Deciding which wireless provider to go with is a difficult choice. You have the big three for sure, Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, but also a bunch of smaller options. How are these wireless carriers ranked?
Some of these are subsidiaries, and it can be hard to tell what you’re getting. The first thing is to know there’s a difference between US wireless providers and MVNOs. MVNO stands for mobile virtual network operations.
This refers to companies that don’t own their infrastructure and sign deals instead. In many cases, an MVNO offers comparable service to their bigger partner on a budget. So knowing the difference between America’s top ten wireless carriers is worth looking into.
It will help you decide which carrier and phone plan are right for you. Keep reading for a complete guide on the best wireless providers the US has to offer.
1. Verizon Wireless
With its early beginnings dating back to 2000, Verizon Wireless is the largest wireless provider in the US. With almost 143 million subscribers, this puts them ahead of AT&T and T-Mobile. It also beats those in how reliable its coverage is, but it comes with drawbacks.
The major one is Verizon tends to cost more than most other wireless carriers. Verizon offers great 4G LTE coverage and speeds, as well as 5G. In general, if you want a flagship phone with Verizon, you’ll pay the price, but the quality could be worth it.
This is because Verizon has arguably the best nationwide coverage. They offer a versatile array of plans and phones, so you don’t have to break the bank if you don’t want to. In addition, you get nice perks, especially for streaming and traveling, and flexible family plans.
This all comes at a cost since Verizon is $5-$10 more per month than its major competitors for comparable plans.
2. AT&T
One of the most globally recognized providers is AT&T.
You’d notice that it’s almost always the default roaming service abroad. While that says a lot about it, AT&T having the widest and best cell phone coverage is still quite arguable.
With other subscribers still preferring its competition, AT&T finds itself in the 3rd spot. If you take a closer look, you’ll find that its parent company is Comcast. This helps AT&T sprawl out farther, though they might be spreading out a bit too thin to some.
Although, they do give great mobile deals and plans for every budget. Despite this, they have mixed feedback when it comes to customer service. That said, depending on the deals you’re looking for or the area you’re in, AT&T is still worth a go.
After all, they have been in the telecom business since 1885 as a subsidiary of Bell. They were one of the pioneers back then and are still part of the big three today.
3. T-Mobile
One of the most established and well-known wireless carriers ranked in the US is T-Mobile. Their national coverage is quite wide, offering great speeds and connectivity. They’re second to Verizon with about 107 million subscribers and are neck and neck with AT&T.
This is quite impressive since their main focus is wireless communication and mobile. They tend to have good plans for those who prefer unlimited data, talk-and-text, and their pricing doesn’t hit you with hidden taxes. Another benefit of T-Mobile is its international perks.
These make sure you’re always connected when traveling. You can even get free streaming subscriptions to Netflix if you go with multi-line plans. The only main drawback of T-Mobile is that some of its plans can get expensive.
This is especially true for newer flagship phones. You might also prefer 1 or 2 of the other options on this list for wider national and international coverage. That said, T-Mobile is no slouch in this regard.
4. Dish Wireless
Founded only two years ago, Dish has climbed the wireless carriers rankings. They provide an array of services from TV, high-speed internet, and mobile plans. This billion-dollar company is the result of a DOJ-mandated merger.
Dish has paid about $5 billion of blended divested assets to get to where they are today. They’re also known to have one of the most ambitious plans for 5G, which aims for up to 70% coverage by 2023. With this in mind, it’s easy to see why they’re here to dominate.
Dish also has contracts with T-Mobile and AT&T to ensure that they can deliver consistent service throughout the US. This also allows them to build up and expand without major service disruptions.
5. Visible
Launched in 2018, Visible and their cell phone service was well-loved by iPhone users. Back then, they were even known to have an iPhone-only love affair. Though recently, Visible has since branched out to cater to Andriod users as well.
They have steady speeds, though nothing stellar. Visible has cellphone services that are great for average daily use. If you’re the type to need heavy streaming, then their service is about right for you.
If you and those you know are looking to save money, look into their party plan. Joining four other people can drop your plan to $25, which adds to your savings.
6. Boost
Under the biggest carriers in the US, Boost has quite the repertoire, especially after acquiring Virgin Mobile. Their parent company is Dish Wireless, also partnered with AT&T and Verizon. Having these strong partnerships puts them at the forefront.
In turn, Boost is able to use and have access to a broad range of services. They’re also able to offer some of the most competitive and in-demand deals for mobile, as seen on their Boost Mobile plans. Along with several other sister companies under Dish, Boost has significant nationwide mobile phone coverage.
You can rest assured that the quality will perform up to your standards, and you won’t get gouged by high prices. The benefits of going with a subsidiary of a larger well-trusted company are serious. You get all of the experience and pros from the brand you trust without the financial cons. It’s a total win-win for the consumer.
7. Mint Mobile
Another MVNO on the list that’s been creating a buzz is Mint Mobile, and for a good reason. There’s more to them than having Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds under their belt. They’re also one of the most affordable and flexible carriers available in the US.
Options like no contract, prepaid plans, and bring your own phone deals are also in play. They make the switch from previous providers a breeze, too. Not only are they letting you keep your existing number, but they even offer a free trial.
Not only are they flexible, but affordable too, so definitely worth checking out.
8. Google Fi
Google Pixel 6 and Pro have been the talk of the town since their release. Even long-term Apple users have found themselves making the switch. If you’re planning to join the Google bandwagon, why not give Google Fi a try.
They’re an MVNO with a steady stream of users despite being US-based only. Their small-scale consumer base is a plus since they can provide a higher quality of service. This is true for both consumer coverage, satisfaction, and support.
9. Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless is one many have heard of. As a subsidiary of AT&T, you can rest assured you’ll get excellent coverage. They aren’t the fastest and focus mainly on 4G now, but connectivity is quite good, and so are the prices.
Those in the market for a prepaid phone or who don’t need all the bells and whistles can save big. You don’t even have to make many sacrifices, as affordable unlimited plans are available. Cricket Wireless also offers home internet package deals, too.
Those willing to sacrifice a little bit of speed for affordability can still get a good deal. Well-performing smartphones with solid coverage don’t have to break the bank. Cricket Wireless is here to prove that.
10. Consumer Cellular
Another niche provider sliding into the top 10 is Consumer Cellular. They’ve been in the game since 1995, originally as a British-American joint venture. Catering to the 50+ senior community, the company offers no-contract cellphones and plans.
Even the AARP partners and recommends them. Giving those interested in the provider promos and limited-time member offers. Consumer Cellular also uses AT&T’s network; this helps them maintain and service a wider customer base.
Although not as versatile as Cricket, they can be an easy and affordable alternative.
America’s Best Wireless Carriers Ranked
Here are the top wireless carriers ranked in the US. Different people will have different needs, but a few things are almost always key. Coverage range and strength will always be a mark of quality and affordability.
You get what you pay for, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a good deal if you know where to look. Going with smaller but high-quality alternatives outside the big three can be great. For more tips on choosing the best phone carrier, take a look at our site.
