How to Switch Phones on MetroPCS for Free: Easy Device Change Guide

You can switch phones on Metro for $0 in many cases.

The key is to make the device change online.

Metro by T-Mobile currently lists its online device activation or change fee as $0 on its main phone plans.

Going to a Metro store can cost more.

The current in-store device activation or change fee is listed as $25 per line on many plans.

So, if you already have a Metro account and another compatible phone, doing the switch yourself can save you money.

There is one thing to clear up first.

MetroPCS is now called Metro by T-Mobile.

MetroPCS changed its name to Metro by T-Mobile in 2018.

The service is still often called MetroPCS, so you may still see the old name online.

Here is how to switch your Metro phone in 2026.

Quick Answer: Can You Switch Metro Phones for Free?

Yes.

Metro currently charges:

The $0 fee means the device change itself can be free.

It does not mean Metro gives every current customer a new phone for free.

If you already own the phone you want to use, you may be able to move your Metro service to it without paying a device-change fee online.

What Do You Need Before You Switch Phones?

Get a few things ready first.

You may need:

• Your Metro phone number
• Your Metro account PIN
• The new phone
• The phone’s IMEI
• Wi-Fi access
• Your Metro SIM, if you use a physical SIM
• The EID if you plan to use eSIM

The phone must also work with Metro’s network.

Do not start the switch until you check the new phone.

Step 1: Make Sure the New Phone Is Unlocked

An unlocked phone is not tied to another carrier.

If you bought the phone from another carrier, it may still be locked.

Metro says a phone you bring to its service should be network unlocked and compatible.

If you have an iPhone, you can check the lock status.

Go to:

Settings → General → About

Look for Carrier Lock.

If you see:

No SIM restrictions

the iPhone is unlocked.

If it shows a carrier lock, contact the old carrier.

Step 2: Find the New Phone’s IMEI

Metro needs your phone’s IMEI to identify the device.

An IMEI is a unique number for your phone.

One easy way to find it is to dial:

*#06#

The IMEI should appear on your screen.

You may also find it in your phone settings.

On an iPhone

Go to:

Settings → General → About

Scroll down to IMEI.

On Android

Go to:

Settings → About Phone

Look for IMEI.

Some phones have more than one IMEI.

If Metro asks for IMEI2, use the number shown for the second SIM or eSIM slot.

Step 3: Check That the Phone Works With Metro

Do not assume every unlocked phone will work.

Check compatibility before you move your line.

Metro has a Bring Your Own Phone tool that can check the device.

Enter the phone’s IMEI.

If Metro says the phone is compatible, you can move to the next step.

If it is not compatible, do not pay for a SIM or start the change yet.

Step 4: Sign In to Your Metro Account

Go to Metro by T-Mobile’s website.

Sign in to My Account.

Use the phone number for the line you want to move.

You may also need your account PIN or another security check.

Metro uses account checks to help stop SIM-swap fraud.

Never give your Metro PIN to a random person online.

Step 5: Choose Switch Device

Look for the option to manage or switch your device.

Metro’s current eSIM instructions tell existing customers to use Switch Device in My Account when moving service to an eSIM phone.

Follow the steps shown on your account.

You may be asked for the new phone’s:

• IMEI
• IMEI2
• EID
• SIM details

The exact screen can depend on your phone.

Step 6: Set Up the SIM or eSIM

Your next step depends on the type of SIM you use.

Option A: Switch With a Physical SIM

A physical SIM is the small card inside many phones.

If your new phone supports your Metro SIM, follow the device-change steps in your account.

Do not simply assume that moving the card is all you need to do.

Complete the device change so Metro has the new phone details on the line.

If Metro says you need a new SIM, you can order one or get one from a Metro store.

Option B: Switch With eSIM

An eSIM is built into the phone.

There is no plastic card to move.

Metro supports eSIM on many newer phones.

Current examples include many:

• Apple iPhones
• Samsung Galaxy phones
• Google Pixel phones
• Motorola phones
• TCL phones

Metro says existing customers can move to an eSIM device through Switch Device in My Account.

