Straight Talk vs Boost Mobile: Which Carrier is Better?

When deciding between Straight Talk vs. Boost Mobile, it’s essential to consider your specific needs in terms of data, coverage, and pricing. Both carriers aim to deliver affordable prepaid options with features like unlimited talk, text, and data, but they differ significantly in network access and plan flexibility. Whether you’re looking for extensive nationwide coverage or better perks for your budget, this comparison will help you make an informed choice.

In this article, we’ll highlight each carrier’s strengths to help you make an informed choice. We have conducted comprehensive testing of smartphones and cell phone plans from all the major carriers to provide you with the most accurate information.

Here’s what you can expect:

• A breakdown of coverage differences between providers
• A comparison of pricing and what each plan includes
• An overview of unique features offered by each 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.

Straight Talk Overview

Straight Talk stands out among mobile virtual network operators by offering a diverse selection of plans tailored to different needs. Leveraging Verizon’s robust network infrastructure, including nationwide 5G coverage, Straight Talk ensures reliable service and fast speeds across the country.

Boost Mobile Overview

Boost Mobile is a well-known mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), offering service through a combination of major network providers. They utilize AT&T, Dish, and T-Mobile, the latter of which boasts the largest 5G coverage across the U.S. However, it's important to consider the hidden costs associated with cell phones, specifically focusing on the taxes and fees that can significantly increase the overall expense of mobile services. This multi-network approach allows Boost Mobile to offer widespread coverage and reliable service for its customers, especially with T-Mobile’s expansive 5G footprint.

Straight Talk: Speed and Coverage

As an MVNO, Straight Talk purchases its coverage from a major network provider—specifically Verizon—while other carriers source their coverage from AT&T or T-Mobile. The best coverage for you depends on your location, so it's crucial to compare providers using a coverage map for your area. Their coverage map is a great tool, showing the locations of cellular towers and identifying which provider owns each one. By comparing these tower locations, you can determine which of the three major networks offers the best service for your needs.

Boost Mobile: Speed and Coverage

Boost Mobile, as an MVNO, uses multiple networks—AT&T, Dish, and T-Mobile—giving you the flexibility to choose the coverage that best fits your needs. T-Mobile is known for having excellent 5G coverage, but the best option for you depends on your location. To ensure you're selecting the right provider, check their coverage map to see where towers are located and which provider controls them in your area.

Coverage Comparison

Both Straight Talk and Boost Mobile offer solid coverage, but their network sources differ. Straight Talk relies on Verizon, which is known for its excellent coverage, especially for 4G and 5G, but the best option depends on your location. Boost Mobile provides coverage from AT&T, Dish, and T-Mobile, with T-Mobile offering robust 5G coverage nationwide.

Ultimately, it's important to check each carrier’s coverage map in your area to see which network offers the best service where you live. Comparing tower locations can help you make the best decision for your needs.

Straight Talk Plans

Silver Unlimited — $45/month

The Silver Unlimited plan strikes a great balance between price and features, offering 60GB of high-speed data before slowing to 2G speeds. It's essential to understand how different carriers handle "unlimited data"—some may throttle speeds after a specific threshold, while others offer features like international coverage or data prioritization. At 2G speeds, you can still text, email, and browse, but streaming and gaming will be limited unless connected to Wi-Fi. This plan provides 65GB for $0.69 per GB.

Pros: Ample data for typical usage.
Cons: Speeds slow after the data cap.

Best for: Heavy data users.

Gold Unlimited — $55/month

As Straight Talk’s highest-tier plan, the Gold Unlimited plan provides 60GB of high-speed data and an additional 15GB of hotspot data. After the 60GB cap, speeds slow to 2G. This plan costs $55 and gives you 75GB for just $0.75 per GB.

Pros: Significant hotspot data included.
Cons: Speeds slow after data cap.

Best for: Heavy data and hotspot users.

Extended Unlimited – 12 Months — $495/year ($41.25/month)

This plan requires a lump-sum payment for the year and offers 25GB of high-speed data and 5GB of hotspot data. Once you hit the limit, speeds drop to 2G. At $495 annually, it's a budget-friendly option for those who don't mind paying upfront.

Pros: Low cost for the year.
Cons: Deprioritized speeds.

Best for: Average to heavy data users who prefer an annual payment plan.

Extended Unlimited – 6 Months — $42.50/month

Offering the same features as the 12-month plan but billed every six months, this plan includes 25GB of high-speed data, 5GB of hotspot data, and a slowdown to 2G once the cap is hit.

Pros: Hotspot data included.
Cons: Better value with the 12-month plan.

Best for: Those who need flexibility in billing cycles.

