- Great price on unlimited data plan
- Unlimited talk and text on both plans
- Millions of hotspots nationwide to reduce data usage
- Multi-line discount
- Only available to Spectrum internet customers
- Only two plans offered
- $20 extra per month if you cancel Spectrum internet
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At a glance
- Value for money: They're not the cheapest, but they offer some good features, a good data allowance at a reasonable price.
- Coverage: Great coverage on the Verizon network.
- Customer experience: A number of customers are disatisfied with the service and customer support.
- Transparency: Spectrum Mobile show the data cap and how much mobile hotspot data is included, but the plan advertised price is based on 2 lines.
- Range of choice: Mobile plans are only available if you're a Spectrum Internet customer and the choice of plans is limited.
Spectrum Mobile review: An in-depth analysis
Consumers today have an abundance of choices when it comes to wireless providers, which can over-complicate the decision-making process.
I've done all the research to save you time, hassle, and, most importantly - money.
In the following Spectrum Mobile review, I'll go over the specifics of this carrier in-depth. I'll cover plans, network coverage, customer experience, and more to help you make an informed decision on the right provider for your needs.
What is Spectrum Mobile?
Spectrum Mobile is the wireless division of Charter Communications, which has been in business for over 30 years.
It's an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator), which means it uses major network towers to provide service.
This low-cost carrier utilizes the extensive Verizon network to offer cheaper mobile plans to its internet customers.
What makes Spectrum Mobile different?
Spectrum Mobile plans offer competitive bundle pricing for combining your cell phone and internet plans. You can also add TV and home phone if these services are important to you.
Another major benefit offered by this carrier is the option to conserve data by utilizing their nationwide hotspots to stay connected without using your plan.
Bonus - it's a little-known fact that Spectrum customers can actually use Xfinity hotspots as well.
Plans & pricing
Spectrum Mobile 1GB plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Spectrum Mobile unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Spectrum Mobile unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
How does Spectrum Mobile compare to Verizon?
Verizon vs Spectrum Mobile comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $540 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | Verizon 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Spectrum Mobile | Verizon 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $30/mo | $360/yr |
| Savings | $45/mo | $540/yr | ||
How much does Spectrum Mobile cost?
The starting price for plans is $15 to $40 per month. The amount you'll pay depends on the number of lines, data allowance, and term length.
Whether you're a low-data user or want unlimited data with HD video streaming, Spectrum Mobile's plans have you covered. Choose from two different unlimited plans or a by-the-gig plan.
Is Spectrum Mobile a good value?
The best value with this carrier is its bundle. And since you have to be an internet subscriber to get the cell service, you might as well save money while doing so.
Opting for this plan instead of one directly from Verizon could provide annual savings of up to $600 while maintaining the same coverage. The plans are simple, flexible, and cost-effective, providing solid value for your dollar.
Compare Spectrum Mobile vs other carriers
During my research, I found numerous carriers with significantly cheaper plans and better customer ratings:
| Spectrum Mobile | How do Spectrum Mobile plans compare? | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
*30 Day FREE Trial
|
*$45 for 3 Months
|
| Verizon 4G & 5G | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | T-Mobile 4G & 5G |
| Unlimited data | Unlimited data | Unlimited data | Unlimited data |
| $40/mo | $25/mo | $15/mo* | $15/mo* |
| $480/yr | $300/yr | $270/yr | $315/yr |
| 1.2 on Trustpilot | 4.5 on Trustpilot | 4.6 on Trustpilot | 3.1 on Trustpilot |
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Network coverage
What network does Spectrum Mobile use?
This budget-friendly cell phone provider utilizes the Verizon network. Before signing up, it's a good idea to review our Spectrum Mobile coverage map to assess the network coverage in your area.
Does Spectrum Mobile have good coverage?
Verizon's coverage extends to over 99% of the nation, encompassing many rural areas as well. See which network is strongest in your location by checking out the best coverage in your area.
Does Spectrum Mobile have 5G coverage?
If your device is capable of using 5G technology, you can access the fastest speeds offered by the Verizon network. If you want to know how Verizon's 5G network performs, you can read this 2023 OpenSignal 5G Experience Report for more information.
Spectrum Mobile 5G coverage map
How fast are Spectrum Mobile data speeds?
Data speeds can vary significantly based on your location, network, and device.
Keep in mind that when the network is congested, you might encounter temporary slowdowns due to deprioritization.
Customer service
Does Spectrum Mobile have good customer service?
While customer experiences vary with each individual situation, Spectrum Mobile gets fairly poor reviews for its customer support.
The carrier's BBB rating is low, and our reviewers tend to agree. See what real subscribers are saying in our Spectrum Mobile customer reviews.
Customer service is available in two ways:
- By phone: 1-866-782-2681 Mon - Fri 8 am - 10 pm ET
- Live chat: Via the website
User experience
What are reviewers saying about Spectrum Mobile?
