If you are considering switching to Cricket Wireless, you may be wondering what towers they use to provide their service. The truth is, Cricket Wireless uses towers from different providers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and its own towers.
In this article, we’ll dive into the details of what towers Cricket Wireless uses, how they affect your service, and what factors you should consider when choosing a wireless provider.
What is Cricket Wireless?
Cricket Wireless is a prepaid wireless service provider in the United States. It was founded in 1999 and acquired by AT&T in 2014. Cricket Wireless offers no-contract wireless plans that include unlimited talk, text, and data, as well as international calling, mobile hotspot, and other features. The company’s network coverage spans more than 99% of Americans and uses a combination of AT&T and T-Mobile towers, as well as its own towers in some areas.
Cricket Wireless also offers a variety of smartphones and other devices for purchase, as well as BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) options. The company aims to provide affordable, flexible wireless service to customers who want to avoid long-term contracts and high prices. Cricket Wireless is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and has retail locations and online sales channels across the country.
How Good is the Cricket Network Tower?
The quality of the Cricket network tower depends on a variety of factors, including the specific location, the type of device being used, and the towers being used to provide coverage. Cricket Wireless primarily uses towers from AT&T and T-Mobile to provide coverage, as well as its own towers in some areas.
The AT&T and T-Mobile towers used by Cricket Wireless are known for their reliability and fast data speeds. These towers use 4G and 5G technology, which provides faster data speeds and better coverage than older 3G networks. However, in areas where AT&T or T-Mobile coverage is weak, Cricket Wireless may experience slow data speeds or poor coverage.
The Cricket Wireless towers used in some areas operate on 4G LTE technology, offering fast data speeds and reliable coverage to customers in the area. However, the coverage may not be as extensive as that of AT&T or T-Mobile, so it’s essential to check the coverage map before choosing Cricket Wireless as your provider.
In general, the quality of the Cricket network tower is considered to be good, with coverage spanning more than 99% of Americans. The network is known for its fast data speeds, reliable coverage, and flexible, affordable plans. However, as with any wireless service, the quality of the network tower may vary depending on the location and other factors. It’s always a good idea to check the coverage map and read customer reviews before choosing a wireless provider.
What Towers Does Cricket Wireless Use for its Reliable Coverage
Cricket Wireless primarily uses towers from AT&T and T-Mobile to provide coverage to its customers. However, Cricket Wireless also operates its own towers in some areas. The network uses a combination of 4G and 5G technology, depending on the location and device being used. Cricket Wireless claims that its network covers 99% of Americans, providing reliable coverage and fast internet speeds.
1. AT&T Towers
AT&T is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States and provides wireless service to millions of customers. Cricket Wireless uses AT&T towers to provide coverage in areas where it does not have its own towers. These towers operate on 4G LTE technology, which provides fast data speeds and reliable coverage. However, in areas where AT&T coverage is weak, Cricket Wireless may experience slow data speeds or poor coverage.
2. T-Mobile Towers
T-Mobile is another major wireless provider that Cricket Wireless uses for coverage. T-Mobile towers operate on 4G and 5G technology, providing faster data speeds and better coverage than older 3G networks. T-Mobile’s network is known for its reliability and speed, and by using these towers, Cricket Wireless can offer its customers high-quality service in many areas.
3. Cricket Wireless Towers
In some areas, Cricket Wireless operates its own towers to provide coverage to its customers. These towers operate on 4G LTE technology, offering fast data speeds and reliable coverage to customers in the area. However, the coverage may not be as extensive as that of AT&T or T-Mobile, so it’s essential to check the coverage map before choosing Cricket Wireless as your provider.
Old Cricket vs. New Cricket
Old Cricket and New Cricket refer to the changes that occurred in the company after its acquisition by AT&T in 2014. Here are some of the key differences between the Old Cricket and the New Cricket:
- Network: Before the acquisition, Old Cricket used a CDMA network, which limited its device options and coverage. After the acquisition, New Cricket switched to a GSM network that provides broader coverage and allows customers to bring their own devices.
- Branding: Old Cricket had a distinct branding and logo, while New Cricket adopted AT&T’s branding and logo after the acquisition.
