REALLY vs US Cellular: Which Carrier is Better?

Really vs. US Cellular—two budget-friendly carriers with distinct advantages to offer. Whether you’re looking for reliable coverage or a plan tailored to your lifestyle, this comparison breaks it all down. Ready to find the carrier that fits your vibe and keeps your wallet happy? Let’s get started!

Here’s what we'll cover:

• A side-by-side look at coverage and reliability to see how these carriers stack up
• A clear breakdown of pricing and what each plan brings to the table
• A highlight of the unique perks that make each provider stand out

Compare US Cellular to other Carriers

• Verizon, a top-tier MNO (Mobile Network Operator), provides unmatched nationwide coverage and premium plan options tailored to all needs, often surpassing any other carrier in terms of reliability and service quality.
• AT&T, a leading MNO (Mobile Network Operator), offers robust nationwide coverage and a wide range of premium phone plans, frequently outperforming other carriers in customer satisfaction.
• T-Mobile, a flexible carrier that combines affordable plans with strong nationwide 5G and LTE coverage, making it a competitive choice against any other carrier.
• Mint Mobile, an innovative MVNO, offers affordable prepaid plans with generous data options and coverage on T-Mobile’s robust network, standing out among other carriers for its cost-effectiveness.
• Visible, a budget-friendly MVNO, provides unlimited plans with no hidden fees and coverage powered by Verizon’s reliable network, often preferred over other carriers for its simplicity and value.

REALLY Overview

Really keeps it straightforward and affordable with no-frills plans and zero hidden fees. Backed by T-Mobile’s reliable 4G LTE and 5G network, it offers solid nationwide coverage, excelling in urban and suburban areas. While T-Mobile's network may not be as comprehensive in rural areas compared to AT&T and Verizon, recent improvements have made it more competitive overall, especially with its 5G service and unlimited data plans. With no contracts, credit checks, or surprise charges, Really focuses on transparency and simplicity. Plans include unlimited talk, text, and data, along with hotspot access, making it a hassle-free and budget-friendly choice for staying connected.

US Cellular Overview

U.S. Cellular, the fourth-largest wireless provider in the U.S., offers a solid combination of localized coverage and nationwide access. Verizon's network, known for its varying quality and types of 5G services, provides a distinction between low-band and high-band 5G access, emphasizing its strength in urban areas where premium data becomes essential due to increased congestion. While its direct coverage area may be smaller than that of major carriers, U.S. Cellular bridges the gap with roaming agreements that ensure reliable, high-speed service even outside its core network. Features like mobile hotspot access add to its appeal, making it an adaptable choice for those with moderate data needs.

REALLY Coverage

Really operates on T-Mobile’s trusted 4G LTE and 5G networks, known for delivering strong coverage, particularly in urban and suburban areas. While it performs well across much of the U.S., coverage in rural or remote locations may vary. To ensure the best experience, it’s a good idea to check Really’s coverage map before signing up. If T-Mobile’s network works well in your area, Really offers a simple, reliable, and hassle-free connectivity option.

US Cellular Coverage

U.S. Cellular holds a distinct spot in the U.S. wireless market, offering a coverage footprint that, while smaller than major carriers, comes with unique advantages. Consumer Cellular, known for its plans specifically designed for seniors, emphasizes affordability, flexibility, and customer service. Thanks to a partnership with AT&T, U.S. Cellular users gain access to AT&T’s network while roaming, ensuring reliable service even beyond U.S. Cellular’s primary coverage areas. This approach mirrors how mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) leverage larger networks to extend their reach. To see exactly how U.S. Cellular’s coverage stacks up in your area, check out U.S. Cellular’s coverage map for detailed insights.

Coverage Comparison

Really leverages T-Mobile’s trusted 4G LTE and 5G networks, delivering strong coverage in urban and suburban areas. While it performs well in these locations, coverage in rural or remote regions may vary.

U.S. Cellular focuses on localized coverage in rural areas and strengthens its reach through roaming agreements with AT&T, ensuring reliable service even beyond its core network. This makes it an excellent choice for users who need dependable connectivity in less densely populated regions.

Pick Really if T-Mobile’s network delivers solid coverage in your area and you’re looking for reliable urban connectivity. Go with U.S. Cellular if you live in or frequently travel to rural areas and need extended coverage through partnerships.

REALLY Plans

Limitless Plan (Monthly)

Really’s signature plan delivers unlimited data, talk, and text with zero contracts or hidden fees. Designed for simplicity, this plan is a great choice for individuals and families, with discounts available for additional lines.

