compare phone plans and save up to 80%
compare now

Verizon vs. Spectrum Mobile: Which Carrier is Better?

August 17, 2024
*US 5G comparison maps of 2025*

experience america's largest & fastest 5G network

unlimited data, talk, and text + hotspot
$99/mo
for REALLY limitless
$49/mo
for founding members

Verizon is one of the three major wireless networks popular in the United States, and Spectrum Mobile is an MVNO tied to Spectrum Internet. Bundling this deal with your internet service is a great way to save on your cell phone bill, as long as you are okay without unlimited high-speed data each month! Spectrum Mobile has a great set of plans for Internet customers, including shared-data plans and limited-data plans. Spectrum Mobile is not as prominent in the advertising sphere as major wireless networks or MVNOs like Mint Mobile, but that does not mean you should overlook the company! 

In this article, we plan to discuss the ins and outs of both carriers and what they offer. We’ll also cover:

  • What the coverage of both carriers looks like
  • How do the prices of their plans compare to how much data you get
  • The features each carrier offers for their plans 

Coverage & Reception

Spectrum Mobile operates as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), which means it buys network service access in bulk from major carriers like T-Mobile. This allows Spectrum Mobile to offer customers lower-priced plans while leveraging Verizon’s extensive network.

When comparing coverage and reception, Spectrum and Verizon, as you may expect, offer the same widespread national coverage. To find the best service for your location, it's advisable to consult local coverage maps.

A crucial distinction between these carriers lies in data priority. Verizon customers typically enjoy higher data priority compared to Spectrum Mobile users. During peak times when network traffic is heavy, carriers like Verizon prioritize data speeds based on customer tiers:

  • Tier 1 Data: Guarantees the highest speeds at all times, only slowing in extreme congestion scenarios like large events.
  • Tier 2 Data: Maintains high speeds unless Tier 1 users also experience slowdowns, making it generally reliable but potentially slower in densely populated areas.
  • Tier 3 Data: The first to be throttled during congestion. Spectrum Mobile uses this tier, providing cost-effective plans but with lower data priority.

Verizon's plans include Tier 1 and Tier 2 data options, ensuring higher priority for their customers. In contrast, Spectrum Mobile's plans use Tier 3 data, meaning users may encounter more slowdowns, particularly in urban areas with heavier network traffic. 

The best way to determine the congestion in your area is to use the network for a couple of months and keep track of data slowdowns in your daily cell phone usage. Based on your location, your plan, and the extent to which you rely on mobile data, different types of customers in the exact same area may experience deal-breaking levels of congestion or not mind at all. Unfortunately, it is not recommended to switch between mobile services with great regularity, which is why we will give you as much data as possible so you can find the perfect new carrier! Interested in a detailed breakdown of major wireless networks and MVNOs? Check out our website

Verizon's Store
Your cell habits are an important way to distinguish whether Spectrum Mobile or Verizon is better for you. 

Plan Options

Verizon offers various plans that provide unlimited data, while Spectrum offers a quartet of data plans with limited high-speed data. Along with high-speed data, both carriers offer unlimited talk and text along with various features and add-ons. First up, let’s talk about Verizon’s cell phone plans. 

Verizon Cell Phone Plans

Verizon offers three cell phone plans, keeping their offerings simple and efficient. The price of these cell phone plans varies tremendously based on how many lines are on your account. We recommend at least three lines on this major provider, as it saves $30 on each line each month. These are Verizon’s cell phone plans: 

  • Welcome Unlimited, priced at $65/55/40/30 a month per line
  • Unlimited Plus, priced at $80/70/55/45 a month per line
  • Unlimited Ultimate, priced at $90/80/65/55 a month per line

The Unlimited Plus plan is a little more expensive and comes with the following perks: 

  • 30 GB mobile hotspot
  • Device savings
  • Price guarantee
  • Premium data

Regardless of the number of lines, the Unlimited Plus plan is $15 more per line on your account. This is a lot, but the premium data is handy in spaces with high data usage. It is hard to gauge how important premium data is. There are many areas around the country where Verizon’s network is strong enough to keep everyone using full-speed data.

Unlimited Ultimate doubles the hotspot data and opens up some new customer deals. This is an excellent choice for people who are willing to pay a premium for their cell phone service in order to get all the bells and whistles on their cell phone plan. 60 GBs of high-speed hotspot data is excellent for those who need to use data on laptops or tablets on the go. 

Premium data is most valuable for those in big cities. There is a lot of congestion in big cities, and Data is frequently slowed down in other areas, especially in big cities. We recommend starting on the less expensive plan and checking your data speeds for a month or two. If you notice slow data, we recommend switching to a more expensive plan if you have the budget for it. 

Alongside the base plans, Verizon offers a package of optional add-ons that each add $10 to your cell phone bill. The best part is that you can skip them entirely and stick to the base plan price, but if you find any Verizon add-ons you like, adding them to your plan always saves a few dollars on the service. 

