Boost vs Simple Mobile: Which Carrier is Better?

When comparing Boost vs. Simple Mobile, it’s important to assess your priorities for data, coverage, and pricing. Both carriers provide affordable prepaid plans with unlimited talk, text, and data options, but they differ in network compatibility and plan benefits. Whether you value extensive coverage or more budget-friendly perks, this Boost vs. Simple Mobile breakdown will help you choose the right carrier for your needs.

In this article, we’ll break down the key strengths of each carrier to help you choose confidently. Our insights are based on thorough research and testing of popular smartphones and plans from top providers. Here’s what you’ll find:

• A clear comparison of coverage between the carriers
• A side-by-side look at pricing and plan features
• Highlights of the unique perks each carrier brings to the table

Compare Boost Mobile to other Carriers

• T-Mobile, one of the largest wireless carriers in the USA, is known for its expansive 5G network and competitive plans.
• Verizon, the largest wireless carrier in the USA, is renowned for its reliable nationwide coverage and top-tier network performance.
• AT&T, the third-largest wireless carrier in the U.S., is known for its expansive 5G network and versatile plan options.
• Xfinity Mobile, a Verizon MVNO, is exclusively available to Xfinity Internet customers and offers affordable plans with access to millions of Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide.
• Visible, a Verizon-owned MVNO, provides affordable unlimited data plans with reliable nationwide coverage.Boost Mobile Overview

Boost Mobile Overview

Boost Mobile is a popular mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that delivers service through a combination of major networks, including AT&T, Dish, and T-Mobile. T-Mobile, in particular, stands out with its extensive 5G coverage across the U.S., providing Boost customers with broad and reliable connectivity. However, it’s essential to keep in mind the additional costs that come with mobile plans, such as taxes and fees, which can significantly impact the total price. Boost’s use of multiple networks ensures strong coverage and dependable service, with T-Mobile’s expansive 5G network being a major advantage.

Simple Mobile Overview

Simple Mobile is a strong contender for anyone seeking affordable prepaid plans with reliable coverage. Operating as an MVNO, it uses T-Mobile’s network, renowned for its fast 5G speeds and expansive nationwide coverage. One of Simple Mobile’s standout features is its flexibility—there are no contracts, and the plans can be tailored to suit your needs. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or your family, Simple Mobile combines affordability with dependable service, all powered by T-Mobile’s robust network.

Boost Mobile Coverage

Boost Mobile, an MVNO, partners with multiple networks—AT&T, Dish, and T-Mobile—to give you the flexibility to choose the best coverage for your needs. T-Mobile is particularly known for its strong 5G network, but your optimal choice will depend on your location. To find the most suitable network, it's essential to review the coverage maps of these providers, ensuring you pick the one that offers the best service in your area.

Simple Mobile Coverage

Simple Mobile, an MVNO, uses T-Mobile’s network to deliver fast speeds, especially with its nationwide 5G coverage. While T-Mobile offers excellent service, the best option for you depends on your location. To find the best coverage for your area, visit Simple Mobile's coverage map. This tool can help you see where towers are located and which provider controls them, ensuring you choose the right network for your needs.

Coverage Comparison

Boost Mobile and Simple Mobile both use T-Mobile’s network, but Boost also leverages AT&T’s towers, giving it an advantage in areas where either network might outperform the other. While Simple Mobile excels with T-Mobile’s fast 5G coverage, Boost Mobile offers more flexibility with dual network coverage. Both carriers offer online tools to check coverage in your area, making it easy to find the best option based on location. For more details, check their respective coverage maps.

Boost Mobile Plans

Unlimited Annual Plan — $300/year ($25/month)

Boost Mobile’s best-value plan, the Unlimited Annual, provides 35GB of high-speed data each month before slowing down to 3G speeds. You can still send texts, emails, and browse social media at 3G speeds, but streaming and gaming may be harder. It also includes 12GB of hotspot data before it slows down. This plan costs $300 per year, which breaks down to 47GB per month for just $0.53 per GB.

Pros: Affordable pricing for heavy data users.
Cons: Speeds slow after 35GB of usage.

Best for: Heavy data users.

Unlimited 3 Months — $90 every 3 months ($30/month)

This plan offers the same benefits as the Unlimited Annual plan: 35GB of high-speed data per month, 12GB of hotspot data, and 3G speeds after the cap. It costs $90 every 3 months, equating to 47GB per month at $0.64 per GB.

Pros: Good pricing for a 3-month term.
Cons: Speeds slow after 35GB of usage.

Best for: Heavy data users who want a shorter commitment.

Unlimited $25 Monthly Plan — $25/month

This plan gives you 30GB of full-speed data with hotspot access. After hitting the 30GB limit, your speeds drop to 3G, and you lose hotspot access. Boost Mobile offers 50% off your first month, priced at $12.50. At full price, the plan gives you 30GB per month for $0.83 per GB.

Pros: Affordable monthly pricing.
Cons: No extra hotspot data after 30GB.

