Cricket Wireless vs H2O Wireless: Which Carrier is Better?

Choosing between Cricket Wireless vs. H2O Wireless? Both carriers bring something different to the table, making it important to evaluate their unique offerings. Cricket Wireless delivers dependable coverage and straightforward, affordable plans perfect for users who prefer simplicity. H2O Wireless offers more flexibility and a wider range of plans, catering to users who want options. Keep reading to see which carrier suits your needs best!

Here’s what you’ll find:

• A comparison of coverage provided by both carriers
• A breakdown of how each carrier’s pricing aligns with the data and features offered
• An overview of the standout features included in each carrier’s plans

Compare Cricket Wireless to other Carriers

• Verizon, one of the largest U.S. carriers, offers reliable coverage, fast 5G speeds, and a range of plans.
• Visible, a Verizon-owned MVNO, provides affordable unlimited data plans with reliable nationwide coverage.
• AT&T, a leading telecom provider, is known for its reliable 5G network and diverse plan options catering to various needs.
• Boost Mobile, owned by Dish Network, is the fourth-largest wireless carrier in the United States, offering affordable prepaid plans with nationwide coverage.
• Metro by T-Mobile, a prepaid carrier owned by T-Mobile, offers affordable plans with reliable access to T-Mobile’s expansive 5G network.
• Consumer Cellular, an MVNO associated with both AT&T and T-Mobile networks, is advantageous for users with limited data needs, providing good coverage quality and service integration.

Cricket Wireless Overview

Cricket Wireless offers a range of budget-friendly plans, including options with unlimited data. With its competitive pricing and variety of plan choices, Cricket provides a solid option for those looking for reliable service. As AT&T continues to expand its 5G network, Cricket customers with compatible devices can enjoy faster speeds and lower latency in more locations. Cricket’s $60/month unlimited data plan stands out as a top choice for those seeking simplicity and affordability in their mobile service.

H20 Wireless Overview

H2O Wireless provides a wide range of plans, from no data to over 60GB, catering to various user needs. Operating on AT&T’s network, H2O Wireless benefits from strong nationwide 5G coverage. One standout feature of H2O Wireless is the option to choose between monthly and annual plans, offering flexibility. However, it’s important to note that their annual plans do not include hotspot access and come with fewer features overall. H2O Wireless plans support up to 480p SD streaming resolution, and depending on the plan, they also offer talk, text, and data roaming in Mexico and Canada, along with international services for both talk and data.

Cricket Wireless Coverage

Cricket’s coverage relies on AT&T’s network, providing the same coverage and ensuring comparable service quality with both 4G LTE and 5G service. It offers strong coverage in urban and suburban areas, as well as many rural locations. However, users in remote regions may experience limited coverage. Urban areas generally provide excellent service, while suburban areas typically have fewer issues with congestion, ensuring good call quality and data speeds. To see the coverage in your area, check out Cricket’s coverage map.

H20 Wireless Coverage

H2O Wireless operates as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), utilizing AT&T’s infrastructure to provide nationwide coverage. This partnership ensures users have access to AT&T’s extensive 4G LTE and 5G networks, delivering reliable service across urban, suburban, and many rural areas. However, it’s important to note that H2O Wireless plans are deprioritized during periods of high network traffic, which may result in slower speeds in congested environments such as stores, parking lots, or stadiums. In comparison, T-Mobile's network may offer different service quality and coverage, with some users experiencing issues related to network assignment algorithms and messaging performance.

For a detailed view of H2O Wireless’s coverage in your specific area, you can refer to their coverage map.

Coverage Comparison

When it comes to coverage, both Cricket Wireless and H2O Wireless operate on AT&T’s network, which provides solid service in urban, suburban, and rural areas across the country. Cricket Wireless offers both 4G LTE and 5G access, with particularly strong coverage in urban and suburban locations, and is expanding its 5G footprint. H2O Wireless also benefits from AT&T’s infrastructure, ensuring good coverage, but Cricket’s more extensive selection of plans and 5G support may make it the better choice for those looking for faster speeds in 5G-enabled areas.

To see how well each carrier works in your area, check out the coverage maps for both providers.

