

If you tell them they're being rude, instead of saying, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be" or similar, I get, "NO, I'M NOT!" & yes, in all caps! I let the woman know I was not happy & she told me, "It sucks to be you!" I do have chat records! Sadly, not any worse than AT&T though...
September 20, 2017
sgfsteelers
Part 2:

I was supposed to get it in 2 days. When I called them on the almost 2 weeks, they rudely said, "We told you 2 days shipping - once it's shipped!" since it had taken them a week to ship it. Fed Ex comes the same time every day. It was the exact time my husband had physical therapy & since it was his foot, I had to drive him. They actually told me they didn't care when I asked them to make an exception & that I'd get it when I got it!

I now wish I hadn't! Important settings are grayed out, so you can't fix it. My son is a tech guru that can unlock phones, but this is locked beyond his capabilities. It's more locked than any phone I've ever used & YOU CAN NOT TAKE IT TO ANY OTHER CARRIER. Please read that again so you can make an informed decision. You can not use this phone anywhere else even after paying $600+ in full. I lose data randomly & I haven't been able to send a text in 4 months. We've both called & used chat to try to fix it. No help!

Stay tuned!
September 20, 2017
sgfsteelers
ketsuban25: You are misinformed & more than a little rude to say someone lied. It depends on where you live. Most places can NOT pick up at the depot, have it left with a neighbor, or schedule a different delivery time even if you will sign a release. This is set by ST, not Fed Ex. It's also possible that someone at Fed Ex let you do something not approved by ST & ST didn't find out.
September 20, 2017
sgfsteelers
This will be posted in parts due to a character limit as there's a lot of important info to warn people about so they can make an informed decision. Part 1:

The service is as good as AT&T, but FFS do NOT buy a phone from them!!!! I seriously can't stress that enough. I have had nothing but trouble since I bought my Gal S7 from them in April 2017. This is not a cheap $20 flip phone. This is a good quality phone. 5 phones in the family. EVERYBODY bought theirs elsewhere. They have never had any issues in the 3 years we've had service. We have a 2 month old Gal S7 Active that was $239 on ebay. Works fine. Why, oh why didn't I get mine there?

& the guy that said not being able to pick things up at the Fed Ex depot when you missed a delivery "is a lie" is not only misinformed, but rude to say it. Most areas they do not let you pick it up no matter if it's a $600 phone or a .99 SIM card.