Extended Unlimited – 3 Months — $42.50/month

The shortest extended plan, priced at $42.50 per month, provides 25GB of high-speed data and 5GB of hotspot data. Speeds slow to 2G after the cap.

Pros: Hotspot data included.
Cons: Higher price for a shorter duration.

Best for: Those needing more data for a short period.

Platinum Unlimited — $65/month

The Platinum Unlimited plan offers 20GB of high-speed data and 20GB of hotspot data, with speeds slowing to 2G once the cap is reached. At $65 per month, it provides 40GB for $1.63 per GB, making it a great choice for heavy data users who rely on hotspots.

Pros: Significant hotspot data.
Cons: Speeds slow after the cap.

Best for: Heavy data users who need a lot of hotspot data.

Unlimited International — $50/month

Designed for frequent travelers, this plan includes 25GB of full-speed data, 5GB of hotspot data, and international calling features. However, it does not offer international texting or roaming data. This plan costs $50 per month, providing 30GB for $2 per GB.

Pros: International calling included.
Cons: No international texting.

Best for: International travelers needing reliable calling.

Bronze Unlimited — $25/month

The Bronze Unlimited plan offers 10GB of high-speed data and 5GB of hotspot data. After hitting the data cap, speeds drop to 2G. It costs $25 per month, providing 15GB for $2.33 per GB.

Pros: Hotspot data included.
Cons: Speeds slow after the cap.

Best for: Light to average users.

Basic Phone Plan — $30/month

Straight Talk's Basic Phone Plan provides 1500 minutes and 100MB of data each month, along with unlimited texting. However, it does not include hotspot access. This plan is the most expensive in terms of price per GB.

Pros: Simple plan for minimal use.
Cons: Expensive for limited data.

Best for: Users with constant Wi-Fi access.

Family Plan Offerings

Straight Talk typically offers single-line plans, but the Gold Unlimited plan is available as a two-line version for $90 per month.

Best for: Families or couples looking for value with two lines.

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.

Plan Comparison

Both Straight Talk and Boost Mobile offer solid plans, but your choice depends on the features that matter most to you. Straight Talk plans excel in offering reliable coverage through Verizon with competitive pricing, ideal for users who prioritize consistent service but don’t mind the slowdowns after heavy data usage.

On the other hand, Boost Mobile plans stand out with more flexibility, offering several networks and international features, making it a better choice for users who might need more data and enhanced coverage options. However, Boost’s higher-tier plans can be a bit pricier compared to Straight Talk.

Phones and Compatibility

When it comes to phone compatibility, both Boost Mobile and Straight Talk offer a wide range of options to suit various needs. Boost Mobile operates on the T-Mobile network, which means that most unlocked phones, excluding those purchased from Sprint, will work seamlessly. This gives you the flexibility to bring your own phone or choose from a variety of devices offered by Boost Mobile.

Straight Talk, on the other hand, leverages the networks of all four major carriers—Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, and US Cellular. This extensive network compatibility means that most unlocked phones will work with Straight Talk, providing you with a broad selection of devices to choose from.

Boost Mobile offers a diverse lineup of phones, including popular Android models and iPhones, which can be purchased outright or through convenient payment plans. Whether you’re looking for the latest high-end device or a budget-friendly option, Boost Mobile has something for everyone.

Similarly, Straight Talk provides a range of phones, from high-end Samsungs and iPhones to more affordable Android options. If you already have a phone you love, you can bring it to Straight Talk, provided it is compatible with their network. This flexibility allows you to keep your current device while enjoying the benefits of Straight Talk’s service.

Additional Features and Discounts

Both Boost Mobile and Straight Talk go the extra mile to offer additional features and discounts that enhance the value of their cell phone service.

Boost Mobile includes a free music streaming service called Tidal with most of its plans, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tunes without using up your data. For an additional $20 per month, you can also get unlimited streaming of HD shows and movies, making it a great option for entertainment on the go. Another standout feature is the Shrink-It plan, which reduces your monthly cost with consecutive on-time payments, rewarding you for your loyalty.

Straight Talk offers its own set of incentives, such as a free month of service for referring a friend. Additionally, you can earn points through their rewards program, which can be redeemed for free service plans or high-speed data add-ons. Straight Talk also provides extended plans that offer significant savings, as well as the option to purchase additional data for just $5 per GB.

When it comes to international calling, both carriers have you covered. Boost Mobile offers international add-ons that enable calling or roaming in Mexico, while Straight Talk provides unlimited calls to mobile phones in Mexico, China, Canada, and India. These options make it easy to stay connected with friends and family abroad.

In terms of discounts, Boost Mobile offers multi-line discounts for up to five lines on all its major plans, along with multiple promotions for four lines. Straight Talk also provides discounts for customers who sign up for multiple lines upfront, making it a cost-effective choice for families or groups.

