In the last 20 years the need to have a mobile phone and service, which keeps us connected to work, school, loved ones, health and emergency services, and more, has risen a lot. On the other hand, the prices of such devices and services have stayed more or less the same. As a result, many people in need are unable to enjoy this basic necessity. Luckily, the government has created the Lifeline assistance program that helps make communications services more affordable by providing discounts on monthly phone, wireless, or internet services, and by sometimes providing discounts on mobile devices.
When it comes to Lifeline providers, Q Link Wireless is one of the most popular companies. This telecommunications company participates in both Lifeline and the new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), providing qualifying customers with discounts on monthly phone, wireless, and broadband services. Q Link Wireless also offers ACP discounts on tablets and in certain areas, eligible customers may also receive a Lifeline and ACP free phone.
However, as receiving a free phone from Q Link Wireless is not guaranteed and is not available in all states, the company also offers a Bring Your Own Phone program, which enables customers to bring their own devices and enjoy their Lifeline and ACP discounts on them. Nonetheless, the device you bring to Q Link must be carrier-unlocked and compatible with Q Link’s services.
Luckily, there are several retailers that sell carrier-unlocked devices that are compatible with Q Link’s network. One of the largest such retailers is Walmart. Walmart is one of the most popular and widespread retail corporations in the country. The company offers all sorts of goods, including groceries, clothing, home appliances, office, and school supplies, personal care products, books, electronics, and much more.
In this article, you can learn everything there is to know about Q Link compatible phones at Walmart.
12 Best Q Link Compatible Unlocked Phones at Walmart
As mentioned before, in order to bring your own phone to Q Link Wireless, the device must be carrier-unlocked and compatible with Q Link’s services. Walmart offers a large selection of unlocked phones and in this section, we will take a closer look at the best Q Link compatible phones at Walmart.
1. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G
Features:
Unless you have been living under a rock for the last few decades, you know that Samsung is one of the leading brands in the world of mobile devices. Indeed, the company never fails to offer exceptional quality, advanced features, and reliability. The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is one of the brand’s most recent and most advanced phones. The device features a top-notch 108 MP camera that beats many professional cameras and certainly offers the best quality on a smartphone. It also has a powerful, long-lasting battery, a spectacular 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels and a fast 120 Hz refresh rate, 256 GB of internal memory, 12 GB of RAM, and many exciting features.
Reason to buy:
If you are one of those smartphone users who gravitates towards the latest devices with the most advanced features, you should definitely consider this phone model. This phone offers the best possible camera that will enable you to take professional photos and videos. It also has an immersive display that will enable you to enjoy your own media and other entertainment.
2. Sony Xperia 1 III 5G
Features:
Sony is another brand that offers high-quality mobile devices. This particular model comes with many exciting features, including a triple 12 MP rear camera, an 8 MP front camera, 12 GB of RAM, 256 GB of internal memory, which can be expanded with a microSD card, a 6.5-inch OLED display with 3840 x 1644 pixels and a 120 Hz refresh rate, a powerful battery, and much more. The device can also connect to a 5G network.
Reason to buy:
This phone offers exceptional images and audio and provides an immersive gaming experience. Speed is another of the phone’s advantages – it has an amazing refresh rate, fast AF, and provides fast data speeds.
3. Apple iPhone 12 Pro
Features:
Obviously, Apple is a giant in the realm of smartphones and other mobile devices. While Q Link Wireless will surely not provide you with an advanced iPhone for free, you may be able to purchase one from another retailer (such as Walmart) and bring it to Q Link where you can enjoy the free monthly services. This phone model from Apple offers the fastest chip in a smartphone, 5G speeds, a vibrant edge-to-edge 6.1-inch OLED display, a quality 12 MP front camera, a quad 12 MP rear camera, 256 GB of memory, 6 GB of RAM, a reliable battery with fast charging, and numerous advanced features, such as face ID, Dolby Vision, etc.
Reason to buy:
Even though Apple iPhone 12 is no longer the latest iPhone model, it may still be the most popular one ever. The device offers incredible safety features, many advanced apps, a great camera with 4K HDR video, an amazing performance due to the fastest chip, and more.
4. Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max
Features:
This is another reliable and high-quality phone model by Apple. While it is one year older than the previous model, it offers just as many fabulous features. It comes with 256 GB of internal memory, a crisp and clear 6.5-inch OLED display with 2688 x 1242 pixels, a triple 12 MP rear camera with professional features and 4K video, a 12 MP selfie camera, powerful performance, built-in privacy features, and much more.
