By Rob Webber - Last updated on
MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.
AT&T is a GSM network carrier and works with GSM cell phones.
GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communications. GSM and CDMA are the 2 types of 3G networks that cell phone carriers use to provide your service.
In the past, you couldn't use a CDMA network's phone on the GSM network and vice versa. However, most newer smartphones can operate on either type of service.
Is AT&T a CDMA or GSM network?
AT&T GSM network carriers
If you're shopping around for a new carrier, consider MVNOs - Mobile Virtual Network Operators. These are smaller mobile providers that rent space on the same networks the big guys use and then sell it to you at a lower price.
There are plenty of great AT&T MVNOs to choose from, such as PureTalk, h20 Wireless and Red Pocket which means you can get AT&T service without paying AT&T prices.
AT&T GSM carrier benefits
- Get the same great service: You get cell phone service on the very same networks the major providers use.
- Save over half: MVNO plans typically save you 50% or more over the big three carriers.
- Custom plans: Only pay for what you actually need and use.
- No contracts or credit checks: No commitment and everyone is welcome!
- Keep your phone: Most MVNOs are BYOP (bring your own phone) - keep your device and your number.
AT&T GSM carrier plans
| Carrier | Data | Network | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boost Mobile 1GB plan | 1GB | AT&T | $8/mo** $100 for 1 year service |
| Boost Mobile 5GB plan | 5GB | AT&T | $5/mo** 66% Off for 3 Months |
| PureTalk 10GB plan | 10GB | AT&T | $26/mo** 25% Off for 3 Months |
| Boost Mobile Unlimited plan | Unltd | AT&T | $12.50/mo** 50% Off First Month |
| Red Pocket 100GB plan | 100GB | AT&T | $38/mo** Only $450 for 12 Mths Service |
AT&T vs Boost Mobile comparison
Keep your AT&T phone, number & coverage: Save $750 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | AT&T 4G & 5G | Unltd* | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Boost Mobile | AT&T 4G & 5G | 5GB | $15/mo | $150/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $60/mo | $750/yr | |
How to switch to a AT&T GSM carrier
It's never been easier to switch. Let's break it down.
- Customize your plan. Whether you're looking for a truly unlimited plan, or in the market for something more basic, choose a plan to suit your cell phone needs.
- Prepare to make the switch. Make sure your old bills are paid up and your phone is unlocked. If you're getting a new device, transferring data from one to another is simple. Even if you're going from an iPhone to Android, and vice versa.
- Set up your new plan. Keep your current carrier account open until your number has been ported over. Once you're sure your new plan is up and running, cancel your old account. If you've got a new device with your Tello plan, it should be ready to use when it arrives. If you're bringing your own phone then you'll need to follow the instructions with the new SIM card kit that Tello will send to you in the post.
Bring your unlocked GSM phone
You need simplicity in your life. The great thing about MVNOs is that switching carriers is easy.
You need an unlocked phone (meaning your carrier has released it for use on another network). Once you've checked with your new provider about phone compatibility the rest is a breeze.
Most low-cost carriers simply provide you with a prepaid SIM card. You pop it into your cell phone and follow the provider's instructions. Just make sure you don't cancel your current phone plan until you've ported your phone number over to the new carrier.
AT&T GSM carriers list
| Carrier | Network(s) |
|---|---|
| Boost Mobile | AT&T & T-Mobile |
| Cricket Wireless | AT&T |
| Freedompop | AT&T |
| H2O Wireless | AT&T |
| PureTalk | AT&T |
| Red Pocket | AT&T, T-Mobile & Verizon |
| Straight Talk | T-Mobile, AT&T & Verizon |
| Tracfone | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile |
| Unreal Mobile | AT&T & T-Mobile |
| Wing | AT&T, Verizon & T-Mobile |
| Good2Go Mobile | AT&T & T-Mobile |
| Black Wireless | AT&T |
| easyGO Wireless | AT&T |
| Airvoice Wireless | AT&T |
| Optimum Mobile | AT&T |
| Boost Infinite | AT&T & T-Mobile |
Rob has 15+ years experience in the US and UK running price comparison sites for cell phone plans, smartphone deals, TV, and internet. He loves thinking outside of the box to build tools that empower consumers to make more informed decisions.