- Plans: Old Cricket offered a variety of plans, but they were often limited in terms of data speeds and network access. New Cricket offers more flexible plans with faster data speeds and access to AT&T’s network in addition to its own.
- Devices: Old Cricket had a limited selection of devices, while New Cricket offers a wide range of smartphones and other devices for purchase, as well as BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) options.
- Customer Service: Old Cricket’s customer service was often criticized for being subpar. After the acquisition, New Cricket offers more comprehensive customer support, including online chat, phone support, and in-store support.
The Old Cricket and New Cricket are quite different in terms of network, branding, plans, devices, and customer service. The acquisition by AT&T allowed Cricket to expand its network and offer more flexible plans and device options, as well as improving its customer support.
Cricket Wireless Coverage Map
Cricket Wireless offers coverage to over 99% of Americans, making it a popular choice for those looking for reliable wireless service. The coverage area is spread across the United States and is provided through a combination of AT&T and T-Mobile towers, as well as Cricket’s own towers in some areas. Here’s a general overview of the Cricket Wireless coverage map/area:
- The coverage area spans across the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- The coverage map shows that most urban and suburban areas have reliable coverage, while rural areas may have limited coverage or weaker signals.
- The quality of coverage may vary depending on factors such as the specific location, terrain, and the type of device being used.
- Customers can check the coverage map on the Cricket Wireless website or in-store to determine whether their specific location has coverage.
- In areas where there is weak or no coverage, customers may experience slower data speeds or dropped calls.
Overall, the Cricket Wireless coverage area is extensive and offers reliable service to the vast majority of Americans. It’s always a good idea to check the coverage map before choosing a wireless provider to ensure that the service meets your needs in your specific area.
Is Cricket the Most Reliable Network?
While Cricket Wireless is known for its extensive coverage and reliable service, it may not be considered the most reliable network in the United States. The term “reliable” can have different meanings to different people, so it’s important to consider what factors are important to you when determining whether Cricket Wireless is the most reliable network.
In terms of coverage, Cricket Wireless does offer service to over 99% of Americans, which is a strong indicator of reliability. The network uses a combination of AT&T and T-Mobile towers, as well as its own towers in some areas, to provide coverage across the United States.
However, other factors such as data speeds, customer support, and overall network performance may also be important considerations when determining reliability. In terms of data speeds, Cricket Wireless offers fast LTE and 5G data speeds, but some customers have reported slower speeds in areas where coverage may be weaker.
In terms of customer support, Cricket Wireless offers comprehensive support options such as online chat, phone support, and in-store support. However, some customers have reported dissatisfaction with the quality of customer support.
Overall network performance can also be a consideration when determining reliability. While Cricket Wireless offers reliable coverage, some customers have reported issues with dropped calls or slow data speeds in certain areas.
In summary, while Cricket Wireless is known for its extensive coverage and reliable service, it may not be considered the most reliable network for everyone. It’s important to consider factors such as coverage, data speeds, customer support, and overall network performance when determining whether Cricket Wireless is the best fit for your needs.
How Cricket Wireless Coverage Can Compare to Other Networks?
Here’s a comparison table of Cricket Wireless coverage compared to other major US networks:
| Service | Cricket Wireless | AT&T | T-Mobile | Verizon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Network | Rents from AT&T and T-Mobile, owns some towers | Owns and operates network | Owns and operates network | Owns and operates network |
| Coverage | Extensive coverage across the United States | Extensive coverage across the United States | Coverage in most urban areas, weaker in rural areas | Extensive coverage across the United States |
| Data Speeds | Fast LTE and 5G speeds, may be slower in some areas | Fast LTE and 5G speeds, with wider coverage than Cricket Wireless | Fast LTE and 5G speeds, with coverage in most urban areas | Fast LTE and 5G speeds, with extensive coverage across the United States |
| Customer Support | Comprehensive customer support, including online chat, phone support, and in-store support | Comprehensive customer support, including online chat, phone support, and in-store support | Comprehensive customer support, including online chat, phone support, and in-store support | Comprehensive customer support, including online chat, phone support, and in-store support |
| Price | Affordable plans with varying options | Varies depending on plan, may be more expensive than Cricket Wireless | Varies depending on plan, may be more expensive than Cricket Wireless | Varies depending on plan, may be more expensive than Cricket Wireless |
As the table shows, Cricket Wireless offers extensive coverage across the United States through its use of AT&T and T-Mobile towers, as well as its own towers in some areas. While coverage may be weaker in some rural areas, overall the network provides reliable service to most areas of the country.
