Tello vs Lyca Mobile: Which Carrier is Better?

When comparing Tello vs Lyca Mobile, it’s essential to evaluate your data usage and budget. Both carriers provide some of the cheapest cell phone plans available, with affordable, no-contract options designed for flexibility. Tello operates on T-Mobile’s network and stands out with fully customizable plans to suit your specific needs. Lyca Mobile, also on T-Mobile’s network, focuses on international calling features, making it ideal for those frequently staying connected abroad.

Here’s what you’ll find in this article:

• A breakdown of network coverage and performance for each carrier
• A detailed comparison of pricing and data options
• Key features that make each carrier’s plans stand out

Compare Tello to other Carriers

• Boost Mobile, owned by Dish Network, is the fourth-largest wireless carrier in the United States, offering affordable prepaid plans with nationwide coverage.
• Google Fi, a T-Mobile MVNO owned by Google, offers flexible plans with extensive international roaming.
• Mint Mobile, a T-Mobile MVNO, delivers affordable prepaid plans with nationwide 5G coverage, ideal for budget-conscious users seeking premium service.
• US Mobile, a flexible MVNO on Verizon and T-Mobile networks, offers customizable plans to fit a wide range of needs.
• Metro by T-Mobile, a prepaid carrier owned by T-Mobile, offers affordable plans with reliable access to T-Mobile’s expansive 5G network

Tello Mobile Review

Tello Mobile, a smaller carrier on T-Mobile’s network, is praised for its excellent customer reviews and cost-effective plans. In this Tello mobile review, we will provide an in-depth analysis of Tello Mobile's services, plans, and pricing options. As an MVNO, Tello provides customizable options, letting you tailor your plan to suit your specific needs. Tello Mobile's plans include features like unlimited texting, mobile hotspot capabilities, and international calling. With access to T-Mobile’s dependable 5G and 4G LTE networks, Tello delivers reliable service at a fraction of the cost of major wireless providers. Tello Mobile's service is known for its reliable call and text performance, though data speeds may be slower in congested urban areas.

Lyca Mobile Overview

Lyca Mobile stands out with its strong international focus, offering services across multiple countries. Operating on T-Mobile’s robust 5G network, it provides reliable coverage throughout the U.S. What makes Lyca Mobile unique is its emphasis on global connectivity, including free international calling to over 80 countries. This feature makes it an excellent choice for users who frequently connect with friends and family abroad. Lyca Mobile also provides flexible plan options, ranging from monthly to multi-month plans, catering to a variety of needs.

Tello Mobile Coverage

Tello Mobile utilizes T-Mobile’s expansive 5G and 4G LTE networks, delivering strong coverage across the majority of the U.S. As T-Mobile continues to enhance its network and expand its 5G infrastructure, Tello customers enjoy fast and dependable service with ongoing improvements. To ensure the best experience, it’s always a good idea to check Tello's local coverage map for the most accurate information about cell phone service in your area.

Lyca Mobile Coverage

Lyca Mobile, as an MVNO, operates by leasing network coverage from major carriers—in this case, T-Mobile—while other MVNOs may partner with AT&T or Verizon. By leveraging T-Mobile's network, Lyca Mobile provides extensive 5G coverage throughout the U.S. To ensure you have reliable service, it’s important to review and compare coverage maps from different carriers. Lyca Mobile’s coverage map is a useful resource, showing cellular tower locations and their respective network owners.

Coverage Comparison

Tello operates on T-Mobile’s robust 5G and 4G LTE networks, providing reliable coverage across most of the U.S., with ongoing improvements as T-Mobile expands its infrastructure.

Lyca Mobile, also using T-Mobile’s network, delivers extensive nationwide 5G coverage, with a focus on global connectivity for international users.

Both carriers offer strong coverage through T-Mobile’s network, but your experience may vary based on your location, so checking local coverage maps is essential.

Tello Mobile Plans

Unlimited Plan — $29/month

The Unlimited Plan offers 25GB of high-speed data, after which speeds slow to 64 kbps, making Wi-Fi use recommended. Compared to Mint Mobile's unlimited plan, which offers 40GB of data for $30/month with a yearlong contract, Tello's plan provides less data but at a slightly lower price. This plan also includes unlimited minutes and hotspot access up to the 25GB cap, making it a solid choice for average data users. At $29 per month, it costs $1.16 per GB.

