As a customer of a mobile phone service that can be relied on for all your communications, in this article, we’ll look at comparing Mint Mobile vs. Google Fi to determine which is more worth having as the next phone service you choose.
It’s no surprise that we were able to hold a full-length discussion about Visible and Mint the other day. You already know what you can expect from this Ultra Mobile provider regarding pricing and plan options. However, since I failed to talk about the speeds 5G users can anticipate, we’ll discuss it in the coming days, alongside Google Fi.
Table of Contents
When to use Mint Mobile
If you’re seeking for a trustworthy supplier and the best cell phone plans at the lowest prices, Mint Mobile has you covered. This company offers savings according to your selected method – 3 months, six months, and 12-month plans. Rest assured that you are getting the top and most reliable T-Mobile LTE network and 5G that will support you.
When to use Google Fi
For those who travel frequently and need flexible mobile phone plans, Google Fi is perfect. It offers coverage across the globe across multiple networks and provides a high-end option that doesn’t require an agreement. Google Fi offers the advantage of automatic switching between carriers based upon the location of your home, making sure that speed and coverage as stable and speedy as is possible. You can also carry your data plan to over 2000 countries without additional cost.
Mint Mobile vs. Google Fi: An Overview on the Prepaid Cell Phone Providers
The table will find Mint Mobile and Google Fi have a lot in common with things. If it’s a carrier network, both utilize T-Mobile’s cell towers. Thus, with the majority of unlocked phones and T-Mobile-branded smartphones, you will be able to switch SIM cards.
However, Google Fi has also joined forces with U.S. Cellular, which usually uses CDMA technology. Therefore, you’ll be guaranteed an uninterrupted signal in an area such as Oregon, where T-Mobile and Mint are a little intermittent.
Another benefit is that Google Fi does have the possibility to add several phone lines to your account. There’s also the retail section, in which you can use your buy now, pay later program to upgrade to the desired Google phone.
However, Mint Mobile has the device financing plan via Affirm starting at $10/month with zero percent APR. Naturally, the range isn’t as extensive as Walmart or Amazon; however, you can still get a good new device that supports 5G.
Even better, Mint Mobile is known to offer limited-time deals that are provided for both devices as well as rate plans. In particular, the company has recently provided the opportunity to get a free 3-month service when you sign up for any of the three-month plans.
For more information, keep reading the complete review.
Mint Mobile vs. Google Fi: Comparing the Rate plans, Features, and Data Speeds of the Phone Providers
CDMA and GSM
As we mentioned, the two Google Fi and Mint Mobile are T-Mobile’s MVNOs. They both use GSM technologies, and in that case, they can connect phones locked by carriers. If you own a T-Mobile branded T-Mobile phone, you’ll be able to utilize it with both services before unlocking the device.
But, Fi could also be used with the U.S. Cellular network based on CDMA technology. This means you can use a brand-name U.S. Cellular or Verizon phone in an emergency.
Network Coverage
If you compare Google Fi vs. Mint Mobile in terms of coverage, Mint Mobile is more widely available across a larger region thanks to the use of each T-Mobile and U.S. Cellular spectrum. This includes even areas like the Midwestern and the Northwestern parts, where most carriers typically have weak signals.
If you look at the Google Fi coverage map, you’ll also see it displays the areas where you can expect 5G connectivity. However, it doesn’t show the exact areas you can expect 5G. Mint Mobile Coverage Map does not display the specific areas where you can anticipate LTE or 5G. You’ll need to go with your gut or check out the map of T-Mobile to be able to verify before making a switch.
Free 5G Access and Speeds
You may utilize both providers’ superfast services for free if you have a 5G-capable phone. They also support the high-band (mmWave) and lower-band (600MHz) 5G frequency. This means you’ll receive different data speeds at other places and times.
When it comes to internet speed, Mint Mobile 5G mmWave will average 560+ Mbps on days with no congestion. When there is congestion or multiple devices on the same spectrum, you will see reduced speeds between 200 and 300Mbps.
If you’re located near the edges of town, you could be fortunate enough to have access to Mint Mobile 5G 600MHz spectrum. In that situation, you can anticipate speeds of 200+Mbps or less than 100Mbps.
Additionally, Google Fi is a T-Mobile MVNO, so on sunny days, it may deliver internet rates of 560+Mbps. However, a few users have claimed that they are getting rates of 100+Mbps, but this isn’t great, but enough for most consumers.
Phone Plans and Pricing
In terms of price, the two companies each offer a great way to cut the monthly bill for your phone. The difference is that Mint Mobile takes the price points in the overall plan and plan structure, as in the following table.
However, unlike other companies, Mint Mobile typically offers its cell plans in bulk for three, six, and 12 months. The table above shows that the three-month program is more expensive than the 6-month plan. However, that’s a one-time thing.
Usually, Mint has designed the first three months of the plan as an experiment to give you an idea of what you can expect. When the set is finished, it is possible to continue the same package by paying for the yearly package or top it up with a sum of between $10 and $25 to keep the monthly plan.
Be aware that this Mint Mobile unlimited plan will begin with 35 G.B. of high-speed internet. If you do not use the allowance before the close of your billing cycle, the speed will slow down to 128kbps during the remaining month. The same is true for the plans with 4 G.B., 10 G.B., or 15 G.B. packages.