Compared to other major networks like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, Cricket Wireless may offer more affordable plans with similar features. However, pricing may vary depending on the specific plan and options selected.
In terms of data speeds, Cricket Wireless offers fast LTE and 5G speeds, but performance may vary depending on the location and other factors. The other networks also offer fast LTE and 5G speeds, with Verizon typically having the most extensive coverage.
Overall, the choice between Cricket Wireless and other networks may depend on factors such as coverage, data speeds, customer support, and pricing. It’s important to research and compare the options to determine which network best fits your needs.
What Other Carriers Use the Same Network Towers?
Cricket Wireless primarily uses network towers from AT&T and T-Mobile to provide coverage to its customers. However, other wireless carriers also use these same network towers to provide their own services. Here are some of the carriers that use the same network towers as Cricket Wireless:
- AT&T: As the primary provider of network towers for Cricket Wireless, AT&T uses the same network towers to provide its own wireless service. AT&T offers a wide range of wireless plans, including postpaid and prepaid options.
- T-Mobile: T-Mobile is another provider of network towers used by Cricket Wireless. T-Mobile offers a range of postpaid and prepaid plans, as well as unique features such as free international roaming.
- Metro by T-Mobile: Metro by T-Mobile is a prepaid wireless provider that uses T-Mobile’s network towers to provide coverage. The company offers a range of affordable plans with unlimited data and other features.
- Straight Talk: Straight Talk is a prepaid wireless provider that uses network towers from multiple carriers, including AT&T and T-Mobile. The company offers a variety of affordable plans with unlimited data and other features.
- H2O Wireless: H2O Wireless is another prepaid wireless provider that uses network towers from AT&T to provide coverage. The company offers a range of plans with unlimited data and other features.
In summary, several carriers use the same network towers as Cricket Wireless, including AT&T and T-Mobile, as well as other providers that rent access to these towers. When choosing a wireless provider, it’s important to consider factors such as coverage, data speeds, pricing, and customer support to determine the best fit for your needs.
MVNO and MNO
Here’s a table comparing MVNOs and MNOs:
| MVNO | MNO | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Mobile Virtual Network Operator | Mobile Network Operator |
| Ownership | Does not own network | Owns network |
| Network | Rents network from MNO | Owns and operates network |
| Coverage | Depends on MNO’s coverage | Covers areas where network is operated |
| Service | May have limitations on service | Offers full range of services |
| Price | May offer lower prices | Prices may be higher |
| Customer Support | May have limited customer support | Offers comprehensive customer support |
| Marketing | Typically relies on online marketing | Uses various marketing channels |
MVNOs are mobile virtual network operators that rent network access from MNOs. They do not own their own network and typically offer their services at lower prices than MNOs. However, MVNOs may have limitations on their services and customer support may be more limited.
On the other hand, MNOs own and operate their own networks and offer a full range of services. Their prices may be higher than those of MVNOs, but they typically offer comprehensive customer support and a more extensive range of coverage.
When choosing a mobile service provider, it’s important to consider factors such as coverage, service, price, and customer support. An MVNO may be a good choice if you’re looking for a lower-priced plan, while an MNO may be a better option if you need comprehensive coverage and services.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wireless Provider
When choosing a wireless provider, the towers they use are just one factor to consider. Here are some other factors that you should keep in mind:
- Coverage: Check the coverage map to make sure the provider you choose covers the areas you need to use your phone.
- Price: Look for a provider that offers plans that fit your budget.
- Data speeds: Make sure the provider offers fast data speeds, especially if you plan to stream videos or play games on your phone.
