Google Fi Review 2026: Big Name, Big Problems, Big Price

Google Fi sounds great on paper: a phone carrier from Google with smart network switching. But the reality is disappointing. Limited data on base plans, a history of security issues, and prices that don't match the value make Google Fi a poor choice for most users.

The Security Problem

Despite being operated by Google—a company known for security expertise—Google Fi has experienced data breaches.

What Happened

Google Fi customer data was compromised, exposing:

• Phone numbers
• Account information
• SIM card serial numbers
• Account status information

The Irony

Google builds some of the world's most secure systems. Gmail, Google Cloud, and Android have excellent security records. Yet Google Fi, the carrier, has failed to protect customer data.

This disconnect suggests Google Fi operates with different security standards than Google's core products—not reassuring for a phone carrier handling your personal information.

Secure Alternatives

Google Fi Plans and Pricing

Google Fi's pricing seems simple but adds up quickly:

Flexible Plan

• $20/month base (talk/text only)
• $10 per GB of data used
• Caps at $80 for 6GB+ usage
• After 6GB, data is "free" (throttled at 15GB)

Simply Unlimited

• $50/month + taxes
• 50GB premium data
• Unlimited throttled after

Unlimited Plus

• $65/month + taxes
• 50GB premium data
• 100GB Google One storage
• International perks

The Math Problem

Let's compare Google Fi Flexible to Tello for moderate usage:

At $10/GB, Google Fi's Flexible plan is one of the most expensive per-gigabyte rates in the industry.

Our 11-Point Scoring Breakdown

International Features (The One Bright Spot)

Google Fi's international coverage is genuinely good:

What You Get

• Data in 200+ countries at no extra charge
• Calls from abroad at reasonable rates
• Free texting worldwide
• Works in more countries than most carriers

Who Benefits

• Frequent international travelers
• Digital nomads
• Business travelers abroad
• Expats maintaining US number

However: If you don't travel internationally frequently, this benefit is irrelevant—and you're paying Google Fi prices for nothing.

For domestic-only use, Tello at $25/month beats Google Fi's $65 unlimited by $40/month—that's $480/year saved.

Network Coverage

Google Fi primarily uses T-Mobile's network:

How It Works

• T-Mobile as primary carrier
• Automatic network switching (on Pixel phones)
• Other phones may be T-Mobile only

Coverage Quality

• Good urban and suburban coverage
• 5G in major cities
• Some rural gaps (T-Mobile's limitation)

Here's the thing: Tello uses the exact same T-Mobile network for a fraction of the price. You're not getting better coverage with Google Fi—just a higher bill.

Customer Service Issues

Despite Google's resources, Fi's customer service is problematic:

Common Complaints

• Long response times
• Unhelpful chat support
• Billing issues hard to resolve
• Account problems take weeks
• Limited phone support options

The Google Paradox

Google excels at self-service products but struggles with human support. Fi customers report frustrating experiences getting issues resolved.

Google Fi vs. The Competition

Google Fi vs. Tello

Verdict: Unless you travel internationally constantly, Tello wins decisively.

Google Fi vs. Visible

Verdict: Visible offers true unlimited at $40/month less with better security.

Google Fi vs. Mint Mobile

Verdict: Both have issues. Tello beats both.

Who Should Get Google Fi?

Google Fi makes sense for a narrow audience:

Good Fit For:

• Frequent international travelers (monthly trips abroad)
• Digital nomads living in multiple countries
• Users deeply embedded in Google ecosystem
• Those who prioritize international over price

Not Recommended For:

• Domestic-only users (huge overpay)
• Budget-conscious customers
• Anyone concerned about data security
• Heavy data users (expensive per-GB)
• Users wanting plan flexibility

Better Alternatives

For T-Mobile Coverage: Tello

• 9.5/11 score
• No data breaches
• 35GB for $25/month (vs. $80 on Fi)
• Taxes included
• Build-your-own plans

For True Unlimited: Visible

• 10/11 score
• No data breaches
• $25/month all-in
• Verizon network
• Unlimited hotspot

For Budget Flexibility: Tello

• Plans from $10/month
• Pay for what you use
• Same T-Mobile network as Fi

How to Leave Google Fi

Switching from Google Fi is straightforward:

1. Keep your Google account - It's separate from Fi
2. Check phone compatibility with new carrier
3. Sign up with Tello or Visible
4. Port your number during signup
5. Activate new service - Fi cancels automatically
6. Request final bill to close out account

Your Google account, Gmail, Photos, etc. are unaffected—only the carrier service changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Google Fi worth it?

For most users, no. Google Fi is overpriced compared to alternatives like Tello that offer the same T-Mobile network for much less.

Has Google Fi had data breaches?

Yes, Google Fi has experienced data breaches where customer information was compromised.

What network does Google Fi use?

Google Fi primarily uses T-Mobile's network. On certain Pixel phones, it can switch between T-Mobile and US Cellular.

Is Google Fi expensive?

Yes. The Flexible plan charges $10/GB, making it one of the most expensive carriers for data. The unlimited plans are $50-65/month before taxes.

Is Google Fi good for international travel?

Yes, this is Google Fi's one genuine strength. Data works in 200+ countries at no extra charge.

Does Google Fi include taxes?

No, Google Fi's prices don't include taxes and fees.

Is Google Fi better than Visible?

No. Visible offers true unlimited for $25/month with no breach history, compared to Fi's $65+ for unlimited with security issues.

Is Google Fi better than Tello?

Only for international travelers. For domestic use, Tello offers better value with no security concerns.

Does Google Fi have good customer service?

No, Google Fi's customer service receives poor ratings for slow responses and unhelpful support.

Can I use any phone with Google Fi?

Fi works best with Pixel phones. Other phones may have limited features or reduced network options.

What's the cheapest Google Fi plan?

$20/month for talk/text only, but data is $10/GB on top—extremely expensive.

Does Google Fi have 5G?

Yes, Google Fi includes 5G access on T-Mobile's network.

Should I switch from Google Fi?

Yes, unless you travel internationally frequently. Tello offers the same network for a fraction of the price.

Is Google Fi the same as Google Voice?

No, Google Fi is a cellular carrier service. Google Voice is a separate VoIP product.

Can I keep my number leaving Google Fi?

Yes, port your number to your new carrier during signup. Don't cancel Fi first.

Final Verdict

Google Fi scores 5.5/11—well below average despite the Google brand. The problems are clear:

Critical Issues:

• Data breach history
• $10/GB is absurdly expensive
• $65 for unlimited is steep
• Poor customer service

The Only Advantage:

• International coverage (for frequent travelers)

For domestic users, the math is simple:

• Google Fi Unlimited: $65+/month + taxes = ~$75+/month
• Tello 35GB: $25/month taxes included
• Annual savings with Tello: $600+

Unless you're traveling abroad monthly, Google Fi is a poor value wrapped in a trusted brand name. The same T-Mobile network is available through Tello at 60-70% less—with no security baggage.

This review is based on our independent 11-point scoring methodology. We may earn commissions from affiliate links, but this never influences our ratings. Learn more about our methodology.