Stay tuned...
September 20, 2017
Joblowcheesehead
I've had nothing but good things to say about ST. I never call customer service.I've always went online if I needed to figure something out which was only a couple times in the 9 or 10 years I've been with them. I've always had really fast lte speeds everywhere I've lived(Mississippi,Louisiana)I've always used at&t phones with the at&t byop sim except once for a few months with T-Mobile but that worked really well too so I just don't see why all the bad reviews or complaints because it's just been a really great experience and I'll probably be with them until I die unless something better comes along. I see now by reading the comments that maybe ST isn't the best way to go for people that don't know how to set up a phone because 9 out of 10 complaints is about customer service and a few about signal problems. If I lived somewhere at&t or T-Mobile wasn't good I would probably still use ST with Verizon.Wish I could help you guys that are having problems.
September 5, 2017
Joblowcheesehead
Don't know why all the bad reviews because I've had nothing but good things to say about ST. I never call customer service though I've always went online if I needed to figure something out which was only a couple times in the 9 or 10 years I've been with them. I've always had really fast lte speeds everywhere I've lived like Natchez, Mccomb, Franklinton, and now Covington(that's Mississippi and Louisiana for those of you who didn't know). I've also always used at&t phones with the at&t byop sim except once for a few months with T-Mobile but that worked really well too so I just don't see why all the bad reviews or complaints because it's just been a really great experience and I'll probably be with them until I die unless something better comes along.
September 4, 2017
Jbliz
Go to boost mobile much better service customer service actually speaks English and they won't lie to u like I was by straight talk worst service ever
June 19, 2017
Bct2000
Just the fact that they are connected with Walmart should make one suspicious."..the average wait time is 30 minutes.." I have worked in several help desks and that would be unacceptable. It sounds like the ST service desk is very poorly run and unprepared for the call volume they are handling.
June 10, 2017
Marlenat90
If you're looking for a new cell phone provider I highly recommend to use straight talk as a last priority. Very poor and careless management. Don't waste your time giving these idiots your money.
May 5, 2017
ketsuban25
By sim card I mean plan card, typo.
April 18, 2017
ketsuban25
I read a few of the comments here and am quite surprised. I ordered a new Verizon-compatible activation kit last week and got it in like a day. It was delivered by Fedex and I wasn't in, so I went down to the depot and got it there (someone said ST wouldn't let them go to the depot to collect it, this is a lie). When my new Verizon phone arrived (unlocked and unactivated phone from eBay), I popped in the card and activated it, then added the $45 sim card. The only hiccup I had was before my phone arrived. I mistakenly thought a Network Access Code card should have been included, so I called customer service. The rep wasn't native American or English but I understood him fine and he explained I didn't need it and could call or go online to activate without the card. I saw that on the booklet afterwards and felt a bit dumb. I get great signal and fast speeds. My phone thinks it is connected to Verizon, because it is, via ST. I don't know what more anyone wants.
April 18, 2017
Bettyh3
This att wireless plan sucks in my area! MetroPCS is better. This wireless plan is slow on internet took 25 min to download Pandora can't even listen to radio it's so slow! Taking it back for a refund back to T-Mobile and metro for me!
April 15, 2017
Madysun
Straight talk is the worst . I've had them for 2 years and had nothing but problems , I try to call them and resolve the problems but it's nothing but a hassle . My mobile data hasn't been working for months and they still haven't gotten it fixed after numerous calls I just gave up
April 1, 2017
IspeakEnglish
In the last several weeks I purchased two different types of phones. The first one needed to have a new sim card sent out to get the phone working. 2 hours with "Customer Service" that could hardly speak English. After finally getting that phone working, next phone had defective equipment, 3 different service ticket numbers @ at least 2 hours per call, and still don't have the correct parts. IF you can get the phone working coverage is good, but the WORST customer service I've ever had to use. STRONGLY consider your OTHER OPTIONS before buying here.
March 6, 2017
sbennett
Horrific! STAY AWAY FROM STRAIGHT TALK! I bought two new phones from them, both turned out to be defective. Now they want me to send them in to exchange them, just a few weeks after purchasing them but it will take me up to 2( if not more) weeks to replace them. They will not have me go to Walmart to replace them, but ship the phones to them and make sure I pay the monthly cost while not being able to use their service if not I will lose my phone number. I have never in my life dealt with more rude customer service reps - yes in plural - than here. Go with anything else than Straight Talk. I learned the hard way.
March 6, 2017
Sant
Their customer service is awful and really cocky. Their English is so bad it's hard to understand them, and their god-awful rude. And you spent hours on the phone with them, just pathetic! If that's how Walmart is forget them too, we should have everybody stop shopping at Walmart till they fix it.
December 14, 2016
jrunk
Ok, so here's the deal on "Straight Talk", they are an off-shoot of Net10, which was bought up by Trac Fon long ago. I was a loyal user of Net10 for 10 years, but when they moved their customer "service" to Mexico around 2011, everything turned to crap! Since I know Net10 still has the same LACK of customer "service", I am certain Straight Talk is as bad, or WORSE after another 7 years of NOT caring about their customers.
November 28, 2016
britt58606
This used to be the only service I used, that quickly changed when I had to deal with customer service. Dealing with them is a nightmare you will get nowhere!!!! Other than that the service was good.
November 26, 2016
Terry Vanzant
Using Straighttalk was perhaps the worst experience of my life when it comes to trying to deal with the company. Most of them don't even sound like they know how to speak English and they certainly don't do not know how to help you if you have a problem, they change my phone number without notifying me and then when I tried to make my phone work they gave me the runaround sent me two different sim cards that didn't work and I finally had to change carriers my advice to anyone is to stay the hell away from this outfit! Also they would not read refund the money that they had already charged my credit card for a few days prior!take my advice and steer clear of this trash!
October 27, 2016
LLB
I used to be with ST and received very good customer service. I did not get good reception when I was out of town, so I switched to one of the major carriers. I was considering going back to ST to save some money, but after reading these comments, I think I won't make the change. If ST really is headquartered in Philippines that may explain the change in customer service. The Philippine leader is not exactly friendly to the USA.
October 24, 2016
frankgfhcgdshgrscxsfgvdzs
I've never wrote a bad review for anything. Usually I don't give a shit but this is the work customer service I've ever dealt with.
September 13, 2016
Jsale
Worse customer service in my 52 years on this earth!! I was on the phone getting nowhere and asked to speak to a manager. After another 20 minutes with the low level help desk finally got a manager who was worse. Had no technical knowledge at all. Finally got to their higher level manager who said he was the highest you could get by phone and you guessed it, he was even worse then the first two. They would not even consider looking into my issue or concern they just keep speaking like little birds repeating everything over and over. Never again will I ever deal with such incompetent inconsiderate, untrained and rude people. They should all have been fired but they are straight talks cream of the crop. Good luck to anyone who chooses this company you have been warned. Look at the other review and you will see for yourself. To honest I would rather pay slightly higher costs and know that if I have issues they can be taken care of. Not these people !!!!
August 30, 2016
Jean70
I don't know if you are aware but if you check BBB you will find that Straight Talk lost a lawsuit due to the issue that a lot have with them throttling back on your data. You may be able to be reimbursed for any "mistakes" that they say they have not made. Just thought anyone would like an FYI on this, hope this will work for many of you.
August 8, 2016
nds76
I have been a Straight Talk customer for a few years, on my 3rd phone. Anyways they are much cheaper for what you get with the major carriers, however customer service is lacking. Simply put, you get what you pay for. When you get someone on the line they speak broken English. Communication between them and the customer is key for good service. About the coverage...it's decent, however since ST phones don't roam you cannot use extended networks and you may end up in an area with zero coverage. I am currently considering switching to Verizon.
August 6, 2016
ihatestraighttalk
STRAIGHT TALK CUSTOMER SERVICE IS HORRIBLE !!!!!!!! I HATE IT SWITCHING TO T-MOBILE
August 4, 2016
Dimmucide
BEWARE TO BUYERS
I called to inform them that they had made a mistake with my account. They were saying I used my high speed data limit when I had just put a card on two weeks prior. They immidatly after starting to talk to me started giving me attitude when I told them I was looking at the data level on my phone and I had only used 2 GB (as I don't use a whole lot of data with my crappy phone). I finally told the guy that there's no way I used up 5g of data and if they didn't get it figured out I was going to go to T-Mobile and he said ok that's fine. I then told him I wanted his customer service number because I was going to call the corporate office (its impossible to find the number because they don't want to hear the way their company is run) and let them know that their customer service is treating people this way and he told me "go ahead and call them, I don't care.And started laughing. I asked to speak to a manager and he hung up on me. Straigh talk isstealing from people.
July 27, 2016
stsucks
This is the middle section that did not post earlier cont......They say i need another phone to check it but are unwilling to send one or try other ways. I dont have another phone or anyone around me. It still dont call out and they say after 30 days i cant return phone. i just renewed 45 dollars and it messed up. Ive had hell since december. This company is in the phillipenes and they are hard to understand and arent no help at all. They are rude and have hung up on me several times. What a headache. And what an ordeal. I got a few more weeks of sevice if they dint fix it im leaving i have stopped direct pament already. I will be going somewhere else. I would like to report to bbb and the public utilities commision and my attorney. They also always say i use more data than i do i use about half and they cut me back. I thought they already was sued for this.
