Astound Mobile vs. Consumer Cellular: Which Carrier is Better?

Astound Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s reliable network, offering affordable plans with good coverage in urban and suburban areas. This MVNO focuses on budget-conscious customers, providing simple plans with added perks like hotspot options. With a straightforward pricing approach, Astound Mobile is a great choice for light to moderate data users looking for a no-frills experience at an affordable price.

Note: To purchase Astound Mobile cell phone plans, you must be an Astound Internet customer. 

Consumer Cellular stands out in AT&T and T-Mobile’s networks, giving its users widespread national coverage with dependable 4G LTE and 5G speeds. Known for its customer-friendly approach, Consumer Cellular offers straightforward, affordable plans tailored to seniors and light-data users who appreciate flexibility and reliability. This MVNO also provides strong customer service and customizable plan options, making it easy for users to adjust based on their needs without unnecessary extras or overage surprises.

Coverage & Reception — Astound Mobile vs. Consumer Cellular

Astound Mobile and Consumer Cellular both use partnerships with major carriers to provide nationwide coverage at competitive prices. Astound Mobile operates through T-Mobile, while Consumer Cellular uses T-Mobile and AT&T for reliable coverage across the U.S. Each provider offers different strengths based on these networks. Let’s break down the details.

AT&T and T-Mobile are two of the largest wireless carriers in the U.S., offering nationwide coverage and advanced 5G networks. While both deliver strong performance, their coverage and strengths cater to different types of users.

AT&T Network

AT&T operates one of the most comprehensive networks in the country, with a strong emphasis on rural and suburban coverage.

Strengths:

• Expansive Rural Reach: AT&T’s network excels in covering rural areas, making it a great choice for travelers and residents in less densely populated regions.
• Robust LTE Coverage: AT&T's LTE coverage is reliable and extensive, ensuring consistent service even in areas without 5G.
• Solid 5G Performance: AT&T’s 5G focuses on coverage and reliability, with growing mid-band deployments that balance speed and range.

Weaknesses:

• Slower 5G Rollout: Compared to T-Mobile, AT&T's mid-band 5G coverage has expanded slower.
• Congestion in High-Traffic Areas: While AT&T offers dependable service, urban areas can experience slower speeds during peak times.

T-Mobile Network

T-Mobile has positioned itself as a leader in 5G connectivity, offering impressive speeds and coverage, especially in urban and suburban areas.

Strengths:

• Industry-Leading 5G Deployment: T-Mobile’s network features extensive mid-band 5G coverage, providing fast speeds and broad availability in cities and towns.
• Urban Excellence: T-Mobile excels in densely populated areas, offering top-tier performance for streaming, gaming, and data-intensive tasks.
• Un-carrier Innovations: Features like standalone 5G and cutting-edge upgrades to its network make T-Mobile a tech-forward choice.

Weaknesses:

• Rural Coverage Gaps: While improving, T-Mobile's rural coverage does not yet match AT&T’s depth, particularly in remote areas.
• Limited Roaming Agreements: T-Mobile users may experience weaker service in some rural zones than AT&T users, who benefit from extensive roaming partnerships.

Both networks deliver excellent performance. Consumer Cellular wins out in the coverage department as they allow their users to choose between these two major powerhouses, while Astound Mobile is tied solely to T-Mobile. That being said, T-Mobile is excellent on its own. In the majority of cases, each of these carriers will give you comparable coverage in your day-to-day. Since these are two MVNOs, congestion and data deprioritization are also factors. Alas! That varies immensely throughout the country. Make sure to research major network strengths and weaknesses in your area. In aggregate, both AT&T and T-Mobile are excellent and comparable providers. In your town or city, one might be king over the other. 

Plan Options — Astound Mobile vs. Consumer Cellular

Consumer Cellular and Astound Mobile offer plans with varying amounts of high-speed data. Along with high-speed data, both carriers offer unlimited talk and text along with various features and add-ons. First up, let’s talk about Astound’s cell phone plans. 