Reason to buy:
Like most other newer iPhones, this Apple device is also very safe and reliable. It offers a great triple camera system with lots of great, semi-professional features. In addition, it is sturdy and reliable.
5. Apple iPhone 8 Plus
Features:
At Walmart, you can also get a new, used, or refurbished Apple iPhone 8 Plus. This phone model is not among the newest, however, it is still very relevant and popular among users. In time, it has proven to be very reliable. It comes with a vibrant 5.5-inch LED-backlit IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, a powerful chip, a dual 12 MP wide-angle and telephoto camera, a 7 MP front camera, 64 GB of internal memory, 3 GB of RAM, a durable 2691 mAh Lithium Ion battery, and other great specifications.
Reason to buy:
Not only is this mobile device beautifully designed, safe to use, and packed with advanced features, but it is also very durable and sturdy. After all, it comes with IP67 dust and water resistance. It is also very fast and powerful.
6. Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra
Features:
If you are the type of person who is likely to take notes in all sorts of situations and prefers to use a pen rather than a keypad, you should consider buying one of Samsung’s most recent and advanced Note models, which comes with a high-quality S pen. It has a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x capacitive touchscreen with a spectacular resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels and a fast 120 Hz refresh rate, a mind-blowing triple 108 MP main camera, a 10 MP selfie camera, 256 GB of internal memory, 8 GB of RAM, a powerful processor, and a non-removable 4500 mAh Li-Ion battery with fast charging.
Reason to buy:
The number one reason to buy this device is its incredibility realistic pen experience. In addition, the device offers the best smartphone camera and a great display with a super-fast refresh rate. It is a reliable device jam-packed with exciting features.
7. Google Pixel 4a 5G
Features:
This list of Q Link-compatible phones from Google includes Google Nexus 5, 5X, 6, 6P, Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL, and more. The Google Pixel 4a 5G is one of the latest phone models from Google – another excellent smartphone brand. It is full of both practical and entertaining features. It has a vibrant display that offers crystal-clear HD content, 5G connectivity, a brilliant 12.2 MP camera with an ultra-wide lens, an adaptive battery, a reliable chip, 128 GB of internal memory, 6 GB of RAM, advanced safety features, Google Assistant, and much more.
Reason to buy:
If your heart is set on buying a Google smartphone, this model may be just the one for you. It comes with numerous safety features, fast streaming, and a quality camera system.
8. Apple iPhone X
Features:
This is an older Apple iPhone model, however, it continues to stay popular and relevant. This iPhone model does not have all the advanced features that are included in some of the latest iPhone models, nonetheless, it still offers all of the essentials. It has a 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display with HDR, a 12 MP dual camera, a 7 MP front camera, a face ID scanner, Siri, 64 GB of internal memory, 3 GB of RAM, and more.
Reason to buy:
This phone model is one of the most affordable iPhones, even though it still has all the essential features. It is also super durable with IP68 dust and water resistance.
9. Motorola Moto G Pure
Features:
This is one of the newest phone models from Motorola, as such it is not included on the list of the Q Link compatible phones on Q Link’s official website. However, according to its specifications, it should easily work on Q Link and with its services. This phone comes with 32 GB of memory capacity with expandable memory options, 3 GB of RAM, a dual 13 MP rear camera, a 5 MP selfie camera, a 6.5-inch Max Vision HD+ display, a fast processor with super-responsive performance, a powerful 4000 mAh battery, a fingerprint scanner, and other interesting features.
Reason to buy:
The ultra-wide view provides an immersive entertainment experience and the camera performs well in darkness. In addition, the battery lasts up to two days and it has a water-repellent design.
10. Samsung Galaxy S9
Features:
Samsung Galaxy S9 is not among the newest or most advanced phones by Samsung, however, it is still quite popular, as it provides quality and reliability. At Walmart, you may be able to get this device new, used, or refurbished. It has a very fast and responsive dual pixel camera with 12 MP on the rear side and 8 MP on the front side, 64 GB of memory, 4 GB of RAM, an immersive edge-to-edge 5.8-inch Infinity display, a powerful battery that can last up to 13.6 days, and other reliable specs.
Reason to buy:
This phone provides immersive entertainment with its vibrant display, a long-lasting battery, and a durable design with an IP68 rating, which means it can withstand spills, splashes, and rain.
11. Google Pixel XL
Features:
When talking about older phone models that have proven to be excellent in time, it is important to mention Google Pixel, another Q Link compatible phone at Walmart. This device comes with Google Assistant, a 5.5-inch AMOLED Full HD Capacitive Touchscreen with 1440 x 2560 pixel resolution and Corning Gorilla Glass 4, a 12.3 MP camera with dual LED flash, and an 8 MP front camera, 32 GB of internal memory, 4 GB of RAM, a sleek design, and more.