Pros: Competitive price for high data usage. Cons: Data slows significantly after 25GB cap. Best for: Average data users looking for an affordable plan with decent data allowance.

Runner-Up: 10GB Plan — $24/month

This plan provides 10GB of high-speed data and hotspot access, with varying minute options. After reaching the data cap, speeds drop to 64 kbps. At $24 per month with unlimited minutes, the cost is $2.40 per GB.

Pros: Hotspot access, customizable minute options.
Cons: Limited data for hotspot use.
Best for: Light data users who need some flexibility in their plan.

5GB Plan — $19/month

The 5GB plan includes unlimited texts, hotspot use, and customizable minute options. It’s priced at $19 per month with unlimited minutes, or as low as $15 with no minutes included.

Pros: Flexible minute choices.
Cons: Price per GB increases with lower data amount.
Best for: Light data users who need a low-cost, flexible option.

2GB Plan — $14/month

Tello’s 2GB plan includes unlimited texts, hotspot access, and minute customization. Priced at $14 per month with unlimited minutes, this plan costs $7 per GB.

Pros: Hotspot access, customizable minutes.
Cons: Higher cost per GB.
Best for: Lighter data users looking for a basic plan with some flexibility.

1GB Plan — $10/month

For minimal data needs, the 1GB plan costs $10 per month with unlimited minutes. It also offers minute customization.

Pros: Affordable for minimal use.
Cons: High cost per GB.
Best for: Very light data users who want the most affordable plan.

500MB Plan — $9/month

The smallest plan offers 500MB of data at $9 per month, with unlimited minutes and hotspot access until the cap is reached.

Pros: Budget-friendly for minimal data users.
Cons: Higher cost per GB compared to larger plans.
Best for: The lightest data users who need minimal mobile data.

No Data Plans — Starting at $5/month

This plan offers unlimited texts and flexible minute options, but with no data or hotspot access. Starting at $5 for 100 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for Wi-Fi-dependent users.

Pros: Very low cost for basic phone use.
Cons: No hotspot access.
Best for: Wi-Fi-only users and those with minimal data needs.

Family Plan Options

Tello offers flexible family plans, allowing families to customize each line with different data and minute options. Families can manage multiple lines under one account, adjusting each line's plan to suit individual needs.

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.

Plan Comparison

Tello and Lyca Mobile both offer affordable plans, but cater to slightly different needs. Tello plans provide flexible, customizable options with hotspot access, running on T-Mobile’s network, which is perfect for users who need a variety of data options and want the ability to adjust their plan as needed. On the other hand, Lyca Mobile plans stand out for its focus on international calling, offering free calls to over 80 countries. Like Tello, Lyca Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s network, ensuring solid coverage. If you're looking for flexibility in data usage, Tello is a great choice, while Lyca Mobile is ideal for those who prioritize staying connected globally.

Key Differences Between Tello and Lyca Mobile

Data Prioritization, Throttling, and Data Caps

Tello Mobile, like other MVNOs, may experience slower data speeds during periods of network congestion, especially in high-traffic areas like New York, D.C., and Chicago, or at large events. Mint Mobile caps video streaming at 480p on its unlimited plan and throttles data usage after 40GB, unlike Tello which does not impose these caps. During times of heavy network usage, MVNO customers typically face reduced speeds before those on major carriers. However, Tello’s contract-free service allows you to try it out and determine if it meets your needs.

Lyca Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s network, with speeds throttled after 40GB of high-speed data to prioritize T-Mobile users, especially in congested areas or during major events. While it offers 5G access, speeds may still be reduced once the data cap is hit. Despite these potential slowdowns, Lyca Mobile is a solid choice for those seeking affordable plans and international calling features.

Customer Satisfaction, Service, and Accessibility

Tello Mobile stands out for its customer satisfaction, offering flexible and affordable plans alongside reliable service. With excellent customer service reviews, Tello provides support through various channels including phone, email, and live chat. The carrier also enhances its offering with useful features like Wi-Fi calling, mobile hotspot access, and international calling options, contributing to an overall positive user experience.

