Boost Wireless Pros and Cons: The Phone Company Owned by Dish Wireless

If you're looking for an affordable, no-frills mobile plan, Boost Mobile might be on your radar. Known for its budget-friendly options, this prepaid carrier offers flexibility without the hassle of long-term contracts.

But like any service, Boost has both its perks and drawbacks. In this post, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of Boost Mobile, so you can make an informed decision before you switch.

What Is Boost Mobile?

Boost Mobile is a prepaid phone carrier that’s all about flexibility and affordability, now owned by Dish Wireless. It works as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), which means it doesn’t have its own towers but taps into bigger networks like T-Mobile to give you service.

After Sprint merged with T-Mobile, Boost switched to T-Mobile's network, so you’re getting decent coverage. What makes Boost stand out is its no-contract, pay-as-you-go plans that let you avoid long-term commitments and hidden fees.

Boost Mobile Plans

Unlimited Annual Plan

Boost Mobile’s Unlimited Annual plan provides 35GB of high-speed data per month before speeds drop to 3G. At 3G speeds, you can still browse, send emails, and use social media, though streaming and gaming may become challenging. The plan also includes 12GB of hotspot data before it slows down.

Cost: $300/year ($25/month) — $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-Month Plan

This plan includes the same benefits as the Unlimited Annual plan: 35GB of high-speed data, 12GB of hotspot data, and reduced speeds after the cap. It’s perfect for users looking for a shorter-term option.

Cost: $90 every 3 months ($30/month) — $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 prefer a shorter commitment.

Unlimited $25 Monthly Plan

The $25 plan provides 30GB of full-speed data and hotspot access. Once you reach the 30GB cap, speeds drop to 3G, and hotspot access is no longer available. Boost Mobile offers a 50% discount on the first month, making it $12.50.

Cost: $25/month ($0.83 per GB)
Pros: Affordable monthly pricing.
Cons: No additional hotspot data after 30GB.
Best for: Average to heavy data users.

Unlimited $40 Monthly Plan

This plan offers 35GB of high-speed data and 12GB of hotspot data per month. Once the caps are reached, speeds are reduced to 3G.

Cost: $40/month ($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

The Unlimited Plus Plan includes 35GB of high-speed data, 30GB of hotspot data, and international features for Mexico and Canada. After the cap, speeds slow to 3G.

Cost: $60/month ($0.92 per GB)
Pros: Separate hotspot data and international capabilities.
Cons: Speeds slow after 35GB.
Best for: Heavy data users who need hotspot access and international features.

15GB Annual Plan

This plan provides 15GB of data per month, all of which can be used as hotspot data. Once you hit the limit, speeds are reduced.

Cost: $240/year ($20/month) — $1.33 per GB
Pros: Affordable pricing for the amount of data.
Cons: No additional data after the cap.
Best for: Light to average data users.

5GB Annual Plan

This plan offers 5GB of data per month, usable for hotspot access. After hitting the cap, speeds slow, and hotspot access ends.

Cost: $168/year ($14/month) — $2.80 per GB
Pros: Affordable compared to similar plans.
Cons: Speeds are deprioritized after the cap.
Best for: Light data users.

5GB Monthly and 3-Month Plans

These plans provide 5GB of data per month, usable for hotspot access. Once the limit is reached, speeds are reduced. The 3-month plan offers the same benefits but requires an upfront payment.

Cost: $15/month or $45 every 3 months — $3 per GB
Pros: Flexible options for light users.
Cons: More expensive than other similar plans.
Best for: Light data users.

1GB Annual Plan

The 1GB Annual Plan includes 1GB of data per month, which can also be used as hotspot data. Once the limit is reached, speeds and hotspot access stop.

Cost: $100/year ($8.33/month)
Pros: Includes hotspot access.
Cons: Expensive for the amount of data provided.
Best for: Users with minimal data needs.

Family Plans

Boost Mobile allows up to 4 lines on one account, but family plans are only available for in-person purchase at Boost Mobile stores.

Cost: Contact Boost Mobile for pricing
Best for: Families looking to manage multiple lines under one account.

WhyBoost Mobile Just Makes Sense

Affordable Phone Plans That Fit Your Needs

Boost Mobile offers a range of affordable phone plans designed to meet different needs and budgets. These plans stand out for their transparency and flexibility, offering clear pricing with no hidden fees.

Unlike other carriers that often bury complex charges in the fine print, Boost Mobile keeps it simple, allowing customers to choose plans that best fit their lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for basic talk and text or a more robust data plan, Boost’s options help you stay connected while saving money.

