What is Mint Mobile and is it Worth it?
Mint Mobile is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), which means it uses another carrier’s towers. The company’s largest advantage is that it offers very affordable monthly service plans that start at as low as $15 per month, which enables users to save a ton of money on their wireless bills.
However, the company’s affordable plans are not its only perk. The wireless provider also offers extremely flexible plan options that enable users to choose the exact amount of monthly data they need. In order to keep the prices as low as possible, Mint has no stores or salespeople – instead, they sell their services and products directly online. Mint also offers customers access to the country’s largest 5G network for much lower prices. In addition, the company offers a ‘Bring Your Own Everything’ program that enables customers to bring their unlocked devices and current phone numbers to Mint.
As an interesting fact, users may also like the fact that Mr. Deadpool (actor Ryan Reynolds) is one of the Mint Mobile owners. For Deadpool fans, this may definitely be a plus.
What Special Features Does Mint Mobile Offer?
Mint Mobile offers some special features and procedures. Here’s how it works:
First of all, the company is all about simplicity. It does not offer any stores, salespeople, and other ‘nonsense’. Instead, customers can get everything they need from the comfort of their own homes.
Secondly, the company has numerous very affordable and flexible plans. The company’s plans come in 3, 6, and 12-month allotments. Once your plan ends, you can renew it with another allotment. You can also add data when you need it and change your plan whenever you wish to do so.
Before you decide to join the Mint family, make sure to check the coverage in your area and if you are planning on bringing your own device, also check the phone’s compatibility.
When you decide to move on with your enrollment, you will be able to choose from various plans, family plans, and phones/the BYOE program. Once everything is said and done, you can activate the phone easily. During your enrollment, you will also be able to choose whether you wish to keep your own number or to get a new one.
What Network Towers Does Mint Mobile Use?
As mentioned before, Mint Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator or MVNO, which means that it does not have its own network towers. Instead, it has agreements with a large carrier that has huge amounts of mobile towers throughout the entire U.S. territory.
Mint Mobile runs on T-Mobile’s cellular network, which is one of the largest networks in the country. Moreover, T-Mobile offers the largest 5G network. However, while T-Mobile’s customers must pay relatively high prices for T-Mobile’s nationwide coverage, Mint’s customers get access to the same nationwide network at much more affordable prices.
As T-Mobile is a GSM carrier, Mint Mobile also runs on a GSM network.
How Good are The Mint Mobile Network Towers?
By this point, you know that Mint Mobile doesn’t have its own network. It actually operates on T-Mobile’s towers. As such, Mint Mobile network towers are identical to those used by T-Mobile. And since we all know that T-Mobile has one of the largest quality standards applied into their network, Mint Mobile gets to enjoy that quality.
With that said, Mint Mobile network towers, or should we say T-Mobile towers are very good. They are regularly updated to meet the latest standards. The towers are also properly maintained to ensure that the services operate as smoothly as possible.
Mint Mobile Coverage Area
Since Mint Mobile operates on T-Mobile towers it offers the same coverage as T-Mobile. Their 4G LTE network coverage I just slightly behind AT&T with 68% coverage and Verizon at 70%, T-Mobile covers 62% of the country.

With that in mind, users in and around urban areas can expect great coverage. On the other hand, people living in rural areas may not be covered. If you are residing in rural America, you should definitely check the coverage before purchasing any plans.
Moreover, T-Mobile also offers rather impressive 5G coverage, which is also accessible to Mint Mobile users, at least to those that have phones that support 5G.
How Mint Mobile Coverage Can Compare To Other Networks
Mint Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s network towers. And, even if you are not at all familiar with wireless providers, you surely know that T-Mobile is one of the biggest and most reputable mobile companies, not only in the USA but all across the globe.
Looking at the previous section, one can see that T-Mobile has the third-largest coverage, which means that Mint Mobile also has the third-largest coverage as it benefits from T-Mobile’s infrastructure.