This carrier garners positive reviews for its pricing, reliable network, and free hotspots around the country. Customers also compliment the helpfulness of support staff in the company's physical stores.
Spectrum Mobile customer reviews roundup
- Spectrum Mobile MoneySavingPro rating: 1.5 stars (1,422)
- Spectrum Mobile Trustpilot rating: 1.2 stars (6,700+)
What are some common complaints about Spectrum Mobile?
By and large, this provider's negative reviews are in relation to its customer support. Some customers have complained about slow service, although it's worth noting that a significant number of these complaints are from customers in more remote areas.
I will mention that not very many wireless providers receive high customer service ratings. The industry generally faces challenges in this particular area.
SIM activation
Is it easy to switch?
Spectrum Mobile SIM cards are available online through the carrier site or in a Spectrum store. Once you have your SIM card, setting up your new line should be a straightforward process that takes less than 15 minutes to complete.
Does Spectrum Mobile support eSIM?
Yes. With an eSIM-compatible device, you can bypass shipping and proceed directly to activate your plan.
Phone selection
What phones do they have?
In the market for a new device? This carrier's healthy phone selection includes the Samsung Galaxy S24 and Apple iPhone 15. Device installment plans are available.
Can I bring my own phone to Spectrum Mobile?
If you're not looking to purchase a new phone, you can bring your own device and keep your phone number with a Spectrum Mobile plan.
A bring-your-own-phone plan is a very effective way to save money, as long as your device is compatible with the Verizon network.
Is my phone compatible?
The majority of up-to-date smartphones will work with any network. Before signing up for service, you can enter your IMEI number into their compatibility checker and verify your phone's compatibility.
Spectrum Mobile features
My viewpoint - Is Spectrum Mobile any good?
Short answer: Spectrum Mobile is the wireless branch of Charter Communications. You must have a Spectrum Internet subscription to subscribe to their mobile service. Existing Spectrum customers can cut their cell phone bill by up to 50% of a plan directly from Verizon while enjoying the same wireless coverage. Since no one carrier is ideal for all users, I have thoroughly evaluated all the choices to make it easier to pick the best one for your needs.
Is Spectrum Mobile worth it?
This carrier is a viable option if you're looking to streamline your life with a combined internet, cable TV, and/or cell phone bill. The pricing is competitive, and it operates on one of the top networks in the market.
By taking advantage of Verizon's renowned network, you get reliable service and potentially cut your annual costs by up to $600. That's a savings of about half, considering that most consumers spend around $1200 a year on cell phone service, according to a 2021 Consumer Expenditure Survey. Mobile costs are increasing and will keep rising unless consumers push back against the leading wireless firms.
Spectrum Mobile FAQs
You can get your Spectrum Mobile SIM card online or in a Spectrum Mobile store near you. If you order online, your SIM card will be delivered to your mailbox within a few business days.
You can activate a free eSIM right away if your device is compatible instead of waiting for your SIM card to arrive.
If this carrier doesn't meet your needs, there are many alternative options available. Compare the best prepaid cell phone plans, such as Twigby Mobile and Boost Mobile, for other affordable choices.
You can keep your cell phone plan, but you'll pay an additional $10 a month per line.
Yes. If you have both mobile and internet, you will get a discount on your internet service.
Yes. This carrier is a bit different from some other MVNOs in that regard. You can visit a physical location for support with your wireless service.
International roaming is available in over 200 destinations at pay-as-you-go rates.
Recap: Is Spectrum Mobile the best cell phone plan?
Spectrum Mobile provides an affordable choice for existing customers, delivering Verizon coverage at a reduced price.
If you want to combine your services while saving money on Verizon coverage, this provider could be an excellent choice.
Consider the following factors when determining if this is the right wireless provider for you:
- Plans: Pay by the gig or opt for an unlimited data plan (30 GB and 50 GB high-speed data caps available).
- Coverage: Verizon's network has a reputation for its extensive coverage, so the majority of customers can expect to have a great connection.
- Features: This MVNO distinguishes itself with bundle discounts and low rates for two lines.
- Customer experience: If you currently have Spectrum Internet or TV, you can expect to receive a comparable level of quality and customer service.
- Promotions: This carrier often provides robust device discounts, along with reduced pricing if you activate two lines.
How we reviewed Spectrum Mobile
To select the best carriers and plans, MoneySavingPro's team of experts evaluated over 30 different carriers.
Carriers were rated in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. We then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:
- Value for money: We compare carriers based on price, features, benefits, and promotions. It's not just about the lowest price but getting the most bang for your buck.
- Coverage: We look at network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US. We use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
- Customer experience: We take into account items such as current user experience, website and app usability, ease of switching, and customer service in terms of availability, channels, and satisfaction ratings.
- Transparency: We assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. We examine the fine print to check for hidden fees, confusing terms or conditions, and misleading offers to ensure upfront, honest prices and advertising.
- Range of choice: We evaluate the diversity of plan options to determine if they fit the individual needs of all customers.
Read more about our carrier ratings methodology and our editorial process.
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