Spectrum Mobile Cell Phone Plans

Spectrum Mobile offers three plans, each with its own benefits and downsides. The three Spectrum Mobile phone plans are as follows: 

  • $20 per month, $5 for each GB for Spectrum Mobile’s by the gig plan
  • $30 per month ($15 with 2+ lines) with Spectrum Unlimited
  • $40 per month ($25 with 2+ lines) with Spectrum Unlimited Plus

Spectrum Mobile’s array of cell phone plans is an excellent choice for anyone with Spectrum Internet. Their by-the-gig plan is excellent for anyone who uses almost no data each month. Since you can share it with your household, as long as everyone is careful about high-speed data usage, this will save you a lot on your cell phone bill. 

Regarding Spectrum’s two unlimited plans, both are well-priced in relation to what they offer. Spectrum’s Unlimited plan offers 30 GB of high-speed data, 5 GB of hotspot data, and multi-line savings. Their Unlimited Plus plan offers 50 GB of high-speed data, 10 GB of hotspot data, and free roaming in Mexico and Canada, perfect for North American travelers. 

Their unlimited plans are well priced with the competition, and since you must already have Spectrum Internet if you are interested in Spectrum Mobile, the bundle is always your best bet. 

Hand holding an smartphone with Ting Mobile logo on the screen in their office
There are lots of cell phone plans in the United States. Make sure to do your research so you can pick out the right one!

Major Wireless Network vs. MVNO

One of the biggest differences between Verizon and Spectrum Mobile is that Verizon is a major wireless network, while Spectrum Mobile operates as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO). Understanding the differences between these types of carriers is crucial.

Data Throttling and Data Deprioritization

Deprioritization

Data deprioritization occurs when a network experiences high traffic and cannot handle the current level of usage. This happens frequently, although it's challenging to quantify its occurrence precisely. Major wireless networks may offer certain plans with a premium tier of data, which is prioritized over other traffic. Once this premium data is exhausted, users are more likely to experience slower speeds for the remainder of the billing cycle.

Throttling

Data throttling happens when users on limited data plans exceed their monthly data allowance. This is separate from network congestion and results in significantly reduced speeds. Unlike deprioritization, throttling drastically slows data until the next billing cycle, when a new data allocation restores normal speeds.

As an MVNO, Spectrum Mobile's data speeds fluctuate more than Verizon's. Spectrum Mobile customers are more frequently subjected to data deprioritization because Spectrum must yield bandwidth to Verizon's direct customers during times of network congestion. This makes Spectrum Mobile, and other MVNOs, less reliable in terms of consistent data speeds.

Impact on Data Speeds

In densely populated cities such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Chicago, and Miami, MVNOs like Spectrum Mobile often face significant congestion. The network strength in these areas is typically robust, but the sheer number of residents and commuters can overwhelm the system. Consequently, Spectrum Mobile users in these locations are more likely to experience slowed data speeds.

Predicting congestion in less populated areas and rural regions is more challenging. However, events such as festivals, concerts, and sporting events can temporarily overload local networks. If you've ever attended a major event and struggled with slow data, you've experienced the effects of network congestion firsthand.

Verizon’s Advantage

Verizon, as a major network, does not throttle its customers' data on plans that include unlimited high-speed data. Additionally, Verizon experiences less data deprioritization compared to Spectrum Mobile. Verizon customers benefit from either Tier 1 or Tier 2 data, which means MVNO customers are always deprioritized before those on the major network.

In summary, while Spectrum Mobile offers cost-effective plans through its use of Verizon's network, it is more susceptible to data deprioritization, especially in high-traffic areas. Verizon, with its higher data priority and robust infrastructure, generally provides more reliable and consistent data speeds.

Customer Service 

Verizon has physical locations and robust online customer service offerings, while Spectrum Mobile only has online customer service. You can call Verizon’s customer service line on this number: 800-922-0204. You can also reach Verizon’s help pages following this link, which has answers to frequently asked questions, the option to chat, and more. 

For Spectrum Mobile, you can contact them here: 888-369-2408 or access their help page here

The Verdict

Due to data deprioritization and data throttling, Spectrum Mobile is best for people who don’t rely on high-speed data when they are out and about. With a maximum of 20 GB of high-speed data on their cell phone plans, any high-data users will quickly cut through their high-speed data allocation and then be stuck with slow data speeds for the rest of the month. 

The other major downside of Spectrum Mobile is that users must also use Spectrum Internet to qualify for a cell phone plan. It’s a great bundle, but it is very limiting. Overall, we recommend Verizon over Spectrum Mobile. It is more expensive, but it comes with far more features that make it a better bet for the majority of users. This is an interesting matchup because if you do have Spectrum Internet, the prices of Spectrum's internet+mobile bundle are very appealing. Unfortunately, Spectrum Internet is only available in a few states around the country, meaning it might not even be on the table. 