It is worth pointing out that T-Mobile offers one the best 5G coverage, currently covering 37% of the country. As far as the 5G coverage goes, T-Mobile offers the most expensive network and is way ahead of competitors. For instance, AT&T and Verizon bot cover less than 10% of the country.
Is The Mint Mobile Network Reliable? How Reliable?
Since Mint Mobile users T-Mobile’s network towers, we cannot discuss Mint Mobile’s reliability without looking at T-Mobile’s. Based on the reports, user experience, and analysis, T-Mobile offers highly reliable services, with an extremely low rate of interruptions and congestion.
Mint Mobile users get to enjoy the same reliability though with some limitations. You see, T-Mobile prioritizes its original users (people that have T-Mobile plans) in case of increased congestion. This means that faster data speeds will not be accessible to Mint Mobile users in case there is a high sudden increase.
In case you also need information How To Activate Mint Mobile Easily
What Other Carriers Use The Same Network Towers?
There are many MVNO carriers in the USA that also operate on T-Mobile’s towers. In some cases, they use T-Mobile towers alone, while in others they use T-Mobile towers in combination with other larger carrier networks.
Here is a list of MVNO wireless providers operating on T-Mobile:
- Consumer Cellular
- Metro By T-Mobile
- Net10
- Google Fi
- Red Rocket
- Republic Wireless
- Simple Mobile
- Straight Talk
- Ting
- TracFone
- Ultra Mobile
- US Mobile
- Gen Mobile
- TextNow
- Wing
Which Network Device Does Mint Mobile Use? GSM or CDMA?
T-Mobile network uses GSM technology, which means that Mint Mobile focuses on GSM devices. However, since 2015 GSM and CDMA phones all use SIM cards, which means that both types of technology may be used interchangeably on GSM and CDMA networks as long as the compatibility is confirmed.
This gives users that are looking into the BYOP option a much wider selection of devices. If you are interested in bringing your existing device to Mint Mobile, make sure to visit their official website. Once on the site, hover over the ‘Phones’ option in the top menu bar and click the ‘Bring Your Own’ option.
Once on the next page, scroll down slightly in order to see the compatibility check instruction. Use those instructions and complete the process.
Read one of our past articles What Network Does Q Link Wireless Use
Where is Mint Mobile 5G Available?
T-Mobile is currently the largest 5G network provider in the country. As such, T-Mobile and all of its MVNOs (including Mint Mobile) enjoy nationwide coverage in over 6000 cities. Mint’s 5G coverage uses a 600 MHz low band signal, which reaches cities all around the country.
To check whether or not Mint Mobile’s 5G network is available in your area, visit https://www.mintmobile.com/coverage/. Enter your ZIP code or address in the provided search box on top of the map and the system will provide you with all the details about the coverage in your area.
How Can I Get Mint Mobile 5G? Do I Need to Pay Extra?
All Mint customers that have a Mint Mobile plan automatically get access to T-Mobile’s 5G network. However, in order to enjoy the fast speeds, you must be in a 5G coverage area (see the map at https://www.mintmobile.com/coverage/) and have a mobile device that is 5G-capable.
When it comes to whether or not getting 5G comes with extra charges, the answer is no. To quote the company itself: “There’s no extra charge for 5G here. That would just be rude.”
When Will 5G be Available in My Area? Is Mint Mobile 5G Available in My Area?
You can check if Mint Mobile 5G is available in your area at https://www.mintmobile.com/coverage/. However, keep in mind that there are also some other factors that may interfere with the service, such as terrain, weather, buildings, and other conditions.
In case Mint’s 5G network is not yet available in your area, it may change in the future (depending on where you live). You should know that T-Mobile is working hard to build new mobile network towers and to expand its 5G network as fast as possible.
What Phones Can You Use With Mint Mobile?
As we have already established, Mint Mobile offers a Bring Your Own Phone program, which enables customers to bring their own devices to Mint Mobile.
