Lyca Mobile vs Ultra Mobile: Which Carrier is Better?

Deciding between Lyca Mobile vs Ultra Mobile can be tricky, especially when both offer affordable prepaid plans with unlimited talk and text. Each carrier has its own strengths—Lyca Mobile delivers competitive pricing and extensive global calling perks, making it a great choice for staying connected abroad while Ultra Mobile stands out with its international calling features and flexible data options, perfect for frequent travelers.

In this article, we’ll outline the key advantages of each carrier to help you make a well-informed decision. After testing various smartphones and cell phone plans from top providers, we’ve compiled the most accurate and reliable insights. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• A comparison of coverage offered by each carrier
• An analysis of pricing and the features included in their plans
• A look at the unique perks each provider brings to the table

Compare Ultra Mobile to other Carriers

• Mint Mobile, a T-Mobile MVNO, delivers affordable prepaid plans with nationwide 5G coverage, ideal for budget-conscious users seeking premium service.
• Metro by T-Mobile, a prepaid carrier owned by T-Mobile, offers affordable plans with reliable access to T-Mobile’s expansive 5G network.
• Straight Talk, a Verizon-owned MVNO, offers affordable prepaid plans with nationwide coverage.

Lyca Mobile Overview

Lyca Mobile stands out with its strong international focus, providing services across multiple countries. Backed by T-Mobile’s reliable 5G network, it offers broad coverage throughout the U.S. What truly sets Lyca Mobile apart is its built-in international features, making it an excellent choice for users who need to stay connected worldwide. Their plans are also highly flexible, offering both monthly and multi-month options to suit different needs.

Ultra Mobile Overview

Ultra Mobile operates as an MVNO on T-Mobile’s network, offering a variety of budget-friendly plans tailored for single-line users. With access to T-Mobile’s 5G and 4G LTE networks, Ultra Mobile delivers reliable coverage across the continental United States, similar to other mobile carriers. It’s an ideal choice for those prioritizing affordability over the premium features offered by major wireless carriers, especially if you’re comfortable with plans that include limited data.

Lyca Mobile: Speed and Coverage on T Mobile's Network

Lyca Mobile, as an MVNO, operates by leasing network access from a major carrier—in this case, T-Mobile. To get the best experience, it’s important to use cell phones that are compatible with T-Mobile’s network. This partnership allows Lyca Mobile to provide extensive 5G coverage across the U.S., similar to other MVNOs that may rely on AT&T or Verizon’s networks. To ensure the best service in your area, it’s important to review coverage maps from different carriers. Lyca Mobile’s coverage map is a valuable resource, showing the locations of cellular towers and their respective network providers. By analyzing these maps, you can determine which major carrier offers the most reliable coverage for your needs.

Ultra Mobile: Speed and Coverage

Ultra Mobile relies on T-Mobile’s extensive 5G and 4G LTE networks, providing excellent speed and coverage, particularly in urban areas. T-Mobile’s 5G network leads the industry, with impressive nationwide growth and plans to cover 90% of the U.S. population. Its 4G LTE network ensures dependable service in more remote regions as well. Ultra Mobile customers enjoy these benefits, though speeds may vary during times of network congestion. To see how well Ultra Mobile works in your area, you can use their Ultra Mobile's coverage map. This tool highlights T-Mobile’s tower locations, helping you understand the level of service you can expect near you.

Coverage Comparison

Both Lyca Mobile and Ultra Mobile rely on T-Mobile’s extensive 5G and 4G LTE networks, offering reliable coverage across the U.S. Lyca Mobile is particularly strong in urban areas, while Ultra Mobile benefits from T-Mobile’s ongoing 5G expansion, aiming to cover 90% of the population. Both carriers provide strong service, but checking their coverage maps for your area is recommended to ensure the best experience. For a detailed ultra mobile comparison, it’s essential to check the coverage maps of both carriers to see which one offers better service in your area.

Lyca Mobile Plans

60GB Plans

The 60GB plan offers plenty of data each month, slowing to 2G speeds (128 kbps) after reaching the limit. At 2G speeds, basic tasks like texting, emailing, and web browsing are possible, but activities like streaming and gaming are challenging. Hotspot access is not included.

Here are the pricing options for the 60GB plan:
Monthly: $59
3 Months: $177
6 Months: $354
Annual: $708

Cost per GB: $0.98

Pros: Large data allowance.
Cons: No hotspot access.
Best for: Heavy data users who don’t require hotspot functionality.

