Want a new phone. Can I buy one and just add my sim?

[Q]

I'm a phone noob, I'll admit.
I will make it short as possible: my Razr Maxx is getting so slow, it's annoying. I want a new phone. Can I just purchase a new phone and stick my current SIM card in and go? If so, where can I browse, or what do I need to look for? I have Verizon with the grandfathered unlimited.

Thanks all!

 

[paperwastage]

you just need to swap the sim (as long as they're the same size or using adapters... razr maxx uses microSIM i believe), and everything should be working

unfortunately, you can only use Verizon-branded phones... (i.e. no unlocked smartphones like Sony Xperia line or Nexus line)

 

[isekii]

if you're due for an upgrade.
Do an upgrade through bestbuy. If you go to slickdeals there's a thread that outlines how to keep your unlimited.

 

[Ravynmagi]

you just need to swap the sim (as long as they're the same size or using adapters... razr maxx uses microSIM i believe), and everything should be working

unfortunately, you can only use Verizon-branded phones... (i.e. no unlocked smartphones like Sony Xperia line or Nexus line)

Can you just swap a sim on CDMA carrier phones like Verizon? I thought that only worked with GSM carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile.

 

[paperwastage]

Can you just swap a sim on CDMA carrier phones like Verizon? I thought that only worked with GSM carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile.

Verizon uses SIM cards for LTE provisioning (as well as CDMA provisioning) now

someone can probably explain it better than me

http://www.howardforums.com/showthread.php/1734129-Verizon-SIM-card-and-LTE?p=14553922#post14553922

theoretically, you can put an activated Verizon LTE sim card into an unlocked LTE device (supporting the right Verizon LTE frequencies), and get LTE access... (don't think there are any unlocked CDMA devices)

practically, it's difficult (see Nexus 7 LTE debacle.. initially verizon refused to certify N7 LTE, but users could put an activated SIM into N7 LTE and have it work)

 

[RossMAN]

Can I just purchase a new phone and stick my current SIM card in and go? If so, where can I browse, or what do I need to look for? I have Verizon with the grandfathered unlimited.

1) What's your budget for a cell phone and are there any "must have" features you want? I have a Nexus 5 unlocked and recently switched to BrightspotMobile.com. I simply inserted the new SIM card, purchased $35 airtime and my account was activated instantly, the freedom to do that is awesome.

2) I know you're asking about a new phone but now would be a good time to re-examine your cell provider as well. You mentioned Verizon's grandfathered unlimited data, how much data do you actually use every month? Does Verizon provide solid and consistent coverage in your area? How are AT&T and T-Mobile's coverage? The reason I ask is there are several MVNO's that offer competitive deals. But if you're happy with Verizon and the price you're paying then nevermind.

 

[bearxor]

Can you just swap a sim on CDMA carrier phones like Verizon? I thought that only worked with GSM carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile.

With the LTE devices, yes you can. The problem right now is that they have to be Verizon-branded devices so the CDMA radio is provisioned. When you swap, you.may not be able to make a voice call for a few minutes, but the SIM will update VZW's system with the MEID after a few minutes and then voice will start working.

 

[s44]

As other people have noted, yes you can.

I'd suggest fixing up the Maxx in the meantime... Install/run this TRIM app if you have root
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.grilledmonkey.lagfix&hl=en
or just factory reset if you don't.

Also, Swappa is probably the best place to get devices:
http://swappa.com/devices/verizon