Tello vs Ultra Mobile: Which Carrier is Better?

When comparing Tello vs. Ultra Mobile, it’s important to focus on what matters most to you—data, coverage, pricing, and overall service. Both carriers provide affordable prepaid plans with unlimited talk and text, but they differ in terms of data options and network coverage.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• How each carrier’s network coverage stacks up
• A side-by-side comparison of their pricing and data options
• The standout features that set each carrier apart

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 Overview

Tello Mobile is a smaller carrier that operates on T-Mobile’s network, known for its affordable plans and positive customer reviews. As an online-only provider, Tello offers customer support through convenient digital channels, such as chat and email. As a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Tello gives users the flexibility to customize their plans to fit their needs. With Tello, you can access T-Mobile’s reliable 5G and 4G LTE networks, all while paying significantly less than you would with larger carriers.

Ultra Mobile Overview

Ultra Mobile operates as an MVNO on T-Mobile’s network, providing a range of affordable plans designed for single-line users. With access to T-Mobile’s 5G and 4G LTE networks, Ultra Mobile ensures reliable coverage throughout the continental U.S., much like other major carriers. It’s a great option for those who value cost-effectiveness over the premium features offered by larger wireless providers, especially if you're okay with plans that come with limited data.

Tello Mobile Coverage

Tello Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G and 4G LTE networks, offering reliable coverage across most states. Since Tello’s service is tied to T-Mobile’s network, customers can expect similar quality, provided T-Mobile has strong coverage in their area. As T-Mobile continues to expand its 5G network and build new towers, Tello users benefit from faster and more reliable service nationwide. To ensure optimal coverage in your area, it’s recommended to check Tello’s coverage map.

Ultra Mobile Coverage

Ultra Mobile utilizes T-Mobile’s robust 5G and 4G LTE networks, offering excellent speed and coverage, especially in urban areas. T-Mobile’s 5G network is a leader in the industry, with impressive nationwide expansion plans to cover 90% of the U.S. population. Its 4G LTE network also provides reliable service in more rural areas. While Ultra Mobile customers can take advantage of these benefits, speeds may fluctuate during times of heavy network usage. To check how well Ultra Mobile performs in your area, you can consult their coverage map, which highlights T-Mobile’s tower locations and gives you a clearer idea of the service you can expect nearby.

Coverage Comparison

When comparing coverage between Tello and Ultra Mobile, both carriers operate on T-Mobile's network, providing access to its extensive 5G and 4G LTE coverage. This ensures strong service in urban areas and reliable connections in more rural locations.

Tello’s service mirrors T-Mobile’s coverage, so customers can expect solid performance as T-Mobile expands its 5G network. Similarly, Ultra Mobile benefits from T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G growth and dependable 4G LTE service, though speeds may dip during periods of network congestion. For both carriers, checking the coverage map is a good way to assess service in your area.

Tello Mobile Plans

Unlimited Plan

Tello's Unlimited Plan provides 25GB of high-speed data before throttling to 64 kbps, with WiFi recommended after the cap. At $29/month, it includes unlimited talk, text, and hotspot usage until the 25GB limit, translating to just $1.16 per GB.

Pros: Affordable for users with moderate data needs.
Cons: Significant slowdown after 25GB cap.
Best for: Average data users who need plenty of data at a competitive price.

Runner-Up: 10GB Plan

The 10GB Plan offers 10GB of high-speed data with unlimited talk and text. After the 10GB cap, speeds slow to 64 kbps. Priced at $24/month, it costs $2.40 per GB.

Pros: Hotspot access, flexible minute options.
Cons: Limited data for heavy hotspot use.
Best for: Light data users who need a bit more data and flexibility.

5GB Plan

For $19/month (or $15 without minutes), the 5GB Plan provides 5GB of data, unlimited texting, and customizable minute choices, with throttled speeds after reaching the cap. The cost per GB is higher than the Unlimited Plan.

Pros: Customizable minute options.
Cons: Higher cost per GB compared to higher-tier plans.
Best for: Light data users who need flexibility and a moderate amount of data.

2GB Plan

The 2GB Plan costs $14/month with unlimited minutes and hotspot access, though speeds slow to 64 kbps once the cap is reached. This plan costs $7 per GB.