We’d recommend checking your data usage before committing to a plan. Being able to limit your data consumption opens up the option for far more low-data plans that are a fraction of the cost of major wireless unlimited high-speed data plans. The downside, of course, is that it is difficult to keep data consumption low. 

Hand holding phone
We hope this article has answered all your questions regarding Verizon vs. Spectrum Mobile! 

Want to compare other carriers?

Really.com helps users compare features, coverage, prices, reviews, and more!

Are you still unsure which carrier to choose or which phone plan to pick? Use really.com to compare your top choices and find the best deal to fit your needs. Really allows you to compare and sort between most phone plans on the market without the hassle!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Verizon and Spectrum Mobile?

THe primary difference is that Verizon owns and operates its network infrastructure, offering high-priority data and extensive nationwide coverage. Spectrum Mobile, on the other hand, is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that uses Verizon’s network to provide more affordable plans with lower data priority.

How does coverage compare between Verizon and Spectrum Mobile?

Both Verizon and Spectrum Mobile (using Verizon’s network) provide comprehensive nationwide coverage. However, Verizon has awesome coverage in rural areas, as well as great 5G coverage in major metropolitan areas. It’s best to check local coverage maps for precise information about your area.

What are data priority tiers, and how do they affect service?

Data priority tiers determine the order in which users experience slowdowns during network congestion. Verizon offers Tier 1 and Tier 2 data, which means their customers enjoy higher priority and faster speeds. Spectrum Mobile uses Tier 3 data, which is the first to be slowed down in high traffic situations, resulting in potentially slower speeds for its users.

Are there significant price differences between Verizon and Spectrum Mobile plans?

Yes, Spectrum Mobile generally offers more budget-friendly plans compared to Verizon. This is because Spectrum Mobile, as an MVNO, purchases network access in bulk and passes those savings onto customers. However, the trade-off is lower data priority and potential slowdowns during congestion.

Will I notice a difference in data speeds between Verizon and Spectrum Mobile?

During periods of heavy network traffic, Verizon customers are less likely to experience slowdowns due to higher data priority. Spectrum Mobile users, with Tier 3 data, are more likely to notice reduced speeds in such situations, especially in densely populated areas.

Which carrier is better for rural areas?

Verizon typically offers better coverage and reliability in rural areas compared to other major wireless networks . If you live or frequently travel to rural regions, Verizon may provide more consistent service.

Can I use my existing phone with Spectrum Mobile?

Yes, most unlocked phones that are compatible with Verizon’s network can be used with Spectrum Mobile. It’s recommended to check with Spectrum Mobile for specific compatibility requirements.

Do both carriers offer 5G coverage?

Yes, both Verizon and Spectrum Mobile offer 5G coverage in many areas. However, the extent and quality of 5G service can vary, so it’s advisable to check 5G availability in your specific location.

Which carrier offers better customer service?

Customer service experiences can vary widely, but generally, Verizon has a strong reputation for customer support. Spectrum Mobile’s customer service is also highly rated, especially considering its focus on affordability and value.

How do I decide which carrier is better for me?

Consider your budget, coverage needs, and tolerance for potential data slowdowns. If you prioritize nationwide coverage, high data speeds, and don’t mind paying a premium, Verizon may be the better choice. If you seek a more affordable option and are okay with potential slowdowns during peak times, Spectrum Mobile could be a better fit. Checking local coverage maps and comparing plan details will help in making an informed decision.

compare phone plans and save up to 80%

Verizon myPlan Unlimited Plus

myPlan Unlimited Plus
data
Unlimited premium data
Hotspot access
30GB premium, then unlimited deprioritized
Best for:
Heavier data users
More Details

Verizon myPlan Unlimited Welcome

myPlan Unlimited Welcome
data
Unlimited deprioritized data
Hotspot access
Add-on available
Best for:
Heavy data users
More Details

Verizon myPlan Unlimited Ultimate

myPlan Unlimited Ultimate
data
Unlimited premium data
Hotspot access
60GB premium, then unlimited deprioritized data
Best for:
Heaviest data users, travelers
More Details

Spectrum Mobile By the GB

By the GB
data
1GB, then $14 per GB
Hotspot access
5GB, then unlimited at 3G speeds
Best for:
Light data users
More Details

Spectrum Mobile Unlimited

Unlimited
data
20GB
Hotspot access
5GB, then unlimited at 3G speeds
Best for:
Average data users
More Details

Spectrum Mobile Unlimited Plus

Unlimited Plus
data
30GB
Hotspot access
5GB, then unlimited at 3G speeds
Best for:
Heavy data users
More Details

compare your carrier and save up to 63%

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
data
This is some text inside of a div block.
Hotspot access
This is some text inside of a div block.
Best for:
This is some text inside of a div block.
More Details