Qlink Wireless is one of the USA’s fastest-growing Lifeline service providers. At Qlink they strive to provide as many households as possible with free wireless service that includes 1000 free minutes, unlimited texts, and 3GB data.
Compared to many other wireless providers that offer free government phones to their Lifeline users, Qlink doesn’t have that option.
Instead, at Qlink Wireless they have one of the best BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) programs and an extremely wide selection of very solid phones available for those, who decide to upgrade their devices. Herein we will cover all the details regarding Qlink Wireless compatible phones, Qlink BYOP, and Qlink upgrade options.
What Do We Mean by ‘Qlink Compatible Phones’?
Qlink wireless offers an amazing BYOP program. However, not all devices can be used on Qlink services. By the term ‘compatible phones’, we refer to devices that work on Qlink’s network, thus are able to accept Qlink’s SIM card, connect to their network, and let you use their FREE phone service.
As mentioned above, Qlink also offers to upgrade phones, which are, of course, all compatible with their network.
Qlink wireless offers a free plan to those eligible for Lifeline Assistance. Determine your eligibility: https://qlinkwireless.com/members/lifeline-eligibility.aspx. Check your phone’s compatibility only if you are eligible for the Lifeline plan.
Read more for Qlink free phone and service
How to Know Which Phone is Compatible?
By far the easiest way to check if a phone is compatible with Qlink wireless is by visiting https://qlinkwireless.com/byop.aspx, where you enter your phone’s ESN (IMEI, or MEID), check the reCAPTCHA’s ‘I’m not a robot’ option, and click on the “Continue” button.
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), the MEID (Mobile Equipment Identifier), or ESN (Electronic Serial Number) is a specific number that identifies a cell phone in the United States. Your phone may not have an ESN, then it will show as the IMEI or MEID. (Qlink provides you with instructions where to find ESN/IMEI/MEID.)
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For seniors
You might be more of an ‘up-to-date’ kind of senior, who is very familiar with smartphones, however, in general, seniors prefer to use flip phones. For seniors, it might be simpler to call Qlink’s assistance by calling 1-855-754-6543. (Don’t call the support from the phone you want to check if it’s compatible.)
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For people between the ages of 16 – 60
For the majority of the US population, smartphones are the new norm. At Qlink, you are able to bring in a wide range of smartphones (both, Android or iPhone). Simply visit the link above and check if your phone is compatible.
Qlink Compatibility Check Process
For you to bring over your existing phone and use it with Qlink services, you first need to make sure that your phone is compatible with their services.
To do so, visit their official website, scroll down slightly, where you will see the “BRING YOUR OWN PHONE” section. Within that section, there is a Bring Your Own Phone link text. Click on it. That will get you to the compatibility check page.
Next, you need to enter your phone’s ESN/IMEI/MEID number and click “Continue. If you have trouble finding the IMEI number, use the instructions on that page, just below the entry field (make sure to select the type of your device on the left side).
How to Upgrade Qlink Compatible Phone?
Qlink wireless gives its users a chance to upgrade their phones at any time. Those who are eligible Lifeline Assistance applicants can upgrade to any devices available at their online store for a quick online purchase (https://qlinkwireless.com/members/cart/quickpurchasephone.aspx). All of their devices are available at highly discounted prices and you can get a smartphone for as little as $25 (for existing Q Link customers).
Qlink’s inventory is based entirely upon stock and availability, meaning what they offer varies from one month to the next. While they can’t tell you the exact brand and style phone they will always have in stock, they can assure you that you’ll always be able to enjoy the latest smartphone features when upgrading.
Upgrade purchase can be made online, https://qlinkwireless.com/members/cart/quickpurchasephone.aspx, or via toll-free number at 1-(855) 754-6543.
NOTE: By upgrading to devices available at the link above, you receive double the data and unlimited talk.
Read more for Qlink phone replacement policy
8 Best Qlink Wireless Compatible Smartphone
NOTE: Like mentioned above, all phones available for upgrade at Qlink’s online store are compatible with their services.