Pros: Hotspot access, minute customization.
Cons: Higher price per GB for minimal data.
Best for: Light data users who want a small data allowance but still need some flexibility.

1GB Plan

At $10/month, the 1GB Plan includes unlimited minutes, customizable minute options, and costs $10 per GB.

Pros: Affordable for users with very minimal data needs.
Cons: Expensive per GB.
Best for: Users with very light data needs or those who only need a minimal amount of data.

500MB Plan

Tello’s smallest data plan, the 500MB Plan, costs $9/month with unlimited minutes and hotspot access until the data cap is reached.

Pros: Budget-friendly.
Cons: High cost per GB compared to larger plans.
Best for: Users with extremely light data requirements or those who use WiFi most of the time.

No Data Plans

This plan offers unlimited texting and flexible minute options with no data or hotspot access. Starting at $5 for 100 minutes, it's a great choice for those who rely solely on WiFi.

Pros: Affordable for basic phone use.
Cons: No data or hotspot access.
Best for: WiFi-only users or those with minimal phone needs.

Family Plan Options

Tello provides flexible family plans, allowing each line to be customized with different data and minute options. Families can manage multiple lines under one account, tailoring each line to individual needs.

Ultra Mobile Plans

Ultra Unlimited+ Plan with Unlimited International Calling

For users who need unlimited data and international connectivity, the Ultra Unlimited+ plan provides unlimited 5G & 4G LTE data every month. After exceeding the high-speed data, you can continue using data at slower speeds. This plan includes unlimited talk, text, and international roaming options, making it ideal for heavy data users and those traveling abroad.

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%)

You’ll get unlimited data for $37 per month.

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

Ultra Unlimited Plan

If you need unlimited data but don’t require as much hotspot usage, the Ultra Unlimited plan offers 10GB of mobile hotspot and unlimited talk and text. This plan also provides $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%)

You’ll get unlimited data for $31 per month.

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

15GB Plan

For users who need a balance of data and international features, the 15GB plan provides 15GB of full-speed 5G & 4G LTE data and unlimited talk and text. After 15GB, data speeds slow to 2G.

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%)

You’ll get 15GB for $2.60 per GB.

Pros: Generous data limit, international talk and text, mobile hotspot
Cons: Data slows after 15GB
Best for: Moderate data users who want a lot of international features

10GB Plan

For light to moderate data users, the 10GB plan provides 10GB of full-speed 5G & 4G LTE data per month. After exceeding the limit, data speeds slow to 2G. This plan includes unlimited talk and text and mobile hotspot features.

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%)

You’ll get 10GB for $2.90 per GB.

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

5GB Plan

The 5GB plan is perfect for light data users who don’t need a lot of data or mobile hotspot usage. After using the 5GB at full speed, data speeds slow to 2G. This plan is also great for 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%)

You’ll get 5GB for $4.80 per GB.

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

3GB Plan

For very light data users, the 3GB plan provides 3GB of full-speed 5G & 4G LTE data each month. After exceeding the limit, speeds slow to 2G. There’s no mobile hotspot access with this plan.

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%)

You’ll get 3GB for $6.33 per GB.

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

Talk & Text Plan

If you’re looking for basic connectivity with limited data, the Talk & Text Plan provides 250MB of data at full speed each month. After 250MB, data speeds slow to 2G. This plan also includes unlimited talk and text and mobile hotspot functionality.

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%)

You’ll get 250MB for $60 per GB.

Pros: Cheapest option, basic international connectivity
Cons: Extremely limited data
Best for: Those who need basic talk and text with minimal data

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Plan Comparison

Tello and Ultra Mobile offer affordable prepaid plans with unlimited talk and text. Tello plans provide customizable, contract-free options with flexible data allowances, while Ultra Mobile plans offer fixed plans with set data limits and include international calling in many plans. Tello is ideal for those who want more flexibility, while Ultra Mobile is a good choice for users needing international features and more structured plans.

