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Mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) in the United States lease wireless telephone and data service from the four major cellular carriers in the country—AT&T Mobility, Boost Mobile, T-Mobile US, and Verizon—and offer various levels of free and/or paid talk, text and data services to their customers.[1][2] In April 2019, American MVNOs provided service to 36 million active subscribers.[3][needs update]
In general, the types of phones and other devices supported by the MVNOs are in line with the technologies used by the Mobile Network Operator (MNO), the underlying cellular network provider. All major and regional MNOs use 4G LTE / LTE Advanced and 5G NR protocols (2G and 3G having been deprecated and shut down), with GSM technologies.
However, many MVNOs tend to sell somewhat older phone models (e.g. ones discontinued by the host networks), which can affect whether all technologies supported by the carrier network are usable by MVNO customers. The acronym BYOD means "Bring Your Own Device", indicating that a customer can port a cellphone or other cellular device they already own to the MVNO, rather than having to buy/rent a new device from them (assuming it is compatible with the host network, has not been reported stolen, is not still locked into a contract, etc.). MVNOs often restrict the list of BYOD devices they'll support to a smaller subset than the host networks. MVNOs will often push/favor a specific model phone because it is locked into the host carrier "preferred network" that gives that MVNO the best deal/rates.[citation needed]
Providers supporting multiple host networks use only one of them for each device, depending on the specific phone model and/or SIM card used (except for Google Fi Wireless, which switches automatically between the different listed host networks based on factors such as relative signal strength).[4]
Different companies target different markets: typically a subset of business, lifeline, and personal. Lifeline refers to the Universal Service Fund's Lifeline low-income phone program. In the case of providers with both Lifeline and non-Lifeline offerings, but different options for each (as opposed to the same options, but different costs), the Lifeline offerings have been put on a separate row with "[Lifeline]" in the "Company" field. Note that though the Lifeline program is a Federal one, each state is responsible for implementing its own version, so details beyond the basic requirements of the program can differ significantly from state to state (starting with the set of provider companies available). As of this writing, Lifeline provider info has mostly only been filled in for California and Minnesota.
Most of the MVNOs in this table provide voice, text, and data services to mobile phones ("Yes" in Phone service column; note that this column does not indicate whether the provider sells phones – all providers offering phone service sell phones unless the "BYOD" column contains "Yes, BYOD-only"). Some MVNOs also have data-only offerings, which can be intended for tablets ("Tablet plans available" in Notes column), or can require the purchase (or BYOD) of a dedicated mobile broadband modem, usually in the form of a Wi-Fi Hotspot device ("Yes" in Modem service column; not to be confused with the Tethering / phone hotspot[Note 1] column, which refers to the ability to use a phone or tablet to share data as a Wi-Fi hotspot or via Bluetooth or USB. There are also MVNOs who provide only data service to mobile hotspot devices (mobile broadband providers).
Native Wi-Fi calling refers to the ability of mobile phones on the service to seamlessly use Wi-Fi rather than the cellular network to connect normally dialed calls, when enabled. It does not refer to the ability to use third-party programs to make calls over Wi-Fi networks, which is generally always supported on smartphones.
Third-party websites have been gaining popularity among American consumers who seek to reduce their expenses on wireless services. These websites have established partnerships with major cellular carriers such as AT&T Mobility, T-Mobile US, and Verizon, to provide customers with discounted plans, along with complimentary or low-priced smartphones and tablets to customers who sign up for services through their portals.
Although certain customers prefer going straight to the major carriers or their MVNO partners, some are drawn to third-party websites due to the unique offers and perks that come along with them. These platforms typically have simplified and expedited signup processes, and may offer additional bonuses such as free shipping or extended warranties.
It's important to keep in mind, however, that not all third-party websites are trustworthy, and some may employ deceitful or fraudulent practices. Thus, it is always advisable for consumers to conduct research and examine reviews prior to engaging in business with any website or service provider.
Company | Host network(s) | Market | Phone service | Modem service | BYOD | Unlimited fast data | Unlimited slow data | 5G access | Tethering / phone hotspot | International | Native Wi-Fi calling | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Access Wireless | T-Mobile[5][6] | Lifeline: CA[7] | Yes | No | Yes, but must call to check compatibility[8] | No, plans capped at 6 GB maximum for Californians[9] | No | ? | ? | ? | ? | Owned by i-wireless. |
Affinity Cellular | Verizon[10] | Personal[11] | Yes[12] | No[12][13] | Yes[12] | Yes, on Unlimited Data plan, though "On our Unlimited Data plan, the fair use threshold is 35 GB of data. If this amount is exceeded, it will result in throttling of data."[14] | No[15] | Yes, with compatible device.[12] | ? | No; also, no service in Alaska[15] | ? | AAA members receive extra benefits.[16] |
Airvoice Wireless | T-Mobile[17][18][19] | Personal[20] | Yes[17] | No?[21][22][23][24] | Yes[17][18] | No, "We have the right to slow down the speed of data browsing upon our own discretion at any time during your 5 or 30 day cycle."[18][21][20] | Yes, on Unlimited data plan (only?); 2G speeds: 128 kbit/s[21][20] | ? | ? | Yes, unlimited int'l calling and texting on appropriate plans[18][25][26] | ? | Owned by Airvoice Wireless. Terms of Services includes "Since you are on an Unlimited Plan, there will be no disputes about calls not connecting or dropped calls or any other reason to call customer service and complain."[20] |
Allvoi Wireless | AT&T[27] | Personal | Yes[28][29] | No?[29][30] | Yes[27] | No, plans capped at 15 GB max[30] | Yes, on Unlimited plans[30] | ? | No[31] | Yes, Calls to int'l #s on Unlimited plans[30] | ? | |
Americas Favorite Mobile | T-Mobile[32][33] | Personal[34] | Yes[35] | No[36][35] | Yes[36][37] | Yes, on Unlimited Data plan, though "Usage over 26 GB of data in a month period may result in throttled speeds when in congested areas."[36][37] | Yes, on 4 GB Data plan[36] | ? | No[38] | ? | ? | Available to the general public. Gives a portion of its proceeds to veterans and military personnel via a charity foundation.[34] Previously used the Verizon network.[39][40] Formerly known as Armed Forces Wireless. |
Assist Wireless | T-Mobile,[6] | Lifeline: OK, AR, MD and MO[41] | Yes | Yes[42] | No, plans capped at 6 GB maximum with additional payment of $5 per month from consumer with OK Tribal Lifeline Plan[43] | No | ? | |||||
Assurance Wireless | T-Mobile, legacy Sprint[44] | Lifeline: Over 40 states[45][46] | Yes | No | No, plans capped at 6 GB maximum for ZIP codes within California[47] | No | Yes[48] | |||||
Beast Mobile | AT&T | Personal | Yes[49][50] | Yes[50] | Yes[49][51] | No, plans capped at 10 GB max[51] | Yes, on Unlimited Talk, Text & High Speed Data plan[51] | ? | Yes, phone hotspot on Sprint only, for extra fee[51] | Yes, int'l calling from U.S. with add-on?[51][52] | ? | First MVNO based on the FreeMo MVNE.[49] Operates "Phones For The Homeless" program in Seattle and Oakland.[53] |
Best Cellular | AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon[54] | Personal | Yes[54][55][56] | No?[55][56][57] | Yes[54] | No[54][57] | No?[54][57] | ? | No?[54][57] | ? | ? | Formerly Boss Cellular.[54] |
