In the crowded marketplace of mobile-based wireless networks, Google Fi and Cricket Wireless are two prominent ISPs. Google Fi is run by the tech giant Google. It offers a wide and strong network coverage along with flexible pricing based on data usage.
And Cricket Wireless is owned by AT&T. It provides competitive prepaid plans and widespread coverage through the AT&T network. However, both services have unique features, facilities, and functionalities. Again, both of them also have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Here, we cover all the relevant aspects of Google Fi Vs Cricket Wireless to help you choose the best one; let’s start.
Google Fi vs Cricket: Quick Summary of Cell Phone Providers
| Feature | Google Fi | Cricket |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2015 | 1999 |
| Carrier Network | T-Mobile, US Cellular | AT&T |
| eSIM Support | YES | YES (only iPhones) |
| Free 5G | YES | YES |
| 5G Data Speeds | Up to 900+Mbps | Up to 250+Mbps |
| 4G Data Speeds | Up to 170+Mbps | Up to 70+Mbps |
| Lowest Phone Plan | $20/month | $30/month |
| Unlimited Minutes | YES | YES |
| Unlimited Data | YES (with cap) | YES (No Cap) |
| Family Discount | YES | YES |
| Wi-Fi Calling | YES | YES |
| Free Mexico/Canada Call | YES | YES |
| Mobile Hotspot | YES | YES |
| Video Streaming | YES | YES |
| Phone Unlock Period | At Purchase | After 180 Days |
| Extra Perks | 100GB of Cloud Storage | Free HBO Max streaming, Unlimited texting to international locations, 150 GB Cloud Storage |
| Home Internet Discount | Not Available | Not Always |
About Google Fi
Google Fi started its journey in 2015. Previously, it was called “Project Fi”. Then, after a corporate decision, Google changed the name of its mobile network service from “Project Fi” to “Google Fi.” Google Fi basically does not have its own wireless network.
It uses different phone networks like T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and US Cellular. The company uses modern GSM technology to give you the best connectivity when you are on the go.
Google Fi uses network switching feature. If your first location is covered by T-Mobile, and after you drive for a mile, there is no tower and network of T-Mobile. In this case, your wireless network will transfer the data transmission responsibility to Verizon or another tower’s GSM to retain the connection. In this way, it ensures that you always get smooth connectivity.
Pros
- International calls and texts at no extra cost
- Pay for what you use
- Incredible data speed
- Network switching for the best coverage
- Bill protection for cost control
- Seamless integration with Google services
Cons
- Limited phone compatibility
- Maybe costlier for high-data usage
- No physical retail stores for support
- Network switching can lead to call drops
About Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless began its journey with a single store on March 17, 1999, from Chattanooga, TN. Now, it is the trusted companion for over 10 million customers with a wider network coverage. It is a part of AT&T and is dedicated to providing affordable and reliable wireless service without yearly contracts. They believe everyone should have great wireless service.
This Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) placed top at the American Customer Satisfaction Index, 2023. It does not have any own tower or network-related establishment; it has purchased rights to use AT&T Mobile network facilities at a wholesale price so that it can offer the best and cheapest rates to the users.
Pros
- Exclusive discounts on family plans
- Extensive coverage (AT&T network)
- Affordable pricing plans
- Multi-line discounts
- No activation fees
- No credit checks when joining
- Roaming in Mexico and Canada
- Exclusive phone deals and discounts
- Supports 1080p HD video streaming
Cons
- Doesn’t support eSIM
- Hotspot is not free on all plans
- Data speed throttling
- Deprioritized data on most plans
- No 5G under BYOP program
Is Google Fi Worth It?
The Google Fi service offers a range of plans, from flexible pay-as-you-go options to flat-rate unlimited data plans, accommodating different usage patterns. The Flexible plan charges $10 per GB of data used, with a base cost ranging from $20 for a single user to $16 each for five or six users.