Cricket Wireless Plans

Unlimited + 15GB Hotspot

Cricket Wireless’ Unlimited + 15GB Hotspot plan offers unlimited premium data that maintains high speeds throughout the month. Once you hit the 15GB hotspot data limit, speeds shift to deprioritized data, but you still get unlimited access. The plan also includes an ad-supported Max tier and 150GB of cloud storage.
Cost: $60/month (before $5 Autopay discount)
Pros: Separate hotspot data, premium data, additional features
Cons: Hotspot speeds deprioritized after 15GB
Best for: Heavy data users and those seeking extra features

Unlimited

The Unlimited plan provides unlimited deprioritized data, which means no speed cap but potential slowdowns during peak times. While hotspot access isn’t included, you can add 10GB of hotspot data for an extra $10. This plan is ideal for users with moderate to heavy data needs.
Cost: $55/month (before $5 Autopay discount)
Pros: Unlimited data
Cons: Hotspot access not included
Best for: Heavy and average data users

10GB Plan

This plan offers 10GB of full-speed data, and once the cap is reached, speeds drop to 2G, making it suitable for light browsing and messaging. Streaming and gaming will require Wi-Fi, and no hotspot access is provided. Ideal for users with light data usage.
Cost: $40/month (before $5 discount)
Pros: Full-speed data
Cons: No hotspot access
Best for: Lighter data users

5GB Plan

With 5GB of full-speed data, this plan slows to 2G once the cap is reached. Hotspot access is not included, making it a solid option for those who rely on Wi-Fi or use minimal data.
Cost: $30/month (no Autopay discount)
Pros: Full-speed data
Cons: No hotspot access, higher cost per GB
Best for: Light data users with reliable Wi-Fi

Family Plan Offerings

Cricket Wireless offers multi-line plans with discounts for families, allowing up to five lines on one account. These plans are affordable and include features such as high-speed data, unlimited talk and text, and additional perks like international coverage. With shared data across lines, this plan is perfect for families looking to simplify their mobile service while managing data usage effectively.

Best for: Families seeking shared data plans

H20 Wireless Plans

Unlimited XL + 20GB Hotspot

H2O Wireless’ largest plan offers 60GB of data each month. After reaching the data cap, speeds drop to 3G (256 kbps), allowing you to still perform basic tasks like texting and social media browsing. However, streaming and gaming may experience slowdowns. This plan also includes 20GB of hotspot data, which is disabled once the cap is reached.
Cost: $60/month ($54 with Autopay)
Pros: Large data amount, affordable price
Cons: Speeds deprioritized after 60GB
Best for: Heavy data users

Unlimited + 5GB Hotspot

This plan offers 40GB of high-speed data, with speeds slowing to 3G after the cap. It includes 5GB of hotspot data, which stops once the limit is reached.
Cost: $50/month ($45 with Autopay)
Pros: Reasonable data amount, great pricing
Cons: Limited hotspot data
Best for: Heavy data users

20GB + 5GB Hotspot

This plan provides 20GB of high-speed data, after which speeds drop to 3G. It also includes 5GB of hotspot data, and access is halted once the cap is reached.
Cost: $40/month ($36 with Autopay)
Pros: Sufficient data for moderate users, good pricing
Cons: Limited hotspot data
Best for: Average data users

10GB + 5GB Hotspot

This plan provides 10GB of high-speed data each month, with speeds slowing to 3G after the cap. You also get 5GB of hotspot data, which stops once the cap is reached.
Cost: $30/month ($27 with Autopay)
Pros: Includes hotspot data
Cons: Limited hotspot data
Best for: Light to average data users

10GB Annual

This plan offers 10GB of data each month, with speeds slowing to 3G after the data cap. No hotspot access is included, and the plan renews annually.
Cost: $25/month ($300 annually)
Pros: Annual renewal, affordable price
Cons: No hotspot access
Best for: Light data users

3GB + 2GB Hotspot

With 3GB of high-speed data and 2GB of hotspot data, this plan offers basic connectivity. Once the data cap is reached, speeds drop to 3G, and hotspot access is disabled.
Cost: $20/month ($18 with Autopay)
Pros: Affordable plan, additional hotspot data
Cons: Limited data and hotspot access
Best for: Lighter data users

3GB Annual

This annual plan gives 3GB of data each month, with speeds slowing to 3G once the cap is hit. No hotspot access is included.
Cost: $12.50/month ($150 annually)
Pros: Annual renewal, affordable
Cons: No hotspot access
Best for: Light data users

1GB Annual

This plan offers just 1GB of data each month, with 3G speeds once the data cap is hit. No hotspot access is available.
Cost: $8.33/month ($99.96 annually)
Pros: Budget-friendly for minimal data use
Cons: No hotspot access
Best for: Very light data users

No Data Annual

For those who only need talk and text, this plan offers unlimited calls and texts with no data access.
Cost: $5/month ($60 annually)
Pros: Affordable for minimal needs
Cons: No data access
Best for: Those with consistent WiFi access

Family Plan Offerings

While H2O Wireless is primarily a single-line carrier, the 10GB + 5GB Hotspot plan supports up to four lines per account, offering unlimited talk and discounts for multiple lines. This makes it an excellent choice for families seeking budget-friendly plans with comprehensive communication features.

Best for: Families looking for budget-friendly plans with multiple lines

Plan Comparison

Cricket Wireless and H2O Wireless both provide prepaid plans on AT&T’s network, offering reliable coverage and various options for different data needs. Cricket features plans with unlimited data, hotspot access, and international texting, making it a solid choice for users looking for flexibility and value.