Overall, both Boost Mobile and Straight Talk offer a range of features and discounts designed to help you get the most out of your cell phone service while saving money. Whether you prioritize entertainment, international calling, or multi-line savings, both carriers have options to meet your needs.

Key Differences Between Straight Talk and Boost Mobile

Unlimited Data Prioritization and Throttling

Straight Talk uses data prioritization, which means that once you reach your data limit, speeds may be slowed during times of high network congestion. This can affect the ability to stream, play games, or perform data-heavy tasks, particularly in busy urban areas. However, in less populated areas, the impact of throttling may be minimal, making it more manageable for average users.

Boost Mobile uses data prioritization, meaning data speeds may slow during periods of heavy network traffic after reaching your data limit. This is typical for MVNOs and can impact high-bandwidth activities like streaming or gaming, particularly in crowded areas. However, users in less congested locations or with moderate data needs may notice little to no difference, ensuring a smooth experience even when speeds are reduced.

Customer Service and Accessibility

Straight Talk provides customer service exclusively through online channels, offering both chat and phone support options. Their chat support is available 24/7, ensuring customers can reach out at any time for assistance. For phone support, Straight Talk operates from 8 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. EST daily, offering a reliable way to get help with account issues or technical support. While some users appreciate the convenience of 24/7 chat, others may find the limited phone support hours a bit restrictive.

Boost Mobile offers multiple ways for customers to reach their support team, both online and in person. In addition to their online customer service, Boost Mobile has several physical locations, and you can easily find the nearest store using their store locator. Their online support is available 24/7 via chat, allowing you to get quick assistance at any time. For phone support, Boost Mobile operates from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. PST Monday through Friday, and from 4 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST on weekends. While their 24/7 chat support offers convenience, their phone support hours may be more restrictive compared to services that offer all-day phone assistance.

The Verdict

Both carriers offer solid plans for a range of needs, with Straight Talk being a strong option for those seeking Verizon-powered coverage at competitive prices, especially in areas where Verizon is strong. Boost Mobile, on the other hand, provides more flexibility with its multiple network choices and 5G options, making it a great choice for users in areas where T-Mobile or AT&T provide better service.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your location and data usage habits—if you want a dependable network and affordable pricing, Straight Talk is great; if flexibility and more network options are important, Boost Mobile is the better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I exceed my data limit on Boost Mobile or Straight Talk?

If you exceed your data limit with either Boost Mobile or Straight Talk, your speeds will typically slow down, but the specifics can vary. Boost Mobile will slow your speeds to 3G after you reach your cap, which could impact streaming video or mobile hotspot data usage. On the other hand, Straight Talk may deprioritize your data during peak hours, especially if you're using Verizon’s network, resulting in slower speeds. Both options are available on unlocked phones, so you can bring your own device and enjoy the cell service on these networks.

Can I keep my phone number if I switch to Boost Mobile or Straight Talk?

Yes, you can keep your phone number when switching to Boost Mobile or Straight Talk, as long as you’re switching from a carrier that supports number porting, like Verizon or AT&T. You just need to ensure your cell phone is unlocked, whether it's a Verizon phone or any Android phones compatible with the networks. Once the porting process is complete, you’ll continue with the same coverage under your new mobile plan.

Does Boost Mobile offer international roaming services?

Boost Mobile offers international roaming in select countries, making it a good option if you're traveling abroad. Check the fine print of your chosen plan, as international roaming is not always included. For those looking for better coverage abroad, Boost Mobile's international services can be an add-on to some of their unlimited plans. Always confirm roaming charges before you pay, as international roaming can vary based on your location and the carrier offering coverage in those areas.

Can I get 5G coverage with Straight Talk?

Straight Talk runs primarily on Verizon's network, so if Verizon’s network has 5G coverage in your area, you can enjoy fast speeds. Whether you’re streaming video or using mobile hotspot data, Straight Talk’s 5G service offers a large network with impressive speeds. However, it’s important to confirm if 5G is available in your suburban areas or the specific zones you plan to use your cell phone. If 5G isn’t available, you will still receive reliable service with 4G LTE speeds.

How does Boost Mobile's hotspot data work?

Boost Mobile’s plans come with mobile hotspot data, but the amount varies depending on the plan. For unlimited plans, once you hit your hotspot data limit, speeds are reduced. While Boost Mobile provides reliable wireless service with a variety of data plans, it’s essential to check the fine print for any potential extra charges for data overage or add-ons. Keep in mind that if you’re using Sprint’s network (now part of T-Mobile), the coverage in suburban areas may differ from other networks like Verizon or AT&T, so choose the best deal that suits your data needs.