Reason to buy:
The excellent 89 DxOMark Mobile score enables the phone’s camera to take great photos in both low and bright light conditions. The phone provides a clean experience with no unwanted apps.
12. Motorola Moto G4 Plus
Features:
If we are looking at the official list of Q Link compatible phones at Walmart, we may also stumble upon the excellent Motorola Moto G4 Plus model. This is a great phone option for people who do not need their device to be jam-packed with the newest features, but wish to use the essential functions, such as calling, texting, browsing the internet, and entertainment and wish to do so on a reliable device. The phone comes with a 5.5-inch Full HD display, a 16 MP rear camera, a 5 MP front camera, a non-removable 3000 mAh battery, 16 GB memory, 2 GB of RAM, and other essentials.
Reason to buy:
This is a relatively affordable device that has proven its quality time and again for many years. Even without the spectacular new features, it has remained popular.
Take a look at the full list of Q Link compatible phones at Walmart at walmart.com/browse/unlocked-phones/gsm-unlocked/1105910_1073085_8230659?sort=price_high.
After Buying a Q Link Phone From Walmart How Can I Activate It With a Q Link SIM Card
Once you buy a Q Link compatible phone at Walmart, you can bring it to Q Link Wireless and activate it.
Here is the Q Link SIM card activation process:
- Visit qlinkwireless.com/Activate.aspx.
- Choose if your phone is unlocked or not. If it is not yet unlocked, the system will provide information on how to unlock it. If it is unlocked, you can proceed with the next step.
- Insert your SIM card into your phone. Make sure the device is turned off and choose the right SIM size.
- Turn your phone back on and reset the network. To do so on an Android phone, go to Settings and choose Reset or Network Settings. Press Network Reset and follow the instructions. To do it on an iPhone, go to Settings, press General, scroll down and select Reset, then Network Reset Settings. Provide your iPhone password and confirm the reset.
- You can then transfer your phone number if you wish to do so. See the instructions on the provided website.
- Finally, download the app, which will enable you to manage your account quickly and easily.
For more information you can read one of our past article How Do I Activate My Qlink SIM Card
Does Walmart Sell Q Link Wireless Locked Phones?
In addition to unlocked phones, Walmart is also the official retailer of certain wireless providers, therefore it sells their locked devices. However, Q Link Wireless is not one of those companies. In fact, as Q Link focuses solely on Lifeline services, the company doesn’t even sell Q Link Wireless locked phones to non-eligible customers itself. In order to get a Q Link device or services, you must qualify for Lifeline and/or ACP.
How Do I Know Which Phone is Compatible With Q Link?
Q Link Wireless provides a list of Q Link compatible phones at qlinkwireless.com/byop.aspx. However, these are not the only Q Link compatible phones that exist. On the contrary, there are many more cellular devices that could easily work with Q Link. On the other hand, even if a device is mentioned on the list of compatible devices, it may not work due to the carrier or retailer that sold it.
The only way to really make sure whether or not a device will work with Q Link Wireless is by visiting qlinkwireless.com/byop.aspx and entering your phone’s ESN/IMEI/MEID number in the provided box, and pressing ‘Continue’.
Does Walmart Have a Phone Replacement Policy?
In case you have ordered a device and it turned out that it is not compatible with Q Link or is otherwise not suitable for you, you may need to return it.
Luckily, Walmart offers a 14-day return policy on prepaid phones. When returning the phone, make sure that the device is not damaged in any way and include all of its parts, paperwork, and the receipt.
In addition, at Walmart, you can purchase the Walmart Protection Plan that gives you 2-year accident protection on mobile devices.
Can I Buy Any Other Carrier Compatible Phones From Walmart?
Walmart sells lots of carrier-compatible phones. Some of these devices are unlocked and compatible with certain carriers, while others are locked to a carrier’s services. The carriers whose compatible phones are sold at Walmart include:
- AT&T
- Verizon
- T-Mobile
- Sprint
- Cricket Wireless
- Net10
- Simple Mobile
- Straight Talk
- TracFone
- Walmart Family Mobile
What Are the Benefits of Buying a Phone at Walmart?
As is the case with all things in life, buying Q Link compatible phones at Walmart comes with certain pros and cons. Let’s first look at the advantages:
- There is a Walmart store on every corner, therefore, you can easily get help with your device.
- As Walmart is such a huge retail company, it offers excellent customer support – online, by phone, and in person.
- At Walmart, you can choose from a large selection (over 200 models) of new and refurbished unlocked phones.