July 24, 2016
stsucks
Continued..... If anyone starts a class action lawsuit against these people then let it be known in contacts and who to contact and i will be on board. I have all sim cards and envelopes and everything. In my opinion st has their money and dont care at all about my problem. I lost many costly and important calls due to this problem. Also i hear st is owned by walmart. So i would be on board with any lawsuit against these corporations. Can you hear me now.
July 24, 2016
stsucks
They say i need another phone to check it but are unwilling to send one or try other ways. I dont have another phone or anyone around me. It still dont call out and they say after 30 days i cant return phone. i just renewed 45 dollars and it messed up. Ive had hell since december. This company is in the phillipenes and they are hard to understand and arent no help at all. They are rude and have hung up on me several times. What a headache. And what an ordeal. I got a few more weeks of sevice if they dint fix it im leaving i have stopped direct pament already. I will be going somewhere else. I would like to report to bbb and the public utilities commision and my attorney. They also always say i use more data than i do i use about half and they cut me back. I thought they already was sued for this. Continued...
July 24, 2016
stsucks
I have been st customer 3 and a half years. This past december my note wouldnt get on internet. I called st a few times they got my emie number and it still didnt work. The next morning my phone said no sim. After 3 years now a problem. I called st they will send a new sim. The wrong one came. Phone wouldnt work. They kept sending me sims like they were passing out candy but they kept sending the wrong one i have 8 sim cards from that time in a matter of almost 3 months. They finally told me since im a bring my own phone customer that they cant get my apn setting right that i needed a st branded phone and it was made to work together. They also told me verizon had3 towers here and att only have 1. So i went with verizon and bought a 500 dollar galaxy s5 at walmart. It worked 2 months. Now it wont call out or recieve calls everything else seems to work. I called st every day all day since tuesday. They say its provisioned right but i cant call. Continued..
July 24, 2016
stsucks
I have been st customer 3 and a half years. This past december my note wouldnt get on internet. I called st a few times they got my emie number and it still didnt work. The next morning my phone said no sim. After 3 years now a problem. I called st they will send a new sim. The wrong one came. Phone wouldnt work. They kept sending me sims like they were passing out candy but they kept sending the wrong one i have 8 sim cards from that time in a matter of almost 3 months. They finally told me since im a bring my own phone customer that they cant get my apn setting right that i needed a st branded phone and it was made to work together. They also told me verizon had3 towers here and att only have 1. So i went with verizon and bought a 500 dollar galaxy s5 at walmart. It worked 2 months. Now it wont call out or recieve calls everything else seems to work. Cont....
July 24, 2016
NoWayST
If you bring an unlocked phone from Europe or presumably other locales to this service, beware. Spent hours on phone speaking to CSRs, who all stated that my phone should work fine. Tried several different SIM cards based on CSR input, but none worked ("Device not recognized?" An unlocked iPhone) ST might work for some, especially people who are willing (?) to spend hours on phone with CSRs to resolve problems. Never had this problem trying to use the same or primary phone abroad. And have never heard of similar problems from those who used alt services in US on their foreign bought phones when visiting. Agree that most problems start and end with CSRs - would be better if they trained WM employees to do setup and activation. Most people don't want to be bothered with that, even techies. As a final (snarky) note, I don't know anyone who considers being a cell phone techie to be one of their life's ambitions, so avoid this service if your ambitions lie elsewhere.
July 18, 2016
Oldfatfella
As a fairly heavy data user, I switched up to the $55/month plan so I'd have 10 GB data instead of 5 GB/month. Previously I've used more than 5GB but never 10 GB. Now a bit less than halfway thru the month (by billing period) Straight Talk sends me an SMS saying I've used 10.25GB of data and will have to have 2G service the remainder of the billing period. I chatted with a straight talk rep on their chat line and was told that though my phone shows I've used 6.8 GB of data in this billing period ( I check usage more than weekly) they show I've used 10.25 GB due to the data settings on my phone. I got the data settings from their HELP technicians. Chat operator said I'd just have to live with it. Not happy. Will investigate another provider.
July 14, 2016
gurwen
My Verizon contract ran out and I decided I would go prepaid. Because of where we live, I really needed to stick with the Verizon coverage/towers and so Straight Talk was my choice. Or so I thought. On their website they say they'll send you a free SIM card, so I ordered that. It never came. I called back twice. The first time the rep said he reordered it and gave me an order number. Still no SIM card, so I think OK, I'll just buy the kit. Silly me. When I tried to order the kit it came up and said my phone was already in the system. Called back again and after great effort reached a human. She put me on hold for 15 minutes and never returned to the phone. Actually, I feel like this initial horrible customer service was a gift that saved me from switching over to Straight Talk. I'm done with them before I even started.
July 12, 2016
Diehardlinux
The worst prepaid cellular provider from my experience. Number was high jacked and ported to another carrier. Plus there is no security.
June 15, 2016
Zigstech
Lets keep it simple. 8 hours on the phone with straight talk associates. 3 different associates said phone was defective, I contacted apple support and they seen no issue. Finally after the last hour and a half on phone, said this is not acceptable and need to speak with manager. I got passed around and finally they agreed to contact Verizon the carrier for my straight talk contract. Somehow they were magically able to fix problem in no time at all. Good luck to those that need to call customer support
June 14, 2016
madashell
Don't dare give these crooks your bank acct # or card #-always buy the refill card elsewhere so you can quit when they screw you.Half of my data disappeared while my hotspot was powered down for a week after a reserve refill.They have no records to back them up-so sorry-you lose !
May 26, 2016
Oldsouth
Also the other major complaint on this board I see is about the phones. I have no idea what they are like. Just buy an unlocked GSM device and order the att sim card. If you buy a mid to low tier junk phone that's on you. Yeah a decent phone is going to cost money...they always have. Be prepared to spend an avg of 500 on a decent unlocked new phone. There are cheaper options like nexus or oneplus that are great or you could buy last year's flagship at a deep discount. Don't buy a StraightTalk branded lg Optimus or whatever and expect it to work like a galaxy 7 or lg g 5.
May 25, 2016
Oldsouth
We have used StraightTalk for the past several years after switching from V. The savings have definitely been worth it. If you require a lot of handholding and don't understand the basics of cell phone technology it may not be for you. The coverage has been great even in very rural areas. If you sign up determined to beak their terms of service it may not be for you ie streaming music and Netflix all day long...yeah they are gonna throttle you for that and rightly so...even though from my understanding it's not StraightTalk doing the throttling but the parent network their mvno is leasing from that does it. The only time you should ever be dealing with customer service is in activating a sim card on the network or porting a number to a new sim card. I think I did the first few ones myself through the portal but I have called in since then to do the same and their customer service is MUCH improved from where it started years ago. They can handle ports and other similar issues.
May 25, 2016
steffes
... SIM card so ST could try to restore me having phone service as soon as possible since they totally screwed up? When she said they couldn't do that is when I knew it was finally time to part ways with ST - and I've really enjoyed their service! The irony of this story is I've been telling their cust serv reps for YEARS to tell their supervisors, to tell THEIR supervisors, etc. to let the folks at the top know that this obtaining SIM card issue is their biggest downfall! Nearly everything else is GREAT about ST, but having to pay for a SIM card & the S&H, then take a day off of work to wait to sign for a silly SIM card that other cell providers give you for free when you walk into their store is ridiculous! But I've enjoyed ST's reliability & also NOT limiting download speeds on their AT&T LTE network plans whereas Cricket (who also use AT&T network) limits the LTE download speeds to 8Mbps & others even more. I know Verizon limits all MVNO's leasing their LTE network to 5Mbps ...
May 25, 2016
steffes
... the ST agent deactivated my SIM card for some odd reason! I didn't realize it until after we hung up & I tried to call someone -- NO SERVICE! He had told me that the new SIM card would arrive on Thurs (I'd ordered it around 5PM on Mon, 23 May 16) so when I was finally able to call ST customer service back a few hours later from a friend's phone, the agent I spoke to said not to worry, she would simply reactivate my phone. Well, she tried, to no avail. Then she dug into the notes from the ticket # I gave her & said, for some odd reason, the previous 'customer support' person misunderstood & had shipped me a REPLACEMENT micro SIM card for my current Galaxy S3 Android phone! I would now have to wait for that SIM card to arrive on Thurs, then call ST back to have them re-activate it! I was LIVID to say the least! Then she asked me if I'd still like to order the nano SIM card for the iPhone 5s I had bought, which now wouldn't arrive until Friday! How about overnighting me a new ...
May 25, 2016
steffes
I've enjoyed ST service for several years & have sent them many new customer. IMO their biggest problem is obtaining SIM cards for either new service or phone/provider change. While you can buy their $45 monthly service cards (unl/unl/5mb data) at Wal-Mart, their SIM cards must be shipped to your residence where you must sign for them at your door. Of course, most of us work during the day when UPS/FedEx attempts to deliver & Straight Talk leaves those companies explicit instructions NOT to allow evening pickup at their facilities & instead tell them the SIM card package MUST be signed for AT the residence only!! Trying to obtain an estimated delivery timeframe from either UPS/FedEx is useless so you must take an entire day off of work to babysit your house while you wait for the SIM card to arrive!