However, the device you bring must be carrier-unlocked and compatible with Mint’s services. As Mint’s network provider is T-Mobile, which runs on GSM technology, it’s also important to bring a GSM-based phone. Check your phone’s compatibility with Mint Mobile at https://www.mintmobile.com/byop/. Scroll down to Phone Compatibility and then check it by providing your phone’s brand and model or its 15-17-digit IMEI number. To unlock the device, you must contact the provider and ask them to do so remotely.
In addition to the BYOP program, Mint Mobile also offers a variety of high-quality mobile devices from the most reputable brands, including Apple, Google, OnePlus, and Samsung.
Does Mint Mobile Have Any Plans That Use Others Network?
No. Mint Mobile operates only on the T-Mobile network. All their plans are thus limited to their SIM cards that are designed to operate on the T-Mobile network.
What Are Mint Mobile Network Towers Pros and Cons?
If you went through all of the sections above, you already know what are the main advantages and disadvantages of Mint Mobile network towers and their services. However, to make things as straightforward for you as possible, we decided to highlight the main pros and cons below.
- Very affordable plans
- Very simple and easy to use the online dashboard
- Affordable international calling rates
- Optional risk-free trial
- Kind and efficient customer support
- Great coverage, including 5G
- Impressive value for money
- Great speeds (when there is no congestion on the network)
- In case of congestion, data speed will be limited
- There are no local Mint Mobile stores (only online store)
- The highest savings are offered in the case of bulk purchases, which requires much higher upfront costs
What are the Best Mint Mobile Plans?
It is hard to say which Mint Mobile plan is the best, as it truly depends on each customer’s needs and priorities. Moreover, all Mint Mobile plans are pretty great, as they are all affordable and flexible.
Mint Mobile’s new customers can try Mint’s service plans at the lowest price possible. Mint’s individual plans include:
- 4GB a month for $15. It comes with unlimited talk and text, nationwide coverage, and 4GB of 4G and 5G data.
- 10GB a month for $20. It comes with unlimited talk and text, nationwide coverage, and 10GB of 4G and 5G data.
- 15GB a month for $25. It comes with unlimited talk and text, nationwide coverage, and 15GB of 4G and 5G data.
- Unlimited plan for $30. It comes with unlimited talk and text, nationwide coverage, 35GB of 5G data, and unlimited 4G LTE data.
The first plan is obviously the most affordable one, however, if 4GB is simply not enough data for you, you can choose any of the other valuable plans.
Mint also offers family plans. The prices for 2+ lines start at $15 a month per line. Choose the number of lines you need at https://www.mintmobile.com/family-phone-plans/.
All Mint plans offer unlimited talk and text, high-speed data, calls to Mexico and Canada, free mobile hotspot, a free 3-in-1 SIM card, Wi-Fi calling and text, and more. Learn more at https://www.mintmobile.com/plans/.
How Do I Know if Mint Mobile’s Service Will Work for Me?
To make sure that Mint Mobile’s service will work for you and fit your needs, do the following:
- Check Mint Mobile’s network coverage in your area.
- If you decide to bring your own phone, make sure the device is compatible with Mint.
- Make sure that the system of only paying for the data you use works for you.
- Get ready to only deal with reliable customer support service and become a part of a great wireless community.
What Should I Do if My Phone is Not Compatible with Mint Mobile?
In case you wish to bring your own phone but the device is not compatible with Mint Mobile’s services and there is no way to fix it (unlock it, for example), you will be required to bring another phone. Check out if you have any other phone, otherwise, simply buy an affordable device directly from Mint Mobile. You can choose a device at https://www.mintmobile.com/deals/ or https://phones.mintmobile.com/phones.html.
In addition, if your phone is not compatible with Mint’s network, you may also be required to buy a new one. 3G and older 4G phones that do not support VoLTE calls may have issues at Mint.
What Happens if My Phone no Longer Works on Mint’s Network?
If your mobile device does not support 4G LTE, VoLTE, or 5G, it means that the device is unfortunately not compatible with Mint’s network. Luckily, you can always buy another phone directly from Mint. Those devices are fully compatible with the network.