Cost $99/month + $60 per additional line
Pros Transparent pricing, unlimited data, no unexpected fees
Cons Higher cost for single-line users compared to other carriers
Best for Individuals or families seeking unlimited service with flexible add-on options

Limitless Plan (Founding Member)

Exclusively for Founding Members, this plan offers unlimited data, talk, and text at a discounted rate. With even lower costs for extra lines, it’s a fantastic deal for early adopters.

Cost $49/month (Founding Member rate) or $99/month + $38 per additional line
Pros Major savings for Founding Members, discounted rates for additional lines
Cons Only available to Founding Members
Best for Founding Members looking for affordable unlimited service with flexible add-ons

Family Plan

Really’s Family Plan provides unlimited data, talk, and text, with pricing tailored to the number of lines. Its scalable structure makes it an ideal option for families of all sizes.

Cost Contact Really for pricing
Pros Customizable options for families, scalable to fit your needs
Cons Pricing details require contacting customer support
Best for Families who need flexible plans with unlimited connectivity

Business Plan

Built for businesses, this plan delivers unlimited data, talk, and text, with pricing customized to meet specific organizational needs. The scalable structure ensures seamless management of multiple lines.

Cost Contact Really for pricing
Pros Tailored and scalable to business requirements
Cons Pricing requires a consultation
Best for Businesses looking for reliable, customizable plans to manage multiple users

US Cellular Plans

Even Better Unlimited

UScellular’s top-tier plan delivers unlimited premium data and 50GB of hotspot usage. Once the 50GB hotspot cap is reached, access is suspended for the rest of the billing cycle.

Cost $55/month (before a $5 Autopay discount)
Pros Unlimited premium data, generous hotspot allowance
Cons Hotspot access stops after 50GB
Best for Heavy data users needing premium data and hotspot capabilities

Even Better Unlimited (BYOD)

This version allows you to bring your own device (BYOD) while maintaining the same benefits as the standard plan, including unlimited premium data and 50GB of hotspot access.

Cost $60/month (before a $10 Autopay discount)
Pros BYOD flexibility, premium data included
Cons Hotspot access stops after 50GB
Best for High-data users who want to bring their own device

Everyday Unlimited

Provides 50GB of premium data monthly, after which speeds reduce to 3G. Includes 25GB of hotspot access, which is throttled once the limit is reached.

Cost $45/month (before a $5 Autopay discount)
Pros Affordable for high-data needs
Cons Data speeds throttle after 50GB
Best for Moderate data users who can manage slower speeds post-cap

Everyday Unlimited (BYOD)

Similar to the standard plan but tailored for users bringing their own device. Offers 50GB of premium data and 25GB of hotspot usage.

Cost $50/month (before a $10 Autopay discount, $40 with Autopay)
Pros BYOD option, solid data allowance
Cons Limited hotspot data
Best for Moderate data users with their own device

Basic Unlimited

A budget-friendly plan with 100GB of deprioritized data. After the cap, speeds drop to 3G. Hotspot access is not included.

Cost $35/month (before a $5 Autopay discount)
Pros Large data allowance for the price
Cons Deprioritized data, no hotspot access
Best for High-data users who don’t need hotspot capabilities

Basic Unlimited (BYOD)

This plan mirrors Basic Unlimited but allows BYOD. Includes 100GB of deprioritized data with 3G speeds after the limit.

Cost $40/month (before a $10 Autopay discount)
Pros BYOD flexibility
Cons No hotspot included
Best for Budget-conscious users needing ample data

Prepaid Unlimited Plus

Offers 35GB of premium data, with speeds reducing to 2G after the cap. Includes hotspot access, capped at 35GB.

Cost $55/month (before a $5 Autopay discount)
Pros Hotspot access, solid data allowance
Cons Slower speeds after the cap
Best for Users needing a balance of premium data and hotspot access

Prepaid Unlimited

Provides 15GB of premium data with hotspot access. After the limit, speeds slow to 2G, and hotspot access is disabled.

Cost $40/month
Pros Premium data at a reasonable price
Cons Low data cap
Best for Light to moderate data users

Prepaid 8GB

Offers 8GB of premium data with hotspot access. Once the cap is hit, speeds throttle to 2G.

Cost $35/month
Pros Includes hotspot usage
Cons Higher cost per GB
Best for Light data users who need occasional hotspot access

Prepaid 5GB

Includes 5GB of premium data and hotspot capabilities, with speeds dropping to 2G after the cap.

Cost $30/month
Pros Hotspot included
Cons Expensive for limited data
Best for Very light data users

Prepaid 2GB

The smallest plan provides 2GB of premium data and hotspot access, with speeds slowing to 2G after the limit.