Then, two days ago, when I called to order a nano SIM card for their AT&T LTE network for Iphone 5S I was buying to replace my micro SIM card in my Galaxy S3 on their AT&T LTE network ...
May 25, 2016
dejord65
I used chat on website to resolve an issue. They could not resolve and could care less if they did. I am so sick of apathetic service and pray that straight talk will disappear or get new management. I asked to speak to a manager because a recording would have gotten me better service. They said a manager will get back to you in an hour and 5 1/2 hours later I called again and was told that a manager will be with you in a day, I then quit for I never want to go through that again!
May 21, 2016
jamesdeanhj
I never review or comment on anything, but Straight Talk's customer service is so horrible i can not contain it. Phone service was fine in my area, but if you have any issue what so ever and need to call their customer service - good luck.
May 17, 2016
9009char@gmail.com
I have been with straight talk for while no complaints except what is up with unlimited data. I didn't have data for 4 days til may reload payment. It didn't go to 2g it went to 0. I couldn't do anything. It says unlimited. I was really mad about this. False advertising.
May 11, 2016
Dougiedoesit
Everything about the service is superior as long as you prefer to resolve your own cellular service issues, the "self-checkout" kind of shoppers. The only thing I can suggest is that if you are the type of person to ignore the warning texts and lose track of your service end date, then try to reserve next month'and service ahead of time because I have ran into an issue more than once when I went to reactivate service around midnight right after it deactivated and they were updating their automated system and I had to go almost till sunrise the next day before reactivating.....