The Flexible plan also includes Bill Protection, where data is free after reaching 6GB to 18 GB. Its international coverage is also exceptional. It allows you to use your plan in numerous countries at no additional cost.
However, the coverage in your specific area should be assessed to ensure it meets your requirements. Google Fi also includes useful extras like visual voicemail and the ability to use your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Finally, Google Fi is worth considering if you prioritize flexibility, travel frequently, or seek a cost-effective plan. Just be aware of data limits on plans and restrictions on international usage with the Simply Unlimited plan.
Is Cricket Wireless Worth It?
Cricket Wireless is a worthwhile choice for those seeking affordable, reliable, and simple wireless service. It is suitable for individuals or families on a budget, as well as those looking for prepaid plans without credit checks or long-term contracts.
With affordable plans starting at just $30 per month and the benefit of AT&T’s robust infrastructure, customers get dependable service without the burden of contracts. Cricket’s family plans to provide attractive data per line options. International calling features are available with Cricket Wireless in a limited manner.
The network’s capped data speeds at 8 Mbps could be a drawback for data-intensive users, but for the average consumer, it’s enough. Cricket also allows customers to bring their own phones or purchase devices, providing additional flexibility.
Want to move on another ISP? Don’t forget to check out Google Fiber Vs Cox
Internet Service Comparison – Google Fi vs Cricket Wireless
When evaluating Google Fi against Cricket Wireless, both providers present praiseworthy options. Google Fi’s great billing system and extensive network coverage render it a strong selection for individuals seeking dependable connectivity, whether at home or abroad.
Google Fi uses several operators’ networks, which makes it more reliable to provide decent internet service. This is because at least one operator’s service is always active in a certain area. But, Cricket Wireless only uses AT&T operator’s service. So, if you are in an area where AT&T service is not available or poor, you will get degraded network service.
Plans & Pricing – Google Fi vs Cricket Wireless
Google Fi
Regarding plans and prices, Google Fi is good if you don’t use much data because you only pay for what you use. Google Fi comes with various data plans like Simply Unlimited Plan, Flexible Plan, and Unlimited Plus Plan; you can select one as per your budget, needs, and preferences.
Google Fi has more data options. If you travel a lot, Google Fi is great for international use. Your choice depends on how much data you need and if you travel.
| Package | Data Allotment | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexible | Pay for what you use |
|
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| Simply Unlimited | Unlimited |
|
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| Unlimited Plus | Unlimited |
|
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Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless offers simple and affordable plans with unlimited talk and text. Customers have the privilege to choose a plan from multiple lines with preferred data usage needs. You can start with monthly plans for as little as $30 per line.
Even though this package is cheap, it provides you with 5GB of high-speed data. You just need to get a free-of-cost SIM online to activate your service. However, if you decide to visit a physical Cricket Wireless store, please be aware that there is a $25 activation fee.
| Unlimited + 15 GB Mobile Hotspot Plan$60 /mo. | Unlimited Plan$55 /mo. | Multi-Month Unlimited Plans from $30 /mo. | 10 GB Plan$40 /mo. | 5 GB Plan$30/mo. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 📶 Data | Unlimited Premium | Unlimited | 10 GB | 5 GB |
| 🔥 Hotspot | 15 GB Mobile Hotspot | $10 for 10GB | N/A | N/A |
| 📺 Max with Ads | The one to watch for HBO, hit series, movies, and more included | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| ☁️ Cloud Storage | 150 GB Cloud Storage | 2 GB Cloud Storage | 2 GB Cloud Storage | 2 GB Cloud Storage |
| 🌎 International | Mexico & Canada | Mexico & Canada | Mexico & Canada | Mexico & Canada included on new accounts |
| ✉️ International Texts | Unlimited texts from the U.S. to 37 countries | Unlimited texts from the U.S. to 37 countries | Unlimited texts from the U.S. to 37 countries | Cricket International available for an extra fee |
| 💰 Per Line | $60/mo. per month | $55/mo. with Auto Pay | $55/mo. per month | $50/mo. with Auto Pay |
Who Wins? – In comparison to the price and plans, it is very clear that Cricket Wireless is far cheaper than Google Fi. So, Cricket Wireless wins in this case.
