Tracfone is America’s number one prepaid no contract and low-cost wireless and mobile phone service provider. As it operates as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Tracfone has agreements with the country’s largest wireless network operators, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, which allow them to use their network services. Tracfone offers a number of different no-contract prepaid plans for very reasonable prices, as well as a large selection of high-quality mobile phones from most major cell phone brands, including Samsung, LG, Motorola, and iPhones.
Tracfone provides two types of mobile devices – GSM and CDMA. But what is the difference between a GSM and a CDMA phone? How do you know which one you have? And which type is the best to buy? We will answer all these questions and more in the following chapters.
What Is The Difference Between A GSM And A CDMA Phone And What Kind Of Phone Technology Is Used For Tracfone GSM Or CDMA
First, let’s find out what exactly is a GSM cell phone and a CDMA cell phone and what is the difference between them.
GSM and CDMA are abbreviations that describe two types of radio technology that cell phones and cell phone networks use to transmit voice and data.
GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communications. It is a cell phone standard developed by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI).
CDMA stands for Code Division Multiple Access. It is a cell phone standard and a channel access method used by various radio communication technologies.
Probably the biggest difference between the systems and technologies is that GSM cell phones use a SIM card to link a particular mobile device with its network, while CDMA cell phones are linked to the network themselves and therefore they don’t require a SIM card.
GSM is a specification of a whole wireless network infrastructure. CDMA, on the other hand, relates only to the air interface, the radio part of the technology.
However, the main differences apply in terms of 2G and 3G technologies. Nowadays, as we mostly use 4G and 5G, the largest phone companies and manufacturers tend to produce devices that are compatible with all cell phone standards and technologies – GSM, CDMA, and LTE.
Globally, GSM is the more popular cell phone standard between the two. However, in the US, the CDMA standard seems to be more in demand. GSM networks are used by AT&T and T-Mobile, while Verizon uses CDMA for their cell phone service. The Tracfone devices that use AT&T and T-Mobile’s network use GSM technology and the ones that use Verizon’s network run on CDMA technology.
A Short Comparison Table Between Tracfone GSM And CDMA Technology
You may not be interested in the exact technology behind GSM and CDMA cell phones, however, knowing the main differences may help you make a more informed decision and avoid future problems. Check out the short comparison table between GSM and CDMA technology below.
| Cell phone standard | GSM | CDMA |
| Abbreviation for: | Global System for Mobile communication | Code Division Multiple Access |
| Technology description: | A specification of a whole wireless network infrastructure | Relates only to the radio part of the technology |
| Technology used: | FDMA (Frequency division multiple access) and TDMA (Time division multiple access) | CDMA(Code division multiple access) |
| Storage Type: | SIM card | Internal Memory |
| Global market share: | 75% | 25% |
| Availability: | Available and used worldwide | Available in fewer countries and used by fewer carriers |
| International roaming: | Most Accessible | Less Accessible |
| Dominance: | Worldwide, except the USA | USA |
| USA networks: | AT&T and T-Mobile | Verizon and former Sprint (now a part of T-Mobile) |
| Data transfer: | GPRS/E/3G/4G/LTE | EVDO/3G/4G/LTE |
| Data speed rate: | 42Mbps in HSPA (3G) | 3.6Mbps in CDMA |
| Network: | There is a corresponding network tower for every cell, which serves the mobile devices in the particular cellular area. | There are 1 physical channel and 1 specific code for each device in a coverage network. The device’s signal is multiplexed with the use of this code. The physical channel is used to send the signal. |
| Frequency band: | Multiple (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) | Single (850 MHz) |
| Network service: | SIM specific, which allows the user to select the handset of his choice. | Handset specific |
| Features: | GSM supports transmitting data and voice both at once | CDMA does not support this feature |
| Customer Information | Stored in a SIM card | Stored in a headset or phone |
How To Know If I Have A GSM Or CDMA Tracfone
There are several different ways how to differentiate between GSM and CDMA Tracfones, depending on the device itself.
Older Tracfone GSM or CDMA cell phones
If you have an older Tracfone device, you can tell if you have a GSM or a CDMA Tracfone by checking the device’s full name.
