Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile

By Rob Webber • Founder & Editor

Head-to-head comparison of plans, features, and pricing

Cricket Wireless

Cricket Wireless

AT&T network

$—/mo

0 plans available

Optimum Mobile

Optimum Mobile

T-Mobile network

$—/mo

0 plans available

Looking to switch carrier but not sure if Cricket Wireless or Optimum Mobile is better? Within this guide, you'll be able to compare Cricket Wireless and Optimum Mobile coverage, features, plans, and prices side-by-side, so you can decide which carrier offers the best deal.

Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile: Coverage & Plan Comparison 2026

  1. 1. Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile: Reviews
  2. 2. Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile: Plans
  3. 3. Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile: Coverage
  4. 4. Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile: Features
  5. 5. Our Verdict
  6. 6. FAQ

Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile: Reviews

Cricket Wireless
Our Rating:
3.8/5
See Deals → View Plans

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
Optimum Mobile
Our Rating:
3.2/5
See Deals → View Plans

Pros

  • ✓ T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
  • ✓ Bundled savings for Optimum Internet customers
  • ✓ No contract

Cons

  • ✗ Requires Optimum Internet
  • ✗ Limited availability
  • ✗ Mixed customer service

Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile: Plans

Cricket Wireless Top Plan

Unlimited

$55/mo

Powered by AT&T

See at Cricket Wireless →

Cricket Wireless Plans

Optimum Mobile Top Plan

Unlimited

$45/mo

Powered by T-Mobile

See at Optimum Mobile →

Optimum Mobile Plans

Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile: Coverage

Cricket Wireless

Cricket Wireless is powered by AT&T 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.

View Cricket Wireless coverage map →

Optimum Mobile

Optimum Mobile is powered by T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.

View Optimum Mobile coverage map →

Cricket Wireless is powered by AT&T and Optimum Mobile is powered by T-Mobile. Coverage varies by location — check availability in your area.

Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile: Features

Feature Cricket Wireless Optimum Mobile
Networks — —
Data Speed — —
3G Network — —
Mobile Hotspot — —
5G — —
VoLTE — —
WiFi Calling — —
Visual Voicemail — —
Bring Your Phone — —
Keep Your Number — —
Contract — —
Credit Check — —
Taxes Included — —
Multi-line Discounts — —
Multi-month Discounts — —
Money Back Guarantee — —
Customer Service — —
International Calls — —
International Roaming — —

Our Verdict

Cricket Wireless is better for budget-conscious users who want plans starting at $0/mo on the AT&T network. Optimum Mobile is better if you want plans on the T-Mobile network starting at $0/mo. Both carriers offer the same tower coverage as Big Wireless at a fraction of the price.

Who Should Choose Cricket Wireless

  • ✓ You want the AT&T network
  • ✓ Plans starting at $0/mo
  • ✓ 0 plan options to choose from
View Cricket Wireless Plans →

Who Should Choose Optimum Mobile

  • ✓ You want the T-Mobile network
  • ✓ Plans starting at $0/mo
  • ✓ 0 plan options to choose from
View Optimum Mobile Plans →

Why You Can Trust This Comparison

I've spent years helping people ditch overpriced phone plans by exposing hidden fees and carrier tricks. At MoneySavingPro, we go beyond the fine print, testing and comparing real-world network performance so you don't have to.

I've personally tested Cricket Wireless, Optimum Mobile, and other low-cost providers, comparing their speeds, coverage, and pricing to the Big 3. If there's a smarter way to save, you'll hear about it here first.

— Rob Webber, Founder & Editor

Compare Cricket Wireless vs Optimum Mobile — How Much Could You Save?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cricket Wireless or Optimum Mobile cheaper?
Cricket Wireless is cheaper, with plans starting at $0/mo. Optimum Mobile starts at $0/mo.
Which network does Cricket Wireless use?
Cricket Wireless uses the AT&T network. You get the same coverage as AT&T customers at a lower price.
Which network does Optimum Mobile use?
Optimum Mobile uses the T-Mobile network. You get the same coverage as T-Mobile customers at a lower price.
Can I keep my phone number if I switch to Cricket Wireless or Optimum Mobile?
Yes. Both carriers support number porting. You can transfer your existing phone number in about 10-30 minutes during the sign-up process.
Do Cricket Wireless and Optimum Mobile offer 5G?
Most modern plans from both Cricket Wireless and Optimum Mobile include 5G access at no extra cost where the network supports it.