How Do I Get Mint Mobile Cell Phone Service?
Signing up for Mint Mobile’s cell phone service is as simple as it can be. The entire process is executed online, therefore, Mint may not be the best option for customers who prefer to do it in person.
- First, visit the company’s official website. Find a plan that best fits your needs and purchase it online.
- Buy a phone or check your own phone’s compatibility. You will receive a 3-in-1 SIM card by mail two to three days after your purchase. eSIM-eligible phones can be activated digitally without a physical SIM card.
- When you have both the device and the SIM card, insert the card into the phone and activate the device. You can then start using your services.
How Do I Cancel My Mint Mobile Cell Phone Service?
Mint Mobile offers a 7-day trial period and during that time you can cancel the service at any time. After this period, however, it is not possible to cancel your cell phone service. Instead, you must wait for your service period to expire.
Luckily, Mint’s services only offer 3, 6, or 12-month plans. You can upgrade your plan at any time, but in order to downgrade or cancel it, you must wait for the service to expire.
In case you set up auto-renewal payments, make sure to cancel at least 24 hours before your next plan renewal date, otherwise, you will have to end by the end of the next period.
How Does Mint Mobile Compare to Other Cell Phone Plans?
There are tons of carriers and MVNOs throughout the country and many of them offer very attractive deals on services and devices. However, when it comes to cell phone plans, it really is safe to say that Mint offers some of the most affordable and flexible ones.
Do You Need to Sign a Contract to Use Mint Mobile?
Mint Mobile does have contracts, however, the company’s prepaid contracts are very short. You agree to stay with the company for 3, 6, or 12 months at a time.
What Do Customers Say About Mint Mobile?
When it comes to inexpensive service rates and simple user experience, customers tend to be very satisfied.
However, some are not as impressed with the company’s customer support. Some users complain that the customer support is not very quick. In addition, as Mint only operates online, it lacks other help options. Still, the team seems to be proactive when it comes to responding to any negative feedback.
In regards to the network, customers tend to generally be very satisfied with T-Mobile’s quick coverage, however, during times of congestion, T-Mobile will always prioritize its customers over the MVNOs’ customers.
FAQs
Why switch to Mint Mobile if you are happy with another carrier?
One of the main reasons to switch over to Mint Mobile is definitely its affordable prices. However, if you are really completely satisfied with your current provider, including with the price you pay, then you may want to stay put as there is always some work and time required to switch the carrier.
What bands does Mint Mobile use?
Mint Mobile offers new phones from all the leading brands, including Apple, Samsung, Google, Motorola, LG, OnePlus, TCL, Nokia, Alcatel, and Coolpad.
Aside from new phones, Mint Mobile also has a Bring Your Own Phone option set in place.
What type of services does Mint Mobile provide?
Mint Mobile provides a selection of affordable prepaid plans. All their plans include unlimited talk & text but vary by the amount of mobile data included. The most affordable plan comes with 4BG of data, while their new plan also offers unlimited data.
In order to get the most affordable prices, users need to pay multiple months in advance (3-month renewal option).
What is Mint Mobile Customer Service?
If you are looking to get in touch with Mint Mobile customer service, you can call them at 800-683-7392. If you prefer to type, you may also chat with their customer support by visiting their official website and clicking the speech bubble icon in the bottom-right corner. You can chat with their Fox Bot 24/7, or with a human 7 days a week from 5 am to 7 pm PST.
Is Mint Mobile good?
Mint Mobile’s top priority is affordability and this is where they get it right. Their services are reliable thanks to T-Mobile’s network. On top of that, they also offer friendly and effective customer support. All-in-all Mint Mobile is a good carrier.
You can read one of our past articles How Long Does Cell Phone Last
What carrier does Mint Mobile use?
Mint Mobile is an MVNO carrier, which means it doesn’t have its own signal towers. It operates on T-Mobiles infrastructure.