If your older mobile phone ends with a ‘C’, it means it uses the CDMA network. For example, LG 505C has a ‘C’ at the end of the name. All Tracfone cell phones with a ‘C’ at the end use a CDMA network, usually Verizon.
If your older mobile phone ends with a ‘G’, it means it uses the GSM network. For example, LG 840G ends with a ‘G’ and this indicates it uses a GSM network (probably either AT&T or T-Mobile).
In the past, Tracfone used to sell mostly GSM phones. Nowadays, however, the tables have turned, as they now sell many CDMA devices using Verizon’s network.
Newer Tracfone smartphones
Many newer Tracfone devices use different kinds of names. Instead of ending with a ‘C’ or a ‘G’, some Tracfone smartphones have a ‘VL’ at the end of the name, which indicates that the device is a Verizon LTE. For example, Samsung Galaxy Luna Pro (S327VL) ends with a ‘VL’.
Other models also end with ‘AL’ and ‘BL’, which also indicates AT&T or T-Mobile’s LTE service.
SIM number clues
You can also get a clue on whether you have a GSM or a CDMA device by checking your SIM number.
- If the first six numbers are 890141, then you have an AT&T GSM device.
- If the first six numbers are 890126, then you have a T-Mobile GSM device.
- If the first six SIM numbers are 891480, then you use Verizon’s CDMA device.
You should be able to find your SIM number on your SIM card or on the packaging. In case you somehow can’t find your SIM card number, you can contact support or check out Tracfone’s tutorial on how to check your SIM number.
Phone’s settings
You can determine whether you have a GSM or a CDMA phone by checking your phone’s settings.
- If you have an iPhone: Go to ‘Settings’, select ‘General’, and click ‘About’. Close to the bottom of the menu, you will see a MEID, ESN, or IMEI number.
- If you have an Android cell phone: Go to ‘Settings’, select ‘System’, click ‘About phone’ and ‘Status’. Look for an MEID, ESN, or IMEI number.
If your device has a MEID or ESN number, it uses CDMA technology. If it has an IMEI number, it uses GSM technology. If your device has both numbers it means it is compatible with both technologies.
Google to the rescue
Another way to find out if you have a GSM or CDMA cell phone is to simply Google your model number. You can find your model number by following the same settings steps described above or by checking the back of the device. Afterward, go to Google and type in for example: ‘SAMSUNG GALAXY A10E (S102DL) GSM or CDMA’.
SIM card slot
In addition, it’s worth mentioning that in the past it was possible to determine your phone type by checking if the device has a SIM card slot. Traditionally, only GSM phones had a SIM card slot, however, nowadays most GSM and CDMA devices have a slot. Still, if your device doesn’t have a SIM card slot then it is probably a CDMA cell phone.
See more : How To Check Minutes on Tracfone Wireless Network
A List Of Currently Available GSM And CDMA Phone Models Used & Sold By Tracfone
Now that you know the difference between GSM and CDMA cell phones, let’s take a look at some of the best and most popular mobile devices currently available at Tracfone and clarify which of them are GSM phones and which ones use the CDMA technology.
1. iPhone SE 64GB
This is a very popular and high-quality new iPhone. It’s an advanced mobile device by a reliable brand. It features the fastest smartphone chip currently on the market, which provides a smooth and fast experience, regardless of whether you are streaming videos, playing games, or using any other apps. The device is also a dream come true for photography enthusiasts as it comes with an advanced camera system with great focus options, depth control, and portrait lighting. In addition, the device houses a large selection of high-end features and security updates, including Touch ID, hearing aid compatibility, a durable design, and long battery life.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in | 138 x 67 x 7.3 mm
- Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD; 1,334×750 pixels
- Storage: Internal Memory: 64 GB
- Camera: 12 MP back camera and 7 MP front camera, 1080p HD video recording
- Battery life: Up to 10 days of standby time, up to 13 hours of video playback, up to 8 hours of video playback, up to 40 hours of audio playback.
- Speed: Gigabit-class LTE with 2×2 MIMO and LAA
GSM or CDMA: Both GSM and CDMA
See more : How To Work Tracfone And iPhone ?
