Google Fi Versus Mint Mobile Phone Plans

MVNOs, or mobile virtual network operators, are popular options for customers looking to save on their phone plans. MVNOs do not own the infrastructure they use as Verizon or T-Mobile do. Instead, they use these pre-existing infrastructures to provide service to their customers.
Google Fi and Mint Mobile are two top-rated phone plans for customers looking to save money by switching to an MVNO. Google is a household name, and Mint Mobile has received press since it is owned by actor Ryan Reynolds. However, both of these providers have pros and cons. When comparing Google Fi versus Mint Mobile, customers should consider what they are looking to spend and what they need from their phone plans.

Google Fi Plans

Google Fi first launched in 2015 as Project Fi, and the network was primarily for Google’s Nexus 6 phablet. In 2018, they relaunched as Google Fi and began to serve Google’s growing smartphone product line. Google Fi has continued to expand and now serves a broader customer base and supports service for most smartphones, including Apple and Android.
Google Fi plans use T-Mobile and US Cellular's networks and will automatically switch between them to always provide optimum signal strength to their customers, no matter where they are. 5G is available for all phone plans, but you must have a phone compatible with Google Fi’s 5G network.
There are no activation fees or contracts when signing up for Google Fi. Google Fi operates on a month-to-month basis, meaning you can start or stop your service at any time. One of the most popular features of Google Fi plans is the opportunity for family savings. When you have three or more lines, the cost per line decreases significantly. Plans start at $20 for individual lines with $10 per GB of data, and the Flex plan offers 6GB free. Unlimited data provides high-speed data up to 22GB. After using 22GB of data, customers will experience slower data speeds. As a bonus, Google Fi has free-roaming data in over 200 countries.

Mint Mobile Plans

Mint Mobile, which Ryan Reynolds became the owner of in 2019, uses T-Mobile’s network. You will have decent data speeds if you live in an area with strong T-Mobile service. Unlike Google Fi’s month-to-month plans, Mint Mobile plans are available for purchase in three, six, or 12 months contracts. The price per month decreases for longer contracts, but customers have to pay the total price upfront.
Customers can also choose between plans for 4GB, 10GB, 15GB, or unlimited data per month. Unlimited data on a Mint Mobile plan offers customers 35GB of high-speed data before their speed Mint Mobile slows their data speed, which is more than Google Fi’s unlimited data. All plans come with 5G as long as the customer has a 5G compatible phone. The introductory period for a 3-month contract with 4GB of data starts at $15 per month and goes up to $25 afterward.

Google Fi Versus Mint Mobile Conclusion

Both plans are good MVNO offerings, and there may not be a clear winner when comparing Google Fi versus Mint Mobile. Each plan may best serve different groups of customers. Google Fi plans are great for multiple lines and individuals who travel a lot and need more flexibility in their phone plans. However, customers may pay more for data, and Google Fi plans do not support as many phone options.
Mint Mobile plans are more straightforward, work with a wider variety of phones, and offer more affordable data. However, they do not have as expansive coverage since they only use T-Mobile, while Google Fi uses T-Mobile and US Cellular. They also do not have free international roaming like Google Fi plans.
So Mint Mobile plans may be best for someone looking for quality, straightforward plans, and Google Fi may be better for those who travel or want to add multiple lines to one plan.

Phone Insurance

A plan is only as good as the phone using it. No matter how good the service is, a broken phone limits customers from connecting with those they care about. Good phone insurance protects your device, allowing you to use your phone plan to its fullest.
Upsie’s Smartphone Subscription Warranty plans cover every major smartphone brand and provide coverage for accidental damage like drops, spills, and cracks. In contrast, a manufacturer’s warranty plan may only cover defects. In addition, Upsie’s warranties cost less than warranties from retailers, network providers, and manufacturers. Customers can purchase an Upsie warranty for smartphones bought at any time, even if they bought the phone two years ago.
Upsie is the best choice for extended phone insurance, no matter what phone plan provider you use.

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* This article is over 6 months old and may or may not be updated.