H2O Wireless, on the other hand, offers competitive pricing, including annual plans and international talk credits to 70 countries, which appeals to those seeking more tailored options. Both carriers have family plans with multi-line discounts, but Cricket supports more lines per account, while H2O Wireless allows up to four lines on its 10GB plan. Additionally, plans offering unlimited voice services at competitive prices, such as $27/month subscriptions with additional data allowances, emphasize the appeal of affordable options without hidden fees.

Both Cricket Wireless and H2O Wireless offer discounts for customers who enroll in auto pay, emphasizing the potential savings. Ultimately, the best choice depends on whether you prioritize data flexibility, international features, or multi-line savings.

Key Differences Between Cricket Wireless and H2O Wireless

Unlimited Data Prioritization and Throttling

Cricket, operating on AT&T’s extensive network, delivers reliable coverage nationwide. However, its lower-tier plans, such as the 5GB and 10GB options, may face data slowdowns during times of high congestion. Additionally, users have reported issues with dropped phone calls and reduced call quality during these congested times. Once you hit the data cap, speeds are reduced, making these plans less suitable for heavy data users. For those seeking unlimited data, Cricket’s Unlimited Plan offers unrestricted access, but be aware that speeds might be throttled once a specific data threshold is reached—similar to other providers’ unlimited offerings, like Google Fi’s Unlimited Plus plan.

H2O Wireless, operating as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) on AT&T’s infrastructure, offers a variety of plans tailored to different data needs. It’s important to note that H2O Wireless plans are deprioritized during periods of high network traffic, which may result in slower speeds in congested environments such as stores, parking lots, or stadiums. Users have also experienced issues with phone calls, including dropped calls and diminished call quality during these peak times.

Customer Service and Accessibility

Cricket offers customer support through several channels, including phone, live chat, and in-store assistance. One of the standout features is the option for in-person support at their physical stores, providing immediate help when necessary. While customer service is generally well-regarded, wait times can vary. To make things easier, Cricket also has an online support center, featuring FAQs, troubleshooting resources, and account management tools. With a wide network of stores, customers have convenient access to assistance when needed.

H2O Wireless offers a variety of ways to access customer support, making it easy to get the help you need. Whether it's through phone support, live chat, or visiting one of their physical retail locations, H2O Wireless provides flexible options. The in-store support is particularly convenient for those who prefer face-to-face assistance. While response times for phone and chat support can vary, many customers find their service to be responsive and helpful. For additional help, H2O Wireless also offers an online support center with FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and account management tools to assist you at any time.

The Verdict

Cricket Wireless and H2O Wireless both utilize AT&T’s network, offering reliable service with broad coverage. Cricket stands out for its extensive in-store support and multi-line discounts, making it a great option for families.

H2O Wireless, while offering a more limited number of physical locations, provides flexible plan options, including annual plans, and competitive pricing, especially for heavy data users.

Both carriers provide solid plans with similar data speeds, though Cricket may be better for those who value in-person customer service, while H2O offers more plan variety for budget-conscious users.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my own phone with Cricket Wireless or H2O Wireless?

Yes, both Cricket Wireless and H2O Wireless allow you to bring your own unlocked phone. To ensure compatibility, your phone must be compatible with the respective network technology (AT&T for Cricket Wireless and Verizon for H2O Wireless). This means you can easily switch to a more affordable wireless service without needing a new phone, as long as your current phone supports the same network.

Which carrier offers better international roaming options?

H2O Wireless provides more extensive international roaming, with coverage in more than 50 countries. Cricket Wireless also offers international calling and roaming services, but H2O Wireless generally provides more comprehensive global coverage, making it the better choice for frequent travelers who need reliable phone service in other countries.

Which carrier is better for frequent travelers?

H2O Wireless stands out for its international roaming capabilities, providing coverage in over 50 countries. Cricket Wireless offers international services as well but may not provide the same level of global coverage, especially for users traveling frequently or requiring better reception in remote areas.

Do Cricket Wireless or H2O Wireless support 5G?

Yes, both carriers support 5G connectivity. Cricket Wireless offers 5G through its AT&T network, while H2O Wireless delivers 5G coverage through Verizon towers. Availability of 5G may depend on the specific plan and location, but both services provide access to the latest high-speed network technology for users seeking faster speeds and better connectivity. Additionally, both carriers offer wifi calling, which is beneficial for users in areas with poor cellular reception as it allows calls to be made over home wifi networks, ensuring better call quality and connectivity.

Are there any activation fees with Cricket Wireless or H2O Wireless?

Cricket Wireless typically does not charge activation fees, which makes it a great option for those looking for a straightforward and budget-friendly plan. H2O Wireless also avoids activation fees, but users should be aware that some plans may require a new SIM card, which may incur a minor cost. Always check the details of your chosen plan to ensure there are no unexpected charges.