2. Samsung Galaxy A10e (S102DL)
Samsung is one of the leading Android smartphone manufacturers and this is one of their most in-demand models. It is a powerful and reliable device with smooth performance. The edge-to-edge infinity display provides an immersive viewing experience, the high-quality camera enables you to take crystal clear photos and videos of your own, the large in-built memory allows you to store all those files safely, and the long battery life will make sure you can enjoy all of this fun for a long time without having to charge the device.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.8” Screen Display
- Display: 5.83” HD+ 720 x 1560
- Storage: 2GB RAM and 32GB ROM
- Camera: 8 MP back camera and 5 MP front camera
- Battery life: Up to 17 days of standby time, up to 18.2 hours of talk time
- Speed: 802.11 a/b/g/n, 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth v5.0
GSM or CDMA: CDMA
3. iPhone 7 32GB
This is one of the most reliable iPhones ever made. It has a long battery life, which allows more connectivity and usage and it’s also extremely durable – it is water, splash, and dust resistant. The device also comes with all the best Apple features, including a powerful A 10 Fusion chip, a 12 MP iSight camera with optical image stabilization, ƒ/1.8 aperture for low-light photos, and the ability to record 4K videos, an LTE advanced network, an immersive HD Retina display, and a comfortable amount of internal memory.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.44” x 2.64” x 0.28” inches
- Display: 4.7” HD display
- Storage: Internal Memory: 32 GB
- Camera: 12 MP iSight back camera
- Battery life: Up to 10 days of standby time, up to 14 hours of talk time on 3G
- Speed: 4G LTE/Wi-Fi
GSM or CDMA: CDMA
4. Samsung Galaxy A20 (S205DL)
This is another great, reliable, and high-quality device from Samsung. It features a powerful battery with long battery life and fast charging, a large in-built internal memory, a stunning dual-lens camera, and a wonderful edge-to-edge infinity display. This smartphone comes with a number of advanced features and safety options that will keep you connected, entertained, and secure at all times.
Specifications:
- Size: 6.24” x 2.94” x 0.31” inches
- Display: 6.4” HD+ Super AMOLED Display 720 x 1560
- Storage: 3GB RAM and 32GB ROM
- Camera: Dual 13 MP main back camera + 5 MP camera and 8 MP front camera
- Battery life: Up to 13 days of standby time, up to 31 hours of talk time
- Speed: 802.11 a/b/g/n, 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth v5.0
GSM or CDMA: CDMA
5. Samsung Galaxy A51 (S515DL)
This is another highly popular cell phone produced by Samsung and sold by Tracfone. It comes with a powerful long-lasting and fast-charging battery, a spectacular 48 MP quad camera with Super Steady OIS Mode, and a great Super AMOLED display that provides vibrant colors, crystal clear pictures, and an immersive entertainment experience. A large amount of internal storage allows you to take countless high-definition photos and videos and store them safely along with many other files, documents, and advanced apps.
Specifications:
- Size: 6.24” x 2.89” x 0.31” inches
- Display: 6.5” FHD+ Super AMOLED 1080 x 2400
- Storage: 4GB RAM and 128GB ROM
- Camera: 48 MP main back camera and 32 MP front camera
- Battery life: Up to 13 days of standby time, up to 25 hours of talk time
- Speed: 802.11 a/b/g/n, 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth v5.0
GSM or CDMA: GSM
6. iPhone XR 64GB
This is another high-end and incredibly reliable device from Apple. As such it is not exactly the cheapest smartphone on the market, but at Tracfone, you can purchase it for a very reasonable price. It features the brand new Liquid Retina display, which is known as the most advanced LCD display ever made, an ultra-fast Face ID, an incredibly powerful chip that provides a smooth experience without lagging, an amazing wide-angle camera with depth control, hearing aid compatibility, and a long-lasting battery with wireless charging.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.94” x 2.98” x 0.33” inches
- Display: 6.1” (diagonal) all-screen LCD Multi-Touch
- Storage: Internal Memory: 64 GB
- Camera: 12 MP wide-angle back camera with ƒ/1.8 aperture
- Battery life: Up to 25 hours of talk time and up to 15 hours of internet use
- Speed: 4G LTE/Wi-Fi®
GSM or CDMA: CDMA
7. LG K31™ Rebel (L355DL-A)