Lyca Mobile provides convenient online customer support with multiple options for assistance. You can reach their team through live chat, available Monday to 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. Phone support is also available during these hours at 1 (866) 277-3221. This online-focused approach ensures that you can easily get help with any issues related to your plan, coverage, or device during their operating hours.

Service Reliability and Speeds

Tello Mobile’s service reliability and speeds are closely tied to its parent network, T-Mobile. As an MVNO, Tello Mobile piggybacks on T-Mobile’s network, which means that its customers can expect similar coverage and speeds. In general, Tello Mobile’s service is reliable, with few reported outages or disruptions. However, as with any MVNO, there may be instances where data speeds are slowed down due to network congestion.

In terms of data speeds, Tello Mobile’s plans offer a range of options, from 1GB to unlimited data. The unlimited plan, which costs $29 per month, offers 35GB of high-speed data before speeds are throttled. While this may not be the fastest data speed available, it’s still a great option for those who want a reliable and affordable cell phone plan.

The Verdict

When choosing between Tello Mobile and Lyca Mobile, the decision depends on whether you value customization and budget flexibility or international features and coverage.

Tello Mobile is perfect for users seeking affordable, customizable plans with no contracts, making it ideal for light to moderate data users who want flexibility without high costs. Powered by T-Mobile’s network, Tello offers good coverage, though speeds may slow during peak usage.

Lyca Mobile, also on T-Mobile’s network, stands out for its international calling options and global coverage. While it offers 5G speeds, data throttling may occur after exceeding certain limits, especially in high-traffic areas. It's a solid choice for frequent international callers but may experience slower speeds during congestion.

In short, choose Tello for affordable, flexible plans with good coverage if your data needs are moderate, or pick Lyca Mobile for international features and global reach, with some trade-offs in speed during high-demand times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Tello or Lyca Mobile offer international roaming?

Both Tello and Lyca Mobile provide international calling options, but they have different approaches to roaming. Tello Mobile's service offers affordable international calling rates to many countries, making it a great choice for international phone calls at low rates. On the other hand, Lyca Mobile provides a more robust international roaming plan, which may be ideal for frequent travelers. Before you go abroad, be sure to double-check the fine print of each carrier's roaming details to avoid any extra costs.

Can I keep my phone number when switching to Tello or Lyca Mobile?

Yes, both Tello and Lyca Mobile allow you to port your current phone number over when switching from another carrier. Just make sure to have your account details ready, and double-check with the carrier for any porting requirements. This ensures a smooth transition when switching to either carrier. Tello Mobile's plans make it easy for new customers to sign up and keep their existing phone numbers without hassle.

How do Tello and Lyca Mobile handle data overages or throttling?

Tello Mobile’s plans generally offer a set data allowance, after which your speeds are reduced to a much slower rate, often impacting the ability to enjoy unlimited data. Once you hit your data cap, speeds are throttled to ensure that more users on Tello’s network can maintain access. Lyca Mobile, similar to Mint Mobile’s unlimited plan, caps its high-speed data, after which throttling occurs. Be sure to check how much data your plan offers, as both carriers throttle speeds after you use up your high-speed data.

What is the customer service experience like with Tello and Lyca Mobile?

Tello provides customer service through phone, email, and live chat, earning praise for its responsive support. Tello Mobile's service offers consistent help with customer issues. Lyca Mobile’s customer service, available through chat and phone during specific hours, is effective but may have slightly longer response times, especially due to their online-only model. If you're looking for more responsive customer support, Tello's plans offer a slight edge over Lyca Mobile's service.

Are Tello and Lyca Mobile good for frequent data users?

Tello offers customizable, budget-friendly plans that are great for light to moderate data users. These plans include features like unlimited talk, making them particularly appealing for budget-conscious consumers. However, for users with high data needs, both Mint Mobile and Lyca Mobile might be more appealing. Mint Mobile’s unlimited plan provides more data at competitive prices, and Lyca Mobile offers larger data options and international roaming, making it a better choice for heavy data users. Keep in mind that both Tello Mobile and Lyca Mobile may throttle speeds once you surpass your data limit, so heavy data users may want to consider these factors when choosing between phone carriers.

