Cricket Wireless vs. Metropcs: Which Carrier Wins?
Choosing the right mobile carrier can feel overwhelming, with so many options vying for your attention. Two popular contenders in the budget-friendly arena are Cricket Wireless and Metro by T-Mobile. Both promise affordable plans and reliable service, but which one truly delivers the best value for your hard-earned money?
This comparison dives deep into the core offerings of each provider. We’ll examine their pricing structures, coverage areas, data speeds, and extra perks to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to explore the pros and cons of both Cricket Wireless and MetroPCS.
Whether you’re a heavy data user, a budget-conscious shopper, or simply seeking a better mobile experience, this guide is for you. We’ll break down the key differences between Cricket Wireless vs MetroPCS, empowering you to choose the carrier that perfectly aligns with your needs and lifestyle. Let’s get started!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Cricket Wireless | MetroPCS |
|---|---|---|
| Network Coverage | Good | Good |
| Data Speeds | 4G LTE, 5G | 4G LTE, 5G |
| Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) | Yes | Yes |
| International Calling | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Hotspot | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Service | Generally Good | Generally Good |
| Payment Options | Online, In-Store | Online, In-Store |
| Number of Plans | Multiple | Multiple |
| Family Plan Options | Yes | Yes |
| Data Rollover | Yes (on select plans) | No |
| Retail Locations | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Calling | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Price & Plans
- Cricket Wireless: Offers a variety of plans, from basic to unlimited data options. Generally, prices are competitive but can be slightly higher for unlimited data than some competitors. Pros include a reliable network and simple plan structures; cons can include slower data speeds on some plans.
- Metropcs: Known for its budget-friendly plans, frequently offering deals and promotions. Provides several unlimited data options, often with perks like streaming subscriptions. Pros are affordability and value; cons can include potential network congestion in certain areas.
- Winner: metropcs
Data Speeds & Throttling
- Cricket Wireless: Some plans offer prioritized data, while others may experience speed restrictions after exceeding a certain data allowance. The speeds on some of the cheaper plans are slower. Pros include consistent speeds on higher tier plans; cons are data throttling on lower tier plans.
- Metropcs: Offers 5G access on many plans, with varied data speeds depending on the plan chosen. Some plans may experience data throttling after a certain amount of data usage. Pros are fast 5G speeds; cons are potential throttling and network congestion.
- Winner: metropcs
Coverage Area
- Cricket Wireless: Utilizes AT&T’s network, offering extensive coverage across the United States. Coverage is generally reliable in urban and suburban areas. Pros include broad coverage; cons can include potential coverage gaps in rural regions.
- Metropcs: Operates on the T-Mobile network, also providing wide coverage, especially strong in urban centers. Coverage has been expanding rapidly. Pros are improving coverage; cons can include spotty coverage in some rural areas.
- Winner: cricket wireless
Phone Selection
- Cricket Wireless: Offers a wide range of phones, including budget-friendly options, mid-range devices, and flagship models. Often provides deals and promotions on phone purchases. Pros are diverse selection; cons are prices can be higher than competitors.
- Metropcs: Provides a broad selection of phones, with a focus on affordable and mid-range devices. Frequently offers promotions that bundle phones with plans. Pros are affordable phone options; cons are fewer flagship models.
- Winner: cricket wireless
International Features
- Cricket Wireless: Includes international calling and texting options in some plans, with add-ons available for global travel. Offers various international roaming options. Pros are international add-ons; cons are potential extra costs.
- Metropcs: Provides some international calling features, with options to add international calling packs. International roaming is available, but can be expensive. Pros are international calling and texting; cons are potential extra costs.
- Winner: cricket wireless
Customer Service
- Cricket Wireless: Offers customer support through various channels, including online chat, phone, and in-store assistance. Customer service quality can vary. Pros are multiple support options; cons are customer service reputation varies.
- Metropcs: Provides customer support via phone, online chat, and in-store locations. Support can sometimes be slow. Pros are support options; cons are slow support.
- Winner: cricket wireless
Taxes and Fees
- Cricket Wireless: Generally includes taxes and fees in the advertised monthly price. This makes the final cost easier to predict. Pros are clear pricing; cons are prices are slightly higher.
- Metropcs: May have some extra fees or taxes not included in the advertised price, which can add to the monthly bill. Pros are competitive prices; cons are some extra fees.
- Winner: cricket wireless
Network Reliability
- Cricket Wireless: Relies on AT&T’s network, known for its reliability and consistent performance, especially in populated areas. Coverage is generally reliable. Pros are reliable network; cons are coverage gaps in some areas.
- Metropcs: Uses T-Mobile’s network, which has improved significantly in recent years. Offers good speeds in many areas, but may be prone to congestion during peak times. Pros are improving network; cons are peak time congestion.
- Winner: cricket wireless
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Tie |
| Data Speeds | Tie |
| Plan Variety | Tie |
| Price | Tie |
| Customer Service | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- 5g Availability: Both Cricket Wireless and MetroPCS offer 5G access, providing faster data speeds in areas where 5G is available.
- Bring Your Own Device (byod): Both carriers allow you to bring your own compatible unlocked phone, saving you money on purchasing a new device.
- Multiple Plan Options: Both Cricket Wireless and MetroPCS offer a variety of plans, catering to different data needs and budgets.
- Coverage Areas: Both providers leverage major network infrastructure, offering broad coverage across the United States.
- Customer Service: Both carriers provide customer service options, including phone support and online resources, to assist with account management and technical issues.
