Unsure which of the big 3 networks works best? How to try them all
December 21, 2024

Unsure which of the big 3 networks works best? How to try them all

Edgar Cervantes/Android Authority

Moving to a new location often requires a lot of adjustment, including making new friends, finding local hotspots, and acclimating to the environment. One of the challenges you may face is discovering that your current phone provider no longer provides reliable or fast service in your new area. If this happens, testing competing networks can help you find the best option for your area. Unfortunately, major carriers often don’t offer trials, and while you can cancel a new plan for a limited time to get a full refund, understanding their refund policies can be a hassle.

Thankfully, there’s an easier way to evaluate the major networks without spending a lot of money or jumping through hoops. US Mobile is the only carrier that provides access to the three major US networks: Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile.

US Mobile: Easily test three major networks

Edgar Cervantes/Android Authority

America Mobile is currently the only operator in the United States that provides access services to the three major U.S. networks. Here’s a closer look at what these networks look like on US Mobile, and how they compare to what you get when you test postpaid:

  • Twisted (Verizon): Offers the same priorities as mid- to high-end postpaid Verizon plans.
  • Dark Star (AT&T): By default, the offer is slightly lower priority than AT&T’s mid-level plan, but you can upgrade for $12 to match the pre-set postpaid mid-tier and premium priorities.
  • Speed ​​of Light (T-Mobile): Functions like a typical prepaid T-Mobile service, which means you won’t have your highest priorities. However, it’s still a good way to assess network congestion in your area. If you experience stable or mostly stable performance with US Cellular, the higher-priority T-Mobile plan will likely work perfectly.

US Mobile even lets you switch between networks for free (lifetime, not monthly) up to two times, with subsequent switches costing just $2 each time.

US Mobile is worth trying, even if you don’t want to stick with it

Maybe you’d rather stick with the larger networks, or want to consider another prepaid network long-term. If you’re not sure which major network is best for you, we’d still give US Mobile a try.

Even if you don’t plan to continue using US Mobile, this is a great way to compare networks. While it won’t give you a perfect one-on-one comparison with postpaid plans, it’s enough to reveal the least crowded network in your area.

To try US Mobile, you can take two paths:

  • Sign up for a free trial: This requires transferring your current number to US Mobile. This is a good option if you decide that your current provider no longer meets your needs, you don’t plan on using US Mobile long-term, and you don’t mind moving to a different network.
    Pay the $25 monthly service fee: This plan includes unlimited priority data up to 35GB. This option allows you to get a new line (or port your number, if you like) and test the network while keeping your existing carrier.

If you’re moving or simply unhappy with the performance of your current network, America Mobile offers a convenient and cost-effective way to test all three major networks. To find out more, check out our detailed comparisons like our American Mobile vs T-Mobile and US Mobile vs Verizon guide.

2024-12-18 15:50:41

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