Will this phone work with my Lifeline provider?

If your Lifeline provider uses the T-Mobile network, yes. That includes Assurance Wireless, TruConnect, AirTalk Wireless, TAG Mobile, and Gen Mobile. It does NOT work with SafeLink (Verizon network), AT&T-network providers, or legacy Sprint/Boost CDMA networks.

Does this come with a SIM card?

No. The BLU C5L Max ships unlocked and SIM-free. You'll need to bring your own SIM — typically the free SIM your Lifeline provider sends you when you sign up, or any T-Mobile / MetroPCS SIM.

Can I use this without Lifeline service?

Yes. The phone is GSM-unlocked, so you can put any T-Mobile-compatible SIM in it — prepaid, postpaid, or any T-Mobile MVNO. It doesn't require a Lifeline plan to work.

What's the difference between this and the free Lifeline phone?

The free phone your Lifeline provider ships is usually an entry-level device — often refurbished, with a small screen and basic features. The BLU C5L Max is a brand new phone with a larger 5.7" display, better battery life, and a modern Android build. It's not a flagship, but it's a big step up.

How do I activate it?

Insert a compatible SIM card, power on the phone, and follow the on-screen setup. If you got a SIM from a Lifeline provider, you may need to enter an APN setting specific to that provider — they'll give you the info in your welcome email.

Brand new unlocked GSM smartphone

BLU C5L Max

$45.00+ shipping

A brand new unlocked GSM smartphone for $45 + shipping. Works with any T-Mobile-based Lifeline provider (Assurance, TruConnect, AirTalk, TAG Mobile, Gen Mobile) or any T-Mobile / MetroPCS plan. Less than one month of retail cell service — and it's yours to keep.

✅ Works with these Lifeline providers:

Assurance Wireless · TruConnect · AirTalk Wireless · TAG Mobile · Gen Mobile · Life Wireless · Cintex Wireless

⚠️ Does not work with:

SafeLink Wireless (Verizon network) · AT&T and Cricket · Sprint / Boost legacy CDMA

✓5.7" curved display, 480x960
✓GSM unlocked — no contract, no carrier lock
✓Compatible with T-Mobile, MetroPCS, and T-Mobile-based Lifeline providers
✓All-day battery (2,000 mAh)
✓5MP rear camera + LED flash, 2MP front camera
✓16GB storage + 2GB RAM (microSD expandable)
✓Android operating system
✓Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi hotspot

Checkout now →

Ships in 1–2 business days. 30-day return policy. Shipping & returns →

Full specifications

Display: 5.7" curved, 480x960, 188 ppi
Processor: Quad-core
RAM: 2GB
Storage: 16GB (microSD expandable)
Rear camera: 5MP + LED flash
Front camera: 2MP
Battery: 2,000 mAh
Network: GSM Quad-Band — T-Mobile and MetroPCS compatible
Not compatible with: AT&T, Cricket, Verizon, SafeLink, Sprint / Boost legacy CDMA
Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi, Mobile hotspot
OS: Android

What's in the box

Phone
Silicone case
Charger
Quick-start guide
Sticker

Need Lifeline service for this phone?

These Lifeline providers work with BLU C5L Max. Apply with any of them for free monthly service — then pop the SIM card in your new phone.

Assurance Wireless

T-Mobile network

4.5 / 5

Plan: Unlimited talk & text + up to 6GB high-speed data
Devices: Free smartphone included (BYOD available)
Best for: Best overall for most households

Check availability →Read full review

TruConnect

T-Mobile network

4.4 / 5

Plan: Unlimited talk & text + high-speed 5G data
Devices: Free smartphone or BYOD
Best for: Best for 5G data

Check availability →Read full review

AirTalk Wireless

T-Mobile network

4.2 / 5

Plan: Unlimited talk & text + 10GB+ high-speed data
Devices: Free Android smartphone
Best for: Best for data-heavy users

Check availability →Read full review

TAG Mobile

T-Mobile network

4.1 / 5

Plan: Unlimited talk & text + data (varies by state)
Devices: Free smartphone or BYOD
Best for: Best for Texas and Oklahoma residents

Check availability →Read full review

See all Lifeline providers →

Not ready to buy? Get Lifeline tips + new product alerts

We'll email you Lifeline provider updates, new phone stock, and occasional discount codes. One email a month-ish.

BLU C5L Max

Full specifications

What's in the box

Need Lifeline service for this phone?

Not ready to buy? Get Lifeline tips + new product alerts

Frequently asked questions