Astound Mobile vs. Spectrum Mobile: 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 and added perks like hotspot options. With a straightforward approach to pricing, 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. 

Spectrum Mobile operates on Verizon’s robust network, delivering excellent coverage and fast speeds nationwide. Known for its competitive pricing, Spectrum Mobile offers flexible plans, including unlimited data options and pay-by-the-gig alternatives. This carrier emphasizes value for existing Spectrum Internet customers by bundling services for additional savings. With no contracts and access to a vast network of Wi-Fi hotspots, Spectrum Mobile is an ideal choice for heavy data users and families seeking reliable service with cost-effective options.

Note: You must be a Spectrum Internet customer to sign up for Spectrum Mobile.

Coverage & Reception — Astound Mobile vs. Spectrum Mobile

Astound Mobile and Spectrum Mobile leverage the networks of major carriers to provide reliable nationwide coverage. Astound Mobile operates exclusively on T-Mobile’s network, while Spectrum Mobile uses Verizon’s network to deliver service. Here’s how these networks compare:

T-Mobile Network (Astound Mobile)

T-Mobile’s network is a leader in 5G innovation, offering extensive mid-band 5G coverage alongside reliable LTE service. It excels in urban and suburban areas, providing fast speeds for streaming, gaming, and other data-intensive tasks.

Strengths:

• Extensive 5G Deployment: T-Mobile’s mid-band 5G is unmatched in availability and speed, making it a top choice for urban users.
• Urban and Suburban Excellence: Performance in densely populated areas is exceptional, with reliable connectivity for most users.
• Innovative Features: T-Mobile continuously enhances its network with cutting-edge technology, such as standalone 5G.

Weaknesses:

• Rural Coverage Gaps: While improving, T-Mobile’s coverage in rural and remote areas is less comprehensive than Verizon’s.
• Deprioritization: As an MVNO, Astound Mobile users may experience slower speeds during network congestion.

Verizon Network (Spectrum Mobile)

Verizon’s network is renowned for its expansive reach and reliability, particularly in rural and suburban areas. With a strong LTE foundation and growing 5G capabilities, Verizon ensures consistent service nationwide.

Strengths:

• Rural Coverage Leader: Verizon’s network offers excellent service in rural regions, making it ideal for travelers and those in less populated areas.
• Dependable LTE: Verizon’s LTE network is extensive, providing stable connections even where 5G is unavailable.
• Balanced 5G Performance: While not as expansive as T-Mobile’s 5G, Verizon’s network offers a reliable mix of speed and coverage.

Weaknesses:

• 5G Availability: Verizon’s 5G coverage is growing but still lags behind T-Mobile in urban and suburban areas.
• Deprioritization: Like Astound, Credo Mobile customers may face reduced speeds during peak times.

Both networks deliver excellent performance overall. T-Mobile’s strength lies in its urban and suburban coverage, while Verizon stands out for rural reliability. Choosing between Astound Mobile and Spectrum Mobile often comes down to where you live and travel most frequently. First things first, you must be in an area where their internet service is available and be a member of that service. Then, you can investigate local coverage maps and reviews to see whether Verizon or T-Mobile offers a better overall network in that area.

Plan Options — Astound Mobile vs. Spectrum Mobile 

Spectrum Mobile 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: 

• $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)

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. 

Spectrum Mobile Cell Phone Plans

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

• $20 per month, $5 for each GB for Spectrum Mobile’s by the gig plan
• $30 per month ($15 with 2+ lines) with Spectrum Unlimited
• $40 per month ($25 with 2+ lines) with Spectrum Unlimited Plus

Pay By the Gig

This plan is ideal for light data users who only need occasional access to mobile data. With a cost starting at $20 per month, it’s perfect for those who primarily use Wi-Fi for their daily needs but want the flexibility of paying for data only when necessary. Whether it’s for quick navigation, checking emails, or minimal app usage, this plan is a cost-effective choice for users who want full control over their data spending.

Unlimited

Spectrum’s Unlimited plan offers 20 GB of high-speed data per month, making it a solid option for moderate data users. It’s suitable for tasks like streaming music, light video consumption, and browsing social media. After 20 GB, data speeds are reduced, but the plan still provides unlimited talk and text. It’s a good choice for individuals looking for a balance between affordability and functionality.

Unlimited Plus

For those who need more high-speed data, the Unlimited Plus plan provides 30 GB of high-speed data each month. This is a nice data allocation, but it is not enough for serious data users who stream video, browse social media a lot, and use their phones daily when out in the world. Speeds are throttled once the high-speed data cap is reached, but users still have unlimited access to talk and text. This plan is perfect for those who want the best Spectrum Mobile offers regarding data capacity and flexibility.