Cricket Wireless Vs Metropcs Buying Guide
Coverage
Cricket Wireless leverages AT&T’s extensive network, providing solid coverage across the United States, especially in urban and suburban areas. However, rural coverage can be less reliable compared to some competitors. Metro by T-Mobile utilizes T-Mobile’s network, which has rapidly expanded its coverage in recent years, making significant strides to close the gap with AT&T and Verizon. Metro by T-Mobile is very strong in urban areas. Both providers offer 5G access where available, although speeds and availability can vary depending on location and plan.
Pricing and Plans
Cricket Wireless often presents straightforward, no-contract plans with fixed monthly costs. These plans typically include a set amount of data, with options for unlimited data plans. Metro by T-Mobile also offers a variety of plans, frequently including promotional offers and bundles. Metro by T-Mobile’s pricing can be competitive, especially when considering family plans or bundled services. It’s crucial to compare the specific data allowances, extra features (like hotspot data), and any hidden fees when evaluating the cost.
Data Speeds and Throttling
Cricket Wireless’s data speeds might be capped depending on the plan you choose. Some plans offer full-speed data up to a certain threshold, after which speeds may be throttled. Metro by T-Mobile often includes high-speed data allotments, but may also throttle speeds after you reach your data limit, depending on the plan. Both providers are subject to network congestion, which can affect speeds during peak usage times. Check the fine print on the specific plan you’re considering for data speed details.
Phone Selection and Compatibility
Cricket Wireless offers a range of phones, including budget-friendly options, as well as popular flagship devices. You can bring your own unlocked phone if it’s compatible with AT&T’s network. Metro by T-Mobile also has a wide selection of phones, often featuring deals and promotions on new devices. It’s generally a simpler process to bring your own phone to Metro by T-Mobile. Verify that your phone is compatible with the provider’s network to ensure full functionality, including 5G access.
Customer Service
Cricket Wireless provides customer support through various channels, including online chat, phone, and in-store assistance. Customer service experiences can vary, and wait times may fluctuate. Metro by T-Mobile also offers customer support via phone, online, and in-store locations. Reviews of Metro by T-Mobile customer service are mixed, with some customers reporting positive experiences while others have encountered issues. Consider reading recent reviews to gauge the current customer service quality.
Extra Features and Perks
Cricket Wireless often includes features like international calling and roaming options. They may also offer discounts on services or bundled deals. Metro by T-Mobile frequently includes extras like music streaming subscriptions, cloud storage, and access to T-Mobile Tuesdays rewards. These perks can add value to your plan, so consider them when comparing the overall offerings. Both providers may change their feature sets, so always check the most current plan details.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Cricket Wireless If…
- You value straightforward pricing and a generally reliable network.
- You prefer data rollover on select plans.
- You want a wide selection of phones and accessories.
- You want a good balance of features and price.
Buy MetroPCS If…
- You are looking for potential promotional deals and discounts.
- You prefer plans with bundled perks.
- You need a plan that includes international calling features.
- You are looking for a carrier with a wide selection of phones and accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Cricket Wireless and Metro by T-Mobile?
The primary distinction lies in their network infrastructure and parent companies. Cricket Wireless operates on AT&T’s network, while Metro by T-Mobile uses T-Mobile’s network. This impacts coverage areas, particularly in rural regions. Pricing strategies and plan features, such as included perks, also differentiate the two providers. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your location, data needs, and desired features.
Which provider offers better coverage?
Both providers have strong coverage, but it varies by location. Cricket Wireless, using AT&T’s network, excels in many urban and suburban areas, but its rural coverage may be less extensive. Metro by T-Mobile’s network has expanded rapidly, and it offers great coverage, particularly in cities. It’s best to check coverage maps for both providers in your specific area.
Are Cricket Wireless and Metro by T-Mobile prepaid services?
Yes, both Cricket Wireless and Metro by T-Mobile are prepaid mobile service providers. This means you pay for your service upfront, typically on a monthly basis, and there are no long-term contracts. This flexibility is a major advantage, allowing you to easily switch providers or cancel your service without penalty. You can also avoid credit checks.
Do I need a credit check to sign up?
No, typically, you do not need a credit check to sign up for either Cricket Wireless or Metro by T-Mobile. Because they are prepaid services, you pay for your service in advance, which eliminates the need for a credit check. This makes it easier to get approved for service, especially for those with limited or poor credit histories.
Can I bring my own phone to either provider?
Yes, both Cricket Wireless and Metro by T-Mobile generally allow you to bring your own compatible phone. Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the respective network’s frequencies and bands. Check the provider’s website for a compatibility checker to verify your phone’s eligibility before switching to either service.
Which provider offers better customer service?
Customer service experiences vary. Both providers offer support via phone, online chat, and in-store assistance. Reviews are mixed for both, so it’s challenging to definitively say which is “better.” It’s advisable to research recent customer service feedback and consider your personal needs and preferences when making your decision.
How do the data speeds compare?
Both Cricket Wireless and Metro by T-Mobile offer high-speed data, but speeds may be capped on certain plans or throttled after you reach a certain data limit. The actual speed you experience can also depend on network congestion and your location. Both providers offer 5G access where available, potentially providing faster speeds in those areas.
Final Verdict
Choosing between Cricket Wireless and Metro by T-Mobile depends on your priorities. Cricket Wireless, with its AT&T network, offers great coverage in many areas. Metro by T-Mobile, with its aggressive pricing and expanding network, is a strong contender. Metro by T-Mobile often presents better value through promotions and bundled perks. Ultimately, consider your specific coverage needs and plan features.
Winner: Metro by T-Mobile