- Customer service: Check reviews to make sure the provider has good customer service and can assist you if you have any issues.
As they often, good things come in small packages, cricket wireless may sound a bit underwhelming because it is an MVNO but ever since they are linked with AT&T and started using their cell towers they have positively changed a lot. One thing that hasn’t changed ever since its inception is its low cost and that’s where it attracts a lot of customers because of its inexpensive package plans.
What Network Does Cricket Use?
Cricket uses the AT&T network, which means it offers the same coverage that you’d get with a more expensive carrier. Currently, AT&T covers around 68% of the country with 4G coverage.
Types of Towers Used by Cricket
Cricket uses a combination of different types of towers to provide its wireless services, including:
1. Monopole Towers
Monopole towers are single poles that support one or more antennas. These towers are usually made of steel or concrete and can reach heights of up to 200 feet. Monopole towers are a popular choice for wireless providers as they are relatively inexpensive to construct and require minimal space.
2. Lattice Towers
Lattice towers are multi-legged structures that provide support for multiple antennas. These towers are often used in areas where a single monopole tower would not provide adequate coverage. Lattice towers can reach heights of up to 400 feet and are made of steel or aluminum.
3. Guyed Towers
Guyed towers are similar to lattice towers, but they are supported by guy wires that anchor the tower to the ground. Guyed towers are often used in areas where the soil is not suitable for a freestanding tower. These towers can reach heights of up to 800 feet and are made of steel.
4. Stealth Towers
Stealth towers are designed to blend in with their surroundings, making them less noticeable to the public. These towers are often disguised as trees, flagpoles, or other structures to reduce their visual impact. Stealth towers are often used in residential areas where residents may object to the presence of a traditional tower.
What Phones are Compatible with Cricket that Use Cricket Network?
Cricket Wireless offers a wide range of smartphones and other devices for purchase, as well as BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) options. Here are some of the phones that are compatible with Cricket Wireless that use the Cricket network:
- Apple iPhone: Cricket Wireless offers a range of iPhone models, including the latest iPhone 13 series, as well as older models like the iPhone 11 and iPhone SE.
- Samsung Galaxy: Cricket Wireless offers a variety of Samsung Galaxy phones, including the latest Galaxy S21 and Galaxy A series, as well as older models like the Galaxy S10 and Galaxy A10e.
- LG Stylo: Cricket Wireless offers several LG Stylo models, including the latest LG Stylo 7 and Stylo 6.
- Motorola Moto: Cricket Wireless offers several Motorola Moto models, including the Moto G Power and Moto G Stylus.
- Nokia: Cricket Wireless offers several Nokia models, including the Nokia C5 Endi and Nokia 3.4.
- Other Android Phones: Many other Android phones are compatible with Cricket Wireless, including models from brands like OnePlus, TCL, and ZTE.
It’s important to note that not all phones may be compatible with the Cricket network, so it’s a good idea to check with Cricket Wireless or use the compatibility tool on their website before purchasing a new device or bringing your own device. Additionally, some devices may require certain settings or updates to be compatible with the Cricket network, so it’s important to follow the instructions provided by Cricket Wireless when setting up a new device.
Best Cricket Wireless Cell Phone Plans
As of 2023, Cricket Wireless offers a range of cell phone plans to meet the needs of different customers. Here are some of the best Cricket Wireless cell phone plans available in 2023:
- Cricket More: The Cricket More plan offers unlimited data, talk, and text, as well as 15GB of mobile hotspot data per line. It also includes HD video streaming and unlimited texting to 37 countries. Prices start at $60 per month for one line.
- Cricket Core: The Cricket Core plan offers unlimited data, talk, and text, as well as 10GB of mobile hotspot data per line. It also includes SD video streaming and unlimited texting to 37 countries. Prices start at $55 per month for one line.
- Cricket Simply Data: The Cricket Simply Data plan is designed for customers who primarily use data and don’t need unlimited talk and text. It offers 20GB of data per month, with prices starting at $35 per month.
- Cricket Simply Data Plus: The Cricket Simply Data Plus plan offers 40GB of data per month, with prices starting at $50 per month. It also includes unlimited talk and text.