. I'm just saying.
May 11, 2016
tmv66
I have been with ST for many years, and have moved my whole family over. If you want to BYOP, do NOT attempt to do this online yourself. The site doesn't work, you will end up calling customer service, and then have to wait 3 days for them to send you a new sim card. Once you are set up, you should be ok. However, we have an iphone 5s that has never been able to use data (19 yr old who doesn't want to take the time to trouble shoot, so...) and a Samsung 5S that often when I renew the service for the month, has to change the APN settings to something else, then change them back again to get data. That seems to be the biggest issue we have had between 4 phones, getting the correct APN settings for each phone. Customer service vs google vs trial and error. At least I'm not paying the taxes for post-paid contract phones, and I have been with them for about 5 years. I wish they would bring back the online chat feature though.
May 5, 2016
Tiffanymyanez@gmail.com
I used straight talk for one month and honestly I don't think I will use it again. Texting was slow to send messages and calling was OK but the data only worked for like a week
April 2, 2016
Jordansmom
Had ST just over 3 years. I like it OK, but they need fluent English-speaking reps. Some places I get no service but it's rare. Have not used out of state so don't know how well it does in that case.

My last phone I'd only had just over a month when the charging port messed up. Walmart wouldn't honor the service plan I bought so I had to go through ST to replace. I shipped the old phone Feb. 26; was told my new phone should arrive March 4, still no phone.

I've asked more than once for the tracking number; they either say that they don't have one "yet" or that they will use the same tracking number I used to ship my old phone. That doesn't make sense.

Long wait times when calling; I find it easier to use online chat when they first open when they're not busy.