Astound Mobile Plans and Pricing

Astound Mobile offers four plans, each with its own benefits and downsides. The four Astound Mobile phone plans are as follows: 

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• $15 per month for 1.5 GB
• $25 per month for 3 GB
• $40 per month for Unlimited (20 GB)
• $50 per month for Unlimited + (20 GB)

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1.5 GB

This plan is designed for users who only need mobile data for essentials, like occasional GPS navigation, checking email, or brief browsing sessions. With 1.5 GB of high-speed data, it’s perfect for those who primarily use Wi-Fi and just want reliable talk and text with minimal data on the go. This plan is the most cost-effective option in the lineup.

3 GB

While this plan won’t cover heavy usage, it’s a low-cost option for users who mostly rely on Wi-Fi but need some data for basic tasks on the go. Ideal for those who use limited data on social media or streaming apps away from home, it's a budget-friendly pick for minimal mobile data needs. There’s not much difference in how long 1.5 and 3 GBs of high-speed data will take you, but this plan is nice for those who want a little extra piece of mind while out and about. 

Unlimited

This plan offers 20 GB of high-speed data, which is suitable for moderate use, such as streaming music, occasional video, and browsing throughout the month. However, high-speed data users will consume this allocation quickly, so make sure to check your data usage before switching to this plan.

Unlimited +

Unlimited+ also offers 20 GB of high-speed data but also includes high-speed hotspot data and HD streaming while your data lasts. Once you hit the 20 GB cap, you are reduced to 3G data speeds, which will severely limit your usage. 

Consumer Cellular Plans and Pricing

Consumer Cellular offers flexible plans tailored to light and moderate data users, as well as those with more intensive needs. With options ranging from talk-and-text-only plans to an unlimited plan with 50 GB of high-speed data, Consumer Cellular cell phone plans focus on affordability and customization. The plans are as follows:

• $20 per month for Unlimited Talk & Text (no data)
• $25 per month for 5 GB
• $35 per month for 10 GB
• $45 per month for 15 GB
• $55 per month for Unlimited Data (50 GB high-speed)

Unlimited Talk & Text (No Data)

This entry-level plan is designed for users who primarily need a phone for calls and texts. It’s ideal for those who rely on Wi-Fi for internet access or only need a basic mobile connection for emergencies and staying in touch. At $20 per month, it’s an affordable option for light phone users.

5 GB Plan

Perfect for users who occasionally browse the web, check email, or use social media on the go, this plan provides a small but manageable data allotment. At $25 per month, it’s a cost-effective solution for those with light data needs.

10 GB Plan

This plan is ideal for users who use data regularly but don’t stream or game extensively. At $35 per month, it offers enough high-speed data for social media, navigation, and occasional video calls without overpaying for unused data.

15 GB Plan

For individuals who need more data but still don’t stream or game heavily, this $45 per month plan provides enough high-speed data for frequent browsing, messaging apps, and light streaming or video calls. It’s an excellent choice for moderate users who want a bit of extra flexibility.

Unlimited Data Plan (50 GB High-Speed)

Priced at $55 per month, this plan includes 50 GB of high-speed data, making it perfect for heavy data users who frequently stream videos, play online games, or use their phone as a hotspot. After 50 GB, speeds are reduced to 2G for the remainder of the billing cycle, but this generous limit allows all but the highest-data users to make it through each month without worrying about data consumption.

Multi-Line Savings

Consumer Cellular offers significant savings for multiple-line accounts. For each additional line added to your account, you’ll pay just $15 per month, regardless of the plan chosen. This makes Consumer Cellular an excellent choice for families or couples looking to share a plan while keeping costs manageable. For instance:

• A two-line plan with Unlimited Data would cost $65 per month
• A two-line plan with 10 GB would cost $50 per month

The flexibility to mix and match plans across lines ensures that each user gets the data they need without paying for unnecessary extras. Whether it’s a couple, a family, or even roommates, the multi-line savings add substantial value.

Customer Service  — Astound Mobile vs. Consumer Cellular

Consumer Cellular has few stores, giving users the option to call their customer support line at (877) 320-3486 and use their chat line any time between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT.   

