Boost Mobile is one of the more well-known Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).
These smaller operators typically buy service on one of the big four networks and resell it to you at a lower cost. In the case of Boost, the carrier is actually part of the Sprint company (so, naturally, it runs on Sprint's wireless network).
In business since 2002, Boost Mobile offers the features and feel of a major carrier without the commitments and credit checks. This prepaid mobile service provider even has a family plan option, unlike the majority of MVNOs. And, they have brick-and-mortar retail stores in case you prefer to do business in person.
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Another advantage that you won't find with most smaller carriers is Boost's generous suite of international service options. You can choose to add just Canada and Mexico to your monthly plan, or you can add minute packs for a country of your choice. You can even buy just international texting as an add-on.
There's no doubt you're getting an established name and network behind your service, should you choose this carrier. What about other things like price and coverage? Keep reading to find out in our Boost Mobile review.
In This Guide
Key Considerations When Choosing Boost Mobile
There are a few things you should consider before deciding to go with a Boost Mobile plan:
- Is my location within the service area on the Boost Mobile coverage map?
- Do I need multiple lines?
- Do I need a carrier with international service?
- Will you bring your own phone or buy one?
- Is one of the four available plans a good fit for my needs or could I save money by choosing a custom plan from a more flexible provider?
Boost Mobile Pricing: Is It Competitive?
| Carrier | Network Coverage | Data Limit | Monthly Price | Annual Price |
| Sprint | Sprint 4G LTE | Unlimited* | $60 | $720 |
| Boost Mobile | Sprint 4G LTE | Unlimited* | $50 | $600 |
| Saving | $10 | $120 | ||
| * Avg Sprint user on unlimited plan uses 5GB data | ||||
Three of the four Boost Mobile plans are unlimited data plans, with the fourth one providing 3 GB of high-speed data. All of the packages give you unlimited talk and text messages.
Whether or not Boost's pricing is competitive is highly dependent upon what you're looking for. If you're shopping for a single line and you're a heavy data user, Boost is a little cheaper than Sprint but the savings aren't overwhelming.
If you're in the market for a family plan you'll save slightly more unless you choose Boost Unlimited Plus or Ultimate Unlimited (premium plans which come with perks like HD video streaming and priority care service).
Coverage
Boost Mobile runs on the same network as Sprint. You'll get the same reliability and coverage as customers with Sprint, just under a different name.
Figuring out whether or not you can get service with this provider is as easy as checking the Sprint coverage map.
Sprint has a history of coming in fourth among the big four carriers in terms of 4G signal availability (OpenSignal). It's important to keep in mind, however, that the coverage difference between each network is very small - a matter of a couple of percentage points. Unless you live in a very rural area you're likely to get a strong signal with Boost.
Boost Mobile Phone Options
You've got three choices for how to get a device when you switch to Boost:
- Bring your own phone - You can only do this if you already have a Boost or Sprint phone. This carrier is very selective about the devices they allow you to bring. If you bring your own phone you will need to purchase a Boost Mobile SIM card.
- Buy new - Boost sells a large selection of devices in all price ranges, from a low-end flip phone to the newest flagship smartphones. You can get financing with no credit check, but only if you've been a customer for at least a year and made all of your mobile service payments on time.
- Buy a Boost compatible refurbished phone - We make it easy for you to compare prices and features from top sellers side-by-side in seconds. You'll find all of your favorites, regardless of whether you're an Android or iPhone devotee.
Because you can only use a compatible phone with this carrier you probably won't have to change your device to Boost APN settings. Just in case though, we've laid out simple instructions for you.
Recap
Boost doesn't undercut Sprint's pricing by much, but it does beat them. The biggest advantage with Boost lies in the fact that it provides prepaid, no-contract plans. You won't find a significant difference in the monthly cost, but if you want to be on the Sprint network you won't have to jump through credit check hoops.
Hear from real customers in our Boost customer reviews. If you decide it's not the right fit, we make it fast and easy for you to compare cell phone plans from other Sprint MVNOs. We also make shopping for a new phone quick and easy. Compare refurbished smartphones at less than 50% of what you'd pay new.
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