August 16, 2025
Formerly known as MetroPCS, Metro by T-Mobile has grown into one of the most popular prepaid wireless carriers in the U.S. The main draw is clear: affordable fixed monthly costs, nationwide 5G access, and no long-term contracts. Many people switching to Metro also want to bring their own device—and thanks to Metro’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program, that’s possible if your phone meets a few requirements.
Not every phone will work with Metro, and the main reason comes down to network technology. Cell phones operate using one of two standards: GSM (Global System for Mobiles) or CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access).
Back in 2015, MetroPCS shut down its CDMA network, leaving only GSM-based devices compatible. Today, Metro by T-Mobile runs entirely on T-Mobile’s GSM/LTE/5G network, meaning your phone must:
It’s not always easy to know if your phone will work on Metro. The best way to figure it out is to consider the network your phone originally came from and whether it can operate on GSM. Let’s break it down by carrier.
Any phone that works on T-Mobile will also work on Metro by T-Mobile since both networks share the same infrastructure and spectrum. Switching is almost always seamless.
Most unlocked AT&T phones will work without issue because AT&T also uses GSM technology. If your AT&T device is still locked, you’ll need to unlock it first using the official AT&T Unlock Portal.
Things are trickier with carriers that historically relied on CDMA. Many older devices from Verizon, Sprint, or US Cellular won’t work, but newer models often support both GSM and CDMA.
If in doubt, enter your IMEI into Metro’s official BYOD checker to confirm.
Once you’ve confirmed that your phone works, the next step is choosing the right plan. Metro by T-Mobile keeps things simple with prepaid options that give you access to nationwide 5G without hidden fees or contracts.
Current single-line options include:
Adding more lines saves even more. Since Metro is prepaid, you can also change or cancel anytime. (See all current Metro plans)
For most people switching carriers, keeping their number is a must. The good news is that thanks to FCC number portability rules
, you can take your existing number with you when moving to Metro.
The process is simple: request a number port when you sign up, and Metro will coordinate with your old provider to make the transfer. You don’t need to cancel your old service beforehand—Metro handles the switch for you.
Not every phone will make the cut for Metro, and that’s okay. Instead of letting an incompatible device gather dust, you can turn it into value. At SwiftTechBuy, we make it quick and easy to sell your old or broken devices, explore a wide range of refurbished phones, or get professional repair services for the device you already own.
Switching to Metro by T-Mobile in 2025 is straightforward if your device is GSM/5G-ready, unlocked, and compatible with T-Mobile’s bands. If it’s not, upgrading or trading in may be your best option.
For customers nearby, SwiftTechBuy is here to help—visit our Milwaukee store or Chicago store for buyback services, affordable repairs, and certified refurbished devices that keep you connected at the best price.
You can check your phone’s specs on the manufacturer’s website and compare them with T-Mobile’s frequency bands (n41, n71, n260, n261). If your phone supports these, it should be 5G-ready for Metro.
Yes, as long as the device is unlocked and supports GSM/5G. Even if you originally purchased it on a postpaid plan from another carrier, it can be activated on Metro once unlocked.
Yes. Metro by T-Mobile supports eSIM activation for compatible iPhones and newer Android models. This allows you to set up service without needing a physical SIM card.
If your device doesn’t pass the IMEI compatibility check, you can purchase a Metro-certified phone, or explore refurbished unlocked models through trusted resellers. At SwiftTechBuy, you can also trade in your old device for cash or credit.
In many cases, yes. Unlocked phones purchased overseas that support U.S. GSM and 5G frequency bands can work on Metro. Always verify compatibility with Metro’s IMEI checker before activating.
We accept phones that are re-financed or not paid off as long as they are not blacklisted.
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We accept devices in a variety of conditions, including damaged or even broken devices.
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