Below are the eight best smartphones currently available at Qlink Wireless. We have arranged them from the most expensive ones to the most affordable ones.
SAMSUNG GALAXY S9
Samsung Galaxy S9 is a top-class smartphone. It comes with a very fast processor and advanced camera. It is also equipped with an infinity display and stereo speakers pre-tuned by AKG for the amazing visual and sound experience.
Specifications:
- OS: Android 9.0 (Pie)
- Water resistance: IP68-Water-resistant in up to 5 feet of water for up to 30 minutes
- Display: Infinity Display Quad HD+ Super AMOLED
- Screen size: 5.8 inches
- Super Speed Dual Pixel rear (12MP) & front cameras
- Battery: 3000 mAh – AOD off: Up to 326 hours (13.6 days), AOD on: Up to 82 hours (3.5 days)
- Fast wireless charging
- Weight: 163g
- Expandable memory: Up to 400GB MicroSD – MicroSD card sold separately.
- IP68 rating: Withstands splashes, spills, and rain
- Speakerphone and Voice Dialing
Main Pros:
- Swift biometric security
- Awesome low-light performance
- Very powerful
Main Cons:
- Not a unique design (identical to Galaxy S8)
- Some camera snaps lack vibrancy
SAMSUNG GALAXY A50
Samsung Galaxy A50 features a sleek, 6.4” super AMOLED edge-to-edge screen to offer you an incredible experience. Its slim design makes it suitable for any pocket. It comes with a built-in memory of 64GB, which can store up to 100,000 photos. With the purchase of a microSD card this can be expended up to 512GB. This smartphone is equipped with an amazing camera that will enable you to take pro-like shots in various conditions.
Specifications:
- OS: Android 9.0 (Pie)
- Display: 6.4 inches
- SIM: Nano-SIM
- Memory: 4GB RAM + 64GB Internal
- Camera: 25MP Rear AND 25MP Front-facing
- Battery: 4,000mAh Li-Ion (Non-Removeable)
- High Speed Capable included
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Capable
- Speakerphone and Voice Dialing enabled
Main Pros:
- Best display for the price
- Design reminiscent of flagships
- Solid performance
- Luminous back cover
Main Cons:
- Camera falls short in low-light conditions
- Battery life is underwhelming
- Can feel a little cheap
SAMSUNG NOTE 8
Galaxy Note 8 remains one of Samsung’s biggest phones and does more than enough to meet any user’s expectations. It has an expansive 6.3-inch ‘Infinity Display,’ faster 6GB of RAM performance and two outstanding rear cameras. What makes the Note 8 different is the handy S Pen stylus and larger 6.3-inch ‘Infinity Display’ to work with. The phone acts like a big, borderless glass canvas for your important handwritten notes and masterpiece doodles.
Specifications:
- OS: Android 9.0
- Display: 6.3 inches
- SIM: Nano-SIM
- Memory: 6GB RAM + 64GB Internal
- Camera: 12MP Rear AND 8MP Front-facing
- Battery: 3,300mAh Li – Ion (Non-Removeable)
- High Speed Capable
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Capable
- Speakerphone and Voice Dialing enabled
Main Pros:
- Infinity Display’ is excellent
- Great dual-lens camera
- Fast with 6GB of RAM
Main Cons:
- Battery life held back
- Weaker speaker
LG STYLO 5
LG Stylo 5 is a device where form, functionality, and fun come together. It is a device that fits perfectly into your life. It enables you to maximize your view with a 6.2″ FullVision edge-to-edge display. It enables you to improve your creativity with the built-in stylus pen. With LG Stylo 5 you can take amazing photos since it is equipped with an advanced 13 MP camera. The LG Stylo 5 features a high-capacity 3,500 mAh battery that’s built to last.
Specifications:
- OS: Android 9.0 (Pie)
- Display: 6.2 inches
- SIM: Nano-SIM
- Memory: 3GB RAM + 32GB Internal
- Camera: 13 MP Rear AND 5MP Front-facing
- Battery: 3,500mAh Li – Ion (Non-Removable)
- High Speed Capable
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Capable
- Speakerphone and Voice Dialing enabled
Main Pros:
- Very large display suitable for watching videos and playing games
- High-quality display
- High-grade CPU
Main Cons:
- The processor speed can’t match one of the top-notch smartphones
- Front camera is not that great
MOTOROLA MOTO G7 PLAY
Motorola Moto G7 Play operates on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 632 octa-core processor, which makes this Moto model 100% faster than its predecessor. It has up to 40 hours of battery and its design is water repellent. It comes with expanded storage, a fingerprint reader, face unlock feature, and a 5.7” Max Vision HD+ Screen so your games, movies, and photos load fast and look stunning. The phone also features a 13-MP fast-focusing camera, so you’ll never miss a moment.
Specifications:
- OS: Android 9.0 Pie
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 632 processor with 1.8 GHz
- Display: 5.7″ LCD touchscreen
- SIM: Single Nano-SIM
- Memory: 2GB RAM
- Camera: 13MP Rear AND 8MP Front-facing
- Battery: 3000 mAh battery
- High Speed Capable
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Capable
- Speakerphone and Voice Dialing enabled
- MicroSD Capability: Up to 128GB (not included)
Main Pros:
- Excellent performance for the money
- Fingerprint sensor
- Headphone jack
Main Cons:
- Slow Wi-Fi performance
- Insufficient RAM for advanced multitasking
- Plastic body
LG TRIBUTE EMPIRE
LG Tribute Empire is a solid lower mid-range smartphone. It comes with a 5″ HD IPS TFT Display, 8 MP Auto Focus with LED Flash Rear Camera, and a 5 MP Front Camera. It runs on a MediaTek MT6750 1.5GHz Octa-Core Processor and has a Battery Capacity of 2,500mAh Lithium-Ion. It is suitable for all sorts of tasks. However, it might be a bit slow when it comes to 3D games and advanced multitasking.
Specifications:
- OS: Android 8.1 (Oreo)
- Processor: MediaTek MT6750 1.5GHz Octa-Core; GPU Mali-T860 MP2
- Display: 5.0″ IPS LCD Touchscreen
- SIM: Nano-SIM
- Memory: 2GB RAM + 16GB Internal
- Camera: 8MP Rear AND 5MP Front-facing
- Battery: Removable Li-Ion 2500 mAh battery
- High Speed Capable
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Capable
- Speakerphone and Voice Dialing enabled
- MicroSD Capability: Up to 32GB (not included)
Main Pros:
- Affordable
- Reliable performance.
- Good display for the price.
- 4G LTE connectivity.
Main Cons:
- Lower screen pixel density
- Low internal storage.
- Camera performance isn’t great
ZTE TEMPO X
Tempo X is ZTE’s most reliable smartphone to date. This entry-level smartphone boasts high-quality performance at an affordable price. Equipped with the latest Android 7.1 Nougat OS, a powerful 2,200 mAh Battery that offers over 14 hours talk time, and a high-quality camera, which can produce solid photos and videos.
Specifications:
- OS: Android 7.1.1 (Nougat)
- Display: 5″ Touch Screen
- SIM: Nano-SIM
- Memory: 1GB RAM + 8GB Internal
- Camera: 5MP Rear AND 2MP Front-facing
- Battery: 2200 mAh Lithium-Ion Battery
- 4G Capable
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Capable
- Speakerphone and Voice Dialing enabled
- MicroSD Capability: Up to 32GB (not included)
Main Pros:
- Removable battery
- Affordable
Main Cons:
- Low res front camera
- Average performance
- Battery capacity could be better
HP POBLANO VLE5
HP Poblano VLE5 is another solid entry-level smartphone. Its main advantage is affordability. It is equipped with a 5″ inch screen, 1GB RAM, solid 16GB of internal storage, and a 5MP rear camera, which is solid enough to help you capture memorable moments. HP poblano is not suitable for those in need of a smartphone that is capable of running multiple advanced tasks at once, yet it offers more than an average user’s needs.
Specifications:
- OS: Android GO
- Processor: 1.1 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 210
- Display: 5″ Touch Screen
- SIM: Nano-SIM
- Memory: 1GB RAM + 16GB Internal
- Camera: 5MP Rear AND 2MP Front-facing
- Battery: 2,000mAh Li – Ion (User replaceable)
- High Speed Capable
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Capable
- Speakerphone and Voice Dialing enabled
- MicroSD Capability: Up to 32GB (not included)
Main Pros:
- Affordable smartphone
- Decent size of internal storage
- Has both rear and front cameras
Main Cons:
- Only 1GB RAM (poor multitasking capabilities)
- Battery could last longer
4 Best Qlink Wireless Compatible Flip Phones for Seniors
NOTE: Currently there are no flip phones displayed on Qlink’s online store. If you are interested in purchasing a flip phone, call 1-(855) 754-6543.
Alcatel OneTouch Retro
Alcatel OneTouch Retro phone is suitable for users who prefer practicality or elder target audience. Just like most other basic phones, it settles for a limited 256MB memory with only 128MB worth of RAM, which is more than enough to cover calls and texting. This dual-screen (2.4-inch main, 1.44-inch external) model comes with a dedicated 911 button, which might come in handy for seniors. It also has a microSD card, which is very impressive for regular flip cellphones.
Specifications:
- Camera Resolution: 2-megapixel
- Display: 2.4 inches, 166.67 DPI, 320 x 240 px
- Operating System: Alcatel proprietary
- Processor Speed: 480MHz
- RAM: 128MB
- Weight: 3.91 ounces
- Battery: 850mAh Lithium-Ion, 210 hours stand-by time, 240 minutes talk time
- Memory: 256MB
- Memory Expansion: MicroSDHC (Up to 32GB)
Main Pros:
- Dedicated 911 button
- Memory expansion option
Main Cons:
- Only 256MB of internal memory
- Battery could be better
Kyocera DuraXT
Kyocera DuraXT is perfect for those who don’t want to worry about breaking, dusting, or damaging with water as it is highly resistant to all of these nuisances that damage many phones. It is a very solid model (compared to other regular flip phones). It is more than capable to handle all basic tasks. Its major downside is that is doesn’t offer WiFi connectivity option.
Specifications:
- Weight: 5.3 oz (151.9 grams)
- Display: 2.0″ QVGA TFT, 240 x 320 pixels internal display
- Battery: 1360 mAh Li-Ion, Talk Time up to 8 Hours
- SD Card Slot: microSD, microSDHC
- Camera: 3 megapixels
- Has Bluetooth and GPS
Main Pros:
- Good call quality, earpiece volume, and speaker volume.
- Rugged build.
- Removable battery.
Main Cons:
- Noise cancellation is only average.
- Poor camera.
LG LX160
LG LX160 is another basic flip phone focused on simplicity and usability for those who are looking for a device for calls and texting. It is very portable and compact.
Specifications:
- Weight: 2.72 oz (77 g)
- Dimensions: 3.54 x 1.85 x 0.78 inches (90 x 47 x 20 mm)
- Display: 128 x 160 pixels, TFT (secondary display: 96 x 64 pixels, Color, STN, Colors: 65 536)
- Battery: Li – Ion, User-replaceable 750mAh, 3.5 hours talk time, 170 hours standby time
- Has Bluetooth
- Has headphones jack
Main Pros:
- Usability
- Portability
- Design (size)
- Ultra lightweight
Main Cons:
- Rather poor screen
- Poor camera
- Battery standby time could be better
Samsung M270
Samsung M270 is a very basic flip phone, offering those who look for maximum simplicity basic options such as calling and texting.
Specifications:
- Display: 1.77″ (4.5 cm), 160 x 128 pixels
- Ram: 64MB
- Internal storage: 128MB
- Weight: 100 g
- Offers expandable memory slot
- Battery: up to 290 hours standby time, up to 4h talk time
- No Bluetooth
- No GPS
Main Cons:
- Very simple to use
Main Cons:
- No connectivity options
- Not suitable for other than talks and texting
Others Compatible Phone List With Qlink Wireless
Qlink Wireless compatible with Apple iPhone:
iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 7 (RED), iPhone 7 Plus (RED), iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone X
Qlink compatible with Samsung:
Galaxy S7 Special Edition, Galaxy S7 Edge Special Edition, Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8+, Galaxy S8 Special Edition, Galaxy S8+ Special Edition, Galaxy Note 8, Galaxy Note 8 Special Edition
Qlink compatible with Google:
Google Nexus 5, Google Nexus 5X, Google Nexus 6, Nexus 6P, Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL
Qlink compatible with Motorola:
Moto E4, Moto E4 Plus, Moto G4, Moto G4 Play, Moto G4 Plus, Moto G5 Plus, Moto G5S Plus, Moto X Pure Edition, Moto X4, Moto Z2 Play
Qlink compatible with Other Brands:
Alcatel iDOLTM 5s, BLU S1/Vivo S, Essential Phone, LG X Charge (Amazon only), Orbic Wonder
How Do I Get Qlink Compatible Phone?
The simplest way is to get an upgrade phone at Qlink wireless. Their phones are, of course, all Qlink compatible. If you already have a phone, make sure to check it is compatible with Qlink. Visit https://qlinkwireless.com/byop.aspx and follow the instructions.
Does The Government Provide Compatible Phones?
As mentioned above, Qlink wireless doesn’t provide free government phones, they do, however, offer highly discountable upgrade smartphones for only $25.
There are other wireless providers taking part in the Lifeline Assistance program that do offer free phones and some of those may be compatible with Qlink. If you have gotten a free device from one of these providers in the past year, you may transfer over to Qlink and apply trough their BYOP program. If doing so, make sure that your current device is Qlink compatible (https://qlinkwireless.com/byop.aspx).
Are Qlink Phones Compatible With Other Carriers?
For 3G-based phones:
Q Link cell phones do not come with a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) or memory card. Q Link phones do not require SIM cards, nor have a SIM card port for use. SIM cards are not required on the wireless network that Q Link Wireless uses. This means that Qlink phones are limited to 3G CDMA networks. If the phone doesn’t operate using a SIM card, you cannot use it on the GSM network.
Once unlocked, you may be able to use a Qlink phone on other CDMA networks, such as Sprint (4G LTE and 5G are under T-Mobile), Verizon, and US Cellular.
NOTE: Newer phones (4G LTE based) all require SIM cards, as such, Qlink also offers SIM cards these days.
Qlink Phone Replacement and Return Policy
Every smartphone Qlink provides to their members is covered by two warranties:
14 Day Q Link Return Guarantee:
Q Link Wireless will replace any phone that does not work with a brand new smartphone within 14 days of delivery. Cosmetic defects/scratches do not qualify under the return policy.
How to return your defective phone to Q Link within 14 days of delivery:
- Call Customer Support at 1 855-754-6543 and request a return authorization number (RMA).
- Write the RMA number on the prepaid shipping label, available to download at Qlink website. Cut off the label and tape it to the original box.
- Place the defective phone inside the original box, seal with tape, and drop it off at your local post office to ship it back to Q Link Wireless at no cost.
Manufacturer Warranty
All Qlink smartphone models include a 1-year Manufacturer’s Warranty.
If your phone breaks (not due to your fault) within 1 year of delivery, you can reach out to the manufacturer of the smartphone for assistance on getting a replacement.
What if My Phone’s Warranties are Expired?
If your phone breaks down after the warranties expired or is lost or stolen, your best chance is to get an upgrade. Qlink offers an exclusive discount of $25 for an upgraded smartphone.
Are Qlink Phones Unlocked?
There is some unclear information provided by the Qlink Wireless in that regard. “Q LINK Wireless does not lock mobile devices and cannot send you to unlock instructions or assist with the unlocking of your device.” This can be interpreted that your Qlink phone is unlocked and may be used with other CDMA networks.
However, they also state the following: “The Q LINK Wireless Mobile Device is provided exclusively for use by you, the end consumer, with the Q LINK Wireless Service available solely in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or Guam. Any other use of your Q LINK Wireless Mobile Device, including, but not limited to, resale, unlocking, and/or re-flashing of the phone, is unauthorized and constitutes a violation of your agreement with Q LINK Wireless.”
Moreover, there is a new law set in place that requires every wireless provider to offer to unlock their device (when/if specific conditions are met).
If your Qlink device is locked and you want to get it unlocked, call Qlink support at 1-855-754-6543 and request unlocking.
Why and How to Switch from a Different Carrier to Qlink?
AS you probably know, Qlink Wireless is one of the leading providers of Lifeline, a free government benefit program that offers FREE cell phone service to eligible Americans. Q Link gives qualifying customers FREE monthly data, minutes, and unlimited texting. Their Lifeline deal offers FREE unlimited talk, unlimited text, and 3GB of data each month.
As such, the most common reason to switch over to Qlink is if you are eligible for their Lifeline plan. If you are switching over from any other carrier, you will need to meet the eligibility conditions, which are the same as regular Lifeline conditions, and then apply with them. In some areas you have a chance of getting their phone for free, however, you always have the option of bringing your own phone (if compatible).
If you want to port in your existing number, you can also do so. Once accepted into their services, you will need to call their support at 1-855-754-6543 and request a port-in.
Where to Buy a Qlink phone?
You can upgrade your phone directly at Qlink Wireless (through their online store) or you can upgrade your device elsewhere and bring it via Qlink’s BYOP program.
Here is a list of suggested places that are worth considering:
- Qlink online shop – here you get to upgrade your phone for as little as $25. This won’t get you the latest smartphone, however, it will provide you with a phone that will definitely work smoothly with Qlink services.
- Tracfone shop – Tracfone offers a wide range of prepaid phones that you can bring to Tracfone. Make sure to check compatibility before purchase.
- Qlink Phone at Amazon – this is an online marketplace, where you can find a wide range of unlocked phones that will work with Qlink Wireless.
- Qlink Phone at Walmart – they offer a wide range of phones in their online store. Certain models can also be found locally.
- Qlink Phone at Best Buy – Best Buy is another reputable place where you can find quite a wide range of unlocked devices. You can choose between new or refurbished devices.
Qlink Phone Insurance Policy
Qlink doesn’t offer any specific insurance. They have a 14-day return warranty and manufacturer’s 1-year warranty set in place, which we discussed above. However, you may use a third-party insurance service, though it may not make much sense, because Qlink offers upgrade phones for only $25.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How to activate Qlink phone?
Qlink offers 3 Easy Steps to Activate:
- Log in to My Q Link: Username is your email and the Password is your ZIP code unless previously changed.
- Follow Steps: Once logged in, you’ll be directed to your phone activation instructions.
- Make a Test Call: Place a call to 305-260-6232 to ensure your activation was successful.
How good is Qlink performance?
Qlink wireless is ranked as the best carrier in terms of offering lifeline services. It operates on the Sprint network (3G) and T-Mobile’s (4G and above) since Sprint become a part of the T-Mobile family.
Is Qlink GSM or CDMA?
Qlink operates on Sprint’s network, which used to be CDMA but has now been purchased by T-Mobile and switched their 4G LTE to GSM. So, 3G is still CDMA, while 4G LTE is GSM.
Is my phone compatible with Qlink?
Visit https://qlinkwireless.com/byop.aspx and enter your phone’s IMEI to check compatibility.
Check if you want to know more about different phones
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