Black Wireless | AT&T[58] | Personal[59] | Yes[58][59] | No[60] | Yes, BYOD-only; no online compatibility-checker?[58][61][62] | No, plans capped at 6 GB max[60] | Yes, 2G speeds: 128 kbit/s[60] | ? | No[63] | Yes, non–Pay As You Go plans include unlimited (but not "unreasonable") calls to up to 10 unique int'l #s per month in >65 countries[59][60][64] | ? | |
boom! MOBILE | T-Mobile, Verizon[65] | Business, Personal[66][67][68] | Yes[69] | Yes[70] | Yes, but no online compatibility-checker[66] | No, plans capped at 20 GB max on Verizon, 60 GB max on AT&T[66][67][68] | Yes, 2G speeds: 128 kbit/s[66] | ? | Yes, but "iPhone Only for Non-HD" (??) on Verizon network[66] | Yes, int'l calling and texting, but on AT&T network only[66] | ? | AT&T network available to business customers only.[66][67] |
Boost Mobile | Boost Mobile, AT&T, T-Mobile[71][72] | Personal | Yes[73][74] | Yes[75] | Yes[73][76] | Yes, on Unlimited High-Speed plans, but "Customers who exceed between 30 GB and 50 GB of data, depending on the plan during a single payment cycle may experience a temporary slowing of their network performance during the remainder of the billing cycle."[77][78] | Yes, 3G speeds[79] | Yes, with compatible device. | Yes, but no Unlimited option available | Yes, Calls and Texts to int'l #s for additional fees[80] | Yes[81] | Owned by EchoStar.[82] |
Build Wireless | T-Mobile, AT&T | Personal, Business | Yes | Yes | Yes | It is pay as you go, customers pay per GB of data as it is used. Rollover data is available. | Yes, only for SMS | Yes, with compatible device. | Yes | Yes, for an additional fee | Available in multiple countries and roaming available on certain plans. Company has TV available. Strong agent program including wholesale IPhones and Samsung models. | |
Care Mobile | T-Mobile, AT&T | Personal, Business | Yes | Yes | Yes | No, but rollover data is available. | Yes, only for SMS | Yes, with compatible device. | Yes | Yes, for an additional fee | Available in multiple countries and roaming available on certain plans. TV available on all plans and triple play including internet service is available as a bundled plan. Strong agent program including wholesale IPhones and Samsung models. | |
CellNUVO | AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon[83] | Personal | Yes | Maybe: depends on the MVNO or major network[83][84][85] | Yes[84] | Maybe: depends on the MVNO or major network[83][84][85] | Maybe: depends on the MVNO or major network[83][84][85] | ? | Maybe: depends on the MVNO or major network[83][84][85] | Maybe: depends on the MVNO or major network[83][84][85] | Maybe: depends on the MVNO or major network[83][84][85] | "Virtual MVNO" that directs customers to WhistleOut (so, arguably "virtual virtual virtual") to get price comparisons of other MVNOs and major carriers with affiliate links to sign up. In addition, users may install and use CellNUVO app to play ad-supported "simple swipe games" to earn credits to apply against cell service bills.[83][84][85] |
Cellular Abroad | AT&T [citation needed] |
Personal | Yes[86][87] | Yes[86][88][87] | Yes[89][87] | No, plans capped at 1 GB max[89] | No[89] | ? | ? | Yes, int'l calling, texting, and roaming[89][90] | ? | Owned by Cellular Abroad Inc. No unlimited services except incoming texts (worldwide).[89] Sells and rents int'l phones & hotspot devices.[86] Offers VPN that works in China.[91] Offers service in Antarctica.[90] BBB A+ rating.[86] |
Charity Mobile | Verizon [citation needed] |
Personal | Yes[92] | No | Yes[93] | Yes, on Unlimited plan, but "Data usage of 30 GB or more on any line will result in cellular data access being throttled for the remainder of the billing cycle."[92] | Yes, on Unlimited plan, throttled after 30 GB of usage.[92] | Yes | Yes, requires a Data Enabled line.[92] | Yes, additional rates apply per country[94] | Yes | Pro-life charities |
China Telecom CTExcel | T-Mobile[95] | Personal | Yes[96] | ? | Yes, BYOD-only[96][97] | No, plans capped at 10 GB max[96][98][99] | Yes, 2G speeds: 128 kbit/s[96] | ? | No[97] | Yes, plans available with unlimited calls to 20 countries, unlimited int'l texts, int'l roaming[96][98][99] | ? | Owned by China Telecom. China Telecom and parent company China Telecommunications Corporation are state-owned (by China). Dual-number activation: U.S. phone number and virtual Chinese local number.[96] |
China Unicom Cuniq US | T-Mobile[100] | Personal | Yes[101] | No?[102][103][104] | Yes, BYOD-only[101] | No, plans capped at 9 GB max[102][103][104] | Yes, 2G speeds: 128 kbit/s[102][103][104] | ? | Yes, but only until Fast Data allowance depleted[101][102][103][104] | Yes, calling, texing, and int'l roaming for select countries[101][102][103][104] | ? | Owned by China Unicom. China Unicom is state-owned (by China). |
Chit Chat Mobile | Personal | Yes[105] | No?[106][107] | Yes, BYOD-only[106] | No, plans capped at 3 GB max[108] | No[108] | ? | No[108] | Yes, calls to int'l #s from U.S. included[108] | ? | ||
Choice Wireless | Commnet, AT&T | Personal, Lifeline: AZ, NM | Yes | Yes. It should work when inserted into a hotspot although they don't sell them themselves | Yes | Yes | No. It might but their website points to it not | No | Yes | No | Maybe. It depends on the phone you're using | Owned by Commnet Wireless which is a subsidiary of ATN International. Uses the native Commnet network in parts of AZ, CA, CO, MT, NV, UT, and WY and uses AT&T everywhere else |
Clearway | AT&T, Verizon[109] | Business[110] | Yes[110] | Yes[110] | Yes[110] | No, plans capped at 20 GB max[111] | Yes, 2G speeds[111] | ? | ? | ? | Yes?[112] | Owned by TracFone Wireless.[110] |
Community Phone | AT&T, and an unspecified third major network[113][114] | Personal | Yes[115] | No?[115][116] | Yes[117] | Yes, though after 22 GB, speeds are not throttled, but service may be deprioritized during periods of network congestion. After 30 GB the service may slow down or stop.[118] | Yes, after 22 GB of fast data, during some periods of network congestion[118] | ? | Yes[118] | Yes, with Unlimited plans, unlimited Calls to Canada and Mexico, and unlimited roaming in Mexico[118] | Yes | Tablet plans available. Physical store in Cambridge, MA.[119] Promotes tech literacy, puts on seminars at senior centers, etc.[120] |
Consumer Cellular | AT&T, T-Mobile[121][122] | Personal | Yes[121][122][123] | Yes?[123][124][125] | Yes[122][125] | No, after 50 GB of use, your access to high speed data will be reduced to 30%, and you may experience slower speeds for the remainder of your billing cycle.[124] | Yes, though speeds may be throttled once use exceeds 50 GB in addition to overage charging[124] | Yes, Access to both TMO and ATT 5G Networks. | Yes, Tethering data is shared with data on the account.;[126] reportedly, tethering can be added to plans on request [citation needed] |
Yes, int'l calling, texting, and roaming[127] | Yes[127] | Owned by GTCR. Tablet plans available. Discounts offered to AARP members, including 5% off monthly service.[124] |
CREDO Mobile | Verizon[128][129] | Personal | Yes[130] | ? | Yes | No, plans capped at 20 GB max[131] | Yes, on Unlimited Data plan; 2G speeds: 64 kbit/s[131] | Yes | Yes[131] | Yes, int'l calls and roaming for select countries[132] | Yes | Owned by Working Assets. Tablet plans available.[131] Switched from Sprint to Verizon in August 2016.[129] Sells itself as a strong supporter of liberal / progressive political issues such as "Saving Mother Earth" and funds Planned Parenthood, among others.[128][133][134] |
Cricket Wireless | AT&T[135] | Personal | Yes[135][136] | Yes[137] | Yes[135][138] | Yes, on Unlimited extra. On unlimited data plans, but data speeds throttled to 3 Mbit/s, video streaming throttled to 1.5 Mbit/s (SD quality); after 22 GB on Unlimited plan, or anytime on Unlimited Extra plan, "Cricket may temporarily slow data speeds during network congestion"[139] | Yes[139] | Yes, with compatible device.[140] | Yes, but on Unlimited data plans, after 10 GB, throttled to 2G speeds: 128 kbit/s[139] | Yes, with appropriate plans: unlimited calling to landlines in 35 countries from U.S., unlimited texts to 37 countries from U.S., unlimited calling and texts to and from Canada, Mexico, and the U.S., roaming in Canada and Mexico[139][141] | Yes | Owned by AT&T.[142][137][143][144] |