Key Differences Between Tello and Ultra Mobile

Data Prioritization, Throttling, and Data Caps

Like other MVNOs, Tello Mobile may experience slower data speeds in high-traffic areas such as New York, D.C., Chicago, or during major events. During peak usage, MVNOs often see their speeds reduced before those of major carrier customers. With its no-contract service, Tello gives you the flexibility to try it out and see if it fits your needs.

Ultra Mobile provides unlimited 5G data, but users who exceed 35GB of high-speed data in a month may experience temporary slowdowns, especially during peak usage times in congested areas like major cities or large events. These speed reductions are typically temporary, with normal speeds returning once the network congestion clears. Ultra Mobile does not impose permanent throttling after the 35GB limit, but users may notice brief delays when the network is heavily loaded.

Customer Satisfaction, Service, and Accessibility

Tello Mobile earns high marks for customer satisfaction, thanks to its affordable and flexible plans, along with reliable service coverage. The carrier’s customer support receives positive feedback, with assistance available via phone, email, and live chat. Tello further enhances the user experience with added features like Wi-Fi calling, mobile hotspot functionality, and international calling options, making it a well-rounded choice for customers.

Ultra Mobile places a strong emphasis on customer care, offering a wide range of services to support users effectively. With a customer-first approach, the carrier ensures quick response times and provides multilingual support. Ultra Mobile’s customer service team is available in English, Spanish, and Mandarin from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST, while a 24/7 chatbot is also on hand to assist with any issues at any time.

The Verdict

Tello is ideal for users who want flexibility, allowing you to customize plans based on your data and call needs. It operates on T-Mobile’s 5G and 4G LTE networks, offering strong coverage at a budget-friendly price. Its online-only support may be a drawback for some, but it's perfect for those looking for a no-contract, low-cost option.

Ultra Mobile also uses T-Mobile’s network and stands out with its unlimited data plans and international calling options. With excellent customer service and multilingual support, Ultra Mobile is a great choice for those prioritizing international features and structured plans.

Ultimately, Tello is best for those seeking affordability and flexibility, while Ultra Mobile suits those looking for a more feature-rich plan with international benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Tello or Ultra Mobile offer family plans?

While both Tello and Ultra Mobile offer individual plans, neither carrier currently provides specific family plans. However, Ultra Mobile offers multi-line discounts, which can be a more affordable option for families looking to manage multiple lines under one account. By taking advantage of these discounts, you can save money on your phone bill and enjoy great coverage with Ultra Mobile's plans.

Can I use my current phone with Tello or Ultra Mobile?

Yes! Both Tello and Ultra Mobile allow customers to bring their own phones as long as they are unlocked and compatible with the carrier’s network. Tello operates on T-Mobile’s network, and Ultra Mobile uses the same T-Mobile network, ensuring that your phone will work as long as it’s compatible with T-Mobile’s 5G or 4G LTE network. This is great news for those looking to keep their current cell phone while switching to one of these affordable MVNO cell phone providers.

What happens if I exceed my data limit with Tello or Ultra Mobile?

If you exceed your data allocation, Tello allows you to purchase additional data to continue using your mobile network without interruption. On the other hand, Ultra Mobile offers unlimited high-speed data with a 35GB cap. Once you surpass this, speeds may be temporarily reduced during peak usage times, particularly in areas with heavy data users, such as major cities. The best part is that Ultra Mobile does not impose permanent throttling after the 35GB mark, so you’ll enjoy your cell phone service without worry once network congestion eases.

Can I switch plans easily with Tello or Ultra Mobile?

Yes! Both Tello and Ultra Mobile offer flexible, prepaid plans that can be easily changed at any time. Tello allows you to manually adjust your plan each month, giving you control over how much data and service you need. Ultra Mobile gives you the flexibility to switch between different ultra mobile plans, with no long-term commitment required. Whether you're a heavy data user or simply need a cheap cell phone plan for basic usage, both carriers offer great options to suit your needs.

Do Tello and Ultra Mobile offer international calling options?

Yes, both Tello and Ultra Mobile provide international calling features. Tello’s plans offer affordable international calls to a variety of countries, while Ultra Mobile provides international calling to over 80 countries with many of their cell phone plans. These options are perfect for those who need to stay connected with family or business in other countries without the expensive add-ons or additional cost found in major networks like Verizon's network.