Help samsung s5 on metro

[Android Question]

I am wanting to buy a samsung galaxy s5 unlocked at a local store such as best buy, I am wondering if it is going to work on metro pcs system. My current s3 will stop working due to the change in the network to t-mobile system. can anyone tell me if an s5 that is unlocked work? And if so are there any pitfalls to watch for such as different models etc...

 

[Fox Mulder]

Your S3 must be the older CDMA version. Since being acquired by T-Mobile a few years ago, Metro has been phasing out its CDMA towers and switching over to T-Mobile's GSM system. All new Metro phones sold since shortly after the merger have been GSM. The CDMA towers in most cities have already been shut down and the last ones will go dark by June, presumably you're in one of those remaining areas that still had the old service.
An unlocked S5 from Best Buy would be compatible with T-Mobile and thus with Metro as well. However if you're going to be using it on Metro I'd suggest getting it from Metro directly, it's actually cheaper than Best Buy after the instant rebate-
https://www.metropcs.com/phones/details/samsung-galaxy-s-5/610214635853.html
Also the Metro-specific model (SM-G900T1) will have the built-in WiFi calling feature which is very useful. The unbranded unlocked version does not have this feature and it cannot be added later. This is also true for any other GSM S5 brought over from another carrier with the exception of the T-Mobile version (SM-G900T) which does have WiFi calling and will work fine on Metro.
Metro was doing a trade-in program for your old phone but it may be over now, you might want to check with your local Metro store before buying anything. If the program is still in effect you may be able to get a good amount of credit for your CDMA S3 although they might not apply it towards an S5, I believe you could only trade for specific phones under the terms of the program.
You can find more Metro-specific info in the Metro PCS forum-
http://androidforums.com/forums/metro-pcs.282/