Data Speeds (5G & LTE)
Google Fi
Google Fi is comparatively slower in the data speed race. It provides 30-75 Mbps for 5G and 9-46 Mbps for LTE. Some customers claim they have around 100 to 150 Mbps speed. As per the report, 5G offers faster speeds, while LTE provides dependable connectivity, with the actual speed experienced depending on factors like location and network conditions.
By the way, Google Fi doesn’t have optimal browsing speed. When it switches between US Cellular and T-Mobile towers, it drops the call on the LTE network with 100 Mbps or less speed.
| Data Speed | 2G | 3G | 4G | 5G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Download Speed | 40-200 Kbps | 400 Kbps-1.4 Mbps | 9-47 Mbps | 30-75 Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 20-80 Kbps | 100-500 Kbps | 4-20 Mbps | 4-20 Mbps |
| Latency | 400-900 ms | 100-450 ms | 30-50 ms | 30-50 ms |
Cricket Wireless
While most ISPs offer 5G access, Cricket is a race winner as it provides relatively faster 5G data speeds. After testing the 5G data speed on iPhone 12, Cricket stands at 225 Mbps but some customers clarified they got almost 265 Mbps. But, I’m not happy with LTE service because it stands at 70-80 Mbps which is not good enough.
Cricket Wireless authorities should look at LTE service for better improvement. However, 5G and LTE speeds depend on a specific location, specific area, distance to the tower, and respective tower’s GSMs.
Who Wins? – Considering higher data speeds for both 5G and LTE, Cricket Wireless wins in this matter.
Phone Deals & Discounts
Google Fi
Google Fi is compatible with Google Pixel 6A, Samsung A14, and Motorola Moto G Power. You can receive a $500 discount on your phone when you buy and activate a Samsung Galaxy S22 through fi.google.com. New Google Fi customers can transfer existing phone numbers from their current carrier to Fi (a process known as porting) to qualify for this offer.
Receive a $100 credit to your bill when you switch to Google Fi and bring your own phone (BOYP) while transferring your existing number. Please note that this promotion is only available to new Google Fi account holders.
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Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless comes with some amazing phone-related deals. When you switch to Cricket Wireless, they often give you free phones like the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G with their $60 plan. At present, they have special deals on Samsung Galaxy A53 and Galaxy S21 FE, which can connect to 5G.
Motorola phone lovers can get the new 2023 Moto G Stylus at $39.99 when switching to Cricket Wireless. Then choose a $60 monthly plan and bring your phone number. You can also get Apple’s premium smartphones for only $199.99 by switching to Cricket. Just bring your phone number and go for a $60 plan per month to grab this deal.
Who Wins? – The above discussion clarifies that Cricket Wireless is providing the best phone deals and discounts. So, the winner is the Cricket Wireless.
Google Fi vs Cricket Wireless: Coverage by State
Google Fi
Google Fi operates in almost all 60 states of the USA and 200 destinations worldwide. Its coverage capability is estimated at 98%.
