What network does your MVNO use?
Last updated June 14, 2026.
Short answer
Most budget and prepaid phone brands are MVNOs — they run on one of the three big U.S. networks: Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile. For example, Mint Mobile and Metro use T-Mobile; Visible, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile use Verizon; Cricket uses AT&T. Search the tool below to find any brand’s host network.
We show which major carrier network each brand resells. This is not a coverage check — confirm coverage for your area with the network.
16 brands shown
- Boost MobileBoost Mobile (EchoStar) networkT-MobileAT&TMultiple networks
Now owned by EchoStar, which is building its own 5G network. Boost customers use the Boost/EchoStar network where built out and roam on partner networks elsewhere.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Consumer CellularAT&TT-MobileMultiple networks
Popular with 50+ customers; provisions on AT&T or T-Mobile depending on the SIM/area.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Cricket WirelessAT&T
AT&T-owned prepaid brand running on the AT&T network.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Google Fi WirelessT-Mobile
Primary network is T-Mobile. Some compatible phones can also use Wi-Fi calling and international roaming. Historically switched among multiple US networks.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Metro by T-MobileT-Mobile
T-Mobile’s in-house prepaid flanker brand running directly on the T-Mobile network.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Mint MobileT-Mobile
Prepaid, sold in multi-month bundles. Owned by T-Mobile since 2024.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Optimum MobileT-Mobile
Altice MVNO on the T-Mobile network; generally paired with Optimum internet.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Red Pocket MobileVerizonAT&TT-MobileMultiple networks
Offers SIMs for multiple major networks; you choose the network at purchase.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Spectrum MobileVerizon
Charter MVNO on the Verizon network; generally requires Spectrum internet service.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Straight TalkVerizonAT&TT-MobileMultiple networks
TracFone brand (Verizon-owned). Historically provisioned across multiple networks depending on the SIM/phone; confirm your specific network at activation.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- TelloT-Mobile
Budget prepaid on the T-Mobile network with customizable plans.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Total WirelessVerizon
Verizon-owned (via TracFone). Marketed as “Total by Verizon” / Total Wireless.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Ultra MobileT-Mobile
Prepaid; sister brand to Mint Mobile under T-Mobile.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- US MobileVerizonT-MobileAT&TMultiple networks
Lets you pick a network: Verizon (“Warp”), T-Mobile (“GSM 5G”), or AT&T (“Dark Star”). Choose the one with the best coverage where you live.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- VisibleVerizon
Verizon-owned, digital-only prepaid brand on the Verizon network.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
- Xfinity MobileVerizon
Comcast MVNO on the Verizon network; uses Xfinity Wi-Fi hotspots to offload data. Typically requires being an Xfinity internet customer for the best pricing.
Official site · Verified 2026-06-14
How to use this
Pick a brand to see which carrier network it resells, then check that carrier’s coverage map for your exact area. The host network determines your coverage footprint; the MVNO determines your price, plan, and customer service. If a brand lists multiple networks, the one you get depends on the SIM or plan you pick.
Why the host network matters
- Coverage follows the host network — so compare carriers where you live and travel.
- Speed at peak times can be lower on an MVNO because its traffic may be deprioritized behind the carrier’s own customers when a tower is busy.
- Features like hotspot allowances, international roaming, and 5G bands can be limited compared with the carrier’s own plans.
Sources, dates & limitations
-
Each MVNO’s own public disclosures and coverage pages (manually verified) Editorial / manually verified
Data as of June 14, 2026. Last checked June 14, 2026.
Limitations & caveats
- Host-network relationships change when brands are acquired or switch carriers; we date every entry and re-check periodically.
- This tool identifies the host network only — it is not a coverage or availability check for your address.
- On congested cell sites, MVNO traffic may be deprioritized behind the carrier’s own postpaid customers.
Practical next steps
- Check your host network’s coverage map for your home and commute areas.
- Compare the internet/data options where you live
- Learn why coverage maps can be wrong
- Read the connectivity glossary (MVNO, deprioritization, bands)
Frequently asked questions
What is an MVNO?
A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) is a phone brand that does not own a cellular network. Instead it resells service on one of the major carriers’ networks — Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile — often at a lower price.
Does an MVNO have the same coverage as the host network?
Coverage is essentially the host network’s coverage, but the experience can differ. On a busy cell site, MVNO traffic may be deprioritized behind the carrier’s own postpaid customers, so speeds can be slower at peak times. Always check the host network’s coverage for your specific area.
Why do some brands list more than one network?
Some brands (for example US Mobile, Straight Talk, or Red Pocket) operate on multiple carrier networks. The network you get depends on the SIM or plan you choose, so confirm the specific network before you rely on its coverage.
How current is this list?
Each entry shows a “verified” date. MVNO–carrier relationships change (brands get acquired or switch networks), so we re-check periodically and date every record. If you spot an out-of-date entry, please report a correction.
No guarantee. Coverage and availability change and can differ between neighboring addresses. Results here are informational, sourced and dated where possible, and not a guarantee of service. Always verify directly with the provider before ordering. Spotted something wrong? Report a correction.