Cost $25/month
Pros Budget-friendly for minimal data needs
Cons Limited data at a higher cost per GB
Best for Users with very light data needs

Family Plan Offerings

UScellular offers multi-line discounts for up to 5 lines per account, with savings increasing as more lines are added. These plans provide flexibility and affordability for families or groups, making it easy to share a plan while managing costs.

Best for Families or groups looking to share plans and save money.

Plan Comparison

Really plans simplify connectivity with straightforward unlimited options designed for transparency. With unlimited data, talk, text, and hotspot access, Really is a hassle-free choice. Discounts for additional lines make it especially appealing for families or individuals seeking seamless, stress-free options.

US Cellular plans provide a diverse range of flexible choices tailored to various needs, from premium unlimited options to budget-friendly prepaid choices. Their family plans include multi-line discounts, offering a cost-effective way for groups to share a plan while keeping their budget in check.

Go with Really if you want a no-frills, unlimited plan that delivers simple pricing and dependable coverage in urban and suburban areas. Choose US Cellular if you value flexible plans, customizable features, and strong coverage in rural regions. Both carriers offer excellent value.

Key Differences Between REALLY and US Cellular

Unlimited Data Prioritization and Throttling

Really Mobile takes a unique approach with its Decentralized Wireless Network (DeWi), replacing traditional tower-based systems with a community-driven model. Using community-installed antennas, users act as network nodes, enhancing coverage and expanding the network collectively. This innovative setup ensures reliable connectivity while empowering users to play an active role in strengthening the network infrastructure.

U.S. Cellular supports emergency services and first responders with its Wireless Priority Service (WPS) and dedicated unlimited data plans. These features ensure priority access during high network demand, maintaining reliable connectivity for critical operations. In congested situations, non-priority traffic may experience brief slowdowns to prioritize essential users.

Customer Service and Accessibility

Really offers accessible customer support through email, their website, and social media DMs, providing quick and efficient assistance. However, the absence of phone support may be a drawback for those who prefer resolving issues over a call.

U.S. Cellular offers 24/7 live chat and multiple contact options, providing reliable and efficient customer support. Its round-the-clock availability makes it a strong choice for users who value dependable assistance.

The Verdict

Really offers simple, unlimited plans with no hidden fees, perfect for those who prioritize straightforward connectivity in urban and suburban areas.

U.S. Cellular, with its flexible plans and reliable rural coverage, is better suited for users in remote locations or those requiring specialized options like first responder support. B

Both carriers provide excellent value—choose Really for simplicity or U.S. Cellular for customization and rural reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own device to Really or US Cellular?

Yes, both Really and US Cellular support BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). Really operates on T-Mobile’s network, so your phone must be unlocked and compatible with it. US Cellular also accepts most unlocked devices, ensuring seamless phone service. Use their compatibility tools to confirm your device works with their plans.

How much data is included in Really and US Cellular plans?

Really offers unlimited high-speed data with all its plans, making it ideal for heavy data users who want to stream video or browse social media without worrying about overage fees. US Cellular provides a range of options, from limited data plans to unlimited plans with priority data, ensuring a balance between affordability and functionality.

Which carrier is better for prepaid service?

If you’re looking for prepaid options, both carriers have strong offerings. Really focuses on simplicity with its no-frills, unlimited prepaid plans. US Cellular, however, provides more flexibility with a variety of prepaid plans, including limited data plans that are great for light data users. Both deliver good customer service, making prepaid options easy to manage.

How do these carriers handle network congestion?

Really uses T-Mobile’s network, which ensures consistent service in densely populated areas. However, speeds may slow during network congestion if you’ve exceeded your data cap. US Cellular offers priority data on its higher-tier plans, helping maintain normal speeds during peak times. Both carriers perform well, but US Cellular’s emphasis on priority data makes it a strong choice for those in crowded or rural areas.

Are these carriers a good choice compared to big carriers like Verizon or AT&T?

Both Really and US Cellular provide better coverage in specific areas at more affordable prices than big carriers like Verizon or AT&T. While Verizon’s network offers unmatched nationwide reach, Really focuses on urban areas, and US Cellular excels in rural regions. If you’re seeking the best deal without the high cell phone bill associated with big carriers, either option is worth considering.

What’s the starting price for plans with Really and US Cellular?

Really’s starting price includes unlimited talk, text, and high-speed data, catering to those who need straightforward plans. US Cellular’s starting price is more flexible, offering both limited and unlimited plans to fit varying data needs. Whether you’re managing one line or considering switching for better customer satisfaction, both carriers deliver value without sacrificing service.