When comparing Tello vs Lyca Mobile, it’s essential to evaluate your data usage and budget. Both carriers provide some of the cheapest cell phone plans available, with affordable, no-contract options designed for flexibility. Tello operates on T-Mobile’s network and stands out with fully customizable plans to suit your specific needs. Lyca Mobile, also on T-Mobile’s network, focuses on international calling features, making it ideal for those frequently staying connected abroad.

Here’s what you’ll find in this article:

• A breakdown of network coverage and performance for each carrier
• A detailed comparison of pricing and data options
• Key features that make each carrier’s plans stand out

Compare Tello to other Carriers

• Boost Mobile, owned by Dish Network, is the fourth-largest wireless carrier in the United States, offering affordable prepaid plans with nationwide coverage.
• Google Fi, a T-Mobile MVNO owned by Google, offers flexible plans with extensive international roaming.
• Mint Mobile, a T-Mobile MVNO, delivers affordable prepaid plans with nationwide 5G coverage, ideal for budget-conscious users seeking premium service.
• US Mobile, a flexible MVNO on Verizon and T-Mobile networks, offers customizable plans to fit a wide range of needs.
• Metro by T-Mobile, a prepaid carrier owned by T-Mobile, offers affordable plans with reliable access to T-Mobile’s expansive 5G network

Tello Mobile Review

Tello Mobile, a smaller carrier on T-Mobile’s network, is praised for its excellent customer reviews and cost-effective plans. In this Tello mobile review, we will provide an in-depth analysis of Tello Mobile's services, plans, and pricing options. As an MVNO, Tello provides customizable options, letting you tailor your plan to suit your specific needs. Tello Mobile's plans include features like unlimited texting, mobile hotspot capabilities, and international calling. With access to T-Mobile’s dependable 5G and 4G LTE networks, Tello delivers reliable service at a fraction of the cost of major wireless providers. Tello Mobile's service is known for its reliable call and text performance, though data speeds may be slower in congested urban areas.

Lyca Mobile Overview

Lyca Mobile stands out with its strong international focus, offering services across multiple countries. Operating on T-Mobile’s robust 5G network, it provides reliable coverage throughout the U.S. What makes Lyca Mobile unique is its emphasis on global connectivity, including free international calling to over 80 countries. This feature makes it an excellent choice for users who frequently connect with friends and family abroad. Lyca Mobile also provides flexible plan options, ranging from monthly to multi-month plans, catering to a variety of needs.

Tello Mobile Coverage

Tello Mobile utilizes T-Mobile’s expansive 5G and 4G LTE networks, delivering strong coverage across the majority of the U.S. As T-Mobile continues to enhance its network and expand its 5G infrastructure, Tello customers enjoy fast and dependable service with ongoing improvements. To ensure the best experience, it’s always a good idea to check Tello's local coverage map for the most accurate information about cell phone service in your area.

Lyca Mobile Coverage

Lyca Mobile, as an MVNO, operates by leasing network coverage from major carriers—in this case, T-Mobile—while other MVNOs may partner with AT&T or Verizon. By leveraging T-Mobile's network, Lyca Mobile provides extensive 5G coverage throughout the U.S. To ensure you have reliable service, it’s important to review and compare coverage maps from different carriers. Lyca Mobile’s coverage map is a useful resource, showing cellular tower locations and their respective network owners.

Coverage Comparison

Tello operates on T-Mobile’s robust 5G and 4G LTE networks, providing reliable coverage across most of the U.S., with ongoing improvements as T-Mobile expands its infrastructure.

Lyca Mobile, also using T-Mobile’s network, delivers extensive nationwide 5G coverage, with a focus on global connectivity for international users.

Both carriers offer strong coverage through T-Mobile’s network, but your experience may vary based on your location, so checking local coverage maps is essential.

Tello Mobile Plans

Unlimited Plan — $29/month

The Unlimited Plan offers 25GB of high-speed data, after which speeds slow to 64 kbps, making Wi-Fi use recommended. Compared to Mint Mobile's unlimited plan, which offers 40GB of data for $30/month with a yearlong contract, Tello's plan provides less data but at a slightly lower price. This plan also includes unlimited minutes and hotspot access up to the 25GB cap, making it a solid choice for average data users. At $29 per month, it costs $1.16 per GB.