Throttling and Deprioritization in MVNOs

Remember: MVOs are subject to throttling and data deprioritization, making data caps important for heavy data users. 

• Throttling occurs when your data speeds are intentionally slowed down after you reach your plan’s high-speed data cap. For example, an unlimited plan might provide 20 GB of high-speed data per month, after which speeds drop to 3G levels. 
• Deprioritization happens when your carrier temporarily slows your data during times of network congestion. MVNOs lease network space from major carriers, so during peak usage times, customers of the main carrier (e.g., Verizon, T-Mobile) are given priority over MVNO customers. This means your speeds may be reduced in crowded areas or during high-demand periods, even if you haven’t exceeded your data cap.

Spending any time with throttled data is no good. We recommend purchasing more data than you expect to need as you figure out which plan is best suited for you. Deprioritization is more difficult to map. In some locations, you might never notice the difference in data speeds between major networks and MVNOs. In more populated areas, you might run into it every day. 

Customer Service  — Astound Mobile vs. Spectrum Mobile

For Spectrum Mobile, you can contact them here: 888-369-2408 or access their help page here. 

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

We hope this article has answered all your questions regarding Astound Mobile vs. Spectrum Mobile! 

The Verdict — Astound Mobile vs. Spectrum Mobile

Spectrum Mobile excels with its robust coverage and fast speeds, leveraging Verizon’s reliable network to deliver an excellent mobile experience. Its plans are competitively priced, especially for Spectrum Internet customers who can bundle services for added savings. The inclusion of unlimited Wi-Fi hotspots and options for both light and medium data users make Spectrum a versatile choice. However, the requirement to be a Spectrum Internet customer limits its appeal to those outside its service area, and its standalone internet pricing is higher than competitors.

Astound Mobile, on the other hand, stands out for its budget-friendly pricing and straightforward plans, making it ideal for light to moderate data users. Operating on T-Mobile’s network, it offers strong performance in urban and suburban areas, though its rural coverage is less extensive. While its affordability is a key strength, the lack of higher data caps and family plan discounts may deter heavy users or larger households.

Go with Spectrum Mobile if you need reliable nationwide coverage, fast internet speeds, or high-data plans that suit heavy users and families.

Go with Astound Mobile if you’re an Astound Internet customer looking for an affordable and simple mobile solution with excellent urban and suburban performance.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your priorities: premium coverage and performance with Spectrum Mobile or affordability and simplicity with Astound Mobile. You can always compare carriers at REALLY!

FAQ: Astound Mobile vs. Spectrum Mobile

Which carrier has better coverage?

Spectrum Mobile has better coverage overall, as it operates on Verizon’s network, which is known for its extensive reach in both urban and rural areas. Astound Mobile, on T-Mobile’s network, provides excellent coverage in cities and suburbs but may struggle in more remote locations.

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Which is more affordable?

Astound Mobile offers more budget-friendly options, with plans starting as low as $15 per month. Spectrum Mobile is competitively priced but more expensive.

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Can I use either carrier without their internet service?

No. Both Astound Mobile and Spectrum Mobile require you to be an internet customer with their respective providers to sign up for mobile plans.

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Which is better for heavy data users?

Spectrum Mobile is better for heavy data users, offering higher data caps on its unlimited plans and the option for 30 GB of high-speed data with its Unlimited Plus plan.

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Which is better for families?

Neither carrier offers family plan discounts, but Spectrum Mobile may be more suitable for families due to its larger data caps and robust network coverage.

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Which is better for light data users?

Astound Mobile is ideal for light data users, with its affordable Pay By the Gig plan starting at just $15 for 1.5 GB of high-speed data.

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Can I bring my own phone?

Yes, both Astound Mobile and Spectrum Mobile support bringing your own compatible phone, provided it works with their networks.

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Which is better for streaming and gaming?

Spectrum Mobile is better for streaming and gaming due to its access to Verizon’s network and higher high-speed data caps, which reduce buffering and lag.

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What happens if I use all my high-speed data?

With both carriers, your speeds are reduced after you reach your high-speed data cap. Spectrum Mobile throttles speed to 3G levels, while Astound Mobile also reduces speeds significantly.

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Which should I choose?

Choose Spectrum Mobile if you need better coverage, higher data caps, or reliable service in rural areas. Choose Astound Mobile if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with good performance in urban and suburban areas.

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