Updated 12/16/25:
If you’re paying too much for wireless cell phone service from AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon, consider switching to a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) instead.
An MVNO is a wireless communications service provider that offers cell phone service without owning the actual cell towers or core network infrastructure. MVNOs are essentially resellers of wireless service, purchasing network access at wholesale rates from the 3 major carriers and reselling it under their own brand. MVNOs typically do not operate independent retail store-fronts. This allows MVNOs to offer lower prices than the major carriers, as they do not have to invest in building and maintaining their own networks nor operating retail establishments.
AT&T, Dish Wireless, T-Mobile and Verizon are the 3 local wireless carriers that build and maintain the cell tower network and infrastructure, but lots of MVNOs resell service on those networks for often a cheaper price.
Some of the more popular MVNOs, and the network(s) that they use
Brands owned by the 3 major wireless networks:
- Cricket – owned by AT&T
- Metro by T-Mobile – owned by T-Mobile
- Mint Mobile – owned by T-Mobile
- Visible – owned by Verizon
- Simple Mobile – owned by Verizon
- Straight Talk Wireless – owned by Verizon
- TracFone Wireless – owned by Verizon
- Total by Verizon – owned by Verizon
Brands that operate independently of the 3 major wireless networks, and provide their own customer service. (Brand – network(s) they operate on):
- Spectrum Mobile – Verizon
- Consumer Cellular – AT&T or T-Mobile
- Red Pocket – AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon
- US Mobile – AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon
- MobileX – Verizon
- Google Fi – T-Mobile
- Boost Mobile – AT&T
- Lively – Verizon
- Ultra Mobile – T-Mobile
Pros to switching to an MVNO
- Lower cost than the major carriers.
- Since payments for service are at the beginning of each monthly or term, there are no long-term contracts that are tied into purchasing a high-end phone at a large discount.
- You can usually use an existing modern phone, as long as it’s no more than a few years old.
Cons to switching to an MVNO
- Lower priority data in areas and times of network congestion.
- Generally lower or no phone subsidies (no free phones, you pay for the entire cost of the phone in advance).
- International roaming is sometimes not included – or an add-on expense.
- Customer service is limited to phone or chat only – there are no local stores to visit for help *
* This is where we can help.
If you need help deciding on which MVNO to choose, setting up or troubleshooting your wireless service or device, porting your phone number out from your existing wireless carrier, or transferring data to a new smartphone, contact Computer Techs for in-home service.