AT&T and Verizon are two of the largest wireless carriers in the United States, each boasting extensive network coverage and a variety of data plans. If you’re choosing between them, understanding their data services, network quality, pricing, and extras can help you make an informed decision.
Network Coverage and Speed
Verizon
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Known for one of the most reliable and extensive 4G LTE networks nationwide.
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Early leader in 5G rollout with broad coverage, including special database both low-band (for wide coverage) and mmWave (for ultra-fast speeds in cities).
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Often scores high in third-party network reliability and speed tests, especially in suburban and rural areas.
AT&T
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Also has strong nationwide 4G LTE coverage, slightly behind Verizon in some rural areas.
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Aggressively expanding its 5G network, offering a mix of low-band, mid-band, and mmWave frequencies.
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Competes closely with Verizon on speed, often can you tether without using hotspot data offering higher mid-band 5G availability, which balances speed and coverage.
Data Plans and Pricing
Verizon
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Offers multiple unlimited plans starting b2b phone list around $70/month for a single line, with higher-tier plans including perks like Apple Music or Disney+ subscriptions.
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Prepaid options available with competitive data packages.
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Data deprioritization can occur after a certain usage threshold, impacting speed during network congestion.
AT&T
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Similar unlimited plans starting at roughly $65/month for a single line.
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Includes perks such as HBO Max subscription on premium plans.
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Prepaid and family plans with shared data buckets available.
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Data prioritization varies by plan, with higher tiers offering premium network access.
Data Speeds and Performance
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Both carriers provide excellent 4G LTE speeds, generally ranging from 20 to 50 Mbps depending on location.
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Verizon’s mmWave 5G offers the fastest speeds but is limited to urban hotspots.
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AT&T’s mid-band 5G provides a good mix of speed and coverage, sometimes outperforming Verizon in urban mid-band availability.
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User experience varies based on your location; checking coverage maps is key.
Additional Feature
Verizon
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Robust network security features and a strong customer support reputation.
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Options for mobile hotspot usage included, with high-speed hotspot data limits on premium plans.
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Integration with smart home and IoT devices.