I dont really know the answer but I may be doing the same thing in June when my contract ends with Sprint. I plan on keeping my number with google voice no matter which carrier I go to.
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So, I've thoroughly analyzed this.
If I port my number to GV:
Pros: Voicemail transcripts, can get VM when out of country and no data service, can get txts when out of country and no data service, can send/receive txt from PC browser. Ringing multiple lines when someone calls. Unified VM box. Call blocking, different vm messages and other what I would call minor features.
Cons: No MMS. You won't get any notification either neither will the sender. This apparently includes group texts in some cases. You might get some MMS via email, mostly from people on Sprint. You can send/receive MMS through your carrier phone #. Delay making outgoing calls (not clear how much of one).
If I port my number to new carrier (non-Sprint):
Pros MMS
Cons: See pros of porting to GV.
There are apps that let you get txts via email or an app on a tablet or even in a browser (basically using BT or wifi to move the data from your phone/tablet/pc), but ultimately they are still going through your phone which must be on and have a data connection.
I am thinking of getting rid of my home phone, so the whole ringing multiple lines is not a huge deal for me. The biggest things I would give up are the voicemail transcripts and out of country (and service) things. I spend about 1 month a year out of the country and not getting txts sucks. I can get VM calling in, but that is a hassle.
For me, it comes down to do I want MMS or pretty much everything else.
This doesn't apply to me
, but if you are forgetful or error prone, I've heard if you transfer your number to a monthly plan and forget to pay and it is shut off, you could lost your number.