Connect your new phone to Wi-Fi before you start.

How to Set Up Metro eSIM on iPhone

Metro currently supports eSIM on iPhone XR and newer supported models.

Once the device change is active, your iPhone may download the Metro eSIM during setup.

Keep the phone connected to Wi-Fi.

If needed, check:

Settings → Cellular

and follow the prompts to add or turn on the Metro plan.

Your exact screen can vary by iPhone and iOS version.

How to Set Up Metro eSIM on Samsung

Metro supports eSIM on many newer Samsung phones.

After you complete the device change, connect the phone to Wi-Fi.

Follow the eSIM setup prompts.

Metro may appear as the available mobile plan.

Download it and turn the plan on.

How to Set Up Metro eSIM on Motorola

Metro also supports eSIM on some Motorola models.

On supported phones, go to:

Settings → Network & Internet

Then choose the option to add a mobile network or SIM.

Select the choice to download a SIM.

Choose Metro by T-Mobile if it appears.

Follow the steps on the screen.

Step 7: Restart and Test the New Phone

Once the change is done, restart your new phone.

Then test:

• Calls
• Texts
• Mobile data
• Voicemail
• Wi-Fi calling, if used

Turn Wi-Fi off for a moment.

Open a web page using mobile data.

If it loads, your mobile data is working.

Make a test call.

Then send a text.

If all three work, your switch should be complete.

Does Metro Charge to Switch Phones?

It depends on how you do it.

Metro’s current plan disclosures list:

Online Device Activation/Change Fee: $0

and:

In-Store Device Activation/Change Fee: $25 per line

That makes the online option the best place to start if you want to switch phones for free.

Fees can vary with the transaction or plan.

Always check the final screen before you confirm a change.

Can I Switch Phones in the myMetro App?

The myMetro app can handle many account tasks.

However, Metro’s current public eSIM guide points existing customers to Switch Device in My Account for an eSIM device change.

If you do not see a device-change option in the app, use Metro’s website.

You can also call Metro for help.

Can I Call Metro to Switch Phones?

Yes.

Metro Customer Care can help with device activation and changes.

The current customer service number is:

1-888-863-8768

You can also dial:

611

from a Metro phone.

Keep in mind that the clearest published $0 device-change fee is for the online method.

If your goal is to avoid a fee, try My Account first.

Can I Switch Phones at a Metro Store?

Yes.

A store can help if:

• Your phone will not activate
• Your SIM does not work
• You cannot sign in
• Your eSIM will not download
• Your phone fails the compatibility check
• You need hands-on help

But the store option may not be free.

Metro currently lists an in-store device activation/change fee of $25 per line on many plans.

If your online change fails, ask the store about the fee before the employee starts the transaction.

Does Switching Phones Change Your Metro Plan?

A simple device swap does not always mean you need a new plan.

For example, Metro says customers who move an existing line to eSIM can keep the same rate plan.

Still, some phones or promotions can have special plan terms.

Read the offer if you are also:

• Buying a discounted phone
• Changing plans
• Adding a line
• Using an upgrade deal

Do not change your plan unless you need to.

Can I Keep My Metro Phone Number?

Yes.

If you are only moving your existing Metro line from one phone to another, you normally keep the same number.

You are changing the device, not the phone number.

Do not use Metro’s phone-number-change process just to switch phones.

They are different tasks.

Will My Photos and Apps Move Too?

Changing your Metro service does not move all your personal data.

Your phone number and mobile service can move.

Your photos, apps, contacts, and messages need their own transfer.

Before you switch, back up the old phone.

For iPhone

You can use:

• iCloud
• Quick Start
• A computer backup

For Android

You can use:

• Google backup
• The phone maker’s transfer app
• A USB cable

Do the backup before you erase the old phone.

Can I Switch From Android to iPhone?

Yes.

Metro service can work on either phone if the new device is compatible.

Your data move is a separate task.

Apple has a Move to iOS tool that can help move some data from Android to iPhone.

After your files are safe, complete the Metro device change.

