What is Spectrum Mobile? Is it Worth it? - MoneySavingPro (2024)

5 min read

Updated October 30, 2023

Written by

Rob Webber

Edited by

Amanda Webber

MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.

Spectrum Mobile is an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) that provides cell phone plans to Spectrum Internet customers. As an existing customer, bundling your mobile service can save you up to $600 annually when you make the switch.

By providing coverage on the Verizon network, Spectrum Mobile offers cost-effective cell phone plans without compromising on coverage or the features you enjoy.

Additionally, you have the option to bring your own phone to Spectrum Mobile, further reducing costs. To help you determine if Spectrum Mobile service is the right choice for you, continue reading to explore their plans, benefits, drawbacks, and more.

1. Is Spectrum Mobile good?

When searching for a new phone plan or comparing available options, Spectrum Mobile plans offer a range of valuable services that may align with your needs.

After personally comparing different carriers, I've found that Spectrum Mobile has numerous advantages, including an affordable selection of phones and reliable network coverage.

Through my hands-on experience with Spectrum Mobile, I have found that there are both pros and cons to this low-cost carrier:

Spectrum Mobile advantages

• Free access to Spectrum Wi-Fi hotspots
• Unlimited calls and texts are included in all plans
• Mobile hotspot data usage available with all plans
• Access to 5G (for phones compatible with 5G)
• Free international texting & international roaming are available
• No hidden fees - all taxes and fees are included in the pricing

Spectrum Mobile disadvantages

• Only available to existing Spectrum customers
• Mobile hotspot uses plan data
• Data throttling after reaching data allowance

2. Spectrum Mobile cell phone plans

Spectrum Mobile offers a diverse range of plans tailored to different users. Whether you just need a plan for calls and texts with data by-the-gig, or unlimited data plans for extensive streaming or gaming, they've got you covered.

All Spectrum Mobile plans include unlimited talk and text. One notable advantage this MVNO holds over its competitors is that all plans permit mobile hotspot data usage.

3. Spectrum Mobile 5G & 4G LTE coverage

4G

See Also

Spectrum Mobile Review

5G

The FCC collects coverage data, which only offers an approximate indication and doesn't account for indoor coverage. The actual speed and performance can vary depending on your location and device. The reception you experience is influenced by local conditions and elements like natural and artificial physical features in your area.

As an MVNO, Spectrum Mobile relies on the network infrastructure of a major network, and in this case, it's Verizon. That means you receive the same coverage and network quality as Verizon customers but at more affordable prices.

Of course, no network is flawless, and there might be areas where coverage or signal strength isn't optimal. Expert evaluation of coverage maps shows that Verizon excels in rural and remote areas, with some spottiness in the western US.

To determine coverage in your area, consult our Spectrum Mobile coverage map, especially if you're new to the Verizon network.

According to the latest RootMetrics report, statistical analysis demonstrates that Verizon offers the most reliable 5G connection out of all available networks. Keep in mind, though, as with most MVNOs; your data may be deprioritized during periods of heavy traffic.

4. Spectrum Mobile unlimited data

Spectrum Mobile customers can choose from two unlimited data plans, with 20GB and 30GB high-speed data caps, respectively.

There are no overage charges with Spectrum Mobile's unlimited plan; however, if you exceed your plan's 5G data caps, your speeds will be reduced.

The nice thing about Spectrum Mobile is that you can significantly reduce your mobile data usage by utilizing their free Wi-Fi hotspots whenever available. This can help offset the fact that "unlimited plans" aren't truly unlimited plans.

5. Spectrum Mobile family plans

Although Spectrum Mobile doesn't offer a family plan as such, you can certainly activate more than one line. This low-cost carrier stands out in comparison to its competitors by allowing you to have up to 10 lines.

Not only is the Spectrum Mobile line limit extremely generous, but you can share data among all of these lines if you so choose.

6. Spectrum Mobile features

7. Spectrum Mobile customer service

If you're interested in reading more from the perspective of actual users, you can explore our Spectrum Mobile customer reviews.

8. Bring your own phone to Spectrum Mobile

If you're happy with your old phone, you have the option to bring it to your Spectrum Mobile plan as long as it is unlocked and compatible. You can check if your phone is compatible by putting your IMEI number into our phone compatibility checker.

9. Spectrum Mobile phones

Spectrum Mobile offers an impressive selection of the latest models, including iPhones, Samsung devices, Pixel phones, and more. The best part is that you can pay for your phone in affordable monthly installments without any interest.

10. Spectrum Mobile activation

In contrast to most MVNOs, you have two options when signing up for a Spectrum Mobile plan. You can get your Spectrum Mobile SIM kit online and send it straight to your door or in a brick-and-mortar Spectrum Mobile store.

Once you have your SIM card, you can activate it in the Spectrum Mobile app. Alternatively, if you prefer an eSIM, you'll receive a QR code to instantly set up your wireless service.

Spectrum Mobile FAQs

Recap: Should you switch to Spectrum Mobile?

Spectrum Mobile, as an MVNO and internet provider, offers affordable phone plans that can save you up to $600 per year.

If you're already a Spectrum customer, this is a great way to reduce your phone plan expenses. Plus, you can sign up online or in a Spectrum Mobile store.

Powered by Verizon's network, Spectrum Mobile's plans provide affordability without compromising on coverage or features. You have the flexibility to bring your own phone or choose a new device.

To learn more from the perspective of a recognized authority in the mobile service industry, read our in-depth Spectrum Mobile review.

Spectrum Mobile info

Spectrum Mobile guides

• Spectrum Mobile Plans: How Do They Compare?
• Spectrum Mobile Coverage Map
• Spectrum Mobile Customer Reviews
• Spectrum Mobile SIM Cards
• Does Spectrum Mobile Support eSIM?
• How to Switch to Spectrum Mobile
• What is Spectrum Mobile? Is it Worth it?
• What Network does Spectrum Mobile Use?
• Where to Buy a Spectrum Mobile SIM Card