Lifeline Program • Compare
Safelink Wireless and AirTalk Wireless both offer free Lifeline phones — but customers who moved from Safelink to AirTalk consistently say AirTalk delivers better phones, faster support, and more data. Here's how they compare, with real switcher testimonials.
Apply for My Free Phone →AirTalk Wireless beats Safelink on device quality, data allotment, application speed, and customer support. Safelink has a long history in the Lifeline space, but its devices and support have fallen behind. AirTalk ships real smartphones (including refurbished iPhones), verifies applications faster, and includes a $10 referral bonus after your first active month.
AirTalk = real Androids + refurbished iPhones. Safelink = mostly entry-level Androids.
AirTalk verifies most applications within 24–48 hours. Safelink users often report multi-week delays.
AirTalk includes more high-speed data and a $10 referral bonus. Safelink offers neither.
Yes — transfer your Lifeline benefit online. It's free and takes a few minutes.
Yes — AirTalk will port your Safelink number for free.
It's yours to keep. AirTalk ships you a new device on the new plan.
"Safelink took 3 weeks to approve me. AirTalk approved me the same afternoon. Night and day."
"My Safelink phone barely lasted a year. AirTalk sent me a refurbished iPhone that still runs perfect. Love AirTalk Wireless."
"Safelink service kept cutting out in my apartment. AirTalk has been rock solid since day one."
"Safelink support ghosted me for weeks. AirTalk fixed my activation in one call. Never going back."