40GB Plans

The 40GB plan provides 40GB of monthly data, with speeds dropping to 2G after the limit is reached. This plan also lacks hotspot access.

Here are the pricing options for the 40GB plan:
Monthly: $49
3 Months: $147
6 Months: $294
Annual: $588

Cost per GB: $1.23

Pros: Generous data allocation.
Cons: No hotspot access.
Best for: Heavy data users on a slightly tighter budget.

15GB Plans

The 15GB plan includes 15GB of high-speed data monthly before slowing to 2G. Hotspot access is not available.

Here are the pricing options for the 15GB plan:
Monthly: $39
3 Months: $117
6 Months: $234
Annual: $468

Cost per GB: $2.60

Pros: Sufficient data for moderate usage.
Cons: No hotspot access.
Best for: Light to moderate users who occasionally stream or browse.

12GB Plans

The 12GB plan offers 12GB of high-speed data each month, with speeds reduced to 2G after exceeding the limit. No hotspot access is included.

Here are the pricing options for the 12GB plan:
Monthly: $33
3 Months: $99
6 Months: $168
Annual: $396

Cost per GB: $2.75

Pros: Affordable and decent data for light users.
Cons: No hotspot access.
Best for: Light users with minimal streaming needs.

10GB Plans

The 10GB plan provides 10GB of data each month, slowing to 2G speeds once the limit is reached. There is no hotspot access.

Here are the pricing options for the 10GB plan:
Monthly: $29
3 Months: $87
6 Months: $174
Annual: $348

Cost per GB: $2.90

Pros: Compact data plan for basic needs.
Cons: No hotspot access.
Best for: Light users who mostly browse or use apps.

5GB Plans

The 5GB plan includes 5GB of high-speed data monthly, with speeds reduced to 2G once the data cap is reached. Hotspot access is not available.

Here are the pricing options for the 5GB plan:
Monthly: $23
3 Months: $69
6 Months: $138
Annual: $276

Cost per GB: $4.60

Pros: Very affordable.
Cons: Only 5GB of data.
Best for: Light data users or those who mainly use Wi-Fi.

3GB Plans

The 3GB plan offers 3GB of full-speed data per month, with speeds slowing to 2G after the limit is reached. Hotspot access is not provided.

Here are the pricing options for the 3GB plan:
Monthly: $19
3 Months: $57
6 Months: $114
Annual: $228

Cost per GB: $6.33

Pros: Cost-efficient for very light use.
Cons: Limited data.
Best for: Occasional data users or those who rely heavily on Wi-Fi.

500MB Plans

The 500MB plan includes 500MB of high-speed data per month, slowing to 2G speeds once the limit is exceeded. No hotspot access is available.

Here are the pricing options for the 500MB plan:
Monthly: $15
3 Months: $45
6 Months: $90
Annual: $180

Cost per GB: $30.00

Pros: Most affordable plan.
Cons: Extremely limited data.
Best for: Minimal users who primarily use Wi-Fi.

Family Plans

Lyca Mobile offers family plans with separate pricing for each line, including free international calling to over 80 countries, making them ideal for global communication. You can add up to five lines on one account, with a 40GB 2-line family plan option also available.

Pros: Great for families needing multiple lines.

Cons: Each plan is sold separately.

Best for: Families or groups needing affordable international communication.

Ultra Mobile Plans

Ultra Unlimited+ Plan with Unlimited International Calling

The Ultra Unlimited+ Plan is perfect for users who need unlimited data and international connectivity. It includes unlimited 5G & 4G LTE data every month. Once the high-speed data limit is reached, speeds slow down. With unlimited talk, text, and international roaming, this plan is ideal for heavy data users and frequent travelers.

Pricing options for the Ultra Unlimited+ Plan:
Monthly: $59
3 Months: $138 ($46/month, Save 18%)
6 Months: $258 ($43/month, Save 22%)
Annual: $444 ($37/month, Save 26%)

Cost per GB: Unlimited

Pros: Unlimited data, international calling and roaming, mobile hotspot up to 20GB
Cons: Expensive for light data users
Best for: Heavy data users and frequent travelers

Ultra Unlimited Plan

The Ultra Unlimited Plan is a great option for users needing unlimited data but with a lower hotspot requirement. It offers 10GB of mobile hotspot, unlimited talk, and text, plus $5 of international call credit each month.