They need to offer accessories that you can order from them (chargers, covers etc.)
March 7, 2016
Fstalk
Worst customer service I've ever experienced as long as you don't have to talk to the customer service the service is ok as far as being able to make calls and data but none of their agents speak English and are all worthless
February 29, 2016
Adamsensab
I have a Samsung Galaxy S6, bought through straight talk. It uses the verizon network, I can sit in the break room at work and get no service. This lady sits next to me with her verizon phone and gets 4 bars of 4g. I don't get it.
February 15, 2016
snjschaefer
Not excited at all. I have had to sign up for the "auto pay" option, 4 times now......it seems like it works for a couple months and then it just doesn't anymore. I have had to call in and re-enter my CC# multiple times because it doesn't record it for some reason. The only thing reliable about this service is that it most likely will not work when you need it to.....so count on that.
February 4, 2016
dejewilliams
I have had Tracfones and have been using Straight Talk for 4 years. I only recently upgraded to a LG 3g phone, even though the other was still working. Now my husband has gone through 3 flip phones. We had no problems replacing his other phones, and I haven't had problems when I've called, except for one time. As for service, we spend time in the woods, nothing near, but we have cell phone service. I just set up home phone service with ST and am happy with it. I am now going to try STs Wifi for home internet. Will let you know next week.
January 24, 2016
Smurdley
I used SraightTalk for a couple of years with an iPhone 5 I bought from them. It worked great, but then I bought a year's worth of service in advance and the phone died 32 days into the year. No refund on airtime. According to my records I spent 12.8 hours on the phone with customer service over five months, with 50 or 60 transfers to different robots and humans. V-E-R-Y frustrating. Bottom line is I paid $535 for a month of phone service. I registered a complaint with their corporate office in Miami and that looks like the end of it as far as they're concerned.
January 7, 2016
dibryant
Worst customer service ever! I got a new smart phone on black friday. Since the previous phone auto-refilled on 11/25/15 I called and asked if I could get some credit toward the new phone or some extra days since I was wanting to start using the new phone right away. NOPE! Can't do anything to help you! No credit. You just have to wait till the old one expires or you can activate the new one and just lose the credit/time on the old one. What a waste!!! Then after playing with my new smart phone for a week, but it not being activated, I decided to say the heck with it and just take the loss! I activated the new phone with 2 wks to spare on the old one. I called them to make sure the auto-refill was cancelled on the old one. "Yep you won't be charged". Last night - charged the $33.74 for the old phone! On the phone for over 30 minutes to get a refund! Transferred twice and the never ending automated list of extensions. Absolutely ridiculous! Should've chosen diff carrier.
December 27, 2015
Tomkelly
Verizon is 40 for a line, 45 for iPhone 3gigs. Not 45 total!
December 6, 2015
jneal8123
I've been a ST customer for 7 or so years since it's 1st year in business. I've had tracfon
December 2, 2015
paige d
DON'T DO IT. I am a techno-weenie, am great with phones, and if you ever have to use their Customer Service you will RUN back to a higher priced service. I am two months into waiting for my replacement phone. Like Upset Nana below, I was told I would receive shipping instruxns via email. Never happened. Finally shipped me a box. Mailed it back, three weeks later, no phone. Told they had been out of it, but "just" got it in. Told it would ship that day, call for tracking #. Called next business day (Monday) at 8 pm. Still no tracking number. Not packed, not shipped. Told to call again in morning to remind them to ship it! What?! Each time it takes 45-60 minutes to finish call with non-English speakers. Never a supervisor available. Short of showing up at the warehouse myself to get the phone handed to me, I don't think I will ever see a phone from them again. I have spent at least 4 hours (cumulatively) trying to resolve and still have no phone. I repeat, DON'T DO IT!!!!
November 30, 2015
Beckie J
I've had no trouble with coverage at all. The problem is customer service. Be prepared to kill an hour and explain your problem to several different people. For whatever reason, my husband's phone has been deactivated on two different occasions, even though we do a monthly bill pay with our cc. It is painful trying to get issues resolved.
November 30, 2015
STRAIGHT TALK
I think all of you dont know hot to use a freakin phone i have ST and it works 100% fine no issues at all remember people you need service to get the
November 12, 2015
FreedomMaker
Straight talk wireless sucks. They say you have unlimited access to calls, text and the web.
They are falsely advertising the word unlimited. Now they say you only get five gigs of data. Not to mention they out source everything to the middle east. I refuse to support and fund the diaper heads. Wal-Mart should be sued for false advertising.
October 29, 2015
pamsmith2015
Straight talk is the phone system to make you sooooo frustrated it is a price of crap! What are you working from china? You are the worst of the worst
October 27, 2015
pamsmith2015
Straight talk phone is the most frustrating non working phone I have ever seen. Your high speed internet goes away halfway through not that its high speed in the first place. It shuts down constantly. everything when it ddoes work is so wishy washy a peice of crap
October 27, 2015
Upset Nana
Like the person before me, I signed up ONLY to post this. I have used Straight Talk service for 3 years and until now I have been very pleased with the service. My problem now is that I bought a Samsung Galaxy S4 phone in March 2015. I'm experiencing major issues with the phone. It shuts down in mid conversation even when its fully charged and the screen locks up for no apparent reason. I've been trying for more than 3 weeks to either get a refund of my money or get a replacement phone. I was told 2 times that I'd get an email with shipping information and never got them. I was told last week that within 2 days I should receive a package to return the phone in. A week later and the package hasn't arrived. I called AGAIN today only to be told that they never shipped the package. I really want a refund of the money I paid for the phone so I can buy another one. I paid $449 for the phone. Straight talk doesn't allow Samsung to service the 1st year contracts but they aren't!!
October 26, 2015
jrobb
I signed up just to leave this comment - I have had ST for over 3 years now and the service has been excellent. My account auto re-news so I have no disruption in service and I have used new phones as well as old phones with no issues whatsoever. If you have any technical abilities at all it is very easy and straight forward to setup a new account or transfer a number from a different carrier. As far as customer service goes, they are no different than trying to get something out of Verizon. The cost is a fraction of what you pay on the main stream providers due to the fact the billing is straight forward and no hidden charges are waiting to jump out at you. 5 GB of data at 4G LTE is awesome for $45, don't listen to the complainers that can't follow the simple setup procedures, ST is the best thing going for wireless connectivity.
September 28, 2015
customerhelp
Straight Talk Wireless is a great brand with very affordable options for customers. Unfortunately, it sounds like many customers are struggling with getting to a helpful customer service representative. Try using the Customer Service Number: 1-888-442-5096
September 16, 2015
lakehavasucityAZ
Omgosh. No. No, no, no. Straight Talk is THE WORST. If you're considering it, just walk away. Horrible customer service. Won't refund for new phones, want to replace with old, refurb. I'd had mine just 60 days. That's gross. Was on hold for ONE HOUR to speak to a floor manager. Then, was disconnected! Called them back, they transferred me to more inept employees. Incredibly frustrated. After my month is up, I'm OUT. And, to think I researched ALL before CHOOSING them. Disgusting. :(
August 7, 2015
Brian C
I have experienced adequate service from Straight Talk during phone calls and as far as receiving and sending data/texts. However, on multiple occasions when trying to add time to my phone Straight Talk has sent the service time to a different phone simply for not having it active for a day or two, my number being given to someone else and my money being sent, without my control, to this other phone. I do not recommend because the likelihood of being one day behind at some point is high, and if it happens you could lose your phone, your number, and your money.
July 31, 2015
Brian C
I have had a Straight Talk phone for a while, not because I loved it or thought the service was excellent but because it worked and it was pretty easy to pay for. HOWEVER, recently I have changed my mind about how easy it is to pay for as I've experienced on multiple occasions a total loss of money simply by not buying the service card on the exact date that it gave me a month ahead of time. Twice I have bought the service plan and gone through the phone process to add time to my phone and both times my money and phone time has been sent to someone else who was given my phone number by Straight Talk as soon as my service ended. Customer service tells me that it is not their policy to return any of this money as has been explained rudely to me twice.
July 31, 2015
Shadowjohnny101
Straight talk recently upgraded to 5gb of high speed data per month which is pretty cool. The Walmart I got my phone from has straight talk specific phones, which have been god awful so far. The first time I tried to be cheap and got a $40 one. Three days later, got stuck at startup after freaking out on me and forcing me to restart my phone. I made the mistake of calling customer service...first person had me do a factory reset. Didn't work so he forwarded me to another whom no matter how many times I told him I already did it (4) he had me do the reset again. Then he suggested the stupidest thing ever. Wait 5 business days for a box, put my phone in it and send it off, then wait 5 business days for them to get it, finally wait 5 more business days to get a new phone!!!! That's 3 weeks without a phone and he did not offer a free month of service in return!!

My reply? "Can't I just return it to Walmart?"