Impressive Nationwide Coverage

Boost Mobile delivers solid nationwide coverage, keeping you connected whether you're in the city or out in the countryside. Thanks to its integration with T-Mobile's network, Boost offers access to one of the largest coverage areas in the U.S. From urban hotspots to rural pockets,

Boost’s network ensures reliable service, supporting everything from social media browsing to HD streaming. With 99% coverage across the nation, you’re less likely to lose connection. Want to see if Boost Mobile covers your area? You can check their detailed coverage map here. With Boost, you can stay connected wherever you go.

Customizable Add-ons and Special Perks

Boost Mobile offers a variety of add-ons and perks to enhance your mobile experience. Whether you need international calling options, extra data packs, or simply want to add more flexibility to your plan, Boost has you covered. The carrier frequently runs promotions and special offers, giving you even more bang for your buck. With these add-ons, you can easily customize your plan to fit your lifestyle and ensure you’re getting the most value for your money.

In-Store Shopping Experience

For those who like to shop in person, Boost Mobile has plenty of retail locations where you can browse phones, accessories, and plans. With helpful staff on hand, finding the right mobile solution is quick and easy.

‍

What’s the Catch?

Slower Speeds During High Traffic

Like most MVNOs, Boost Mobile customers may experience slower speeds during peak times or in areas with high network congestion. This happens because major networks prioritize their direct subscribers over those on MVNOs.

While Boost offers a relatively high 30GB data limit before deprioritization kicks in, slower speeds can still be an issue in crowded areas. This may result in frustrating experiences like dropped calls, delayed texts, or slow website loading when demand on the network is high.

Limited Network Choice

With Boost Mobile, you don’t get to pick which network you’re connected to until you activate your SIM card. Some users may prefer certain networks over others, but unfortunately, Boost doesn’t allow you to choose.

Depending on the network you're connected to, you may experience varying speeds or coverage in different areas, which can be frustrating for those seeking a specific service experience. Despite its competitive pricing and value, this lack of network control is a factor to consider when choosing your carrier.

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

Final Thoughts

Boost Mobile presents an appealing option for budget-conscious users, offering flexible plans with solid coverage and a range of add-ons. However, it comes with a few trade-offs, such as the inability to choose your preferred network and potential slow speeds during peak times.

Still, with competitive pricing and reliable nationwide coverage, Boost Mobile is a strong contender in the MVNO space, especially for those looking to save without sacrificing too much in terms of service quality. As with any provider, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons based on your personal needs, whether you’re prioritizing speed, coverage, or flexibility.

Your Questions, Answered

1. Can I Bring My Own Phone to Boost Mobile?

Yes, you can bring your own phone to Boost Mobile as long as it’s compatible with Boost Mobile's network. Before switching, make sure your phone is unlocked and meets the requirements for activation with the Boost Mobile SIM card. Phone compatibility is key, as not all phones work with their network. If your current phone is eligible, you can enjoy premium data, unlimited talk, and more without needing to purchase a new phone.

2. What Happens When I Exceed My Data Limit with Boost Mobile?

When you hit your plan’s data cap, Boost Mobile slows your data speeds rather than charging overage fees. While this means you can continue using your phone for basic tasks, infinite access to high-speed data may be restricted. This can impact activities like streaming, gaming, or browsing, so it's important to keep an eye on your monthly data allotment to avoid slow data speeds. For heavy data users, the unlimited premium plans offer higher data limits before throttling kicks in.

3. How Does Boost Mobile’s International Calling Work?

Boost Mobile provides global talk options on select plans, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family around the world. By adding international calling packs, you can enjoy affordable rates to over 200 countries, making it easy to manage your phone bill while traveling or communicating abroad. With international coverage, Boost ensures that you can connect North America with ease and beyond.

4. Is Boost Mobile Good for Heavy Data Users?

Boost Mobile offers plans designed for heavy data users, such as the Unlimited Plus plan, which includes premium data. However, once you exceed the data cap, you might experience deprioritization, meaning slower speeds during peak usage times. For those who need more high-speed data, Boost Mobile’s network can be reliable, but if you frequently hit the cap, you may want to consider how slow data speeds will affect your experience, especially in crowded areas.

5. Are There Any Hidden Fees with Boost Mobile?

Boost Mobile is transparent with its pricing and doesn’t have hidden fees or long-term contracts. While they don’t charge activation fees, monthly taxes and other charges may appear on your phone bill. For new customers, Boost offers a lifetime price guarantee, ensuring your rates won’t increase over time. However, be aware of possible fees related to late payments or other account issues, and always review the terms and conditions before signing up to avoid surprises.