LG cellular phones are among the most popular ones at Tracfone. Their devices are highly reliable, sturdy, and offer great value for money. This model offers a large vibrant screen that provides a big viewing space that provides the most immersive entertainment, regardless of whether you are watching movies, viewing pictures, or playing games. It also features a comfortable amount of memory, a powerful and long-lasting battery, a high-quality camera system, and Panda King Glass screen protection, which makes the phone super durable and resistant.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.82” (H) x 2.80” (W) x 0.34” (D) inches
- Display: 5.7” HD+ FullVision™ Notch Display (720×1520)
- Storage: 32GB ROM and 2 GB RAM plus microSD up to 32 GB
- Camera: Dual 13 MP PDAF + 5 MP wide-angle back camera
- Battery life: Up to 13.8 days of standby time, up to 11 hours of talk time
- Speed: 3G, 4G, 4G LTE/Wi-Fi®
GSM or CDMA: CDMA, WCDMA, GSM, UMTS, LTE
8. Motorola Moto e7 (XT2052DL)
This is a wonderful high-quality device made by Motorola. This reliable yet affordable device features an amazing dual-camera system with many special effects, an ultra-widescreen for great entertainment, a fair amount of storage, a long-lasting powerful battery that can last almost 2 days on a single charge, and it offers a smooth and responsive performance. If you are a Motorola fan, search no more – this great smartphone may be just the thing for you.
Specifications:
- Size: 6.29” x 3.02” x 0.34” inches
- Display: 6.2” HD+ Max Vision display
- Storage: 2GB of RAM and 32GB of ROM + microSD up to 512 GB
- Camera: Dual 13 MP back camera + 2 MP depth sensor
- Battery life: Up to 17 days of standby time, up to 17 hours of talk time
- Speed: 4G LTE
GSM or CDMA: LTE
Which Tracfone Should I Buy – GSM or CDMA
Now we have come to the ultimate question – which one is better and which Tracfone should you buy, a GSM or a CDMA?
First of all, let’s clarify one thing: technically speaking, GSM and CDMA devices are both equally good. They both provide the same service. The quality of the network doesn’t depend on the cell phone standard but on the carrier, instead.
As such, instead of worrying about whether to buy a GSM or CDMA device, you should simply purchase the cell phone that uses the network that has the best coverage in your area. As we have already established – Tracfone devices that end with a ‘C’ or ‘VL’ use Verizon’s CDMA networks, while Tracfone devices that end with a ‘G’, ‘AL’, or ‘BL’ use AT&T or T-Mobile’s GSM networks. You can find out which network has the best coverage in your area online.
As some cities use mostly GSM or CDMA devices and as one cell phone standard may work better in some areas than others, Tracfone offers a great and convenient feature, which enables customers to enter their ZIP code on Tracfone’s official website and online shop and the page sorts out the cell phones that may work best in your area. You can do some additional research yourself, as nowadays you will certainly be able to find tons of information for any particular cell phone model online.
Keep in mind that you can also purchase an unlocked smartphone elsewhere and add it to the Tracfone BYOP (stands for Bring Your Own Phone) program using GSM or CDMA service. GSM devices can be unlocked and are able to switch carriers, while CDMA phones tend to be locked to a carrier. Therefore it’s normally more affordable to purchase an unlocked GSM phone than an on-contract CDMA device.
See more : How Does Tracfone Unlock Process Work For Your Device
While GSM and CDMA devices may fight for dominance, the newest LTE phone technology is becoming the global standard. However, as the technology is relatively new, it suffers from limited adoption and even more frequency division than the two standards discussed above.
Tracfone offers a large selection of both GSM and CDMA cell phones from the world’s most reputable brands. As the main difference between these two cell phone standards and technologies lies in the network they use, you should choose the device based on the carrier and make sure to choose the one that has the best coverage in your area. When selecting a device you should also check out the specifications. When it comes to the service, price, convenience, etc., Tracfone has you covered – they offer many no-contract prepaid plans, services, and mobile devices for very reasonable prices.