DataXoom | AT&T, Verizon[145] | Business[145] | Yes | Yes[145] | No?[145] | No?[145] | ? | |||||
easyGO Wireless | AT&T[146] | Personal | Yes[146][147] | No?[147][148] | Yes, but unlocked AT&T phones only[146][149] | No, plans capped at 2 GB max[148][149] | No[148][149] | ? | ? | Yes, unlimited calls from U.S. to landlines in >80 countries (and mobiles in some), unlimited texts to int'l #s from U.S.[148][149] | ? | Owned by Telrite Holdings.[150] |
ENC Mobile
迎客移动 |
T-Mobile | Personal | Yes | No | Yes, Check at website | Yes, down speed after 20 GB on unlimited plan,service may be deprioritized during periods of network congestion. | Yes,2G speeds | Yes with Compatible device. | Yes | Yes, unlimited calls to Mainland China, Hongkong, Macau and Taiwan. Special feature:one SIM two number,US and China
中美双号:提供中国的移动号码接受来自中国的短信和通话 |
Yes | |
EcoMobile | T-Mobile, Verizon[151][152] | Personal | Yes[152][153] | Yes[153] | Yes[152][154] | No, plans capped at 8 GB max[154] | Yes, 2G speeds[154] | ? | No?[154][155] | Yes, calls to int'l #s from U.S.[156] | ? | |
EXTREMEConnect .me | AT&T, T-Mobile | Personal | yes | yes | yes | yes | ||||||
enTouch Wireless | Verizon, T-Mobile[157] | Lifeline: AZ, AR, CA, CO, GA, HI, ID, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, PR, RI, SC, SD, TX, UT, WA, WV, WI, WY;[158] Personal |
Yes[159] | No?[160] | Yes[161] | No, plans capped at 6 GB maximum for California Tribal Plan only[162] | No | ? | ? | Yes, calls to int'l #s available through BOSS International Long Distance[163] | Speeds limited to around 1.5 Mbit/s up/down on Lifeline Plans. Formerly Boomerang Wireless.[164] | |
Flash Wireless | Verizon,[165] | Personal | Yes[166][167] | No?[166][167][168][169] | Yes, but "By the end of 2021, 3G and older 4G devices will no longer work properly on Flash Wireless."[170][165][171][172] | No, plans capped at 22 GB max with unlimited slow data, or (on Sprint only) 50 GB max without[168][169] | Yes, on Unlimited Data plan[168][169] | No, coming soon | Yes, but only on iPhone and select Android models, and on Sprint, only up to 10 GB[168][169] | Sprint: Yes, unlimited calling to Canada, Mexico, & Puerto Rico; per-min. rates to others; unlimited calling to 80 or >130 additional countries with World Plan add-ons; unlimited (?) int'l texting[166][173][174] / Verizon: Yes, unlimited calling to Canada, Mexico, & Puerto Rico; per-min. rates to others; int'l texting for $0.20 per message[169][175] | Yes, and texting, but only for Sprint?[176][177] | Owned by ACN[176][177] ACN is the world's largest direct seller of telecommunications, energy and essential services for home and business. International roaming no longer offered as of 2019-08-01. |
FreedomPop | AT&T | Business,[178] Personal | Yes[179][180] | Yes[180] | Yes[179] | Yes(?), "by completing partner offers"[181] | Yes, "by completing partner offers"[181] | ? | Yes[179] | Yes, int'l calling from U.S.[182][183] | Yes, and texting, but via FreedomPop app, not natively[184] | Owned by Red Pocket Mobile.[185] Voice is VoIP by default; "Premium Voice" add-on enables cellular calling.[179] |
FreeUP Mobile | AT&T[186] | Personal | Yes[186][187] | No[188] | Yes[189] | No, Unlimited Data offers first 15 GB at 4G speeds[188] | Yes, 2G speeds after allotment used, except FREE and lowest tier plan[188] | ? | No[190] | Yes, unlimited calling to 150 countries or "Pay As You Go" per-minute rates - available with all plans; seems to include even FREE one. Int'l texting to more than 150 countries.[188][191][192] | Yes, but via FreeUP Talk app, not natively[193] | FREE plan: "250 Talk and Text", Unlimited Wi-Fi; upgraded plans available for additional charge. Unlimited 2G after allotment added on select plans on 10/22/2019.[188] |
Gen Mobile | Boost Mobile, AT&T, T-Mobile[194] | Personal | Yes[194][195] | ? | Yes[194][196] | No?[194][196] | No?[194][196] | ? | Yes[196] | Yes, unlimited calling to >100 countries from U.S., unlimited int'l texts (on appropriate plans)[197] | Yes[198] | Owned by Boost Mobile.[199] |
Get Mobile | AT&T, T-Mobile | Personal, Business | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes, but high speed based on plan chosen | Yes | Yes, with compatible device | Yes | Yes, depending on package or for an additional fee | Monthly and bi-weekly giveaways to customers. Has TV available with each plan and a triple play bundle available. Strong agent program. | |
Global Data Telecom | AT&T T-Mobile, Verizon[200] | Business[200] | Yes | ? | ||||||||
Good2Go Mobile | AT&T, T-Mobile,[201][202][203] | Personal | Yes[204] | No?[204][205] | Yes[206] | No[205] | Yes[205] | ? | No, "Technically no. Tethering is against the Terms & Conditions of Good2Go Mobile."[207] | Yes, unlimited Calls & Texts to 60 countries with International Plan, per-minute rate for other countries[207] | Yes[207] | Owned by Ztar Mobile. |
Google Fi Wireless | T-Mobile[208][209] | Personal | Yes[208][210] | No?[210] | Yes, Only "Designed for Fi" models have full functionality (e.g. non-Fi phones only use the T-Mobile network)[4][211] | No, plans capped at 15 GB (Flexible plan) or 22 GB (Unlimited plan) max[212][4][213] | Yes[212][4] | Yes, with compatible device and only on the T-Mobile Network.[214] | Yes[212] | Yes, int'l calls, unlimited int'l texts, and roaming with data (6 GB fast, then unlimited slow, with Bill Protection),[4][215] using Three network (UMTS-based) [citation needed] |
Yes[4] | Owned by Google. Switches automatically between the different listed host networks and Wi-Fi hotspots based on factors such as relative signal strength.[4][obsolete source] |
GoSmart Mobile | T-Mobile[216][217] | Personal | Yes[216] | No?[218] | Yes, BYOD-only, but no NET10, SafeLink, Straight Talk, Telcel, Total Wireless, or TracFone phones allowed[216][219] | Yes, on unlimited data plan, but at 4G speeds only with Facebook, and 3G speeds for all else; phone hotspot limited to 10 GB Fast Data[216][218] | Yes, 2G speeds[218] | ? | Yes, but limited to 10 GB Fast Data on unlimited data plan (up to 20 GB shared Fast Data on 20 GB plan)[218][220] | Yes, int'l calling to 69 destinations; roaming in Mexico, Dominican Republic, and many Latin American countries[218] | Yes?[112] | Owned by TracFone Wireless.[221] Acquired from T-Mobile.[216] |
h2o Wireless | AT&T[222] | Personal | Yes[222][223] | No?[223][224][225] | Yes[222][226] | No, but speeds are limited to 8 Mbit/s for LTE and 4 Mbit/s for 4G. (After 30 GB speeds will be slowed.)[224] | Yes, 2G speeds[224][226] | ? | Yes, but only on Unlimited Plan and only 30 GB at LTE speeds.[224][227] | Yes, int'l calls to 10 unique int'l landline #s per month in landlines in >50 countries and to mobile phones in select countries on non-Pay-As-You-Go plans, int'l texting[224][225][226] | No [citation needed] |
Owned by Telrite Holdings.[150] |
Helium Mobile | T-Mobile[228] | Personal | Yes | No | Yes, BYOD-only | Yes, but T-Mobile deprioritizes at 50 GB. | Yes | Yes; limited to 5 GB per month | Yes (Soon) | Yes (Soon) | Owned by Nova, a Service Provider on the Helium MOBILE Network. | |
Hive Wireless | AT&T, Verizon[229] | Personal | Yes | No | Yes, | Yes, deprioritizes, only on unlimited plan. | Yes | Yes | Yes (Soon) | Yes (Soon) | Owned by Hive Wireless LLC, a Service Provider on the AT&T and Verizon Networks. | |
Hello Mobile | T-Mobile[230] | Personal | Yes[231][232] | No?[232][233] | Yes[231][234] | Yes, on Unlimited data plan, but "speeds may be lowered during periods of high congestion"[233][235] | No[233][235] | ? | Yes, on Unlimited data plan, otherwise extra fee for Mobile Hotspot | Yes, unlimited int'l calling and texting from U.S.[236][237] | Yes[238] | Formerly also offered T-Mobile coverage.[231] |
Ideal Mobile | Sprint[239] | Personal | Yes[240] | No?[240] | Yes, BYOD-only[239][240] | No, plans capped at 7 GB max[240] | ? | ? | ? | ? | ? | "A Nationwide prepaid carrier for any Sprint device and for blacklisted iPhones from Verizon, T-Mobile, and At&t [sic]".[240] FAQ page is empty.[241] Targets youth market, with plans called "Cool", "Wow", "No Way", and "Holy Cow".[240] |
