Verizon MVNOs: What are they and which is the best option? (2024)

FAQs

Verizon MVNOs: What are they and which is the best option? ›

The best Verizon MVNO depends on your needs, but Visible, Xfinity Mobile, RedPocket, Ting, and Twigby are some of the best options. If you want Verizon's reliable coverage without thinking too hard about it, Visible offers two straightforward plans, and it's owned directly by Verizon.

Full MVNO is considered the most entrenched type of MVNO. Full-MVNOs typically have greater access to the mobile network operator's infrastructure. Full-MVNOs are responsible for all other elements in the value chain, resulting in greater investment on their part.

MVNOs offer contracts and SIM only deals at a much cheaper price than the main operators, which means you save money while still getting good coverage. However, one of the main cons is that you don't get the same benefits you would as a customer of the main operator.

Mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) in the United States lease wireless telephone and data service from the three major cellular carriers in the country, AT&T Mobility, T-Mobile US, and Verizon.

Tracfone Wireless

In 2021, Verizon acquired TracFone Wireless, Inc. from Mexico-based América Móvil for US$6.9 billion. TracFone is the largest MVNO carrier in the US, serving more than 20 million subscribers across the nation.

You'll want to choose an MVNO that not only fits your budget but has reliable coverage in your area, as carrier coverage differs by location. We think the best MVNOs on the market in 2024 include Visible, Mint Mobile, Cricket Wireless, and US Mobile.

Factors detering American consumers from switching to MVNOs

While there is a growing interest in what MVNOs can offer, particularly in terms of cost savings and flexible services, challenges such as customer loyalty to existing providers and concerns about network reliability remain significant hurdles.

Lack of Flexibility in Billing Plans

This lack of flexibility can be attributed to the MVNOs' dependence on their MNOs for network infrastructure, which restricts their ability to offer tailored plans. Additionally, MVNOs with limited resources may find it challenging to create and manage multiple billing plans.

One potential downside of MVNOs is that they may offer slower data speeds compared to their parent network operators. As MVNOs lease network services, they might have lower priority access to network resources during peak usage times.

Bringing your own device (BYOD)

Bringing your own phone to an MVNO can save you some cash, as you'll only need to pay for the phone plan's price. Before making the switch, you'll need to make sure that your phone is unlocked from your current network and compatible with the MVNO's network or networks.

Is total by Verizon a MVNO? ›

Total Wireless is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that relies on Verizon's towers to provide customers with the same great coverage at a fraction of the price.

The low price of an MVNO is largely attributed to the fact that MVNOs don't have to maintain their own physical networks. Given that they lease their network bandwidth from larger providers, they don't accrue the added overhead costs that go along with repairing equipment.

Lycamobile is the largest international MVNO in the world. With a focus on providing low-cost international calling rates, initially aimed at niche market segments like immigrant communities and students, Lycamobile has rapidly grown into an MVNO that everybody is watching.

Finally, Full MVNOs are the most sophisticated option. As a Full MVNO, you will typically have complete control over everything except radio access, which remains in the purview of MNOs. Full MVNOs are also sometimes referred to as “premium MVNOs” because they offer the most flexibility and control.

With an extensive national network, Verizon is the leading wireless provider. It receives top scores for network coverage, speed, and reliability. Verizon's plan and device flexibility, combined with excellent business features, makes it the clear winner in our best overall cell phone provider category.

However, even though Verizon tends to be more reliable in rural and remote areas, AT&T stands out for its 5G coverage, which surpasses Verizon's in scope. AT&T has an advantage in making it easier for customers to access high-speed connectivity.

What is an MVNO-type GID? Group identifiers (GIDs) refer to identifiers used within mobile networks to facilitate various operations. This includes determining the home network of a subscriber and managing connectivity. Stored on the SIM card, the GID is used to group subscribers or define service profiles.

Mint Mobile

It has many of the same network strengths and weaknesses as other T-Mobile-based MVNOs, but coverage should be solid for most customers. Fortunately, T-Mobile's network is easily one of the fastest in the United States, and with 5G, among the most advanced too.

As stated the most common types of MVNOs are Branded Resellers, Thin MVNOs, Light MVNOs, Thick MVNOs, and Full MVNOs.

3) Full MVNO/Thick MVNO

Compared to a Branded Reseller MVNO and a Light MVNO, a Full MVNO or Thick MVNO is one that manages everything on its own. For large setups and projects, a Full MVNO is always preferred as its suits best the requirements rather than a light MVNO or a Branded MVNO.