What is Ultra Mobile? Is it Worth it?

5 min read

Updated October 13, 2024

Written by

Rob Webber

Edited by

Amanda Webber

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Do you find yourself constantly outraged by your cell phone bills? Yeah, me too. But what if I told you there's a solution? Switching to a low-cost carrier like Ultra Mobile could save you up to $600 a year.

As a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Ultra Mobile has the unique advantage of operating on the T-Mobile network. So you don't need to sacrifice quality coverage.

Plus, you can even bring your own phone to keep costs even lower. It's a win-win situation.

However, before diving in headfirst, it's always good to weigh up the good and the bad. We've broken down the Ultra Mobile pros and cons to help you determine if it's the right carrier for you.

1. Is Ultra Mobile good?

Ultra Mobile prepaid plans are worth checking out, especially if saving money is a priority.

They've got a range of plans that include 5G speeds on the T-Mobile network, unlimited calls, texts, and data (capped at 40GB), and free unlimited talk to 80+ countries.

Finding a mobile service provider offering low-cost plans can seem like a dream come true. But, of course, nothing's a walk in the park. Before committing to a new carrier, it's important to weigh up the pros and cons.

So we've dug deep to show you the good and the bad of Ultra Mobile, as we want to ensure you can confidently choose the best option for your needs.

Ultra Mobile advantages

• Low-cost plans
• Unlimited talk, text, and data with all plans
• 5G data speeds
• International calling to 80+ countries
• Free unlimited global texts
• Hotspot usage
• No contracts

Ultra Mobile disadvantages

• No free trial
• Data deprioritization during busy times

International roaming is available but at an extra cost. Many MVNOs don't offer international roaming, so having the option (even at an extra cost) can be a benefit.

2. Ultra Mobile cell phone plans

One of the best things about Ultra Mobile is its variety of plans. Whether you're a light user who just needs a few minutes and texts per month, or a heavy data user who needs unlimited everything, Ultra Mobile has a plan for you.

Plus, if you've got loved ones abroad, you'll get unlimited talk to over 80+ countries and unlimited global texts. So you can stay connected without worrying about any extra costs.

Another way Ultra Mobile helps you save money is by offering discounts for multiple lines. Ideal if you're looking for plans for the whole family.

Ultra Mobile's a great choice for anyone looking to save money on their cell phone bill without sacrificing quality or features.

3. Ultra Mobile 5G & 4G LTE coverage

Show Interactive Map

T-Mobile

4G

5G

The FCC collects coverage data, which only offers an approximate indication and doesn't account for indoor coverage. The actual speed and performance can vary depending on your location and device. The reception you experience is influenced by local conditions and elements like natural and artificial physical features in your area.

With Ultra Mobile, you'll get access to 4G LTE and 5G coverage at half the price of going direct to T-Mobile.

Plus, according to this OpenSignal report, T-Mobile's currently got the best 5G coverage.

But even with the best network, there are still some areas that might have weaker signal strength or coverage. It happens, especially in remote spots.

So if you're new to the T-Mobile network, you can use our Ultra Mobile coverage map to check. Just enter your ZIP code to see what coverage is like in your area.

And just a quick reminder. At peak times, you may notice a slight dip in your high-speed data connection. Don't worry too much, though, it's totally normal, and things will pick back up once the busyness dies down.

4. Ultra Mobile unlimited data

Unlimited cell phone plans are the most pricey option with all carriers. And it's never really unlimited. With Ultra Mobile, your unlimited data is capped at 40GB of high-speed data. And then speeds will be reduced until your next billing cycle.

But an Ultra Mobile unlimited data plan is still half the price of going direct to T-Mobile.

5. Ultra Mobile family plans

If you're looking for a plan for the whole family, Ultra Mobile family plans offer some great multi-line savings.

Their unlimited plan allows you to add up to 4 additional lines at a discounted rate of $25 per line.

6. Ultra Mobile features

7. Ultra Mobile customer service

• Ultra Mobile Trustpilot rating: 3.4 stars - Average
• T-Mobile Trustpilot rating: 1.4 stars - Bad
• AT&T Trustpilot rating: 1.3 stars - Bad
• Verizon Trustpilot rating: 1.2 stars - Bad

8. Bring your own phone to Ultra Mobile

So, the good news is you don't have to say goodbye to your trusty phone just because you want to switch carriers.

You can bring your own phone to Ultra Mobile - as long as it's unlocked and compatible with T-Mobile's network.

If you're worried your current carrier's locked your phone to their network, they're all required to have an unlocking policy. So if your contract is paid off and you've not reported your phone lost or stolen, they'll unlock it for you. In fact, Verizon even unlocks cell phones 60 days after activation. You'll need your account number and other details when contacting your existing carrier.

9. Ultra Mobile phones

But if you're ready for something new, Ultra Mobile phones offer a wide selection you can upgrade to, including the latest smartphones from Samsung and Apple. And the best bit is they provide an affordable interest-free payment plan.

10. Ultra Mobile activation

You can sign up for an Ultra Mobile SIM kit online and have your SIM card sent straight to your door.

Ultra Mobile SIM cards are also available in Best Buy, Walmart, and Target retail stores. However, make sure to check for any special online-only deals.

The Ultra Mobile app can help with setting up your new SIM card and keep on track of your usage.

Switching to Ultra Mobile FAQs

Recap: Should you switch to Ultra Mobile?

Switching to Ultra Mobile is a personal preference, but as a low-cost carrier, they not only save you money, they offer a great range of plans for all budgets.

Powered by T-Mobile, you'll have access to their 4G LTE and 5G wireless coverage with no long-term contracts.

Ultra Mobile customer service is available by phone or through their online chatbot. And if you want to dig deeper into this MVNO, you can read our Ultra Mobile review for more.

Ultra Mobile FAQs

• Ultra Mobile Compatible Phones List
• Does Ultra Mobile have a Free Trial?
• Does Ultra Mobile have a Promo Code?
• Does Ultra Mobile have Unlimited Data?
• How to Activate Ultra Mobile SIM Card
• How to Get a Free Ultra Mobile SIM Card
• How to Sign Up for Ultra Mobile
• How to Switch to Ultra Mobile
• What is Ultra Mobile? Is it Worth it?
• What Network does Ultra Mobile Use?

Ultra Mobile info