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Optimum Mobile's a Mobile Virtual Network Operator that's powered by the T-Mobile network.
As an Optimum Mobile customer, their low-cost plans mean you'll enjoy the same 4G LTE and 5G network coverage as T-Mobile customers, but at half the price.
Keep reading for answers to your questions about how Optimum Mobile coverage works and the pros and cons of Optimum Mobile plans.
Optimum Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
MVNOs don't own their towers. Instead, they operate on major networks, so you can save money while enjoying wireless service with the same quality and coverage.
Curious about the coverage in your area? Use our interactive Optimum Mobile coverage map to double-check for access in your ZIP code.
Optimum Mobile coverage pros & cons
It's essential to consider the pros and cons before making the leap to a new carrier. Let's take a closer look at what we love most and least about Optimum Mobile's wireless service:
Benefits of Optimum Mobile coverage
- Excellent mobile experience: Optimum Mobile subscribers get access to service on the T-Mobile network, which swept seven out of eight categories in a recent Opensignal report.
- Separate mobile hotspot data: Some wireless carriers siphon your mobile hotspot usage off your monthly data limit. Optimum Mobile unlimited plans give you a data allotment just for tethering.
- Flexible plan choices: Optimum Mobile's phone plans come in several flavors. Pick from multiple unlimited data plans or by-the-gig options. Every Optimum Mobile phone plan includes unlimited text and talk at no extra cost.
Disadvantages of Optimum Mobile coverage
- Higher prices for non-internet customers: The good news is that the carrier doesn't restrict its services to Optimum Internet customers. The bad news is that you'll pay more if you're not an existing customer. You can, however, save more by bundling multiple services.
- Multiple lines required for the lowest price: The Optimum Mobile website pricing reflects the cost of activating two new Optimum Mobile lines. Incidentally, you can have up to five lines.
- Autopay and paperless billing required: Optimum Mobile's terms of service stipulate that you must enroll in both autopay and e-billing in order to buy a cell phone plan.
Does Optimum Mobile have fast data speeds?
As a T-Mobile MVNO, Optimum Mobile provides access to their 4G LTE and 5G speeds wherever they're available.
It's important to note that, as with most low-cost carriers, temporary slowdowns may occur during periods of network congestion.
However, you can optimize your data usage by downloading necessary content like games and videos while connected to Wi-Fi, which helps you avoid potential deprioritization.
Optimum Mobile network FAQs
Optimum Mobile operates on T-Mobile's network. That means you get the quality and reliability of T-Mobile's towers and entire infrastructure but at a lower price.
Absolutely! Cell phones that are compatible with T-Mobile's network will typically work with Optimum Mobile. Just plug your IMEI number into our phone compatibility checker to make sure.
Altice bought the Optimum brand in 2016 and has rebranded its broadband and other services under the Optimum name.
No, you don't have to be an Optimum Internet service subscriber. However, you will pay an additional cost of $20 per line on your monthly bill if you aren't. If you're in the market for internet service, Optimum offers great deals on bundles.
Recap:
Optimum Mobile harnesses the power of T-Mobile's network to provide high-quality mobile services at affordable price points.
If you'd like to learn more, check out our Optimum Mobile review to get all the details on how you can save on your cell phone bill with this T-Mobile MVNO.