Pricing options for the Ultra Unlimited Plan:
Monthly: $49
3 Months: $114 ($38/month, Save 17%)
6 Months: $216 ($36/month, Save 20%)
Annual: $372 ($31/month, Save 23%)

Cost per GB: Unlimited

Pros: Unlimited data, mobile hotspot, international calling
Cons: Lower hotspot limit compared to the Ultra Unlimited+ plan
Best for: Regular data users and international callers

15GB Plan

The 15GB Plan balances data and international features. It includes 15GB of full-speed 5G & 4G LTE data monthly, with speeds slowing to 2G after the limit. Unlimited talk, text, and mobile hotspot access are also included.

Pricing options for the 15GB Plan:
Monthly: $39
3 Months: $90 ($30/month, Save 17%)
6 Months: $168 ($28/month, Save 20%)
Annual: $276 ($23/month, Save 23%)

Cost per GB: $2.60

Pros: Generous data limit, international talk and text, mobile hotspot
Cons: Data slows after 15GB
Best for: Moderate data users with international needs

10GB Plan

The 10GB Plan is designed for light to moderate data users. It provides 10GB of full-speed 5G & 4G LTE data monthly, with speeds slowing to 2G after the limit is exceeded. Unlimited talk, text, and mobile hotspot access are included.

Pricing options for the 10GB Plan:
Monthly: $29
3 Months: $72 ($24/month, Save 14%)
6 Months: $132 ($22/month, Save 19%)
Annual: $228 ($19/month, Save 24%)

Cost per GB: $2.90

Pros: Moderate data allowance, mobile hotspot, international coverage
Cons: Slower speeds after 10GB
Best for: Moderate data users

5GB Plan

The 5GB Plan is an affordable choice for light data users. After the 5GB full-speed data is used, speeds slow to 2G. It also supports international calls and texts.

Pricing options for the 5GB Plan:
Monthly: $24
3 Months: $57 ($19/month, Save 14%)
6 Months: $102 ($17/month, Save 19%)
Annual: $192 ($16/month, Save 20%)

Cost per GB: $4.80

Pros: Low-cost plan, international coverage, mobile hotspot
Cons: Limited data allowance
Best for: Light data users on a budget

3GB Plan

The 3GB Plan suits very light data users, offering 3GB of full-speed 5G & 4G LTE data monthly. Speeds reduce to 2G after the limit is reached. This plan doesn’t include mobile hotspot access.

Pricing options for the 3GB Plan:
Monthly: $19
3 Months: $48 ($16/month, Save 14%)
6 Months: $90 ($15/month, Save 19%)
Annual: $168 ($14/month, Save 26%)

Cost per GB: $6.33

Pros: Budget-friendly, international calling and text
Cons: No mobile hotspot, limited data
Best for: Very light data users

Talk & Text Plan

The Talk & Text Plan is for those needing basic connectivity. It provides 250MB of full-speed data monthly before slowing to 2G. The plan includes unlimited talk, text, and mobile hotspot features.

Pricing options for the Talk & Text Plan:
Monthly: $15
3 Months: $39 ($13/month, Save 14%)
6 Months: $66 ($11/month, Save 19%)
Annual: $120 ($10/month, Save 20%)

Cost per GB: $60.00

Pros: Cheapest option, basic international connectivity
Cons: Extremely limited data
Best for: Basic talk and text users with minimal data needs

Plan Comparison

Lyca Mobile plans are great for those who need affordable plans with strong international calling, but it’s better suited for light data users due to limited hotspot access and a significant slowdown in speeds after reaching data limits.

Ultra Mobile plans offer better value for users who need solid domestic data and international features. They include hotspot data and faster speeds even after data limits are reached. Although pricier, Ultra Mobile is ideal for users looking for more data flexibility.

Key Differences Between Lyca Mobile and Ultra Mobile

Unlimited Data Prioritization and Throttling

Lyca Mobile offers unlimited data plans, but as an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) using T-Mobile’s network, there are a few limitations to consider. Once users exceed 40GB of high-speed data, their speeds are throttled to prioritize T-Mobile customers, especially during peak times or in crowded areas like large cities or major events. Although Lyca Mobile provides 5G access, speeds may still slow down after reaching the data cap. Despite this, Lyca Mobile remains an attractive option for those seeking affordable pricing and strong international calling features. Just be aware of potential slowdowns during periods of high network demand.