For Astound Mobile, you can contact them here: (800) 746-4726 or access their help page here. 

The Verdict

There’s a lot to like about Astound Mobile. Excellent network, affordable plans, and a well-stocked store. Just be careful, though, because Astound’s cell phone plans, on their own, are more expensive than the competition. Low-data cell phone plans (say, less than 10 GB) are available for very low prices in some other carriers like Ting and Freedom Pop. The best part of Astound Mobile is the bundle with Astound Internet. Check out the bundles to see if one is right for you. If you want more information regarding cell phone plans in your area, you can check out Really’s comparison tool for all the information you need! 

Remember, you must be an Astound Internet customer to purchase any cell phone plans from Astound Mobile. If you are not an Astound Internet customer, then Consumer Cellular is the winner. 

Due to data deprioritization and data throttling, Astound Mobile is best for people who don’t rely on high-speed data when they are out and about. With a maximum of 20 GB of high-speed data on their cell phone plans, any high-data users will quickly cut through their high-speed data allocation and then be stuck with slow data speeds for the rest of the month. 

Overall, we recommend Consumer Cellular over Astound Mobile. Consumer plans are not the most affordable, but we love the ability to get up to 50 GB of high-speed data with their most expensive cell phone plan. A lot of MVNOs cap their most robust plan between 20 and 30 GB of high-speed data, which does not cater to high-data users. On top of their excellent high-data plan, Consumer Cellular’s family plan offers excellent savings, with the caveat that everyone shares the same high-speed data pool.

We’d recommend checking your data usage before committing to a plan. And you can always compare carriers at REALLY!

FAQ — Astound Mobile vs. Consumer Cellular

What networks does Consumer Cellular use?

Consumer Cellular operates on both AT&T and T-Mobile networks, allowing customers to benefit from extensive nationwide coverage. You can choose the network that best serves your area during the signup process.

Does Consumer Cellular throttle data speeds?

Yes, on the Unlimited Data plan, speeds are reduced to 2G after you use 50 GB of high-speed data within a billing cycle. However, most customers find the 50 GB limit sufficient for their needs.

How does Consumer Cellular compare to Astound Mobile in pricing?

Astound Mobile offers smaller data packages starting at 1.5 GB for $15 per month and a lower unlimited plan price point at $40 per month for 20 GB of high-speed data. Consumer Cellular’s plans are slightly more expensive but provide higher data caps (e.g., 50 GB for $55 per month) and include multi-line discounts.

Does Consumer Cellular offer international roaming?

Yes, Consumer Cellular provides international roaming in select countries. Rates vary by destination, so it’s best to check their website or contact customer service for specific details before traveling.

Can I bring my own phone to Consumer Cellular?

Absolutely! Consumer Cellular supports most unlocked phones. You can check your device’s compatibility on their website or contact their support team for assistance.

How do multi-line savings work on Consumer Cellular?

Each additional line costs $15 per month. For example, if you have a 10 GB plan ($35 per month) and add a second line, your total would be $50 per month. The added flexibility lets families or couples mix and match plans to fit their needs.

Are there any activation fees with Consumer Cellular?

No, Consumer Cellular does not charge activation fees, making it easy and affordable to get started.

What customer support options are available?

Consumer Cellular is known for its award-winning customer support. Assistance is available via phone, chat, or email, and their representatives are highly rated for helping customers resolve issues quickly and effectively.

How do Astound Mobile’s network options differ from Consumer Cellular?

Astound Mobile operates exclusively on the T-Mobile network, whereas Consumer Cellular uses AT&T and T-Mobile networks. This dual-network access gives Consumer Cellular an edge regarding flexibility and coverage options, especially in rural areas.

Which carrier is better for heavy data users?

For heavy data users, Consumer Cellular’s Unlimited Data plan with 50 GB of high-speed data is the better option. Astound Mobile’s unlimited plan caps high-speed data at 20 GB, which may not be enough for gamers or frequent streamers.