| Afghanistan | Albania | Algeria | Angola |
| Aland Islands | Alderney | Andorra | Anguilla |
| Antigua & Barbuda | Argentina | Armenia | Aruba |
| Australia | Austria | Azerbaijan | Azores |
| Bahamas | Bahrain | Bangladesh | Barbados |
| Belarus | Belgium | Belize | Benin |
| Bermuda | Bolivia | Bonaire | Bosnia & Hercegovina |
| Botswana | Brazil | British Virgin Islands | Brunei |
| Bulgaria | Burkina Faso | Burundi | Cambodia |
| Cameroon | Canada | Canary Islands | Cape Verde |
| Cayman Islands | Central African Republic | Chad | Chile |
| China | Christmas Island | Colombia | Congo |
| Congo, Democratic Republic | Costa Rica | Cote D’ivoire | Croatia |
| Curacao | Cyprus | Czech Republic | Denmark |
| Dominica | Dominican Republic | Easter Island | Ecuador |
| Egypt | El Salvador | Estonia | Faroe Islands |
| Fiji | Finland | France | French Guiana |
| French Polynesia | Gabon | Gambia | Georgia |
| Germany | Ghana | Gibraltar | Greece |
| Greenland | Grenada | Guadeloupe (including St. Barthelemy & St. Martin) | Guam |
| Guatemala | Guernsey | Guinea | Guinea-Bissau |
| Guyana | Haiti | Herm | Honduras |
| Hong Kong | Hungary | Iceland | India |
| Indonesia | Iraq | Ireland | Isle of Man |
| Israel | Italy | Jamaica | Japan |
| Jersey | Jordan | Kazakhstan | Kenya |
| Kosovo | Kuwait | Kyrgyzstan | Laos |
| Latvia | Liberia | Liechtenstein | Lithuania |
| Luxembourg | Macau | Macedonia | Madagascar |
| Madeira | Malawi | Malaysia | Maldives |
| Mali | Malta | Marie Galante | Martinique |
| Mauritania | Mauritius | Mayotte | Mexico |
| Moldova | Monaco | Mongolia | Montenegro |
| Montserrat | Morocco | Mozambique | Myanmar |
| Nauru | Nepal | Netherlands | New Zealand |
| Nicaragua | Niger | Nigeria | Northern Ireland |
| Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan) | Norway | Oman | Pakistan |
| Palestine (Gaza Strip & West Bank) | Panama | Papua New Guinea | Paraguay |
| Peru | Philippines | Poland | Portugal |
| Qatar | Reunion | Romania | Rota |
| Russia | Rwanda | Saba | St. Barthelemy |
| St. Eustatius | St. Saba | Samoa | San Marino |
| Sark Island | Saudi Arabia | Scotland | Senegal |
| Serbia | Seychelles | Sierra Leone | Singapore |
| Sint Maarten | Slovakia | Slovenia | South Africa |
| South Korea | Spain | Sri Lanka | St. Kitts & Nevis |
| St. Lucia | St. Maarten (Dutch side) | St. Vincent & Grenadines | Suriname |
| Svalbard | Sweden | Switzerland | Taiwan |
| Tajikistan | Tanzania | Thailand | Tinian |
| Togo | Tonga | Trinidad & Tobago | Tunisia |
| Turkey | Turks & Caicos Islands | Uganda | Ukraine |
| United Arab Emirates | United Kingdom | Uruguay | US Virgin Islands |
| Uzbekistan | Vanuatu | Vatican City | Venezuela |
| Vietnam | Wales | Western Sahara | Zambia |
Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless also provides service in all the states at 4,438 locations. The estimated coverage of this network is 68% due to the only use of a single operator’s service AT&T. Here are some states that are covered by Cricket Wireless.
| British Columbia | Oregon | Maryland | Arizona |
| Alberta | N.H. | New Jersey | Arkansas |
| Saskatchewan | Idaho | Virginia | New Mexico |
| Manitoba | Wyoming | Delaware | North Carolina |
| Ontario | Michigan | Missouri | South Carolina |
| Quebec | Iowa | Kentucky | Alabama |
| Washington | N.Y. | Virginia | Texas |
| North Dakota | Mass | California | Mississippi |
| Montana | Nebraska | Oklahoma | Georgia |
| Minnesota | R.I | Tennessee | Louisiana |
| South Dakota | Ohio | Arizona | Labrador sea |
| Wisconsin | Pa | Arkansas | Newfoundland and Labrador |
| Ottawa (Vt.) | Illinois | New Mexico | Prince Edward Island |
| