Safelink Wireless is brought to you by TracFone Wireless, Inc. Safelink Wireless is one of the leading wireless providers offering the Lifeline assistance plans to the eligible household all across the US. As such, we did extensive research to provide you with information about Safelink wireless compatible phones.
What Does mean by ‘Safelink Compatible Phones’?
By ‘compatible phones’ we mean cell phones, either smartphones or regular phones, that can be used with Safelink Wireless services, thus are compatible with the TracFone’s network.
Unlike some other wireless providers, Safelink accepts most GSM phones. All unlocked phones and, of course, all phones upgraded (purchased) at Safelink store are Safelink compatible.
How to know which phone is compatible?
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For seniors
If you are not an ‘up-to-date’ kind of seniors who wants all the advanced option that modern phones have to offer, you will most likely prefer a simple regular phone or a flip phone. These types of phones are simple and are mostly intended for calls. They have large regular dial pads and provide the user with maximum simplicity. In the case of flip phones, answering and ending calls is as simple as opening and closing the two half of a cellphone.
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For people between the ages of 16 – 60
Smartphones are the new norm for the majority of the US population. At Safelink wireless, you can get an entry-level smartphone for free only in certain states, however, you always have an option of upgrading to one, in which case you can choose a specific device. Smartphones will allow you to perform more advanced tasks, such as fast internet browsing, multitasking, playing mobile games, being active on social media and more. If you need your phone for more than calls and SMSs, then you definitely need a smartphone.
Read more If you want to know about Safelink wireless free phone and plans
NOTE: To check if your phone is Safelink wireless compatible, send a text message containing BYOP to 611611.
How to Upgrade Safelink Compatible Phone?
As we mentioned above, Safelink wireless is only available for those who qualify for their Lifeline program. Moreover, eligible households will be given a free government phone only in certain states (the actual phone, in this case, is chosen by the Safelink wireless), which is, of course, Safelink wireless compatible phone.
Moreover, they offer a full range of Safelink wireless compatible phones you may upgrade to (purchase). The easiest way to do so is via their online store, which displays all currently available and Safelink wireless compatible phones. Here is a link to view all Safelink wireless compatible phones: https://shop.safelinkwireless.com/SafeLink-Smart-Phones.html. Visit the shop, select the one you want, add it to the cart and proceed to checkout, where you will choose a payment option (they also have the Affirm option of paying in installments).
Read more If you want to know about How To Replace SafeLink Phones
Another option to upgrade Safelink compatible phone is by visiting one of their local dealers. Find a local dealer: https://www.safelink.com/wps/portal/home/retailers/.
10 Best Safelink Compatible Smartphone
NOTE: As mentioned above, all phones available for upgrade at Safelink wireless online store are compatible with their services. (Get your Safelink wireless compatible phone here: https://shop.safelinkwireless.com/SafeLink-Smart-Phones.html)
Below are the ten best smartphones currently available at Safelink Wireless. We have select then to meet various price ranges.
Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max – BEST FOR APPLE FANS
Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max is currently one of the best smartphones on the market. It is the best SafeLink store has in store. It comes with the best processor and incredible screen. It is equipped with captivating triple cameras, the longest iPhone battery life ever and an even brighter display than previous iPhone models. If you can afford it, it is definitely worth getting.
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE†
- Screen size: 6.5″ OLED Display
- Camera: Triple 12MP rear cameras, 12MP front camera
- Operating System: iOS 13
- Processor: A13 Bionic Chip
- SIM Card: Dual SIM (Nano and eSIM)
- Battery Life: Non-removable Li-Ion 3500 mAh battery
- Memory: 64GB, 256GB or 512GB
- RAM: 6GB
Main Pros:
- Gorgeous OLED display is now brighter
- A13 Bionic CPU fastest around
- Stellar triple cameras with Night mode
- The longest battery life of any iPhone
- Durable design
- Fast charging in box
Main Cons:
- Skimpy 64GB storage
- Fewer color options than iPhone 11
NOTE: Safelink also offers iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone XS Max, which are just slightly behind the above model.
Google Pixel 4 XL – BEST FOR ANDROID FANS
Pixel 4XL is the phone made the Google way, thus expect all the Google apps to run as good as they can. Pixel 4XL can take a picture of the Milky Way with one tap, in Night Sight mode. Pixel 4XL is also the first phone with Motion Sense™², which enables you to use gestures to get things done (no touching your phone required).
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE†
- Screen size: Fullscreen 6.3″ QHD+ OLED with 537 ppi
- Camera: 16MP and 12.2MP rear, 8MP front
- Operating System: Android 10
- Processor: Octa-core 2.84GHz
- SIM Card: Nano SIM
- Battery Life: 3700 mAh battery
- Memory: 64GB
- RAM: 6GB
Main Pros:
- Performance
- Top-notch Camera
- Clever Motion Sense feature
- Battery
Main Cons:
- Display is pretty dim
Samsung Galaxy S10+ – BEST FOR SAMSUNG FANS
Samsung presents its Galaxy S10+ as its latest and greatest innovation ever. Introducing the Samsung Galaxy S10+. They’ve named it their next generation. Samsung Galaxy S10+’s precise laser cutting and a Dynamic AMOLED screen that’s easy on the eyes make the Infinity Display Samsung’s most innovative yet.
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE†
- Screen size: 6.4″ Dynamic AMOLED Display
- Camera: Triple 12MP, 12MP & 16MP rear; 10MP front.
- Operating System: Android 9.0 (Pie)
- Processor: Octa-core (1×2.8 GHz & 3×2.4 GHz& 4×1.7 GHz)
- SIM Card: Nano
- Battery Life: Non-removable Li-Ion 4100 mAh battery
- Memory: 128GB, microSD support up to 512GB
- RAM: 8GB
Main Pros:
- Excellent screen-to-body ratio
- In-screen fingerprint sensor
- Wireless PowerShare perk
- Battery life
- Very fast performance
Main Cons:
- Bixby button still exists
- Slippery design
- Punch holes in the display can be distracting
LG G8 ThinQ – BEST FOR LG FANS
The LG G8 ThinQ™ is crafted with smooth, contoured glass for a gorgeous, uncompromising streamlined design. Featuring LG’s edge-to-edge 6.1″ OLED Fullvision™ display poses clarity, beautiful contrast, and vibrant color for some of the best picture quality ever from LG. LG G8 ThinQ also offers an incredible sound experience.
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE†
- Screen size: 6.1″ QHD+ OLED FullVision Display
- Camera: 16MP rear, 8MP front
- Operating System: Android 9.0 (Pie)
- Processor: Octa-Core 2.84 GHz
- Battery Life: 3,500 mAh Non-Removable
- Memory: 128GB, microSD up to 2TB
- RAM: 6GB
Main Pros:
- Impressive battery
- Very good performance
- Gorgeous display
- Excellent audio, including ‘Crystal Sound OLED’
Main Cons:
- Steep learning curve for Air Motion gestures
- Unpredictable software update cycle
- Ultra-smooth glass back is very slippery
Apple iPhone 6S – MOST AFFORDABLE iPHONE AT SAFELINK
iPhone 6S is powered by the custom-designed 64-bit A9 chip. It delivers performance once found only in desktop computers. You’ll experience up to 70 percent faster CPU performance, and up to 90 percent faster GPU performance for all your favorite graphics-intensive games and apps. Using a highly advanced fingerprint sensor that’s now faster and better than ever, Touch ID makes unlocking your phone easy and secure.
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE†
- Screen size: 4.7″ Retina HD with 3D Touch
- Camera: 12MP rear, 5MP front
- Operating System: iOS 9
- Processor: A9 chip with 64-bit architecture
- SIM Card: Nano SIM
- Battery Life: 10 days standby, 10 hours talk time
- Memory: 32GB
- RAM: 2GB
Main Pros:
- Great design
- 3D Touch impresses
- Stable OS
Main Cons:
- Battery life is mediocre
- Live Photos are gimmicky
Motorola Moto G7 Play – MID-RANGE
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.
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
Samsung Galaxy A10e – MID-RANGE
Samsung Galaxy A10e gives most users exactly what they need – the performance and reliability of a brand you can trust. It allows you to do more with a long-lasting battery and keep all of your files with a 32GB built-in memory. Its 5.83″ edge-to-edge Infinity Display allows for a great experience.
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE
- Hotspot: Mobile Hotspot enabled
- Screen size: 5.8″ TFT HD+ display
- Camera: 8MP rear, 5MP front
- Operating System: Android 9 (Pie)
- Processor: Octa-Core
- Battery Life: 3,000 mAh battery
- Memory: 32GB, microSD up to 512GB
- RAM: 2GB
Main Pros:
- Easy to hold with one hand
- Lightweight
- Large HD display
Main Cons:
- No screen protection
- No fast charging
- Not water/dust-proof
Alcatel Fierce 4 – LOW-RANGE
The Alcatel FIERCE 4 features impressive value in a premium-looking form factor. It enables you to enjoy on-the-go entertainment on a bright 5.5-inch HD IPS display supported by crystal clear audio. Take beautiful HDR and panoramic photos in a snap with an eight-megapixel main camera, accessible from a shortcut key on your lock screen.
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE†
- Screen size: 5.5″ IPS HD display
- Camera: 8MP rear, 5MP front
- Operating System: Android 6.0 (Marshmallow)
- Processor: Quad-core 1.1 GHz
- Battery Life: Non-removable Li-Ion 2500 mAh battery
- Memory: 16GB, microSD up to 256GB
- RAM: 2GB
Main Pros:
- Low price tag
- Attractive design
- Good color accuracy
Main Cons:
- Weak camera
- Subpar brightness
- Occasionally sluggish
Samsung Galaxy Core Prime – LOW-RANGE
Samsung Galaxy Core Prime is a very solid entry-level smartphone. With 4G LTE data speeds, you can stream high-quality videos, video chat and share photos with friends, all at speeds that keep up with your life. And the updated Android™ operating system makes navigating the simple interface very intuitive. With smooth curves and a brushed metallic bezel, the premium design of the Galaxy Core Prime™ speaks for itself. Its slim and sleek body fits nicely in your palm, making it easy for you to stay in touch.
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE†
- Screen size: 4.5″ WVGA display
- Camera: 5MP rear, 2MP front
- Operating System: Android 5.1 (Lollipop)
- Processor: Quad Core 1.2GHz
- Battery Life: 2,000 mAh battery
- Memory: 8GB, microSD up to 128GB
- RAM: 1GB
Main Pros:
- Solid build
- Low price
- Easy to use with one hand
Main Cons:
- Cheap faux-metal rim
- Screen isn’t very sharp
- Camera is poor
ZTE Avid Trio – CHEAPEST SMARTPHONE AT SAFELINK
The Avid TRIO is packed with essentials including a 5.0″ LCD scratch-resistant display for great viewing quality, a large 2800 mAh battery, and up to 32GB of expandable memory via microSD.
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE†
- Screen size: 5.0″ IFWVGA LCD display
- Camera: 5MP rear, 2MP front
- Operating System: Android OS, v6.0 (Marshmallow)
- Processor: 1.4 GHz quad-core
- Battery Life: Removable Li-Ion 2800 mAh battery
- Memory: 8GB, microSD up to 32GB
- RAM: 1GB
Main Pros:
- Affordable
- Long-lasting removable battery
- Expandable storage
- Good network performance
- Solid call quality
Main Cons:
- Low-resolution screen
- Sluggish performance
- Lackluster camera
- Paltry internal storage
Best Safelink Compatible Flip Phones for Seniors
NOTE: Since smartphones are way more popular, there is currently only one flip phone available at Safelink wireless online store. If you are interested in a flip phone, call 1-800-723-3546.
Alcatel MYFLIP
The Alcatel MYFLIP™ is perfect for easy answering and call ending. But it is also more than just a basic phone. It delivers the essential features to be productive – including access to email, calendar, and web at 4G speeds. The Alcatel MYFLIP™ delivers the essential features to get things done in compact flip phone design, making it suitable for those in need of simplicity and compatibility.
Specifications:
- Network Speed: 4G LTE†
- Screen size: 2.8″ QWVGA Display
- Camera: 2MP Rear-Facing Camera
- Operating System: KaiOS
- Processor: 1.1GHz Quad-Core Processor
- Battery Life: Up to 11 days of standby time, 8 hours talk time
- Memory: 4GB
- RAM: 512MB
Main Pros:
- Compact flip-phone design
- 4G-LTE network connectivity
- A rather strong processor for a flip phone
- Very long-life battery
Main Cons:
- Poor camera
- 512MB RAM capacity (still more than enough for basic tasks)
Safelink Compatible Phones List
In case you want to explore phones that we haven’t taken a look at above, we decided to present you with a full list of phones that are currently available on Safelink Wireless’s online store and are, as such, 100% compatible with their network.
Safelink Compatible iPhones:
- Apple iPhone 6S
- Apple iPhone 6S Plus
- Apple iPhone 7
- Apple iPhone 7 Plus
- Apple iPhone 8
- Apple iPhone 8 Plus
- Apple iPhone XR
- Apple iPhone 11
- Apple iPhone XS
- Apple iPhone 11 Pro
- Apple iPhone XS Max
- Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max
Safelink Compatible Androids Phones:
- ALCATEL: Alcatel 1X Evolve
- BLU: BLU View 1
- GOOGLE: Google Pixel 3a XL, Google Pixel 2, Google Pixel 3a, Google Pixel 3, Google Pixel 3 XL, Google Pixel 4, Google Pixel 4 XL
- LG: LG Rebel 4, LG Aristo 2, LG Rebel 3 5.0, LG K7, LG Phoenix 2 5.0, LG Premier Pro, LG Fiesta 2 5.5, LG Aristo 3, LG Stylo 3 Plus, LG Aristo 4+, LG K40, LG K8, LG X Charge, LH K30, LG Stylo 5, LG G7 Fit, LG Stylo 4, LG Q6, LG V30 Plus, LG G6, LG V30, LG V40 ThinQ, LG G8 ThinQ
- MOTOROLA: Motorola Moto E5, Motorola E5 Play, Motorola G6, Motorola Moto E6, Motorola G6 Play, Motorola G7 Play, Motorola G7 Power, Motorola G7, Motorola One Action, Motorola Z4
- NOKIA: Nokia 2.2, Nokia 4.2, Nokia 7.2, Nokia 9 Pureview
- RAZER: Razer Phone 2
- SAMSUNG: Samsung Galaxy J2, Samsung Galaxy J3 Orbit, Samsung J3 Prime, Samsung Galaxy J7 Crown, Samsung Galaxy Express Prime3, Samsung Galaxy A6, Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime, Samsung Galaxy J7 Star, Samsung Galaxy A10e, Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge, Samsung Galaxy A20, Samsung Galaxy S7, Samsung Galaxy S8, Samsung Galaxy A50, Samsung Galaxy S8+, Samsung Galaxy S9, Samsung Galaxy S9+, Samsung Galaxy Note 8, Samsung Galaxy S10e, Samsung Galaxy Note 9, Samsung Galaxy S10, Samsung Galaxy S10+, Samsung Galaxy Note 10, Samsung Galaxy S20 5G
Safelink Compatible Flip Phone
- ALCATEL: Alcatel MYFLIP
NOTE: The extensive list of phones provided above includes all phones that are available on the Safelink Wireless’s online store and are, as such, 100% compatible. However, Safelink offers are very good BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) option, which lets you use most phones available on the market. Read the section below to learn how to check the compatibility.
Safelink Compatibility Check Process
As mention previously, Safelink operates on the Tractfone’s network, which basically uses all major networks in the USA. This means that all phones compatible with Tracfone are also compatible with the Safelink.
To check compatibility, you must visit Tracfone’s official website, hover over the “SHOP” item in the main menu bar at the top and then click on the “Buy SIM Cards/Keep Your Own Phone” in the drop-down menu. On the next page scroll down and click on the orange “Check Compatibility button”.
The compatibility check process starts by choosing a carrier that your current phone is compatible with. You will have 5 options that cover all the possibilities. Just choose the one that applies to your phone and follow the instruction to complete the process. In some cases, you will need to provide your phone’s IMEI number.
If your phone is compatible, you can go to the Safelink website and apply for their Lifeline plan. If eligible you will get a free SIM card. Once you receive the SIM kit, install it in your phone and activate it, you may also transfer (port-in) your existing number. Simply call them at 1-800-378-1684 and request your number port-in.
How Do I Get a Safelink Wireless Compatible Phone?
As mentioned above, you can get a FREE Safelink wireless compatible phone when accepted into the Safelink Lifeline program only in certain states.
Another way to get a Safelink wireless compatible phone is by upgrading to one of the smartphones available at Safelink online store (https://shop.safelinkwireless.com/SafeLink-Smart-Phones.html).
Safelink has a very flexible BYOP (Bring Your Own Phone) program. They claim that most GPS phones are compatible with their network. You can check if your phone is Safelink wireless compatible by simply sending a text message containing BYOP to 611611.
Does the Government Provide Compatible Phones?
Yes, there are wireless providers taking part in the Lifeline Assistance program that offers free phones. Safelink Wireless is one of those wireless providers (only in certain states).
Those phones are, of course, compatible with the wireless company’s network and in some cases, those phones may be compatible with other wireless providers as well.
Safelink Wireless is one of those providers that offer a very flexible BYOP program, meaning that most GSM phones are compatible with their network.
Are Safelink Phones Compatible With Other Carriers
Safelink’s phones are originally locked to their network, however, they do have an unlocking policy set in place. That means that all their phones should be capable of being unlocked and then used with any other carrier.
To bring Safelink’s phone to another carrier, you will need to request your phone to be unlocked and also make sure to check that the carrier you want to bring it to offers the BYOP option and then complete the compatibility check with that carrier.
Once your Safelink phone is unlocked, you should be able to use it with all major wireless providers, including T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint.
Are Safelink phones unlocked?
YES, all Safelink phones are locked to their network by default. However, as mentioned above, they have an unlocking policy set in place, which means that your phone can be unlocked.
Safelink Phone Unlock Process
In order to be able to request your Safelink phone to be unlocked, you must comply with their Unlocking policy.
Here are the unlocking policy’s conditions:
- Customers must request handset unlocking.
- Customers must have had their locked device activated on Safelink/Tracfone services for no fewer than 12 months, redeemed air time cards in no fewer than 12 months, and not have had their telephone number recycled or ported.
- Customers must currently own a Safelink/TracFone branded handset model launched on TracFone’s service after February 11, 2014, or activated with TracFone’s service after February 11, 2015.
- Customers must possess a handset that is in working condition.
- Customers must possess a handset that is not reported stolen, lost, or associated with fraudulent activity.
- If a customer requesting handset unlocking is deployed military personnel, upon provision of deployment papers, Safelink will honor that customer’s unlocking request by sending a refund for the Trade-in Value of the used, locked phone returned by the customer without regard for the 12 months of service activation and air card redemption eligibility requirements. However, all other eligibility criteria apply to Safelink’s customers who are deployed military personnel.
- Customers are eligible for this program only once every twelve months.
- Customers must request this interim unlocking solution while their service is active or within 60 days after their active service days expire. This 60-day grace period applies even if the customer’s telephone number was recycled or ported.
NOTE: Non-SafeLink subscribers with handsets that cannot be unlocked may be eligible for a partial refund or credit toward a new handset.
You can check if you/your phone is eligible to be unlocked online. Visit https://www.tfwunlockpolicy.com/wps/portal/home/!ut/p/a1/04_Sj9CPykssy0xPLMnMz0vMAfGjzOK9LV0tDC0NDL39zX1NDBxDHb2dnLy9DAwMzPXD9aPASgxwAEcD_YLsbEUAhnbw8Q!!/dl5/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/ scroll to the bottom and enter your phone number or your phone’s serial number, thick the reCAPTCHA “I’m not a robot” box and click the “VERIFY ELIGIBILITY” button.
TO REQUEST YOUR PHONE TO BE UNLOCKED, CALL THEIR SUPPORT ON 1-888-442-5102 or 1-800-723-3546.
Why and How to Switch From a Different Carrier to Safelink?
The main reason why you may want to switch to Safelink is to enjoy their FREE Lifeline plan. If you are eligible for the Lifeline Assistance, you can switch to Safelink services.
The simplest way to do so is to visit their official website and enter your ZIP code in the box that says “ENTER ZIP CODE” at the top of the page and click the “START” button. Then just follow the application process, during which you will choose whether you will bring your existing phone or want Safelink to provide you with a free device (AVAILABLE ONLY IN CERTAIN AREAS).
Safelink Phone Replacement and Return Policy
Safelink Phone Insurance Policy
All Safelink phones come with a 1-year policy, which covers all malfunctions that haven’t been induced by a customer. In which case you may get a FREE repair or a replacement phone (depending on the case).
Phones malfunctioned after the first year, follow the same rules as lost, damaged or stolen ones (as per below).
In case your phone is lost, damaged or stolen you are not able to get a free replacement phone. If you wish to continue receiving SafeLink service, you may either buy a replacement phone from them, or provide your own unlocked phone, and purchase a replacement SIM card.
Safelink Return Policy
Online Purchases from SafeLink Wireless: If you purchased your SafeLink Wireless phone from SafeLink Wireless’s official website, you have thirty (30) days from the date of your phone was delivered to you to return it to them for either an exchange or a refund. To process a return, you must follow the return instructions that came with your phone and pay for the shipping cost to send it back to them.
To be eligible for a return you must meet the following requirements:
- The phone you are returning must have been purchased from SafeLink Wireless’s official website and the IMEI numbers must be verified.
- You must return the phone in like-new, working condition, returned in the original manufacturer’s packaging with all included accessories, including, device, battery, charger, and manual. The phone must not have any liquid or physical damage.
- You must pay for the cost to ship the phone back to them and include a copy of your receipt.
Store Purchases: If you purchased a SafeLink Wireless phone from a retailer or wireless dealer (and not from SafeLink Wireless directly either by phone or online), your Phone purchase is subject to that retailer’s return policy. To determine whether your purchase is eligible for a return, please contact the store where you originally made your purchase. SafeLink Wireless will not process the return of any SafeLink Wireless phone sold to you by a retailer or wireless dealer.
NOTE: SafeLink Wireless does not allow returns or provide refunds for any SIM Kits or Plans you may have purchased.
Where to buy a Safelink phone?
The best place to purchase a Safelink phone is on their online store. Visit https://shop.safelinkwireless.com/ and select your new phone.