Jethro Mobile | T-Mobile[242] | Personal | Yes[243] | No?[243][244] | Yes[244][245] | No, plans capped at 6 GB max[244] | Yes, 2G speeds[244] | ? | Yes, on 6 GB monthly and 1 GB yearly plans[244] | Yes, calls to up to 15 unique #s in 75 int'l destinations on Unlimited International, or pay-as-you-go credits for other destinations[246] | ? | FAQ link just redirects to current page.[242][243][244][246] Based on Plintron MVNA.[247] |
Jolt Mobile | AT&T[248][249] | Personal | Yes[249] | No?[249][250] | Yes, BYOD-only[249] | No, plans capped at 5 GB max[250] | No [citation needed] |
? | ? | Yes, direct dialing to int'l #s[249][251] | ? | Owned by Mobile-Net. |
Kajeet | "your choice of the five largest U.S. wireless networks, as well as one in Canada"[252] | Business[252][253] | Yes | Yes[252] | ? | Owned by Kajeet Inc. Targets the K-12 educational market.[252][253] | ||||||
KidsConnect | T-Mobile[254][255] | Personal[255] | Yes[255] | No [citation needed] |
No, specialty 3-button i Luv Wireless KC2 only?[255] | No [citation needed] |
No [citation needed] |
? | No [citation needed] |
No [citation needed] |
No [citation needed] |
GPS tracker phone for communication between kids and their parents.[255] |
Kroger Wireless | T-Mobile[256][257] | Personal | Yes[256][257][258] | No?[258][259] | Yes[256][257] | No, plans capped at 20 GB max[259][260][261] | Yes, on Unlimited data plan[259][260][261] | ? | Yes?[261] | Yes, int'l calling from U.S.[260][262] | ? | Owned by i-wireless. Phones available for sale online and in Kroger-owned stores such as Ralphs.[260] |
Kynect | Sprint[263] | Personal | Yes[264] | No?[264][265] | Yes[266] | No, plan capped at 15 GB[265] | Yes, 2G speeds: 128 kbit/s[265] | ? | Yes[265] | Yes, int'l calling, text, and voice + data roaming, with Global Pass add-on[266][267] | Yes?[266] | Tablet plans not offered.[264][265] Formerly Stream Wireless.[268] Multi-level marketing company.[269][270] |
Lexvor | Verizon[271] | Business,[272] Personal[273] | Yes | No | Yes | Yes, but speeds may be slowed after 50 GB of usage due to network prioritization. | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Focus on providing a Premium service without cutting corners in any facet of their business. |
Liberty Wireless | T-Mobile[274] | Personal | Yes[275] | ? | Yes[275][276] | No[277] | No[276] | ? | Yes[276] | No[276] | Yes[276] | |
Life Wireless | AT&T,[5] T-Mobile[278] | Lifeline: AR, AZ, CA, CO, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, ND, NV, OH, OK, PA, PR, RI, SC, TX, UT, VI, WA, WI and WV[279] | Yes | Yes, but not officially supported | No, plans capped at 6 GB maximum for Californians[280] | No | ? | Owned by Telrite Holdings.[150] | ||||
Lively | Verizon[281] | Personal | Yes[281][282] | No?[282] | No[281] | Yes, on unlimited data plan?[283] | No?[283] | ? | ? | Yes, int'l calling, texting, and roaming in select destinations[284] | ? | Was "GreatCall". Owned by Best Buy.[281] "Senior Cell Phones, Medical Alert Systems & Safety for Seniors".[282] |
Lycamobile | T-Mobile[285] | Personal | Yes[285][286] | No?[286][287] | Yes[288] | Yes, on the top High Data Plan, but "After Use of 50 GB of 4G LTE, data speeds may be reduced for the remainder of the plan period", and tethering / phone hotspot is not permitted on this (or any?) plan[287][289][290][291] | Yes[287][289][290] | ? | No?[289][290][291] | Yes, unlimited talk & text to >75 countries, int'l roaming[287][292] | Yes, and texting[293] | Owned by Lycamobile. Lycamobile has been involved in legal and financial controversies in France, Ireland, and the U.K. They are a significant donor to the British Conservative Party. See Lycamobile § Controversies for details and citations. |
Madstar Mobile | Sprint[294] | Personal | Yes[295] | Yes[296] | Yes[297] | No, no 4G or full 3G speeds[298] | Yes, 3G speeds: up to 512 kbit/s on Ultimate Plan[298] | ? | No[299] | Yes, int'l calling, and int'l roaming in countries with CDMA networks(?)[300][301][294] | ? | Talk & Text (not Data) roams onto Verizon Network for no additional charge.[294] |
Metro by T-Mobile | T-Mobile[302][303] | Personal | Yes[302][303][304] | Yes[305] | Yes[303][306] | Yes, on Unlimited High-Speed plans, but "If congested, the fraction of customers using >35 GB/month may notice reduced speeds and Metro customers may notice reduced speeds vs. T-Mobile due to prioritization. Video streams at 480p. Unlimited on handset and on network only."[307] | Yes[307] | Yes, with compatible device. | Yes[307] | Yes, unlimited calls and texts to select countries, and roaming in Canada and Mexico[308] | Yes[309] | Owned by T-Mobile. Formerly MetroPCS.[302][303] |
MetTel Mobile | AT&T, Verizon | Business[310] | Yes | ? | ||||||||
Mint Mobile | T-Mobile[311] | Personal | Yes[311][312] | No?[312][313][314] | Yes[313] | Yes, though "Data speeds reduce after 35 GB"[315] | Yes, 2G (64 kbit/s) speeds or higher[316] | Yes[317] | Yes, though "The data you use just pulls from your monthly 4G LTE amount", which may indicate phone hotspot cannot use unlimited slow data | Yes, int'l long-distance calling via PLD, and int'l roaming[318][319] | Yes, and texting[320] | Owned by Ultra Mobile. Formerly Mint SIM.[311] Targets youth market with website content like "C'mon, aren't you dying to use the phone plan with a cute little fox on everything?" and "Staying connected while exploring the world just got super F*!ing easy! (We said "Foxing.")".[316][319] campusSIMS partners with Mint to serve the market of international students in the U.S.[321] |
Mobal | T-Mobile[322][323] | Business, Personal[322][324] | Yes[322][323][325][326] | Yes[323] | Yes[323] | Yes, but only in Japan with Japan SIMs; Europe SIM capped at 7 GB max[327][328] | Yes, with USA Visitor SIM only: 2G speeds (128 kbit/s) after 2 GB of 4G data[323] | ? | Yes, "but there is no guarantee that it will work"[323] | Yes, int'l calling, texts, and roaming with appropriate SIMs[323][327][328][329] | ? | Bypasses the usual stringent requirements for obtaining a Japanese SIM.[327] Donates the majority of its profits to self-founded charity ("Krizevac transforms communities. This starts with placing a cross on a mountain in an area of great need. This symbolizes the values of public service & personal sacrifice underpinning the Krizevac Charity.").[330] "Mobal is one of the world's longest running cell phone providers and was founded in 1989".[326] |
Naked Mobile | Cellular One of NE AZ, AT&T, T-Mobile[331] | Personal, Lifeline: AZ, NM, UT | Yes | Yes. The SIM should work in a hotspot but they don't sell any themselves | Yes | No. Their highest plan only goes up to 60 GB of fast data | Yes. Unlimited "2G Data" | No | Yes | No | Yes. It may not work on some phones though | Owned by Smith Bagley Inc under the Cellular One branding. Operates a native network in parts of AZ, UT, and NM |
Net10 Wireless | AT&T, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular (only on PAY-AS-YOU-GO minute plans with 2G/3G feature phones, excludes BYOP),[332] Verizon[333][334] | Business, Personal | Yes[335] | Yes[336] | Yes[333][337] | No, plans capped at 12 GB max[338] | Yes, 2G speeds on Smartphone plans[338] | ? | Yes, but no Unlimited option available[339] | Yes, int'l calling, and unlimited int'l texting on a few phone models[340] | Yes?[112] | Owned by TracFone Wireless. |
netTALK Connect | T-Mobile[341][342] | Business[341][342] | Yes[342] | Yes, BYOD-only[341][342] | ? | Yes, unlimited int'l talk & text in U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico[342] | Yes[342] | Owned by netTalk. | ||||
