Should you subscribe to Boost Mobile or Straight Talk?

If you’re just looking to get a data connection on your phone, Straight Talk is going to be one of your quickest and simplest options thanks to its wide range of networks. If you’re willing to make a bigger investment, you can save some money with Boost Mobile either by bringing multiple lines or staying longer. Keep in mind that Boost Mobile requires that you use the T-Mobile network for the loyalty discount.

Boost Mobile vs. Straight Talk How many lines do you need?

Boost Mobile has multi-line discounts up to five lines on all of its major plans and multiple promotions for four lines. If you want to get your whole family connected, Boost Mobile will more than likely work out to be the best value for you. Straight Talk does have a plan for two lines but no more than that. For two lines, the Straight talk plan that comes with unlimited data is a good deal at $90 but if you need more than that Boost Mobile takes the lead in value.

Until recently, Boost Mobile was owned and operated by Sprint. As part of T-Mobile’s deal to buy Sprint, Boost Mobile was sold to Dish, which plans to operate on T-Mobile’s network for seven years while it readies a full 5G network for its customers. This is likely far enough out that most people won’t be bothered by the change if they sign up for the T-Mobile-based Expanded Network.

Boost Mobile vs. Straight Talk Pick your Boost Mobile network

Boost Mobile used Sprint’s network exclusively until recently, adding an option to switch to what it’s calling the Expanded Network. This network is based on T-Mobile and brings with it denser coverage than the older Sprint network, especially in rural and suburban areas. That’s not to say it will be an improvement for everyone but the majority of people should see some benefit.

For now, Boost Mobile customers can choose between the two networks. You’ll most likely find better coverage with the new network but you should still take a look at the Expanded Network coverage map and the Nationwide coverage map to make sure they work for you. The Expanded network also has 5G access if you have coverage.

Boost Mobile vs. Straight Talk What to know about Straight Talk’s networks

With Straight Talk, you’ll be able to use either AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, or Verizon, depending on which network your phone is compatible with and which one has coverage for you. You can check this coverage map by entering your zip code and selecting which network your phone came from. Keep in mind that if you want to use hotspot data, you need to select something other than AT&T.

Boost Mobile vs. Straight Talk What are Boost Mobile’s plans?

There are two different sets of plans depending on which network you want to use. The Nationwide Network has three different options. Starting at $35 per month, you can get 3GB of data. For the same cost, you can get 6GB if you sign up at Walmart. The other two plans come with 35GB of LTE data with unlimited 2GB data. The difference between the two plans comes down to how much mobile hotspot data you need.

If you want to go with the Expanded Network, there are quite a few plans to choose from. Starting at just $10 per month, you can get 1GB of data if you are a new customer and bring your own device. $5 more per month takes that up to 2GB and $25 per month comes with 5GB of data. For any customer, there is a 10GB $35 per month plan.

The most interesting Boost Mobile plan is the Shrink-It plan with 15GB of data starting at $45 per month. With this plan, if you make six on-time payments in a row, your price comes down to $35 per month.

The two 35GB plans mirror the plans on the NAtionwide Network with 12GB and 30GB of mobile hotspot data available. The larger plan here also comes with HD video streaming.

Additional features such as international calling and more hotspot data can be added on by signing into your account.

Boost Mobile vs. Straight Talk What are Straight Talk’s plans?

Straight Talk has more straightforward plans starting at $30 per month with 1,500 minutes and 100MB of data. You get 50% more data if you enable auto-refill. Next up is a 5GB and a 25GB data plan with unlimited talk and text. These plans come in at $35 and $45 per month, respectively, and you can save a dollar by enabling auto-refill. The 25GB plan can be bought for extended periods of three, six, or twelve months for $130, $255, and $495 respectively.

If you’re looking for unlimited, you have two options starting with a basic unlimited talk, text, and data with 10GB of hotspot data for $55 per month. Hotspot data isn’t available on the AT&T network. You can get two lines with this plan for $90 per month but you don’t get the hotspot data.

Finally, there’s the Unlimited International plan that comes with 25GB of data and unlimited talk and text. You also get unlimited calls to mobile phones in Mexico, China, Canada, and India. If you need more high-speed data, it can be added at $5 per 1GB.

Boost Mobile vs. Straight Talk What phones are compatible with Boost Mobile and Straight Talk?

The easiest way to see if your phone will work with Boost Mobile is to enter the IMEI on Boost’s website. Most unlocked phones will work on either of Boost Mobile’s network excluding phones purchased from Sprint. Boost sells phones as well including a decent range of Androids and iPhones. You will still need to pay for the phones outright but some of the lower-end models are very affordable.

Pretty much any unlocked phone can be activated on Straight Talk thanks to its available networks. You can also check on Straight Talk’s BYOD page if you want to be sure. If you’re ready for a new phone, you can buy one from Straight Talk. You can choose from high-end Samsungs and iPhones down to cheap Androids. You can even sign up for a payment plan on some models.

Boost Mobile vs. Straight Talk Which should you subscribe to?

In some scenarios, Straight Talk is a great option and its international plan can be a great value for someone that needs it. It also excels at compatibility thanks to its support for all major networks. Still, for most people, Boost Mobile’s Expanded Network will provide plenty of coverage and compatibility. Boost’s plans also have more opportunities to save with multiple lines or simply paying your bill on time.

Multi-line Savings

Boost Mobile

An expanded network and loyalty discounts

From $35/month at Boost Mobile

With its newly expanded network and range of plans, Boost Mobile has some great ways to save especially if you have a few lines.

Any Network

Straight Talk

Choose your plan and network

From $30/month at Straight Talk

Straight Talk keeps it simple with great network coverage and plenty of data. Phone compatibility doesn’t get any better.