- Cricket Core Plus: The Cricket Core Plus plan offers unlimited data, talk, and text, as well as 15GB of mobile hotspot data per line. It also includes HD video streaming and unlimited texting to 37 countries. Prices start at $55 per month for one line.
It’s important to note that pricing and plan options may vary depending on the number of lines and other factors. Additionally, some plans may have speed and data usage limitations. Customers should check with Cricket Wireless or visit their website to determine which plan best fits their needs.
Final Word
Cricket wireless had its ups and downs since its inception, but it has emerged big time after 2015 with AT&T. From a CDMA carrier to a GSM network carrier, cricket has benefited a lot from using the same towers as AT&T to provide its customers reliable and invariant coverage. From nowhere to everywhere, cricket wireless is thriving rapidly as one of the leading prepaid mobile service providers in America by using AT&T cell towers.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some FAQs and answers about what towers Cricket Wireless uses:
What towers does Cricket Wireless use?
Cricket Wireless primarily uses network towers from AT&T and T-Mobile to provide coverage to its customers. The company also uses its own towers in some areas to provide coverage.
Does Cricket Wireless use 5G towers?
Yes, Cricket Wireless uses 5G towers to provide faster data speeds and better coverage to its customers. However, 5G coverage may not be available in all areas and may depend on the specific device being used.
What is the coverage area for Cricket Wireless?
Cricket Wireless offers coverage to over 99% of Americans, with the coverage area spanning across the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Can I bring my own device to Cricket Wireless?
Yes, Cricket Wireless offers BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) options for customers who want to use their existing device. However, the device must be compatible with the Cricket network, and some features may not be available on certain devices.
What is the difference between AT&T and T-Mobile towers used by Cricket Wireless?
AT&T and T-Mobile towers used by Cricket Wireless offer reliable coverage and fast data speeds. However, in areas where AT&T or T-Mobile coverage is weak, Cricket Wireless may experience slow data speeds or poor coverage.
Can I use a non-Cricket Wireless device on the Cricket network?
Yes, Cricket Wireless allows customers to bring their own device as long as it is compatible with the network. Customers can check the compatibility of their device on the Cricket Wireless website or in-store.
Are there any limitations to data speeds or coverage on Cricket Wireless?
Some plans on Cricket Wireless may have data speed and usage limitations, and coverage may vary depending on the specific location and other factors. Customers should check with Cricket Wireless or visit their website to determine the specific limitations and coverage in their area.
Which is Better Straight Talk or Cricket Wireless?
Almost the same if we consider the speed and coverage quality of both these reputed mobile service providers but the thing where cricket wireless excels is its relatively low cost and exceptional package plans. Cricket wireless offers its customers more customizable alternatives as far as package plans are concerned. Also cricket wireless provides more data than straight talk which attracts a lot of customers. Although Straight Talk is not bad either, they just can’t keep up with cricket’s fairly attractive package plans especially you are looking to get a multiple lines deal.
Is it True that Cricket Gives Free Mobile Phones to New Users?
Yes, it is. It seems a bit overwhelming and honestly speaking it is. If you are transferring from another wireless provider to cricket wireless, you will get a new phone from cricket wireless free of any cost.
How Much a Package Plan Costs you if you are a Cricket Wireless user?
It depends on whether you opt for a limited or an unlimited plan. There are plans for one line and multiple lines too. 55$ a month will do for an unlimited plan if you opted for a single line. You will get a discount on all package plans for multiple line deals. The unlimited package plan offers a downloading speed of 3mbps.
Does Cricket Wireless Work with Every Phone?
You can definitely use a cricket phone and it is the best option but you can also use an AT&T phone with cricket wireless. You can also use Verizon phones without having to unlock them. T-Mobile phones can also do but you have to unlock them before using them with cricket wireless.
Do I have to Pay an Activation Fee to a Cricket Retailer?
Yes, you do. If you go to a retailer to sign up, the retailer will charge you 25$ for that. But you can also sign up online without paying any activation fee. For that purpose, you can buy your sim card from Amazon or order it from cricket’s official website.