Optimum Mobile | T-Mobile[343] | Personal | Yes[344][345] | No?[346][345] | Yes, BYOD-only, unless phones are bought at an Altice retail location. Currently supported models are (unlocked) iPhone SE, 6, and above; Galaxy S9 series; and Motorola moto e6 & g7 play.[345][347] | Yes, when not roaming off Sprint, but tethering speeds limited to 600 kbit/s; after 50 GB data usage, tethering and video streaming limited to 2G speeds: 128 kbit/s[346][348] | Yes[346][348] | ? | Yes, but see Unlimited Fast Data column for speed throttling info[346][348] | Yes, unlimited int'l talk and text from U.S. to >35 countries; unlimited talk, text, and data (1 GB 4G LTE, then unlimited 2G unless additional data packs purchased) while roaming in >35 countries[346] | Yes[349][350] | CDMA not supported, only LTE (thus non-WiFi voice is VoLTE). Reportedly uses Sprint as primary network and only roams to AT&T when needed; data speeds limited to 128 kbit/s when roaming. Also automatically connects to Altice WiFi access points when in range; service then provided over Wi-Fi, not 4G LTE. $10/mo. discount for Optimum & Suddenlink customers.[346][348][350][351][352] |
OTG Mobile | Sprint (main page claims "All 4 US Carriers in one place", but only Sprint is shown as option on Coverage page)[353][354] | Personal | Yes[355][356] | Yes[356] | Yes, BYOD-only[355] | No, plans capped at 10 GB max[356] | Yes [citation needed] |
? | ? | ? | ? | As of July 2019[update], the website's SSL certificate expired 2019-05-21.[353] Linked-to FAQ page does not exist.[353][357] |
Page Plus Cellular | Verizon[271] | Personal | Yes[271][358] | No?[358][359] | Yes[271] | Yes, on Fully Unlimited 4G LTE data plan, but "Video typically streams at DVD quality", and "At 60 GB, we reserve the right to review your account for usage in violation of Page Plus's terms and conditions."[359] | Yes, on 3 GB & 8 GB 4G data plans[359] | ? | No?[360] | Yes, int'l calling and unlimited texting[359] | ? | Owned by TracFone Wireless.[359] |
Patriot Mobile | AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile[361] | Personal | Yes[362][363] | Yes[364] | Yes[362][365] | Yes[366][367] | Yes[366][367] | Yes | Yes[368] | Yes, int'l calling from U.S., including unlimited calls to Canada and Mexico[369][370] | Yes | Tablet plans available. Takes a political stance with "Mobilizing Conservatives" tagline and "fight the liberal agenda through your phone", etc.[371] |
Pix Wireless | AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile,[372] Verizon[373][374][375] | Personal | Yes[373] | No?[376][377] | Yes, BYOD-only[373][374] | NoAT&T: No, capped at 30 GB, hotspot capped at 15 GB[376] / Sprint: No, plans capped at 12 GB max[376] / T-Mobile: Unannounced[377] / Verizon: No, plans capped at 12 GB max[376] | AT&T: No?[376] / Sprint: Yes, 2G speeds[376] / T-Mobile: Unannounced[377] / Verizon: Yes[376] | ? | AT&T: Yes / Sprint: No / T-Mobile: No / Verizon: No / International: Yes, assuming active data plan in participating country[378] | Yes, int'l SIMs available, but Calls and Texts to int'l #s with U.S. SIMs only available on Verizon network[379][380] | Yes | Tablet plans available. |
Pond Mobile | T-Mobile | Business[381] | Yes[381] | Yes?[381] | Yes, BYOD-only?[382] | Yes[381] | Yes, 2G speeds: ~128 kbit/s[381] | ? | ? | Yes, int'l calling, unlimited int'l texting, voice + data roaming in >200 countries[381][383] | Yes[382] | Tablet plans available.[381] |
Project Genesis | Boost Mobile | ? | Yes | ? | ? | Yes | No | Yes | No | ? | ? | Owned by Boost Mobile. |
Proven Services | T-Mobile, Verizon[384][385][386][387] | Business,[388][389] Personal[388] | Yes[390] | No?[389][390] | Yes, BYOD-only, but on Verizon network, "CDMA (3G)-only devices, including 3G basic phones and 3G smartphones / 4G LTE smartphones that do not support HD Voice / Apple iPhone 5s or prior including the Apple iPhone 5c" can no longer be activated[391][384] | Yes, but "we have the right, at our discretion, to suspend or terminate your account for any excessive or abusive use"; on T-Mobile and Verizon, "Netflix and other Movie Streaming are prohibited"[384] | —[384] | ? | No[384] | ? | ? | Donates a share of profits to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.[392][393] |
Pulse Cellular | T-Mobile, AT&T,and Verizon [394] |
Business, Personal[395] | Yes[396] | Yes, MiFi routers, Hotspot, USB Modem & Tablet plans available, (Full Unlimited No Deprioritization & Unlimited with deprioritization plans available online & through call center) | Yes, Most unlocked devices are accepted if compatible with preferred network.[397] | Yes, Full unthrottled unlimited plans available. No speed caps. AT&T is network managed at 22 GB, and throttled at 75 GB.[395] | Yes, Low cost 2 GB LTE plan throttles to 128 kbit/s for unlimited audio streaming[395] | ? | Yes, 4G & 3G speeds depending on wireless plan[395] |
Yes, U.S. coverage also usable in Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands; coverage also provided in Canada & Mexico with 5 GB of LTE data (unlimited 128 kbit/s thereafter), network normal usage policies apply;[395] additional international calling, texting, and roaming packages available via call center or email | Yes | Additional plans and new international territories in progress. |
Puppy Wireless | T-Mobile, Verizon[398][399] | Personal | Yes[400] | No?[398][400] | Yes, BYOD-only, but on Verizon network, "CDMA (3G)-only devices, including 3G basic phones and 3G smartphones / 4G LTE smartphones that do not support HD Voice / Apple iPhone 5s or prior including the Apple iPhone 5c" can no longer be activated[398] | Yes(?), on Sprint only[398][401] | No[398][401] | ? | No[401] | Yes, int'l calling from U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands[401] | ? | |
Pure Talk | AT&T[402] | Personal | Yes[402][403] | No | Yes[402] | No (After 30 GB of data usage you will experience slower speeds)[404] | Yes, 2G speeds: 128 kbit/s[404] | ? | Yes, but only officially supported on Apple devices. Android may work depending on model and firmware version.[405] | No[406] | No[406] | Owned by Telrite Holdings.[150] |
Q Link Wireless | T-Mobile[407][408] | Lifeline: AZ, AR, CO, GA, HI, ID, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, PR, RI, SC, TX, UT, VT, VI, WA, WV and WI[409] | Yes | Yes[408][410] | Yes, with Unlimited Data add-on[411] | No | ? | Owned by Quadrant Holdings LLC. No FAQ section. | ||||
Reach Mobile | T-Mobile[412] | Personal | Yes[412][413] | No, Reach supports personal hotspots, but not dedicated hotspot or modem devices (Jetpacks, USB modems). | Yes, BYOD-only[412][414] | No, plans capped at 20 GB max[413] | Yes, on Unlimited plan[413][415] | ? | Yes[413][416][415] | Yes[415][417] | No [citation needed] |
10% of each data plan contributed to provide connectivity to women, families, and students in India, Nigeria, and the U.S.[418][419] |
Red Pocket Mobile | AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon[420] | Personal | Yes[421] | Yes?[422] | Yes[420][421] | Yes, on unlimited plan[423] | Yes, 2G speeds on plans with 3 GB LTE/month or more[423] | ? | AT&T, Sprint & T-Mobile: Android & iOS / Verizon: iOS only[424] | Yes, calling, unlimited texting, and voice(?) + data roaming[425][426][427] | Only on AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint[428] | Owned by Red Pocket Mobile.[422] |
Red State Wireless | T-Mobile | Personal | Yes | No | Yes | 20 GB limit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | For conservatives, by conservatives |
SafetyNet Wireless | T-Mobile, legacy Sprint[429] | Lifeline: CA, CO, GA, KY, MI, OK, PA and WI[429] | Yes | No | No, plans capped at 6 GB maximum for Californians with SafetyNet Wireless for 90 days[430] | No | ? | |||||
Scratch Wireless | Verizon[431] | Personal | Yes[432] | No[432][433] | No, only one provider-supplied device supported, the Coolpad Arise (Android 4.4)[432][433] | No, plans capped at 1 GB max[434] | No[434] | ? | ? | No (except calls and texts to U.S. numbers from foreign Wi-Fi networks)[435] | Yes[432][435] | Uses Wi-Fi instead of cellular network, whenever available, for voice, texts, and data.[432] |
Seawolf Wireless | T-Mobile[436][437] | Personal | Yes[438] | No?[438] | Yes, BYOD-only[439] | No, plans capped at 2 GB max[438] | No?[438] | ? | ? | Yes, int'l calling & texting from U.S., including >30 countries for free[440] | ? | "With business locations in both the US and China, Seawolf focuses on the world's largest two communication markets, offering a wide range of IT/Communication solutions and services".[441] |
SECURE PHONE | AT&T[442][443] T-Mobile[254][255] | Personal[443] | Yes[443] | No [citation needed] |
No, specialty Smartphone designed by i Luv Wireless, LLC[443] | No [citation needed] |