Ultra Mobile offers unlimited 5G data; however, users who surpass 35GB of high-speed data in a month may experience temporary slowdowns, particularly during peak usage times when the network is congested. These speed reductions occur mainly in areas with high traffic, like major cities or large events. Once the congestion eases, normal speeds are restored. Ultra Mobile does not impose permanent throttling after the 35GB limit, but users may face brief delays when the network is under heavy load.

Customer Service and Accessibility

Lyca Mobile provides comprehensive online customer service with multiple support options. Their chat support is available Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. EST, and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. EST. Customers can also reach their team by phone during these same hours at 1 (866) 277-3221. This online service ensures customers can get help with any issues related to their plan, coverage, or device within these hours.

Ultra Mobile prioritizes customer care and offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support users effectively. The carrier focuses on delivering an excellent customer experience with a customer-centric approach that includes quick call response times and multilingual support. Ultra Mobile’s customer care agents are available in English, Spanish, and Mandarin from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST, and there's also a chatbot available 24/7 to assist with issues at any time​.

The Verdict

If international calling and budget-friendly options are your primary concerns, Lyca Mobile offers exceptional value. However, if you're seeking higher data allowances and a reliable customer service experience with a focus on user satisfaction, Ultra Mobile is likely the better fit. Both carriers have distinct strengths, so your choice depends on whether you prioritize international calls, customer support, or more robust data offerings.

For those who need both, Ultra Mobile may be the more well-rounded option, but Lyca Mobile will always have the edge for international communication and competitive pricing on basic plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Lyca Mobile or Ultra Mobile offer better coverage for rural areas?

Coverage in rural areas can vary, even with both providers being mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that rely on the T-Mobile network. However, Ultra Mobile may offer slightly more extensive coverage due to T-Mobile’s broader 4G LTE and fast T-Mobile coverage in remote or rural regions. Lyca Mobile’s coverage is typically sufficient for urban areas, but it may experience limitations in certain rural zones where T-Mobile’s network strength is weaker. For those looking to connect reliably in rural areas, Ultra Mobile could be the better bet.

How does the data usage management work with Lyca Mobile and Ultra Mobile?

Both Lyca Mobile and Ultra Mobile offer data management, but they handle data usage differently. Lyca Mobile's speeds are throttled once you exceed 40GB of high-speed data, particularly in congested areas. This slowdown can be a big difference for users during peak times or major events. Ultra Mobile has a more straightforward approach to prioritization, reducing data speeds mainly when the network is congested or once you exceed your plan’s high-speed data allotment. If you’re looking for the best deal and fewer slowdowns post-throttling, Ultra Mobile might provide better speeds compared to Lyca Mobile.

Are there family plans or multi-line discounts with Lyca Mobile and Ultra Mobile?

Lyca Mobile does not offer specific family plans, but you can still manage multiple lines under one account and enjoy bulk discounts. Ultra Mobile, on the other hand, provides multi-line discounts and more flexible options for families or individuals looking to add additional lines. So, if multi-line discounts are a priority, Ultra Mobile stands out with its flexibility. Both carriers offer good deals for those looking for cheap cell phone plans but differ in how they approach multi-line offerings.

Do Lyca Mobile and Ultra Mobile offer any loyalty rewards or discounts for long-term customers?

Both Lyca Mobile and Ultra Mobile focus on providing great prices for their customers, but neither offers significant loyalty rewards. Lyca Mobile stands out for offering unlimited international calling features, which could be a major plus for those who often call other countries. Ultra Mobile may provide occasional promotions or discounts for customers renewing for three or more months, but neither carrier has strong loyalty programs in place. For a prepaid carrier, both are competitive in terms of price and features, but be sure to read the fine print for any potential discounts.

How do Lyca Mobile and Ultra Mobile handle phone upgrades or replacements?

Both Lyca Mobile and Ultra Mobile allow you to purchase new phones through their websites. Ultra Mobile provides more extensive options for phone upgrades, including the ability to finance the latest handsets and pay in installments, making it easier for customers to get new phones without paying the full price upfront. Lyca Mobile also allows phone purchases, but its options for financing or upgrading phones are more limited. If phone's compatibility and financing plans are important to you, Ultra Mobile offers more flexibility when it comes to new phones and device upgrades.