Can I Switch From iPhone to Android?

Yes.

Check that the Android phone is unlocked and compatible.

Back up your iPhone first.

You may also want to turn off iMessage before using the Android phone.

This can help make sure text messages reach the new device.

Then complete your Metro device switch.

Can I Use an Old Metro Phone?

Yes, if it still works with Metro’s network.

Check the IMEI first.

An old phone may be:

• Locked
• Reported lost or stolen
• Too old for the network
• Missing needed network bands
• Unable to use current features

The compatibility checker gives you a better answer than guessing from the phone model.

Can I Use an Unlocked Phone From Another Carrier?

Often, yes.

Metro has a Bring Your Own Phone program.

The phone should be unlocked.

It must also pass Metro’s compatibility check.

Examples may include unlocked phones from:

• T-Mobile
• AT&T
• Verizon
• Apple
• Samsung
• Motorola
• Google

Do not assume a phone works just because it is unlocked.

Check its IMEI.

Can I Move My SIM Between Metro Phones?

A SIM card can physically move between compatible phones.

But a Metro device change may also require the new device to be set up on your account.

The safest method is to use Metro’s Switch Device process.

This makes sure the new phone is linked to your line.

If you only move the SIM and service does not work, sign in to My Account and complete the device change.

What if the New Phone Says No Service?

Do not panic.

Start with the simple checks.

Restart the phone

Turn it off.

Wait a few seconds.

Turn it back on.

Check airplane mode

Make sure airplane mode is off.

Check your SIM

If you use a physical SIM, make sure it is placed in the phone the right way.

Check eSIM

If you use eSIM, make sure the Metro line is turned on.

Connect to Wi-Fi

Some eSIM setups need internet access to finish.

Check the IMEI

Make sure you entered the right IMEI during the device change.

Contact Metro

If it still does not work, call Customer Care.

What if Metro Says the IMEI Is Not Compatible?

First, check the number again.

A single wrong digit can cause a problem.

Dial:

*#06#

Compare the number with what you entered.

If the number is right, the phone may not work with Metro.

It could also still be locked to another carrier.

Contact the carrier that sold the phone if you think it should be unlocked.

What if Your eSIM Will Not Download?

Connect the phone to strong Wi-Fi.

Then:

1. Make sure the device change is complete.
2. Restart the phone.
3. Update the phone’s software.
4. Try the eSIM setup again.

Metro says you may need your IMEI and EID if you ask support for help.

Do not delete an active eSIM unless you know how you will restore it.

Is Switching Phones the Same as Getting a Free Phone?

No.

This is an important difference.

Free device change

You already own another phone.

You move your Metro service to it online.

Metro’s online device-change fee can be $0.

Free new phone

Metro gives you a phone through a promotion.

That deal can have its own rules.

It may require:

• A new line
• A number transfer
• A certain plan
• A trade-in
• Taxes
• A set time away from Metro or T-Mobile

Check the terms of the exact phone.

Can Existing Metro Customers Get a Free Upgrade?

Sometimes an existing customer can get a strong upgrade deal.

But it is not the same as a normal free device switch.

Metro’s current $50 and $60 AutoPay plans include an upgrade benefit.

After at least 12 months on an eligible plan, you may be able to trade in your working phone and get the same offers as new customers on select devices.

Sales tax can still apply.

The phone deal also depends on the device.

This can be useful if you want a new phone rather than just moving your service to a phone you already own.

Does Metro Have Free Phones in 2026?

Yes.

Metro currently has several free-phone promotions.

For example, its current free-phone page has included offers on Samsung and Motorola phones.

But those deals have rules.

Some require you to:

• Add a new line
• Bring a number
• Choose an eligible plan
• Pay the first month
• Pay sales tax

A free-phone promotion should not be confused with a free online device change.

Can Current Customers Add a Line and Get a Free Phone?

Some current Metro deals allow existing customers to add a line and get a discounted or free device on an eligible plan.

For example, Metro has advertised the moto g 2026 for $0 through an instant discount on some eligible new-line offers.