No [citation needed] |
No | No [citation needed] |
Yes, international calling to Mexico and Canada. International calling to other countries can be added as a bolt-on service.[443] | Yes[443] | SECURE GPS tracker phone for communication between kids, adults, special needs and their guardians.[443] |
Selectel Wireless | Verizon[444] | Personal | Yes[444][445] | No?[445][446] | Yes[444][447] | No, plans capped at 22 GB max[446] | Yes, 2G speeds[446] | ? | ? | No, "International use is strictly prohibited on Selectel's service. Dialing and/or receiving international calls and/or texts may result in permanent suspension due to violation of terms of use. In the event your service is suspended for violation of terms of use a refund for purchased plans will not be issued."[448] | ? | Has corporate stores and authorized retailers throughout most of the U.S.[449] |
Simple Mobile | T-Mobile[450] | Personal | Yes[450][451] | Yes[452] | Yes[453] | Yes, on Truly Unlimited plans, but "Video Streams at up to 480p", "If congested, customers may notice reduced speeds vs. T-Mobile customers that may be further reduced for small number of customers who use >40 GB." [sic], and phone hotspot limited to 10 GB[454] | Yes, 2G speeds after up to 15 GB (or 10 GB starting October 2019) 4G LTE data[454] | ? | Yes, but no unlimited data?[454] | Yes, int'l calling, unlimited texting, and roaming in Mexico and several Central and South American countries[455] | Yes[456][112] | Owned by TracFone Wireless.[456] |
Spectrum Mobile | Verizon[457] | Personal/Business | Yes[457][458] | Yes, through the Spectrum One bundle giving you access to Spectrum Internet | Yes[459] | Yes, but Unlimited plans are slowed to 1Mbit/s at 30 GB max/480p video Unlimited Plus plans are slowed to 1Mbit/s at 50 GB max/720p video[460] |
Yes[460] | Yes, with compatible device.[461] | Yes, but after 5 GB of fast data usage on unlimited plans and 10GB of fast data usage on unlimited plus plans, speeds are reduced to 600 kbit/s[460] | Yes, int'l calling, unlimited texting, and roaming[460] | Yes[462] | Owned by Charter Communications. Tablet and wearable plans available.[460] |
SpeedTalk Mobile | T-Mobile[463] | Personal | Yes[463][464] | No?[465] | Yes, BYOD-only[463][464] | No, plans capped at 2 GB max[465] | No?[465][466] | Yes, compatible devices only | No, but "working hard on getting this on board"[466] | Yes, int'l calling from U.S.[467] | ? | |
Sprout Mobile | AT&T | Personal | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | First and only mobile carrier that plants trees to offset CARBON emissions. Simple. Speedy. Sustainable. |
StandUp Wireless | T-Mobile, legacy Sprint[468][469] | Lifeline: 31 states and territories,[470][471] Personal[472] | Yes | Yes[468][469] | No, plans capped at 6 GB maximum with ZIP codes within California[471] | No | ? | |||||
Straight Talk | AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon[473][474] | Personal | Yes[473][475] | Yes[476] | Yes[473][474] | Yes, on Ultimate Unlimited plan, but "At 60 GB, we reserve the right to review your account for usage in violation of Straight Talk's terms and conditions." On AT&T Hotspot is prohibited.[476] | Yes, 2G speeds[476] | Yes[476] | No[477][478] | Yes, int'l calls from U.S. to >1000 landline destinations, and to mobile phones in Canada, China, India, and Mexico[479] | Yes[112] | Owned by TracFone Wireless.[476] Tablet plans available.[476] Rooted or jailbroken devices not allowed.[478] |
TAG Mobile | T-Mobile, legacy Sprint, Verizon[480] | Lifeline: AZ, AR, CA, CO, IA, KY, LA, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NV, OK, PA, SC, TX, WV and WI,[481] Personal[482] | Yes | Yes[480][483] | No, plans capped at 4 GB LTE maximum for Californians[484] | No | ? | Owned by Tag Mobile LLC. No FAQ section. | ||||
Telcel América | T-Mobile[485][486][487] | Personal | Yes[485][488] | No?[488][489] | Yes[487] | Yes, on Unlimited plan[489] | Yes, 2G speeds[489] | No | Yes?[490] | Yes, unlimited calls from U.S. or Puerto Rico to up to 15 int'l landlines; unlimited calls to up to 15 mobile #s in Canada, China, India, and Mexico; int'l texting to Mexico only; and voice + data roaming in Mexico[489][491] | Yes?[112] | Owned by TracFone Wireless.[490] |
Tello Mobile | T-Mobile[492] | Personal | Yes[492][493] | Yes?[494][495] | Yes[492][494] | No, plans capped at 25 GB max[495] | Yes, 2G speeds, but not for phone hotspot[495] | Yes, with compatible device.[496] | Yes, but no Unlimited: disabled after 4G data allotment is depleted[497] | Yes, int'l calls and texts from U.S. No service in Alaska.[497] | Yes[497] | Owned by KeepCalling. Tello originally used the Sprint network, but transitioned to using the T-Mobile network after the T-Mobile and Sprint merger. |
Teltik | T-Mobile | Business | Yes | ? | ||||||||
Tempo Telecom | T-Mobile, legacy Sprint[498] | Lifeline: CO, GA, HI, IN, IA, KS, KY, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, ND, OH, RI, SC, UT, WV, WI, WY;[499] Personal |
Yes[500] | No[500] | No, only one provider-supplied device supported, the Blu Vivo Air 4G LTE (Android 5.0)[500][501] | No, plans capped at 4.5 GB maximum[499] | Yes, on unlimited plans; 2G speeds[502] | ? | ? | ? | ? | |
TerraCom Wireless | T-Mobile, legacy Sprint[503] | Lifeline: AR, AZ, CO, IN, IL, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MN, MO, NE, NV, OK, PA, RI, TX, WA, WV, and WI;[504] Personal |
Yes | No[505] | Yes[506] | No, plans capped at 4.5 GB maximum[504] | Yes[507] | ? | ||||
TextNow | T-Mobile[508] | Personal | Yes[508][509] | No?[509][510][511] | Yes[508][511] | No, plans capped at 23 GB max[510] | Yes, but only on Sprint network[510] | ? | Yes(?), but only on Sprint network[510] | Yes, int'l calling from U.S. and Canada, unlimited texting to >100 countries[512][513] | Yes, but via TextNow app, not natively?[510] | Owned by TextNow. Uses Wi-Fi and wireless network. |
Ting Mobile | Boost Mobile, AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon[514] | Personal | Yes[515] | Yes[515] | Yes[516] | No[517] | Yes, but only on handset, it is reduced to 2G speeds after allotment[517] | Yes[518] | Yes, but cutoff once hotspot allocation is reached[519] | Yes, int'l calling, texting, and roaming.[520] Limited data service in Alaska. | Yes[521] | Owned by Boost Mobile.[522] |
Total Wireless | Verizon[523] | Personal | Yes[523][524] | No?[524][525][526][527] | Yes[523][525] | No, plans capped at 25 GB max[525] | Yes, on unlimited data plan; 2G speeds[525] | No | Yes | Yes, int'l calling from U.S. with Global ILD add-on[525][528][529] | Yes[530] | Owned by TracFone Wireless.[523] |
Tracfone | AT&T, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular (only on PAY-AS-YOU-GO minute plans with 2G/3G feature phones, excludes BYOP),[332] Verizon[531] | Personal | Yes[531][532] | No[532][533][534] | Yes[534] | No, plans capped at 13 GB max (after purchasing up to +5 GB at $10/GB), however can carryover ununsed data every month[533] | No, plans do not slow and are cutoff upon reaching limits[535] | Yes[536] | Yes, carried over data can be used for tethering too | Yes, int'l calling from U.S.[535] | Yes[112] | Owned by Verizon. Previously owned América Móvil.[537] |
Troomi Wireless | AT&T, Verizon | Personal, Family | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | ? | Plans are designed for kids and intentionally restrictive |
TruConnect | T-Mobile, legacy Sprint[538] | Lifeline: 32 states and territories,[539] Personal[540] |
Yes[541] | Yes[542] | Yes for non-Lifeline[540] | Yes for non-Lifeline[540] | No | ? | Yes[543] | Yes[543] | ? | Owned by Sage Telecom. No FAQ section.[544] |
Twigby Mobile | Verizon[545] | Personal/Business | Yes[546][547] | No?[547][548] | Yes[546][549] | No, plans capped at 20 GB max[548] | Yes, 2G speeds: ~64 kbit/s[548][550] | Yes[551] | Yes[548] | Yes, calls to ~80 countries and texts to ~180 countries from U.S. for no additional charge[548] | Yes[552] | Operates on Verizon towers.[551] |