Pros: Competitive price for high data usage. Cons: Data slows significantly after 25GB cap. Best for: Average data users looking for an affordable plan with decent data allowance.

Runner-Up: 10GB Plan — $24/month

This plan provides 10GB of high-speed data and hotspot access, with varying minute options. After reaching the data cap, speeds drop to 64 kbps. At $24 per month with unlimited minutes, the cost is $2.40 per GB.

Pros: Hotspot access, customizable minute options.
Cons: Limited data for hotspot use.
Best for: Light data users who need some flexibility in their plan.

5GB Plan — $19/month

The 5GB plan includes unlimited texts, hotspot use, and customizable minute options. It’s priced at $19 per month with unlimited minutes, or as low as $15 with no minutes included.

Pros: Flexible minute choices.
Cons: Price per GB increases with lower data amount.
Best for: Light data users who need a low-cost, flexible option.

2GB Plan — $14/month

Tello’s 2GB plan includes unlimited texts, hotspot access, and minute customization. Priced at $14 per month with unlimited minutes, this plan costs $7 per GB.

Pros: Hotspot access, customizable minutes.
Cons: Higher cost per GB.
Best for: Lighter data users looking for a basic plan with some flexibility.

1GB Plan — $10/month

For minimal data needs, the 1GB plan costs $10 per month with unlimited minutes. It also offers minute customization.

Pros: Affordable for minimal use.
Cons: High cost per GB.
Best for: Very light data users who want the most affordable plan.

500MB Plan — $9/month

The smallest plan offers 500MB of data at $9 per month, with unlimited minutes and hotspot access until the cap is reached.

Pros: Budget-friendly for minimal data users.
Cons: Higher cost per GB compared to larger plans.
Best for: The lightest data users who need minimal mobile data.

No Data Plans — Starting at $5/month

This plan offers unlimited texts and flexible minute options, but with no data or hotspot access. Starting at $5 for 100 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for Wi-Fi-dependent users.

Pros: Very low cost for basic phone use.
Cons: No hotspot access.
Best for: Wi-Fi-only users and those with minimal data needs.

Family Plan Options

Tello offers flexible family plans, allowing families to customize each line with different data and minute options. Families can manage multiple lines under one account, adjusting each line's plan to suit individual needs.

Image suggestion: Can we come up with something like this for both Tello Mobile and Lyca Mobile using the info on the table I provided?

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.

Image suggestion: Can we come up with something like this for both Tello Mobile and Lyca Mobile using the info on the table I provided?

Plan Comparison

Tello and Lyca Mobile both offer affordable plans, but cater to slightly different needs. Tello plans provide flexible, customizable options with hotspot access, running on T-Mobile’s network, which is perfect for users who need a variety of data options and want the ability to adjust their plan as needed. On the other hand, Lyca Mobile plans stand out for its focus on international calling, offering free calls to over 80 countries. Like Tello, Lyca Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s network, ensuring solid coverage. If you're looking for flexibility in data usage, Tello is a great choice, while Lyca Mobile is ideal for those who prioritize staying connected globally.

Key Differences Between Tello and Lyca Mobile

Data Prioritization, Throttling, and Data Caps

Tello Mobile, like other MVNOs, may experience slower data speeds during periods of network congestion, especially in high-traffic areas like New York, D.C., and Chicago, or at large events. Mint Mobile caps video streaming at 480p on its unlimited plan and throttles data usage after 40GB, unlike Tello which does not impose these caps. During times of heavy network usage, MVNO customers typically face reduced speeds before those on major carriers. However, Tello’s contract-free service allows you to try it out and determine if it meets your needs.

Lyca Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s network, with speeds throttled after 40GB of high-speed data to prioritize T-Mobile users, especially in congested areas or during major events. While it offers 5G access, speeds may still be reduced once the data cap is hit. Despite these potential slowdowns, Lyca Mobile is a solid choice for those seeking affordable plans and international calling features.

Customer Satisfaction, Service, and Accessibility

Tello Mobile stands out for its customer satisfaction, offering flexible and affordable plans alongside reliable service. With excellent customer service reviews, Tello provides support through various channels including phone, email, and live chat. The carrier also enhances its offering with useful features like Wi-Fi calling, mobile hotspot access, and international calling options, contributing to an overall positive user experience.

