When searching for a reliable wireless carrier in the U.S., many consumers find themselves comparing AT&T and Cricket Wireless. Both operate on the same extensive network infrastructure, but they serve different kinds of users and budget considerations. Understanding the key differences can help you choose the best provider for your needs.
TL;DR
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AT&T offers faster speeds, more plan flexibility, and premium features ideal for heavy users and families, while Cricket Wireless provides more budget-friendly options with no annual contracts and simpler plans. If you’re looking for high performance and are willing to pay more, go with AT&T. If you want to save money and still get decent coverage, Cricket is a solid choice, especially for individuals and light users.
Network Quality and Coverage
Both AT&T and Cricket Wireless utilize the same nationwide network, meaning they offer similar coverage footprints across the U.S. This is because Cricket is a wholly owned subsidiary of AT&T and operates as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO).
- AT&T: Provides full-speed access to its LTE and 5G networks with premium priority during congested times.
- Cricket Wireless: Offers capped data speeds on certain plans and occasionally lower priority during peak usage times.
While both offer 5G access, AT&T gives users a better experience in terms of congestion and speed. So, if absolute performance is key, AT&T comes out on top. However, lighter users may find Cricket’s offering perfectly sufficient for daily tasks.
Plan Options and Pricing
One of the biggest differences between the two providers lies in their pricing structure and plan options.
AT&T Plans
- Unlimited Starter: Priced higher than Cricket’s base plans but includes unlimited talk, text, and data.
- Unlimited Extra and Elite: Offers more high-speed data, hotspot usage, and added features like HBO Max.
- Family Discounts: Substantial savings when multiple lines are added.
Cricket Wireless Plans
- Basic Fixed Data: 5GB and 10GB plans for those who want control over data use and lower monthly costs.
- Unlimited Data: Two tiers, including one with 15GB of mobile hotspot usage (Cricket More).
- No Annual Contracts: All plans are prepaid, making them more flexible for users important about budgeting.
Verdict: For users seeking extensive features like mobile hotspot on multiple devices, streaming perks, and bigger data allowances, AT&T takes the lead. However, for affordability and simplicity, Cricket’s plans are a better fit.
Data Speeds and Performance
Although both carriers run on the same physical network, the performance users experience can vary significantly.
- AT&T: Offers uncapped LTE and 5G speeds with prioritized access to the network, which ensures fast performance even during peak times.
- Cricket Wireless: Imposes speed caps on several plans (around 8 Mbps on some LTE plans) and may be subject to deprioritization during congestion.
In real-world use, AT&T tends to deliver video streaming, online gaming, and large downloads more efficiently. If you require high-speed data consistently, AT&T offers a superior experience.
Customer Service and Support
Customer service can vary widely between the two providers.
- AT&T: Offers service in physical stores across the U.S., online chat, and 24/7 phone support. Wait times can be long, but resources are abundant.
- Cricket Wireless: Operates more affordable storefronts and online support. While friendly, its customer service experience is considered more limited than AT&T’s.
Both companies provide mobile apps for managing your account, but AT&T’s MyAT&T app has more features related to billing, plan changes, and parental controls.
International Use and Roaming
For frequent travelers, international coverage and roaming features can make a big difference in your carrier decision.
- AT&T: Includes international roaming in over 200 countries with added support for global data plans and travel pass options.
- Cricket Wireless: Has limited international support. Only certain plans include roaming in Mexico and Canada, and global texting is not always available.
If you travel often, AT&T is clearly the better option. For occasional or purely domestic usage, Cricket suffices.
Device Selection and Compatibility
The kinds of devices supported by each carrier can influence your overall usage flexibility.
- AT&T: Sells a wide variety of branded smartphones and allows more BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) compatibility.
- Cricket Wireless: Also supports BYOD, but locked devices may face limitations. Discounts on phones are available with long-term activation.
Users deeply integrated into the Apple or Samsung ecosystems will find AT&T offers better value overall due to availability of newer phones, financing options, and bundling deals.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the decision between AT&T and Cricket Wireless depends on your budget, data needs, and lifestyle.
- Choose AT&T if you:
- Use a lot of data and require fast performance
- Travel internationally or want plan perks like HBO Max
- Need flexible family and enterprise-level plans
- Choose Cricket Wireless if you:
- Are looking to save money with prepaid options
- Have consistent but mild data usage
- Don’t need premium streaming or roaming features
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Cricket Wireless as reliable as AT&T?
- Yes and no. Cricket uses the same network as AT&T, so coverage is nearly identical. However, data speeds can be capped and deprioritized at times, especially during network congestion.
- Can I bring my own phone to Cricket or AT&T?
- Yes, both allow you to bring your own compatible phone. Be sure the device is unlocked and supports the carrier’s network bands.
- Does Cricket Wireless include 5G?
- Yes, most current Cricket plans include access to AT&T’s 5G network where available and if your phone is compatible.
- Are there family plans with Cricket Wireless?
- Yes, Cricket offers group savings when adding multiple lines. Discounts aren’t as deep as AT&T’s, but they remain competitive for prepaid services.
- Is there a contract with Cricket Wireless?
- No, Cricket plans are 100% prepaid with no annual contracts, offering more freedom to change your plan or carrier anytime.
- Does AT&T throttle data?
- On limited plans, usage may be slowed after a set data limit is reached. However, their higher-tier plans include premium data with high-speed access even after exceeding typical limits.