Ultra Mobile | T-Mobile[553] | Personal | Yes[553][554] | No?[554][555][556] | Yes[556] | No, plans capped at 50 GB max[555] | Yes, 2G speeds?[557] | ? | Yes, though "Full speeds available up to monthly allotment, including tethering, then slowed up to 2G speeds for remainder of service period" may indicate that phone hotspot ceases functioning after fast data is depleted[557] | Yes, unlimited calling to >80 destinations, int'l texting, int'l roaming[556][557][558] | Yes, and texting[556] | Owned by Ultra Mobile. |
Unreal Mobile | AT&T, T-Mobile[559] | Personal | Yes[560][561] | Yes[562] | Yes[560][563] | No[564] | Yes, 2G speeds[564] | ? | No[565] | Yes, int'l calling, with appropriate plan[566][567] | Yes, but via Unreal Mobile app, not natively[568] | Owned by Red Pocket Mobile.[185] Previously owned by FreedomPop.[560] On AT&T network, all calling is via VoIP. |
US Mobile | T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T | Personal | Yes[569][570] | Yes, Unlimited WiFi hotspots and inflight WiFi.[570][571][572][573] | Yes[569][571][572] | No, Throttled after 10GB, 35GB, or 100GB depending on plan.[571] | Yes, 3G speeds on unlimited data plans after premium data is used up.[571][574] | Yes | Yes, Included in some plans or for an additional fee depending on plan[571][573] | Free with Unlimited Premium, available for regional and country-specific purchase for other plans, eSim required.[575] | Yes | Owned by Ahmed Khattak. Unlimited plans with discounts and Perks with 3 or more lines. |
Visible by Verizon | Verizon[576] | Personal | Yes[576][577] | No[577][578][579] | Yes: iPhones 6, original SE, and up; Google Pixel 3 and up; some Samsung, Motorola, ZTE, LG, OnePlus, and Hot Pepper phones also official BYOD devices.[576][579] Some unofficially compatible devices might also work either right away when the sim is activated and inserted, or with some setting changes (like trying to add VSBLINTERNET APN), or with limited features. | Yes.[578] No usage-based throttling[579] Unlimited de-prioritized data which yields somewhat inconsistent speeds ranging from over 500 Mbit/s in a great Verizon LTE non congested area to less than 1 Mbit/s in a substantially congested Verizon area "However, when the network gets congested, your data could slow up for a bit."[579] | —[578][579] | Yes, Access to Verizon nationwide 5g and UWB (mm wave) 5g capped at 200 Mbit/s, however the speed cap is not strictly enforced. | Yes, Unlimited hotspot; Speeds capped at 5 Mbit/s (not typically enforced- usually same speed as the phone); Only one device may connect to the mobile hotspot at a time, however this is not enforced on iPhones, Pixels, and most other phones. It is enforced on Visible ZTE phones.[578][579] | Yes: Send and receive unlimited international texts while in the US. Unlimited incoming international calls to the US. Unlimited incoming international calls over WiFi calling while in the US or International. Unlimited outgoing international calls to US numbers over WiFi calling.[578][579] | Yes[579] | Owned by Verizon[580] Operates on Verizon's native 4G/LTE network and WiFi calling (no 3G – Verizon will shut this down at the end of 2020 anyway or roaming- some reports of LTEiRA roaming with talk and text). No toll-free customer service #; service provided via in-app chat, text, Facebook, or Twitter; callbacks by request.[579][581] Visible Connect assists nonprofit technology startups.[582] With party pay it's exactly $25 a month taxes&fees included. |
Walmart Family Mobile | Verizon,[583] T-Mobile[584][585] | Personal | Yes[584][586] | No?[586][587] | Yes[584][588] | Yes, on Truly Unlimited plan, but tethering limited to 5 GB on this plan; "Video typically streams at DVD quality"[587] | Yes, 2G speeds, after up to 14 GB 4G LTE data[587] | Yes | Yes, but unclear if tethering continues to function after 4G data is depleted[587] | Yes, with Extras Pack: int'l calling, and roaming in Canada, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico only[589] | Yes[112] | Owned by TracFone Wireless. Acquired from T-Mobile. Family plans with discounts for up to 4 additional lines.[589] |
Wing | AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon[590] | Business, Personal[591] | Yes[592][593] | No?[594] | Yes[592] | Yes, on TM Unlimited plan (limited-time offer), but on the AT&T Unlimited plan it is network managed at 22 GB and stopped at 50 GB.[594] | Yes, 2G speeds, but on Sprint network only[595] | ? | Yes[594][596] | Yes, int'l calling, texting, and voice + data roaming[597] | Yes[594] | Tablet plans not offered.[594] |
Xfinity Mobile | Verizon[598] | Personal | Yes[598][599] | No[599][600][601] | Yes, but Apple and certain Android models only[598][601] | No, plans capped at 20 GB max[600] | Yes, on Unlimited plan[600] | ? | Yes[600] | Yes, int'l calling, texting, and roaming[602] | Yes[602] | Owned by Comcast Corporation. Activation available to Xfinity Internet customers only. Tablet and Smart Watch plans available.[602] |
Zing Wireless | AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon[603] | Personal | Yes[603][604] | No?[604][605] | Yes[603][606] | No, plans capped at 8 GB max[605] | No?[605] | ? | No?[607] | Yes, int'l calling,[607] texting,[607] and roaming(?)[608] | ? |
The following table is a list of wireless mobile broadband operators.
Company | Host network(s) | Market | Phone service | Modem service | BYOD | Unlimited fast data | Unlimited slow data | 5G access | Tethering / phone hotspot | International | Native Wi-Fi calling | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
DataJack | Sprint | Personal | No | Yes | ? | — | — | |||||
Get Mobile | AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon | Personal, Business | Yes | Yes | Available | Depending on plan | Depending on plan | Yes | __ | |||
Internet on the Go | Sprint | Personal | No | Yes | ? | — | — | Owned by TruConnect. | ||||
Karma Mobility | Sprint[609] | Personal | No[609] | Yes[609][610] | No[609] | No[611] | No?[611] | ? | — | — | ||
NetBuddy | AT&T | Personal | No | Yes | ? | — | — | |||||
NetZero | Sprint | Personal | No | Yes | ? | — | — | |||||
Never Throttled | AT&T[612] | Personal | No[613] | Yes[613] | Yes[614] | Yes[613] | — | ? | — | No[612] | — | Primary target market is rural broadband. No setup fees, contracts, or credit checks; pledges never to raise prices for existing customers.[615][616] |
OTR Mobile | T-Mobile[617] | Personal | No[617] | Yes[617] | Yes[617] | Yes[617] | —[617] | ? | —[617] | No?[617] | —[617] | No Terms & Conditions page ("Updating policy. Will be posted soon.").[617] |
Ladybug Wireless | AT&T, T-Mobile[618][619] | Business,[272] Personal[273] | No(?), "Check back soon"[618][620] | Yes[618][272][273] | No(?), "Check back soon"[618][620] | Yes, but prohibited are video streaming above SD (must be manually limited), "large" downloads, hosting servers, etc.[273][621] | No[273][621] | ? | No [citation needed] |
No [citation needed] |
No [citation needed] |
Founded to provide high-speed Internet service to rural customers.[622] |
All MVNOs listed below are BYOD, unless otherwise noted.
Company | Host network | Wireless technology | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
POND Mobile | T-Mobile | UMTS, LTE, 5G | |
ChatSim | AT&T, Sprint, Verizon | UMTS, CDMA, LTE | Unlimited messaging with 10 apps in >160 countries.[623] |
Flexiroam | AT&T, Sprint, Alaska Wireless | UMTS, CDMA, LTE | Apple eSIM supported Worldwide Service Provider[624] |
Get Mobile | Depends on region | LTE, 5G | Apple/Android/Windows and Connected Car eSIM Supported. Can pay by day, weeks or month. Multi-region is available to allow customers to use the same service in multiple countries. |
KnowRoaming | Telna | GSM | |
OneSimCard | AT&T & T-Mobile | 2G/3G/4G/5G | |
Telna | Telna | GSM | |
TravelSim | AT&T | UMTS | |
TravelSim | T-Mobile | GSM & UMTS | |
Truphone | AT&T | UMTS | Apple eSIM supported Worldwide Service Provider[624] |
Truphone | T-Mobile | GSM & UMTS | Apple eSIM supported Worldwide Service Provider[624] |
Ubigi | Various | Various | Apple/Android/Windows and Connected Car eSIM Supported. Pronounced You-bee-gee. Subsidiary of Transatel. Operates on MNC 901-37. /> |
IoT is "Internet of Things", the extension of Internet connectivity (in this case, cellular network–based) into physical devices and everyday objects.