They said no, but I tried anyways and they let me pay to upgrade...ffs ST..
July 31, 2015
LEE018
I seriously don't understand the point of pressing one for English when I still get transferred to someone who can't even began to speak it...Once when I called in it got so bad that I literally couldn't make out what the rep was saying so I asked her to please escalate the call to her supervisor because her English is extremely broken and she's not comprehending a single word that I'm saying. she then started to yell at me stating that she does speak English. I work for a call center and I would def. be fired if I ever spoke to a cust. that way. If you question their answer about anything I've also had the bad experience on being hung up on. over all they honestly have the worst Customer Service a company could ever have!
July 22, 2015
Yvette Smith
Straight talk has the worst customer service. I have nothing against foreigners, but you cannot understand them and they cannot understand you. They are always in a rush on the phone. I prefer to talk to an American on the phone that can understand English, when I do talk to a real person. I have been with straight talk since, 2009 but, I don't want them to get it twisted, I can change phone companies. They're customer service is horrible. Other than that, I am please with their phone and services. You cannot get a human on the phone. I really am beginning to hate straight talk customer service. You can't get in touch with them when you need them. When you email them, it is no better. By the time they email you back, you have forgotten what you email them for, just poor customer service all away round!
July 22, 2015
Yvette Smith
Straight talk has the worst customer service. I have nothing against foreigners, but you cannot understand them and they cannot understand you. They are always in a rush on the phone. I prefer to talk to an American on the phone that can understand English. I been with straight talk since, 2009, but I don't want them to get it twisted, I can change phone companies. They're customer service is horrible. Other than that, I am please with their phone and services.
July 22, 2015
pegodonn
I have been with Straight Talk for YEARS and have never had ANY kind of a problem! My signal strength is great, I have never had to call customer service for anything though, so I can't comment on that. I bought a new phone and checked with the site before I bought it to make sure it was compatible, and everything was VERY easy to take care of online, to keep my old number etc. I have recommended Straight talk to many friends and they have all be pleased with it also. All the negative comments are VERY surprising to me. I am on autopay and have never had any issue with that either. I have never experienced "speed throttling" either and I download music quite often. I may be considered a "light user" when it comes to my phone, but all in all, I will say I couldn't be more pleased.
July 3, 2015
Arizhel
I recently moved and now my phone is stuck on "Roam". I called in, went through hell with a rep, and finally got a supervisor that told me I'd have to change my phone number, though he didn't seem 100% sure that it would even help. He sent me a SIM card so I called back today to change my number only to get an absolutely clueless rep that hung up on me when I asked for their supervisor. The next rep then told they would need to send me another SIM card. Not only that, they are having "technical difficulties" and they need me to call back in two days before they can even do THAT. She basically kept me on the phone for an hour to tell me that this problem won't be resolved for another week. She promised that I would be compensated for the time I haven't been able to use the phone (assuming they ever get it fixed). My phone has gone from being able to make and receive calls and texts (but not send data) to being on "Emergency Only" status. Absolutely terrible service. 0/10 DO NOT USE.
June 3, 2015
dashortkid
I love straight talk. Customer service is from another country, yes, but i never need them. Buy one of their phones, quit living on it and you'll never go over data. The coverage part is more complex. Each area has a primary service company: ATT, Verizon, or T-Mobile. Verizon is the only one that doesn't use a SIM. I just moved out of Verizon (MT) area and into a T-Mobile (Denver area). Your local Wal-Mart will know which service is best. Every service can be used everywhere, but one will be most recommended. People who complain about st are just whiney first world brats who think they deserve the same thing they'd get for $200/m for only $45/m instead. Grow up. It is a great company to have a phone with and I'm never going back to another large non-month-to-month company.
May 24, 2015
erboothe1
For the past 10 months I have been getting email form the idiots at straight talk telling me that my debit card has been declined. I talked to my bank and they said they have never declined my debit card from Honduras. (they claim they are in Florida, but that is a lie just like everything else they say. The only reason I have put up with the lying idiots for three years is because I take care of a family in Mexico and need to talk to them frequently.
May 20, 2015
bobelo
It is impossible to make international calls. Every time I try to reach someone outside the country I have the same messages: the number you are trying to dial is busy or Unfortunately Straight Talk International Dialer has stopped. The customer service is the worst ever with the indian robots John and Elizabeth who keep repeating over and over again the same phrases no matter what your problem is. I don't understand how a trusted chain like Wal-Mart can associate their name with this company. Taking money for a service that you are not providing is THEFT!
April 19, 2015
ds29x
By far the most crappy customer service ever. Android system shuts down and apps are slow if they work at all. Buyer be ware!
March 13, 2015
TiffanyAF
This is the worst company I have ever dealt with. I'm trying to activate a phone and called 877-430-CELL (2355) to be hung up by Amelia and Victor because they do not speak English. Every time you call that number they hang up on you. So I call this number 800-299-7784 and get the same outcome. I asked to speak with management and they refuse to transfer me. I contacted support through their website and they told me they will not give me corporate or any managements contact information. Poor customer service.
March 11, 2015
missjnichols
I just joined st phone services this last year.I really like the service.iam not a big user like most peopke who i read all the complaints about i have not yet had trouble with costomer service.iam oneof those light users like they talk about.but i have heard all the horre stories from friends and family who are bing sorrly overchared from all the big compans they say how there getting ripped off by virsionand atnt.and sprint.i quess it comes down to u as a consumer. sounds to me as non of them are very good in coustomer relations. or refunds or making every one happy.but like the one person on here said it less money spent iam glad for straigjt service it has saved me alot of money one the home home service as well as my cell service. so think it out do want great service thst none offer to save money which straight talk does or do u just plain like complaining.ill bit every one on here eho complaind about straigjt talk also had the same gryps about there super expensive plan .
February 27, 2015
william.pitman.1
When straight talk came out it was great and all Verizon towers until at&t bought them out. Ten you saw the Verizon tower phones slowly start to disappear. There customer service is on the toilet. If you never need customer service you might be fine , but the moment you need to talk to someone, be prepared for at least a 2 day headache. Verizon now has a 45 dollar month prepaid plan with unlimited talk, text and 1 gig of data. The date is less than straight talk but my last month there I used less than a gig cause I use the WiFi at home and about. I made the switch. Better service better phone better customer service. I could go on and on about the headaches and problems I've had with ST but I'm afraid there isn't enough room on the internet.
February 21, 2015
ethanjAmes
45$ plan is trash run out of high speed data after 3 gb and bumps down to 2g speed
February 6, 2015
lwhite1206
My son live in California Mo., and I bought him the straight talk package with for his Samsung S2 phone at Walmart. I live in Denver and the connection is so bad, that I don't even bother calling on his Samsung with straight talk. I have to call on his land line. ;(
February 4, 2015
meganp1
It is nice that the service is cheaper than ATT or Verizon. However, I was very mislead when signing up. It tells you that you get high speed data, so I was under the impression that I would get 4g. But 3g is the best I get, and I don't get it very often either. It claims to use Verizon and ATT towers, and my phone is specifically claimed to use Verizon. However, in places where my friends with Verizon get 4g, I get 1X (very very very slow) or nothing at all. I dont understand how that works if they use the 'same towers'.
January 19, 2015
midgamarine
Read a few of these posts and I decided to add my own.

