Loyalty doesn't pay when it comes to big wireless, so how can you save on your phone bills? Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile both operate on T-Mobile's network, offering strong 5G coverage and competitive pricing.
Mint Mobile provides some great discounts if you're happy to pay for multiple months upfront, making it a great option for long-term savings. Ultra Mobile, on the other hand, is designed for frequent international callers, with more global perks included in its plans.
So, should you prepay for Mint Mobile's discounted rates or choose Ultra Mobile for its built-in international benefits?
Mint Mobile vs Ultra Mobile plans
Winner: Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile keeps things simple and cost-effective by offering prepaid plans that lower your monthly cost when you pay for three, six, or twelve months upfront. Their unlimited plan costs just $30 per month when paid annually, making it one of the cheapest unlimited options.
Ultra Mobile also provides prepaid plans, but it focuses more on international calling and texting. All plans include free calls to over 80+ destinations, and some plans include additional international data allowances.
If you want the lowest-cost unlimited plan and don't need extensive international features, Mint Mobile is the better choice.
Mint Mobile plans
(Prices reflect 12-month prepay rates; month-to-month pricing is higher.)
Mint Mobile unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Mobile 5GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $15/mo |
| Mint Mobile 15GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 15GB | $20/mo |
| Mint Mobile 20GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 20GB | $25/mo |
| Mint Mobile unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $30/mo |
Ultra Mobile plans
Ultra Mobile unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra Mobile unlimited talk & text plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 0GB | $10/mo |
| Ultra Mobile unlimited talk & text plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 0GB | $15/mo |
| Ultra Mobile 3GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 3GB | $10/mo |
| Ultra Mobile unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $20/mo |
| Ultra Mobile 5GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $19/mo |
| Ultra Mobile 10GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 10GB | $24/mo |
| Ultra Mobile 15GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 15GB | $30/mo |
Mint Mobile vs Ultra Mobile coverage
Winner: Tie
Both Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile operate on T-Mobile's network, which comes top for 5G availability and speeds, according to the OpenSignal Mobile Network Experience 2025.
So you'll get the same coverage and 5G access regardless of which provider you choose.
Mint Mobile coverage
Mint Mobile is powered by T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
Ultra Mobile coverage
Ultra Mobile is powered by T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
View Ultra Mobile coverage map
Data speeds: Which carrier delivers better value?
Winner: Mint Mobile
Since both carriers use T-Mobile's network, speeds will be similar, but Mint Mobile provides better value for money.
Mint Mobile's unlimited plan includes high-speed data up to 35GB per month, which many people find is enough. Ultra Mobile's top unlimited plans include unlimited data, but it costs $49-$59 per month, depending on the plan.
Features and perks: Which provider offers more?
Winner: Ultra Mobile
Mint Mobile includes free international calling to Mexico and Canada, making it a solid choice for users with connections abroad.
Ultra Mobile goes beyond that, offering free calls to over 80+ countries and additional international roaming options, making it a better fit for frequent international travelers and those who regularly call overseas.
If international features are a priority, Ultra Mobile is the stronger option.
Mint Mobile vs Ultra Mobile plan features
| Carrier Features | Mint Mobile | Ultra Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Networks | T-Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Data Speed | 5G & 4G LTE | 5G & 4G LTE |
| 3G Network | GSM | GSM |
| Mobile Hotspot | Yes | Yes |
| Bring Your Phone | Yes | Yes |
| Keep Your Number | Yes | Yes |
| Contract | Prepaid | Prepaid |
| Credit Check | No | No |
| Customer Service | 24/7 | 6am to 6pm |
| Money Back Guarantee | Yes - 7 days | No |
| 5G | Yes | Yes |
| Taxes included | Varies by Location | Varies by Location |
| VoLTE | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi Calling | Yes | Yes |
| Visual Voicemail | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-line Discounts | No | No |
| Multi-month Discounts | Yes | Yes |
| International Calls | Yes - Includes Mexico & Canada | Yes - Includes 80 countries |
| International Roaming | Yes | Yes |
Final verdict: Which carrier is the better deal?
- Best for the lowest-cost plan → Mint Mobile
- Best for international calling → Ultra Mobile
- Best for travelers and overseas communication → Ultra Mobile
If you want the cheapest unlimited plan and don't mind prepaying, Mint Mobile is the better choice. If you need extensive international calling and travel frequently, Ultra Mobile is a strong alternative.
See if Mint Mobile is right for you with our full review
Check out more with our Ultra Mobile review
Mint Mobile vs Ultra Mobile FAQs
The main difference between Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile are plan prices and features. Both offer cheap cell phone plans powered by the major networks.
Mint Mobile is powered by T-Mobile and Ultra Mobile runs on T-Mobile.
Most newer handsets are compatible if they're unlocked, but if you're not sure you can check phone compatibility with our IMEI checker.
If your Mint Mobile phone is unlocked it should work with Ultra Mobile. Most of the latest handsets are compatible but you can check your phone's compatibility with the carrier before purchasing.
Why you can trust me
I've spent years helping people find ways to cut their phone bills without sacrificing service quality. At MoneySavingPro, we go beyond the marketing hype to compare real customer experiences, network performance, and hidden costs so you can make an informed decision.
I've tested Mint Mobile, Ultra Mobile, and other prepaid carriers, looking at speed, coverage, and affordability. If there's a better way to save on your phone bill, you'll hear about it here first.
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Ultra Mobile comparison guides
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