Which MVNOs Run on Sprint’s Network?

MVNOs are small carriers that run on the network of one or more of the “Big Four” networks—Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and Sprint. There are more than 25 MVNOs that run on Sprint’s network; sorting through them all can get overwhelming, which is why we’ve compiled them for you.

When you pick a Sprint MVNO, you theoretically receive the same network coverage as customers on Sprint. Unfortunately, though, Sprint’s coverage ranks last out of the “Big Four,” behind Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T, covering the least amount of territory. That said, Sprint’s coverage is strongest on the East Coast and in the Northeast, so if you live in these areas you shouldn’t have any problem with your service.

Although Sprint is now technically T-Mobile, Sprint MVNOs still exist, utilizing Sprint’s network and coverage

Sprint MVNO cell phone plans are typically cheaper than those found through Sprint, plus you may have the added benefit of getting to customize your own plan according to your data, text, and talk priorities. Some Sprint MVNOs worth checking out include:

• Straight Talk.
• Boom! Mobile.
• Freedompop.
• Google Fi.
• Tello.
• Ting Mobile.
• Pix Wireless.

These are just a few examples of MVNOs that operate on Sprint’s network. You’ll want to keep reading to learn more about other small carriers and their plans.

With a Sprint MVNO, you receive less network coverage than an MVNO through Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile.

Pros & Cons of Sprint MVNOs

Advantages

Of the major four networks, Sprint has the most MVNO options for you to choose from. Since there is such a large selection of Sprint MVNOs, these small carriers consistently offer low, competitive prices to gain customers. Plus, variety is the spice of life!

Some of the small carriers using Sprint’s network have come up with creative approaches to cell phone plans. For instance, Ting Mobile and Tello allow you to build your own plan. Instead of choosing from predetermined plan options, you can set your own amount of minutes, text messages, and data. You can even choose on a data-only plan if you so desire.

Certain Sprint MVNOs such as Google Fi and Republic Wireless utilize WiFi to provide cell phone service. What this means is that whenever WiFi is available, your calls and texts will travel over this wireless signal instead of Sprint’s cellular network.

If you’re someone who doesn’t want to have to deal with the hassle of a credit check before signing up for a cell phone plan, then an MVNO may be a good choice for you. Signing up for an MVNO is simple, easy, and relatively risk-free. What’s more, some of them, like Freedompop, even have money-back guarantees.

It’s typically pretty easy for you to bring your own phone to a Sprint MVNO, particularly if you’re coming from Sprint itself. Even if you don’t have a Sprint phone, there’s a chance that you’ll be able to make the switch without any hiccups since many Sprint MVNOs run on other networks, like AT&T. If you want to check your phone’s compatibility with Sprint’s network, check your phone’s IMEI and enter it on their site.

Disadvantages

A disadvantage of Sprint MVNOs is potentially poor coverage, depending on where you live. Sprint’s 4G LTE network is relatively small, covering only 27% of the U.S. Compare this to AT&T with 58%, T-Mobile with 59%, or Verizon’s whopping 70% 4G LTE coverage. Before choosing an MVNO that operates exclusively on Sprint, you’ll want to check out the map below to make sure adequate coverage in your area. Fortunately, many MVNOs use multiple networks, so if you choose a Sprint MVNO that also uses Verizon, chances are you’ll be good to go as far as coverage is concerned.

Sprint Coverage Map

Another potential drawback of MVNOs is that customers may experience data deprioritization during times of network congestion, resulting in reduced data speeds. This is because customers on the parent network receive priority when this occurs. However, research suggests that Sprint MVNOs experience similar download speeds to the parent networks on which they run, so it’s possible that this factor doesn’t directly impact Sprint MVNO customers.

Further, Sprint MVNOs don’t usually allow roaming on other networks, such as Verizon or T-Mobile, in locations without Sprint towers. Typically only full-fledged Sprint customers have the privilege of roaming on other networks. This can be solved by choosing a Sprint MVNO that also operates on other networks.

The last downside of MVNOs in general is that they aren’t always the best place to purchase a new phone, since their device offerings are often limited. Don’t get discouraged, though—some small carriers, like Boost Mobile, have a wide selection of phones, including the newest iPhone and Samsung Galaxy releases.

Customers on Sprint MVNOs typically receive similar data speeds to customers on the parent network.

List of Sprint’s MVNOs

Choosing which main network you want your MVNO to run on is half the battle, but there are still a lot of options for you to sift through once you’ve settled on Sprint. Some Sprint MVNOs allow you the freedom of a choose-your-own approach to building a plan. Some use WiFi as a way to provide you with extra service. Others provide you with international calling options. The right MVNO for you will depend on your personal preferences.

Check out the full list below of Sprint MVNOs.

Most Sprint MVNO plans are prepaid, which means you’re required to pay for your service in advance. If you instead want a postpaid plan whereby you pay for service at the end of the month, you’ll probably want to consider a plan through Sprint or one of the other three major networks.

Find an MVNO Plan