Company | Host network | Wireless technology | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Aeris Communications Inc | AT&T, Sprint, Vodafone | CDMA, LTE, GSM & UMTS | |
Datablaze | AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Rogers | LTE, 5G, LTE-M | |
Get Mobile | AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon | LTE, 5G | |
KORE Wireless | AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint, Vodafone, Rogers, Telstra, Telefónica | CDMA, LTE, GSM, UMTS | |
MasTrack (Mobile Asset Solutions) | AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile | CDMA, LTE, GSM, UMTS | |
NTT DOCOMO USA | AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Vodafone, Telstra, NTT DOCOMO | CDMA, LTE, GSM, UMTS | |
POND Mobile | ? | GSM, UMTS, LTE, LTE-M, 5G | |
OneSimCard IoT | AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Bell, Rogers, Telus
2G/3G/4G (Full LTE & Cat-M and NB-IoT) 5G | ||
Sierra Wireless | AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile, Vodafone, Rogers, Telefónica | CDMA, LTE, GSM, UMTS | |
Telit | AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile, Rogers, Tele2, Telefónica | CDMA, LTE, GSM, UMTS | |
Telna | ? | GSM | |
Twilio | T-Mobile | CDMA, LTE, GSM, UMTS | |
US Mobile[569][625] | T-Mobile, Verizon | CDMA, LTE, GSM, UMTS |
Company | Market | Host network | Wireless technology | End date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
7-Eleven Speak Out Wireless | Personal | AT&T, Sprint | CDMA, GSM, & UMTS | 2010 | |
Amp'd Mobile | Personal | Verizon | GSM & UMTS | 2014 | |
Aio Wireless | Personal | AT&T | GSM & UMTS | 2007 | Owned by AT&T. |
AirLink Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | ? | |
Blue Jay Wireless | Lifeline: CA | Sprint, Verizon[5][6] | CDMA & LTE | 2018 | Defunct. |
Brightspot | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM & UMTS | December 2015 | |
Budget Mobile | Lifeline: CA | Sprint,[5] Verizon[5][6] | CDMA & LTE | April 2017[6] | Defunct.[6] |
BYO Wireless | Personal | T-Mobile, Verizon | CDMA, GSM, UMTS, & LTE | 2015 | |
BZRMobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | ||
Caffee Communications | Personal | Verizon | CDMA & LTE | March 2018 | |
Charge | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | June 2017 | [626] |
Circle-K Talk-and-Go | Personal | AT&T | GSM & UMTS | 2011 | |
Cloven | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | ||
Comcast | Personal | Clearwire, Sprint | CDMA | 2011 | |
Common Cents Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2011 | |
Cox | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2012 | |
DataPass | Personal | Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon | CDMA, GSM, LTE, UMTS | March 2019[627] | Defunct. |
Disney Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2007 | |
EarthLink | Personal | Sprint | WiMAX | 2015 | |
Embarq | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2009 | |
enVie Mobile | Personal | Verizon | CDMA & LTE | March 2017 | |
Español Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | ? | |
ESPN MVP | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2006 | |
Expo Mobile | Personal | Sprint, Verizon | CDMA & LTE | ? | Essentially no information about Expo's services available on their site, just a bunch of broken links, including the "Contact us today!" link. Firefox displays security warning about website's use of self-signed SSL certificate that expired 2018-02-14.[628][629] |
FamilyTalk Wireless | Personal | AT&T, Sprint, Verizon | UMTS, CDMA & LTE | 2017 | |
FeelSafe Wireless | Personal Lifeline | AT&T | UMTS, GSM & LTE | 2020 | Only left abandoned Facebook page[630] |
FordMobile | Personal | MarkFordMobile | GSM, LTE & UMTS | 2018 | |
Firefly Mobile | Personal | AT&T | GSM & UMTS | 2012 | |
FMP Wireless | Personal | Verizon | CDMA & LTE | 2017 | |
Fuzion Mobile | Personal | AT&T | GSM & UMTS | 2013 | |
GIV Mobile | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM & UMTS | 31 January 2016 | |
GTC Wireless | Personal | AT&T | GSM & UMTS | 2009 | |
Hello US Mobile | Personal | T-Mobile, Verizon | CDMA, GSM, & UMTS | ? | |
Helio | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2010 | |
Infinium Wireless | Personal | Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon | CDMA, GSM, LTE & UMTS | 2017 | |
iQ Cellular | Personal | AT&T, Sprint, Verizon | CDMA | 2014 | |
Itel UTel | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | ||
Jaguar Mobile | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM, LTE & UMTS | ? | |
Jump Mobile | Personal | Cricket | CDMA | 2010 | |
KDDI Mobile | Personal | AT&T (originally Sprint) | GSM | January 2019 | Locus Telecommunications and the U.S. MVNOs under its umbrella were acquired from KDDI America in January 2019.[631][632][633][634][635][636] |
Lucky Wireless | Personal | Verizon | CDMA | 2011 | |
Mi Gente Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | 2013 | |
Mingo Wireless | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2012 | |
MOSH Mobile | Personal | Centennial Wireless | GSM & UMTS | 2012 | |
Movida | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2012 | |
Omni Prepaid | Personal | 2012 | |||
Millenicom | Personal | Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, US Cellular | 5G, 4G, LTE | Current | Terabyte of High Speed Data over 4 major carriers simultaneously |
Next G Mobile | Personal | Verizon | CDMA | 2013 | |
The People's Operator USA | Personal | Sprint, T-Mobile | CDMA, LTE | February 2019[637] | Ceased operations in the wake of financial problems and legal scandals. |
Phonata | Personal | AT&T, Sprint, Verizon | CDMA, GSM, & UMTS | 2013 | |
PrepaYd Wireless | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2014 | |
PTel Mobile | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM & UMTS | 31 January 2016 | |
Pure Mobile | Personal | Verizon | GSM & UMTS | 2012 | |
Pure Unlimited | Personal | AT&T[638] | GSM | unknown | Defunct no-data-service MVNO; "Order Today" page suggests customers switch to sister company Pure Talk.[639][640] |
Qwest Wireless | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2010 | |
Red Stick Wireless | Personal | Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon[641] | CDMA, GSM, LTE | circa February 2019?[642] | As of August 2019[update], site permanently displays "This site is currently in a maintenance window".[643] |
Republic Wireless | Personal | AT&T, T-Mobile | GSM, UMTS, LTE | 2023 | Customers transitioned to Boost Infinite. |
Ring Plus, Inc | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | 21 February 2017 | Customers absorbed by Ting Mobile in February, 2017.[644] |
Roam Mobility | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM & LTE | 30 June 2020 | Shutdown June 30, 2020.[645] |
ROK Mobile | Personal | AT&T | GSM | October 2018 | ROK ceased offering Sprint and Verizon service in May 2018. ROK website went blank circa October 2018.[646][647] ROKMobile.com SSL certificate expired April 5, 2019.[648] |
Shaka Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | ||
Simple Freedom | Personal | Alltel | CDMA | 2007 | Customers in Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, New Mexico, Georgia, & Florida moved over to Verizon prepaid. All other markets flipped to AT&T Mobility. |
SkyView Wireless | Personal | AT&T[649] | GSM | ? | As of July 2019, SkyView is no longer accepting new customers, and website only offers links to login forms for h2o and easyGO, and a link for existing SkyView customers to recharge.[650] |
Solavei | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM & UMTS | December 2015 | |
Spot Mobile | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM & UMTS | September 7, 2014 | |
STi Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | ? | |
SWT Mobile | Personal | AT&T | GSM & UMTS | 2013 | |
TalkForGood | Personal | Verizon | CDMA | 2013 | |
Total Call Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | ? | |
Touch Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | ? | |
Trumpet Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2013 | |
TúYo Mobile | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM & UMTS | 2012 | |
Univision Mobile | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM, UTMS & LTE | 2017 | Absorbed by Ultra Mobile in July 2017.[651] |
UppWireless | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM & UMTS | 2016 | |
UVA Mobile | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM, UMTS & LTE | 2017 | |
UWT Mobile | Personal | AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile | GSM, CDMA, UMTS & LTE | ? | |
Value Wireless | Personal | T-Mobile | GSM | ? | Content area of website's main page is blank.[652] About page contains "Lorem ipsum" placeholder text.[653] Contact Us page is missing.[654] No phones, BYOD, or plans pages.[652] |
Venn Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | 2020 | In June 2020, they had all customers lines terminated, due to their inability to pay their(Venn Mobile's) bill to Sprint. Was over 3 months past-due, totally over $60,000. Blamed "outage" on the Sprint/T-Mobile merger. Their sister company Teltik is no longer taking new customers either.[655] |
Virgin Mobile USA | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | February 2020 | In February 2020, the Virgin Mobile USA service was discontinued and the existing Virgin Mobile customers were transferred to Boost Mobile.[656] |
Voce | Personal | AT&T | GSM & UMTS | 1 February 2008 | |
Votel Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2014 | |
Voyager Mobile | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2015 | |
Wireless Services US | Personal | Verizon | CDMA & LTE | July 2017 | [657] |
WOW Mobile PCS | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2012 | |
XCellular USA | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | 25 July 2014 | |
XE Mobile | Personal | ? | ? | 2007 | |
Yahoo Mobile | Personal | Verizon | CDMA, LTE, 5G | 31 August 2021 | On June 17, 2021, Yahoo Mobile sent email messages to customers telling them about the shutdown. Customers were told they had until August 31, 2021 to port out and were urged to transfer over to Visible.[658][659] |
ZACT | Personal | Sprint | CDMA & LTE | 3 August 2014 | |
Zapp | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2012 | |
ZERO11 Wireless | Personal | AT&T | UMTS | ? | |
ZUMA Prepaid | Personal | Sprint | CDMA | 2013 |
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