Boost Mobile vs Cricket Wireless
Head-to-head comparison of plans, features, and pricing
Boost Mobile
AT&T network
$25/mo
3 plans available
Cricket Wireless
AT&T network
$—/mo
0 plans available
Looking to switch carrier but not sure if Boost Mobile or Cricket Wireless is better? Within this guide, you'll be able to compare Boost Mobile and Cricket Wireless coverage, features, plans, and prices side-by-side, so you can decide which carrier offers the best deal.
Boost Mobile vs Cricket Wireless: Coverage & Plan Comparison 2026
Boost Mobile vs Cricket Wireless: Reviews
Pros
- ✓ AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- ✓ Multi-line discounts for family plans
- ✓ Mobile hotspot access
- ✓ eSIM compatible
Cons
- ✗ No free international calls
- ✗ International roaming is limited
Pros
- ✓ AT&T 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- ✓ Multi-line discounts up to 5 lines
- ✓ Taxes and fees included
- ✓ Retail stores nationwide
- ✓ eSIM compatible
Cons
- ✗ Data speeds capped at lower tiers
- ✗ No international roaming on basic plans
- ✗ Higher priced than online-only MVNOs
Boost Mobile vs Cricket Wireless: Plans
Boost Mobile Plans
Unlimited
Unlimited · 5G
$25
See Plan →Unlimited+
Unlimited · 5G
$50
See Plan →Unlimited Premium
Unlimited · 5G
$60
See Plan →Cricket Wireless Plans
Verdict: Tie
Winner: Tie. Both carriers offer similar pricing in the $25-65/mo range. Cricket's plans start at $30/mo for 5GB with taxes included, while Boost starts at $25/mo for 5GB. For unlimited, Cricket charges $55/mo and Boost charges $50-65/mo depending on the tier. Both include taxes and fees in the price.
Boost offers unique myPlan customization and occasional free phone bundles. Cricket's multi-line family discounts (up to $100/mo savings on 5 lines) give it an edge for families. Individual users will find comparable value from either carrier.
Boost Mobile vs Cricket Wireless: Coverage
Boost Mobile
Boost Mobile is powered by AT&T 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
View Boost Mobile coverage map →Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless is powered by AT&T 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
View Cricket Wireless coverage map →Boost Mobile is powered by AT&T and Cricket Wireless is powered by AT&T. Coverage varies by location — check availability in your area.
Verdict: Tie
Winner: Tie. Both carriers have AT&T network access. Cricket Wireless runs exclusively on AT&T, while Boost Mobile operates on both AT&T and T-Mobile networks following its transition from Sprint. In many areas, coverage will be identical when both use AT&T towers.
Boost's dual-network capability theoretically provides broader coverage, but network assignment isn't always user-controlled. Both carriers offer strong nationwide coverage including rural areas where AT&T's network traditionally excels.
Boost Mobile vs Cricket Wireless: Features
Verdict: Tie
Winner: Tie. Both carriers offer something the other doesn't. Cricket includes HBO Max with its top-tier plan and has a strong multi-line family discount program. Boost offers device financing, free phone promotions, and the myPlan builder for customizable features. Both have extensive retail store networks — a significant advantage over online-only MVNOs.
In-store support quality varies by location for both carriers. Both include taxes in pricing, support eSIM (on compatible plans), and allow number porting from any carrier.
Data Speeds
Cricket Wireless caps download speeds at 8 Mbps on its lower-tier plans, which is sufficient for standard streaming but noticeable during downloads. Higher-tier Cricket plans allow faster speeds. Boost Mobile doesn't implement hard speed caps on most plans, though speeds vary by network (AT&T or T-Mobile). Both carriers are subject to deprioritization during congestion as prepaid brands of major carriers.
Our Verdict
For families, Cricket Wireless is the better deal — their multi-line discounts can save $50-100/mo on a family plan. For individuals, it's a toss-up. Both offer AT&T coverage, retail stores, and comparable pricing. Choose Boost if you want device deals or dual-network coverage. Choose Cricket if you want a proven, straightforward prepaid experience on AT&T with predictable pricing. Check which brand has a better retail store near you — that alone can tip the balance for prepaid carriers.
Who Should Choose Boost Mobile
- ✓ You want the AT&T network
- ✓ Plans starting at $25/mo
- ✓ 3 plan options to choose from
Who Should Choose Cricket Wireless
- ✓ You want the AT&T network
- ✓ Plans starting at $0/mo
- ✓ 0 plan options to choose from
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