- Walmart offers a return policy and warranties on phones.
- The company offers a 2-day delivery option on certain phone models.
- You can see the ratings and reviews online.
What Are the Disadvantages of Buying a Phone at Walmart?
The disadvantages of buying Q Link compatible phones at Walmart include:
- Since recently, Walmart is also a marketplace, therefore anyone can sell their items on Walmart’s platform. While this offers a large selection of devices, it also means that some sellers may not be trustworthy.
- Older phone models, such as the ones that are featured on the official list of Q Link compatible devices are rarely available in new condition. Therefore you may need to buy a more recent device, which may not be compatible with the provider.
Features to Look Before Buying Q Link Wireless Compatible Phones at Walmart
Before you decide to buy a Q Link compatible phone at Walmart, you should take some important factors into consideration, including:
- Make sure that the device you select is in fact compatible with Q Link Wireless. You can check the phone’s compatibility at qlinkwireless.com/byop.aspx. Contact Walmart to ask for a particular phone’s IMEI, which you can then enter into the search box provided on the website.
- Choose the device that best fits your needs. This shouldn’t be difficult, as Walmart offers a huge selection of cell phones, ranging from the newest and most advanced smartphone models to the simplest flip phones.
- Make sure to look for an unlocked phone. See the selection of unlocked devices that should work with Q Link Wireless at walmart.com/browse/unlocked-phones/gsm-unlocked/1105910_1073085_8230659.
- Choose a reliable device that will work well on Q Link’s network and will not let you down. Also make sure that the device is durable, which will prevent you from having to change it anytime soon. Moreover, check the phone’s battery life and security features.
- Unless you have an unlimited budget, you may also wish to consider the price. After all, at Walmart, you can buy everything from very cheap phones to incredibly pricey devices.
What Carrier Phones Are Compatible With Q Link Wireless?
Q Link Wireless is a mobile virtual network operator, which means that it doesn’t own its own network towers, but instead uses the towers of other larger carriers. Until recently, Q Link was using Sprint’s CDMA network, however, since the merger of Sprint and T-Mobile, it now uses T-Mobile’s GSM network. Currently, GSM devices may therefore work better with Q Link, however, due to its Sprint history, it may also accept CDMA phones.
As such, Q Link Wireless is compatible with T-Mobile and all of its MVNOs, including:
- Boost Mobile
- Metro by T-Mobile
- Mint Mobile
- Simple Mobile
- Tello
- Ultra Mobile
- Consumer Cellular (AT&T, T-Mobile)
- Gen Mobile (T-Mobile, Sprint)
- Google Fi (Sprint, T-Mobile, US Cellular, Three)
- Net10 (T-Mobile, Sprint, AT&T, Verizon, US Cellular)
- Red Pocket (Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile, AT&T)
- Republic Wireless (Sprint, T-Mobile)
- Straight Talk (Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T)
- TextNow (T-Mobile, Sprint)
- TracFone (Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T)
- US Mobile (T-Mobile, Verizon)
- Wing (T-Mobile, AT&T)
Does Q Link Wireless Offer a Bring Your Own Phone Program?
Q Link Wireless offers a Bring Your Own Phone program, which enables customers to bring their own devices to Q Link in the first place. The fact that the company offers this program makes buying Q Link compatible phones at Walmart possible and this article relevant.
However, to bring your own device to Q Link successfully, you must first make sure that the device is compatible with Q Link (do so at qlinkwireless.com/byop.aspx) and then you must order a SIM kit, remove your old SIM card and insert Q Link’s new one, and activate the device on Q Link’s network.
Can I Upgrade My Q Link Phones at Walmart?
You cannot upgrade your Q Link phone at Walmart, at least not in a traditional sense. Why not? Well, simply because Walmart is in no way connected to Q Link Wireless. Instead, it is a fully independent retailer and marketplace. Nevertheless, you can always buy a better phone than the one you originally purchased at Walmart. If you suddenly need a better device with more advanced features, you can do so at Walmart at any time. Of course, this device won’t come with any upgrade discounts.
Can I Put My Q Link Wireless SIM Card in My New Phone?
Physically, you can put your Q Link Wireless SIM card in any phone, as long as the SIM card’s size fits the phone’s SIM slot. However, if the device is not compatible with Q Link’s services, you will not be able to make or receive calls, send text messages, or use the monthly data, even after trying to activate it.
Can I Buy Q Link Airtime and Data From Walmart?
No, even though Walmart sells unlocked phones that happen to be compatible with Q Link, the store chain is in no way related to the Lifeline provider, therefore it does not sell Q Link airtime and/or data.