Best for: Average to heavy data users.

Unlimited $40 Monthly Plan — $40/month

The $40 plan offers 35GB of high-speed data each month and 12GB of hotspot data. After reaching the data cap, speeds are reduced to 3G. It provides 47GB for $0.85 per GB.

Pros: Good value for the data provided.
Cons: More expensive than similar plans.

Best for: Heavy data users.

Unlimited Plus Plan — $60/month

This plan offers 35GB of full-speed data, 30GB of hotspot data, and international capabilities for Mexico and Canada. After 35GB, your data speeds drop to 3G. You get 65GB per month for $0.92 per GB.

Pros: Separate hotspot data and international features.
Cons: Speeds slow after 35GB.

Best for: Heavy data users needing hotspot and international features.

15GB Annual Plan — $240/year ($20/month)

The 15GB Annual plan lets you use all your data as hotspot data, slowing down once you hit the 15GB cap. This plan costs $240 per year, providing 15GB per month for $1.33 per GB.

Pros: Affordable pricing for the amount of data.
Cons: No extra data after the cap.

Best for: Light to average data users.

5GB Annual Plan — $168/year ($14/month)

This plan offers 5GB of data each month, which can be used for hotspot access as well. Once the 5GB cap is hit, both data and hotspot access stop. At $168 annually, it costs $2.80 per GB.

Pros: Affordable compared to other 5GB plans.
Cons: Deprioritized speeds.

Best for: Light data users.

5GB Plans (Monthly and 3-Month) — $15/month or $45 every 3 months

Both the monthly and 3-month 5GB plans offer the same features: 5GB of data with hotspot access, slowing down once the limit is hit. The 3-month plan costs $45 ($15 per month), while the monthly plan costs $15 per month. These plans equate to $3 per GB.

Pros: Flexible options for light users.
Cons: More expensive than other similar plans.

Best for: Light data users.

1GB Annual Plan — $100/year ($8.33/month)

This plan offers 1GB of data per month, which can be used as hotspot data. Once the cap is reached, both data and hotspot access stop. Priced at $100 per year, it’s one of the more expensive per-GB plans.

Pros: Includes hotspot access.
Cons: Expensive for the amount of data.

Best for: Users with minimal data needs.

Family Plans

Boost Mobile does not offer family plans online but allows up to 4 lines on one account. Family plans must be purchased in person at a Boost Mobile store.

Best for: Families looking to manage multiple lines under one account.

Simple Mobile Plans

Truly Unlimited + 15GB — $60/month ($57 with Autopay)

This plan offers 40GB of full-speed data each month. After the 40GB cap, speeds drop to 2G, allowing for basic tasks like texting and social media. You also get 15GB of hotspot data, which slows down after the cap. At full price, you get 55GB for $1.09 per GB, or $57 with the Autopay discount.

Pros: Includes hotspot data.

Cons: Speeds slow after 40GB.

Best for: Heavy data users and frequent travelers.

Truly Unlimited + 5GB — $50/month ($45 with Autopay for the first 3 months, then $47.50)

With this plan, you get 40GB of high-speed data, and after reaching the cap, speeds slow to 2G. You also get 5GB of hotspot data, which stops after reaching its limit. After 3 months, the Autopay discount drops to 5%, bringing the price to $47.50 per month.

Pros: Bigger Autopay discount, separate hotspot data.

Cons: Speeds slow after 40GB.

Best for: Heavy data users who prefer a shorter commitment.

15GB Plan — $40/month ($37.50 with Autopay)

This plan provides 15GB of full-speed data with hotspot access. After 15GB, data and hotspot speeds drop to 2G.

Pros: Includes hotspot access.

Cons:
Speeds slow after 15GB.

Best for: Light to average data users.

5GB Plan — $30/month ($28.50 with Autopay)

Offering 5GB of full-speed data and hotspot access, this plan slows to 2G once the cap is reached.

Pros: Includes hotspot access.

Cons: Expensive for the amount of data.

Best for: Light data users.

3GB Plan — $25/month ($23.75 with Autopay)

The smallest plan, with 3GB of full-speed data and included hotspot access. After the cap, speeds slow to 2G.

Pros: Includes hotspot access.

Cons: Expensive for minimal data.

Best for: Users with minimal data needs.

Family Plan Offerings

Simple Mobile allows up to 5 lines on one account with multi-line discounts based on the number of lines you add.

Best for: Families seeking multiple lines under one account with discounts.

Plan Comparison

Boost Mobile plans shine with its variety of flexible plan options, including unlimited data plans with competitive pricing and the option for multi-line discounts. Ideal for users seeking multiple data options and reliable T-Mobile network coverage, Boost’s plans are great for those who need more flexibility, such as international calling and higher-speed data options. However, some of their higher-tier plans can be pricier compared to other carriers.

Simple Mobile plans, on the other hand, excel in providing affordable, no-frills plans with low-cost options for users who don’t require a lot of data. Simple Mobile’s plans come with the benefit of separate hotspot data on the higher tiers, making it a good choice for those who need basic mobile internet. It’s best for users who want simple, straightforward plans without worrying about extra fees or complicated pricing.