A Verizon customer for over 7 years; at one point I was paying over $300.00 monthly for 2 smartphones on my account. Although I loved the things I could do I was really not happy paying a good used car note rate for cell phone use.
My sister had ST and went on at trip together and she had service just as well as I did for $45 monthly. Like many, I cringed at the thought of having a PP phone. My sister had an older phone and activated it for me on a $30 plan and said if I see any difference don't change and I have lost nothing. Well thank God my contract was up; I joined the ST move and have bee there now for more than 3 years. YES! CSR is horrible but I have two smartphones for $90 monthly and no service complaints. One phone uses Verizon towers and the other uses AT&T towers with awesome service.
In fact my cousin and I can be on trips and have to rely on my ST service over his Sprint service even at s home.You make the call.
December 26, 2014
PubCrawler
I can't say that I understand all there is to know about cell phone providers except that I grow weary of contracts and an invoice that gives headaches trying to decipher! I settled on ST because of the simplicity and coverage claims. Checked the device compatibility on the ST website and purchased 2 new IPhone 6Plus, The loading and transfer of existing number proved to be a bit challenging and required a call to tech support. I did not have any trouble getting through, but the language problem does exist. Once on and making daily use of our phones...we like it!! We traveled to N. Carolina from Louisiana, went through the mountains and coverage was great! Aside from the language problem I have not experienced foul or otherwise bad technical/customer service. Good Karma I suppose! Have had service for 2 weeks, so if it doesn't pan out...I am free to change!! Logging onto ST website is a problem. Look to use 'CHAT' for any problems it helps solve language dilemma.
December 23, 2014
stewoojus
I spent three days trying to add minutes that included international calling. The service center was not only rude but incompetent. No one spoke English as a first language and they were very hard to communicate with. When my phone was finally activated using the customer service it still would not call outside of the country. I finally gave up and accepted I would be charged for a service I could not use. Then, as if it could get any worse, I saw that the unprofessional service center had charged my account twice in the same day. I called several times trying to get it fixed and the last person I spoke with told me to contact my bank and report it as a fraud! They are the fraud and since they are not in the US, they have no issue with being reported as such! What a joke! And a waste of money!
November 26, 2014
hdonthefarm
If you want a cell phone service with cheap phones and NO customer service, then Straight Talk is what you need. The phones work fine for a year or so, then they crap out and you're stuck with a $300 phone that doesn't half work. I haven't been able to get online for 4 months now and their alleged customer service is a joke. All they do is apologize for not doing anything. I've been on the phone with them for hours with their alleged customer service trying to resolve this mess. This morning I waited over 30 minutes while that idiot tryed to get HIS computer up. After over an hour I was told I will have to wait until some supervisor can talk to me. I'm done with this mess. Straight talk is definitely a buyer beware situation. My phone also quit forwarding pictures and they won't even address that. I tried to get them to quit billing me for the services they aren't providing. I don't even have to tell you how that went. RIP OFF
November 21, 2014
njnpuck
I have been a straight talk customer for over 2 years yes their customer service is horrible, you are calling India and they are reading off a script. I live in New Jersey I have excellent coverage. the $45 a month was a no brainer for me I was paying over $115.00 month. I'm looking to buy a unlocked s4 and bring it on over but I'm leary about calling their customer service. my wife purchased galaxyS4 last year through straight talk works fine no problems. I would highly recommend straight talk.
November 9, 2014
berniegeeze
Will not let you bring your own phone unless it is a new one. Iasked for a refund for 8 dollars and they said"no." I have a Verizon casio pay as you go 250 pone two months old it will not transfer. Waste of time and money.
November 8, 2014
berniegeeze
Bring your own phone is a gimmick unless it is a brand new phone ! I have a Verizon pay as you go 250 one which straight talk claim is compatible but will not will. It is a pay as you monthly phone. They refuse to refund me my 8 dollars because their service isn't working on my phone. I get over seas operators not American than aline of bull its our towers. Than transferrs me to someone else. You can't transferr a phone unless its. new!
November 8, 2014