Because I had to navigate the 2 factor issue I use Tellos. The very cheapest plan costs me about $7 per month including state tax. I bought a secondhand iPhone for the Tellos sim. It works on wifi calling. I am happy. Before this I used a voip service but it stopped working, just did not receive the 2FAs from my bank.

 

Before this I used a voip service but it stopped working, just did not receive the 2FAs from my bank.

Thanks for the info - I also read that some users mention that 2FA codes over VOIP can be a little hit and miss...

 

in France what would you say are the best French 5G service providers in regards to service / cost ratio?

As with so many things "it depends." 5G services are only available in "most areas" so if you're in an area where it isn't available, you are running on 4G anyhow. Basically mobile phone services are actually provided through a few of the true "telecom" companies: Orange, Bouygues, SFR, Free, etc. All of them (except Free) have their "bargain rate" subsidiaries, but they also use the network of the "competition" in areas where they don't have their own equipment in place. Then there are the providers of mobile services - like the ones you can get through some of the big box stores (Leclerc, Carrefour, etc.) that bundle services, often at very reasonable prices.

You need to decide what you actually need in terms of mobile services - and then decide whether or not you want to bundle your mobile services with your home Internet system set up (including TV and home remote control functions). I've been very happy with Free for several years now, and am currently on a plan where I have Internet access, TV access and my mobile phone combined. My husband has a different mobile service and a "professional" Internet service (without the TV access) for some consulting work he does (because he needs the extra features).

Here's a site that compares 77 of the "best" mobile phone deals in France at the moment. You'll probably need to consult the sites of the plan that look the best to you and for your needs.

Comparateur des 75 meilleurs Forfaits Mobiles - septembre 2025

Trouvez le meilleur forfait avec le comparateur de forfait mobile Le Bon Forfait. Plus de 100 offres comparées. Quel est le forfait le moins cher adapté à vos besoins ?

bonforfait.fr

 

Thank you so much for the detailed explanation in regards to the French mobile services and the great link to the many providers!

Do mobile service providers in France offer the option of either an eSim or physical Sim?

 

The best is Google Voice. It's free and provides SMS services, although some banks will refuse to use Google's SMS. My banks all do. If you are in the US with a US cell phone, it is easy to set up.

 

some banks will refuse to use Google's SMS. My banks all do.

Thanks for this alternative - this is probably a good one to try while still in the US to avoid any surprises...

 

A lot of folks use Google Voice, but the way Google keeps killing off services that people use, I don't trust it to stick around. I also don't want Google getting any more of my personal data than they already have.

Instead, we use voip.ms, a Canadian company. They're cheap - 85 cents per month for each incoming phone number, and then about a penny a minute for calls in or out, and 3/4 of a penny per SMS. Unlike with most mobile phone accounts, there's no "use it or lose it" monthly minimum.

Calls are via a SIP app, Linphone, on an old sim-less android phone using wifi. Incoming calls can also be forwarded to our French landline or portable.

Text messages arrive by email.

 

A lot of folks use Google Voice, but the way Google keeps killing off services that people use, I don't trust it to stick around.

We're going to keep using it until it dies, if ever. I am also a bit afraid of the way Google tinkers with things, then neglects them and then kills them, and they could do that to GV.

But...as long as there are alternatives that can be had while you are in France, I'll keep it because it just works so well FOR US. It might not work for everyone- it can be hard to set up- some banks refuse to use it...but if it works I don't think there is anything better.

If I had to move to something else it would be a Tello eSIM, which you can set up while in France.

 

We use a magicjack service. We kept our U.S. phone number. It has worked well for us for many years now. You can also now receive texts on your mobile phone with it, which didn't exist many years back. Has worked for all authentication purposes and allows our U.S. family and friends to reach us via a U.S. phone number and vice versa.

VoIP Phone Service | Internet Home Phone Service Provider | magicJack

Enjoy uncompromised VoIP calling and say goodbye to phone bills with magicJack. Get free unlimited calling to the US & Canada and keep your same number!

www.magicjack.com

 

Thanks for another option in the mix!