Sales tax can apply.

Plan rules also apply.

Offers change often.

Check the live Metro deals page before adding a line.

Is MetroPCS Still MetroPCS?

No.

MetroPCS became Metro by T-Mobile in October 2018.

The old name is still common.

Your old MetroPCS account, phone, or SIM questions now fall under Metro by T-Mobile.

So, when you need current help, use Metro by T-Mobile’s support pages.

How to Switch Phones Without Losing Service

Use this order:

1. Back up your old phone.
2. Keep your old phone active.
3. Check the new phone’s unlock status.
4. Check its IMEI.
5. Confirm Metro compatibility.
6. Sign in to My Account.
7. Use Switch Device.
8. Set up the SIM or eSIM.
9. Restart the phone.
10. Test calls, texts, and data.
11. Erase the old phone only after everything works.

This can save you from losing access to your line or personal data.

How to Avoid Device-Change Scams

Phone lines can be used to reset email and bank passwords.

That makes SIM swaps a target for thieves.

Metro warns users about account-takeover and SIM-swap scams.

Keep your account PIN private.

Do not use a PIN that is easy to guess.

Avoid:

• Your birthday
• 123456
• Repeated numbers
• Your phone number

Metro also offers SIM Change Protection as a free account security feature.

If a device change appears on your account and you did not request it, contact Metro at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I switch phones on MetroPCS for free?

Use Metro’s online device-change process. Metro currently lists the online device activation/change fee as $0 on many plans. Sign in to My Account and use the device-switch option.

Does Metro charge $25 to switch phones?

An in-store device activation or change can cost $25 per line. Metro currently lists the online device-change fee as $0 on many phone plans.

Can I just put my Metro SIM in another phone?

The SIM may fit, but you should also complete Metro’s device-change process. The new phone must be unlocked and compatible.

Can I switch Metro phones online?

Yes. Metro supports online device changes. Existing customers with eSIM phones can use Switch Device in My Account.

Do I need the IMEI?

Yes. Metro may need the IMEI to check and activate the new phone. Dial *#06# to find it.

Can I keep the same number?

Yes. A device change normally keeps your Metro number.

Can I keep the same plan?

In many cases, yes. Metro says a line moved to eSIM can keep the same rate plan. A phone promotion may have other plan rules.

Can I switch to an unlocked iPhone?

Yes, if Metro says the phone is compatible.

Can I switch to an Android phone?

Yes. Check that it is unlocked and compatible first.

Does Metro support eSIM?

Yes. Metro supports eSIM on many newer iPhone, Samsung, Google, Motorola, and TCL phones.

Can I switch phones at a Metro store?

Yes. Store staff can help, but an in-store device-change fee may apply.

Will switching phones erase my old phone?

No. The service change does not erase the old phone. Still, back up your files before you start.

Will my apps move automatically?

Not because of Metro. Use Apple, Google, Samsung, or another phone transfer tool to move apps and files.

Can I get a new Metro phone for free?

Metro has free-phone deals, but the rules are different from a free device change. Some offers require a new line, port-in, trade-in, or qualifying plan.

Do existing Metro customers get upgrades?

Metro’s current $50 and $60 AutoPay plans include an upgrade benefit. Eligible users can trade in a working phone after at least 12 months and get new-customer deals on select phones.

Final Takeaway

You do not always need to pay to switch phones on Metro.

The easiest way to avoid the device-change fee is to do the change online.

Metro currently lists:

Online device change: $0

In-store device change: up to $25 per line

Before you start, check the new phone.

It should be unlocked.

It should also work with Metro.

Get the IMEI.

Back up your old phone.

Then sign in to My Account and use the device-change option.

If you use eSIM, stay connected to Wi-Fi while you set it up.

Test your calls, texts, and data before you erase the old phone.

Also keep one point in mind.

Switching your service to a phone you already own for free is not the same as getting a new phone for free.

Metro does offer free-phone deals.

Those deals have their own rules.

If all you want to do is use another compatible phone on your current Metro line, the online device-change method is usually the best place to start.