Lyca Mobile provides convenient online customer support with multiple options for assistance. You can reach their team through live chat, available Monday to 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. Phone support is also available during these hours at 1 (866) 277-3221. This online-focused approach ensures that you can easily get help with any issues related to your plan, coverage, or device during their operating hours.

Service Reliability and Speeds

Tello Mobile’s service reliability and speeds are closely tied to its parent network, T-Mobile. As an MVNO, Tello Mobile piggybacks on T-Mobile’s network, which means that its customers can expect similar coverage and speeds. In general, Tello Mobile’s service is reliable, with few reported outages or disruptions. However, as with any MVNO, there may be instances where data speeds are slowed down due to network congestion.

In terms of data speeds, Tello Mobile’s plans offer a range of options, from 1GB to unlimited data. The unlimited plan, which costs $29 per month, offers 35GB of high-speed data before speeds are throttled. While this may not be the fastest data speed available, it’s still a great option for those who want a reliable and affordable cell phone plan.

The Verdict

When choosing between Tello Mobile and Lyca Mobile, the decision depends on whether you value customization and budget flexibility or international features and coverage.

Tello Mobile is perfect for users seeking affordable, customizable plans with no contracts, making it ideal for light to moderate data users who want flexibility without high costs. Powered by T-Mobile’s network, Tello offers good coverage, though speeds may slow during peak usage.

Lyca Mobile, also on T-Mobile’s network, stands out for its international calling options and global coverage. While it offers 5G speeds, data throttling may occur after exceeding certain limits, especially in high-traffic areas. It's a solid choice for frequent international callers but may experience slower speeds during congestion.

In short, choose Tello for affordable, flexible plans with good coverage if your data needs are moderate, or pick Lyca Mobile for international features and global reach, with some trade-offs in speed during high-demand times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Tello or Lyca Mobile offer international roaming?

Both Tello and Lyca Mobile provide international calling options, but they have different approaches to roaming. Tello Mobile's service offers affordable international calling rates to many countries, making it a great choice for international phone calls at low rates. On the other hand, Lyca Mobile provides a more robust international roaming plan, which may be ideal for frequent travelers. Before you go abroad, be sure to double-check the fine print of each carrier's roaming details to avoid any extra costs.

Can I keep my phone number when switching to Tello or Lyca Mobile?

Yes, both Tello and Lyca Mobile allow you to port your current phone number over when switching from another carrier. Just make sure to have your account details ready, and double-check with the carrier for any porting requirements. This ensures a smooth transition when switching to either carrier. Tello Mobile's plans make it easy for new customers to sign up and keep their existing phone numbers without hassle.

How do Tello and Lyca Mobile handle data overages or throttling?

Tello Mobile’s plans generally offer a set data allowance, after which your speeds are reduced to a much slower rate, often impacting the ability to enjoy unlimited data. Once you hit your data cap, speeds are throttled to ensure that more users on Tello’s network can maintain access. Lyca Mobile, similar to Mint Mobile’s unlimited plan, caps its high-speed data, after which throttling occurs. Be sure to check how much data your plan offers, as both carriers throttle speeds after you use up your high-speed data.

What is the customer service experience like with Tello and Lyca Mobile?

Tello provides customer service through phone, email, and live chat, earning praise for its responsive support. Tello Mobile's service offers consistent help with customer issues. Lyca Mobile’s customer service, available through chat and phone during specific hours, is effective but may have slightly longer response times, especially due to their online-only model. If you're looking for more responsive customer support, Tello's plans offer a slight edge over Lyca Mobile's service.

Are Tello and Lyca Mobile good for frequent data users?

Tello offers customizable, budget-friendly plans that are great for light to moderate data users. These plans include features like unlimited talk, making them particularly appealing for budget-conscious consumers. However, for users with high data needs, both Mint Mobile and Lyca Mobile might be more appealing. Mint Mobile’s unlimited plan provides more data at competitive prices, and Lyca Mobile offers larger data options and international roaming, making it a better choice for heavy data users. Keep in mind that both Tello Mobile and Lyca Mobile may throttle speeds once you surpass your data limit, so heavy data users may want to consider these factors when choosing between phone carriers.