Key Differences Between Boost Mobile and Simple Mobile

Unlimited Data Prioritization and Throttling

Boost Mobile uses data prioritization, which means that once users reach their data limit, their speeds may be reduced during times of heavy network congestion. This is a typical feature of MVNOs and can impact activities like streaming or gaming, especially in more densely populated areas. However, for users in less crowded locations or those with moderate data usage, the effects of throttling may be minimal, still providing a satisfactory experience even during slower speeds.

Simple Mobile, as an MVNO, faces potential data speed slowdowns when the parent network experiences congestion. This is common in larger cities where the network serves both residents and commuters, leading to reduced speeds for MVNO users. Such slowdowns are also more likely during events like festivals or sporting events, where high traffic causes congestion. However, congestion is harder to predict in less populated areas. Despite this, Simple Mobile operates without contracts, allowing users to assess the service over time, especially during network congestion periods.

Customer Service and Accessibility

Boost Mobile provides several ways for customers to access support, both online and in-person. Along with 24/7 online chat support for quick assistance, Boost Mobile has physical store locations, easily accessible through their store locator. Phone support is available from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. PST on weekdays and from 4 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST on weekends. While the chat option offers round-the-clock support, their phone service hours may be more limited compared to providers that offer all-day phone assistance.

Simple Mobile’s customer service operates entirely remotely, as they do not have physical stores like many other MVNOs. Customers can reach their support team via chat or phone, with both options available from 8 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. EST daily. For quick assistance, chat support is a convenient 24/7 option, while phone support operates during the same hours. Whether you prefer to resolve issues online or over the phone, Simple Mobile ensures accessible support throughout the day, though they lack the availability of in-person help.

The Verdict

When it comes to choosing between Boost Mobile and Simple Mobile, your decision ultimately depends on what features are most important to you. Boost Mobile shines with its flexibility in offering multiple network options and more diverse coverage, including international features. It’s a solid choice for those who need extensive coverage and the possibility of accessing more data, although its higher-tier plans can be pricier.

Simple Mobile, on the other hand, is a great option for those who want affordable plans and straightforward service. While it doesn’t offer the same range of network choices as Boost, its competitive pricing and remote customer service make it an appealing option for budget-conscious users, especially those who don’t mind the lack of physical stores.

In short, Boost Mobile is best suited for users who prioritize coverage flexibility and international options, while Simple Mobile offers a more budget-friendly experience with the convenience of affordable, contract-free plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Boost Mobile and Simple Mobile’s coverage?

Both Boost Mobile and Simple Mobile offer solid cellular service with coverage provided by major networks like T-Mobile and Verizon. However, Boost Mobile provides more flexibility by utilizing multiple networks, which can offer enhanced coverage in specific areas. Simple Mobile, on the other hand, relies exclusively on T-Mobile’s network, which is known for strong coverage in urban areas but may have some limitations in rural regions. Both companies provide mobile data options, but Boost's ability to use multiple networks gives it an edge for those seeking reliable service across various locations.

How does Simple Mobile’s customer service compare to Boost Mobile’s?

Simple Mobile’s customer service is fully remote, available through chat and phone support from 8 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. EST daily. While Simple Mobile uses this approach for its customer interactions, Boost Mobile stands out by offering both online support and in-person assistance at physical locations. Boost's phone support is available from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. PST on weekdays and 4 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST on weekends, providing more personalized options for those who prefer direct interaction.

Are Boost Mobile and Simple Mobile worth it for light data users?

For users with light data needs, both Boost Mobile and Simple Mobile offer competitive cell phone plans. Simple Mobile's unlimited plan options are ideal for those who need mobile data without worrying about overage charges. However, Boost Mobile offers more high-speed data in some of its plans and is better suited for users seeking additional lines or more flexible options. If you use your mobile phone primarily for calls and text messages, Simple Mobile might be a great fit, but Boost is the better choice if you want to switch to a plan with higher data allowances in the future.

What should I do if I experience slow speeds with Boost Mobile or Simple Mobile?

Both Boost Mobile and Simple Mobile utilize data prioritization, meaning speeds may slow down after reaching the data limit, especially during times of high network congestion. If you experience slower speeds, it could be due to congestion in your area or limitations on the network. If you’re using an unlocked phone, try inserting a new SIM card to see if your mobile data improves. Both companies offer affordable prepaid carriers, but if slow speeds persist, you may want to explore unlimited options or contact customer service for a solution.

How can I compare different carriers and plans?

To make the best decision for your needs, visit Really.com, where you can compare a wide range of phone plans, including those offered by Boost Mobile, Simple Mobile, and other phone carriers. Really.com allows you to explore mobile phone plans with unlimited data, data limits, and mobile hotspot options. Whether you need a single line, four lines, or more high-speed data, Really makes it easy to choose the right plan for your device, without the hassle of going through multiple websites.