Google Fi Isn’t Any Better.
It is true. Use of the Google Fi phone plans is the only way to make a little financial save. When you add a line to your account, you get the Google Fi phone plan. Some of us live independently, so you might consider the unlimited objectives for single lines to be a bit expensive.
Here’s a quick overview of the single-line and several multiple-line packages.
To top off the extra price, Google Fi’s unlimited data plans are still limited to 22GB. Once you’ve used up the allowance, the company will reduce the speed to 256kbps up to the following cycle.
But be aware that Google Fi does give free international calls and texts to more than 50 countries at no additional cost on the Unlimited Plus plan. The plan also provides free roaming data for international use. Everywhere you travel, you’ll be able to remain in touch with your loved ones.
Free Mobile Hotspot Data
Many phone providers provide mobile hotspot tethering, and our two friends here have no exceptions. But, Google Fi has limited this feature to only Flexible and Unlimited Plus phone plans. And the worst part is that they’re not yet able to offer additional internet hotspots with data. You’ll have to use your regular monthly data allowance if you wish to share your data with other wireless devices.
In addition, Mint Mobile will also use your allowance of data when you use hotspot tethering in the 4 G.B., 10-GB, or 15 G.B. plan. However, the unlimited rate plan includes an additional 5 G.B. of hotspot data that connected devices can use, not the standard allotted amount.
Video Streaming Quality
Both are pretty similar when you look at Mint against Google Fi on video streaming. Similar to other carriers, they’ve set a 480p resolution as their standard definition for video streams. You can, however, stream video with H.D. quality if you don’t averse to using the speed of your high-speed data. Why am I asking this?
All operators optimize video streaming to 480p when using unlimited plans. Mint and Fi will also allow you to stream in H.D. quality or at any speed you prefer when using their limited high-speed data plans.
Thus, even if you enjoy animated videos on your phone, you may exhaust the standard data allowance before the time. This could make you buy extra funding in case you need it and defeat the goal of lowering the cost of your phone.
Free Phone Deals When You Switch
Not to mention, Mint and Google Fi ought to have gotten together in this case, as neither of them has an offering the free phone. However, the Google Fi Google brand offers a greater variety of smartphones available. There are also better deals and offers the possibility to get up to 200 dollars cash or $300 in credit to your bill.
However, Mint phone packages are typically funded by bill credits. For instance, current offers include a free 12-month service when you buy the iPhone S.E. (2020) or Samsung Galaxy A32 5G + 12-month contract.
Final Thoughts: Mint Mobile vs. Google Fi
Overall the two Mint Mobile and Google Fi are top cell phone providers. Like many things to do, the best option for you will depend on your personal preferences and the demands that you are facing. For example, Fi could be an excellent option if you frequently travel within and outside of the States.
However, Mint Mobile does offer international roaming for a nominal fee. Purchasing the individual lines is also significantly less expensive. In addition, the unlimited plan comes with an additional Hotspot allowance and 13 G.B. than what Google Fi is offering to browse even more. It’s the perfect choice for users who consume a lot of data, and since I’m among those, I’m (Mint) my preferred choice.
Mint Mobile vs. Google Fi FAQs
♦Is 5G support available on Google Fi?
Yes, it’s available on mobiles that support T-Mobile’s 5G network.
♦With a Google Fi plan, do you get free international calls?
You are entitled to unlimited international calling to five countries when you subscribe to the Unlimited plan. It also includes 100GB in cloud storage.
♦Should I switch to Google Fi from Mint?
Two of the best MVNOs to pick from are Mint Mobile and Google Fi. Mint Mobile can help you save a lot of money if you spend the majority of your time within the United States in an area with T-Mobile service. But, Google Fi will have some advantages due to the use of T-Mobile and U.S. Cellular towers.
♦Does Mint Mobile use the same towers as T-Mobile?
Mint Mobile was founded in the year 2016. Mint Mobile functions as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). It is a part of T-Mobile’s mobile network. That means that it relies on T-Mobile’s network, but T-Mobile doesn’t own it.
♦Is Mint Mobile under Verizon?
T-Mobile data. As we’ve said before, Mint Mobile runs on T-Mobile’s network. If you’re wondering which one has the best speed for data, you have to evaluate Verizon with T-Mobile. Let’s look at our studies’ results on the data rate.
Read Also:
Top 6 Ways to Fix Device Is Unreachable Error for iPhone
Pixel 6 Bluetooth Issues for Samsung Galaxy S8.
3 Ways To Close The Windows On An Android Device.
Spectrum vs Verizon Mobile: One Is Worth Much More, But Which Should You Choose?
Can The Primary Account Holder View Text Messages T-Mobile?
Why T-Mobile Keeps Stopping & How To Fix It
How To Put Multiple Hairs On Roblox Mobile; Some Easy Steps
Arun is a self-published author and blogger with a passion for sharing his knowledge and expertise on Tech with people who are looking to find the perfect content for their needs. He tries to furnish you with genuine content about gadgets & tech that can assist you with deciding whether a gadget is appropriate according to your requirements or not.