Overview of Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless, owned by AT&T, is one of the most recognized MVNOs in the United States. Cricket focuses on delivering straightforward, affordable plans with no annual contracts. Backed by AT&T’s nationwide 4G LTE and 5G networks, Cricket Wireless offers reliable coverage, making it a solid option for families and individuals looking for budget-friendly mobile plans.
Plans and Pricing
Cricket Wireless offers a variety of prepaid plans, including individual and family options. All plans include unlimited talk and text, with varying levels of data. Here’s a breakdown of their popular plans:
| Plan | Monthly Price (Single Line) | Data Allowance | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5GB Plan | $30/mo | 5GB | Wi-Fi calling, mobile hotspot. |
| 10GB Plan | $40/mo | 10GB | Wi-Fi calling, mobile hotspot. |
| Unlimited Plan | $55/mo | Unlimited (throttled after 22GB) | SD video streaming. |
| Unlimited + 15GB Hotspot | $60/mo | Unlimited (throttled after 22GB) | 15GB mobile hotspot, HD video streaming. |
Family Plan Discounts: Cricket offers multi-line discounts, making it an excellent choice for families. For example, four lines on the Unlimited Plan cost $100 per month.
Plans and prices change all the time – for the most up-to-date information, check Cricket Wireless’ website.
Hidden Fees: Taxes and fees are included in Cricket’s advertised prices, so there are no surprises at checkout.
Coverage and Performance
Cricket Wireless uses AT&T’s network, which provides strong coverage in urban, suburban, and rural areas. 5G access is included with compatible devices and plans at no extra cost. However, data speeds may be capped at 8 Mbps on certain plans, and customers may experience deprioritization during network congestion.
To check coverage in your area, visit Cricket Wireless’ Coverage Map.
Device Compatibility
- Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Cricket supports most unlocked GSM devices. Use their device compatibility tool to check if your phone works with their network.
- eSIM Support: Cricket offers eSIM activation for select devices, simplifying the setup process.
- Device Purchases: Cricket sells a range of phones, including budget and flagship options, often with promotional discounts.
Features and Benefits
- Hotspot Access: Available on select plans, including 15GB of hotspot data on the Unlimited + Hotspot plan.
- Wi-Fi Calling: Included on all plans, enabling reliable calls in low-signal areas.
- Data Add-Ons: Additional data can be purchased for $10 per 2GB on tiered plans.
- International Features: Certain plans include free calls to Mexico and Canada, plus international texting.
- Streaming Perks: The Unlimited + Hotspot plan supports HD video streaming, while other plans are capped at SD quality.
Customer Experience
- Customer Support: Cricket offers support through live chat, phone, and in-store assistance. The availability of physical stores is a major advantage for customers who prefer face-to-face help.
- Sign-Up Process: Users can sign up online, in-store, or through the Cricket app, making activation convenient.
- Mobile App: The Cricket app allows users to manage their account, pay bills, and monitor usage effortlessly.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable multi-line discounts.
- Reliable coverage through AT&T’s network.
- Taxes and fees included in advertised prices.
- Availability of physical stores for in-person support.
Cons:
- Data speeds capped on some plans.
- Throttling after 22GB on unlimited plans.
- Limited hotspot options on lower-tier plans.
Comparisons
- Cricket Wireless vs Visible by Verizon: Cricket is better for families due to its multi-line discounts, while Visible offers unlimited data at a flat rate with Verizon’s network.
- Cricket Wireless vs Mint Mobile: Cricket’s no-contract, pay-as-you-go model appeals to users who prefer monthly flexibility, while Mint offers lower prices for long-term prepaid plans.
Check out more plans: Compare Plans
Who It’s Best For
Cricket Wireless is a great choice for families, budget-conscious users, and those who value predictable, all-inclusive pricing. It’s particularly suited to users who live in areas with strong AT&T coverage and want the convenience of in-store support.
Verdict
Cricket Wireless provides a reliable and affordable alternative to major carriers, with a focus on simplicity and family-friendly pricing. While data speed caps may deter some heavy users, its robust coverage, straightforward pricing, and accessible customer support make it a top contender among MVNOs.
Learn more and sign up at Cricket Wireless’ website.