Tired of paying for data you barely use-or getting stuck with plans that don't fit your lifestyle? Whether you're watching every penny or you just want a plan that's easy to manage, Boost Mobile and Consumer Cellular both promise affordable service without the big wireless headaches. But they do it in very different ways.
I've tested both carriers, so let's break down the real differences to help you figure out which one fits your needs (and your budget) best.
Boost Mobile vs Consumer Cellular plans
Winner: Boost Mobile
Boost Mobile goes big on affordable data plans, making it perfect if you want more data for less money. Their plans start at just $25 a month, and you'll never get stuck with a contract.
Consumer Cellular focuses more on lighter users-especially seniors who don't burn through data but want friendly phone support. Plans start at around $20 a month, but once you need more data, the price jumps fast.
Boost Mobile plans
Boost Mobile unlimited data plan
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boost Mobile unlimited data plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $25/mo |
| Boost Mobile unlimited data plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $50/mo |
| Boost Mobile unlimited data plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $60/mo |
Consumer Cellular plans
Consumer Cellular unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consumer Cellular 1GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $20/mo |
| Consumer Cellular 5GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $25/mo |
| Consumer Cellular 10GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 10GB | $35/mo |
| Consumer Cellular unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $50/mo |
Boost Mobile vs Consumer Cellular coverage
Winner: Both
There's no real difference here-both Boost Mobile and Consumer Cellular use the same networks (AT&T and T-Mobile), so you'll get the same coverage either way.
According to the OpenSignal 2025 mobile experience report, T-Mobile ranks first for 5G availability, making both carriers solid choices for city dwellers. If you live in a rural area, AT&T performs well for reliability, according to RootMetrics 2024.
Takeaway: Coverage is the same, so this battle comes down to price, features, and service-not signal strength.
Boost Mobile coverage
Boost Mobile is powered by AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
View Boost Mobile coverage map
Consumer Cellular coverage
Consumer Cellular is powered by T-Mobile and AT&T 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
View Consumer Cellular coverage map
Data speeds: Will one slow you down?
Winner: Both
Because they share networks, both carriers offer similar speeds-you'll get full 5G and 4G LTE access.
The difference comes when you hit your high-speed data allowance. With Boost Mobile, you get 30GB of high-speed data on their unlimited plan-plenty for streaming, social media, and browsing. Consumer Cellular's unlimited plan includes 50GB, but you'll pay double the price for that extra data.
Takeaway: If you use less than 30GB a month, Boost Mobile gives you all the speed you need for half the price.
Features and extras: Who gives you more value?
Winner: Consumer Cellular
This is where Consumer Cellular stands out-especially if customer service matters to you. They're known for top-rated phone support, and they cater to seniors who want friendly, patient help. They also offer AARP discounts, which is a nice perk if you qualify.
Boost Mobile's extras are more practical for data lovers. You get free mobile hotspot use on all plans, so you can share your connection on the go. They also offer global talk and text options with some of their plans
Takeaway: If you value great customer service and you're a light data user, Consumer Cellular wins here. If you want more data, free hotspot access, and international features, Boost Mobile offers better value for most people.
Boost Mobile vs Consumer Cellular plan features
| Carrier Features | Boost Mobile | Consumer Cellular |
|---|---|---|
| Networks | AT&T & T-Mobile | AT&T & T-Mobile |
| Data Speed | 5G & 4G LTE | 5G & 4G LTE |
| 3G Network | GSM | GSM |
| Mobile Hotspot | Yes | Yes |
| Bring Your Phone | Yes | Yes |
| Keep Your Number | Yes | Yes |
| Contract | Prepaid | Prepaid |
| Credit Check | No | No |
| Customer Service | Mon-Fri 4am to 8pm / Sat-Sun 4am to 7pm | Mon-Fri 5am to 6pm / Sat-Sun 6am to 5pm |
| Money Back Guarantee | No | No |
| 5G | Yes | Yes |
| Taxes included | Varies by Location | Varies by Location |
| VoLTE | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi Calling | No | Yes |
| Visual Voicemail | Yes | No |
| Multi-line Discounts | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-month Discounts | No | No |
| International Calls | No | Yes - As add-on |
| International Roaming | No | Yes |
Final verdict: Which carrier fits you better?
- Best for saving money → Boost Mobile
- Best for flexible prepaid plans → Boost Mobile
- Best for senior-friendly service → Consumer Cellular
- Best for customer support → Consumer Cellular
Bottom line: If you want the lowest price and plenty of data, Boost Mobile wins every time. But if you need simple plans and great customer service, Consumer Cellular could be the safer bet.
See if Boost Mobile is right for you with our Boost Mobile review.
See if Consumer Cellular is right for you with our Consumer Cellular review.
Boost Mobile vs Consumer Cellular FAQs
Yes, both carriers support unlocked phones, so if your phone works with AT&T or T-Mobile, you're all set.
Consumer Cellular is built for seniors, with simple plans and excellent phone support. They even offer AARP discounts.
They both use AT&T and T-Mobile, so coverage is the same.
Why you can trust me
For over 15 years, I've helped people cut their phone bills without sacrificing service. I've tested Boost Mobile, Consumer Cellular, and dozens of other low-cost carriers firsthand, so I know exactly what you're getting for your money.
At MoneySavingPro, my goal is simple: help you break free from overpriced phone plans and find a carrier that fits your needs-without the sneaky fees and confusing fine print.
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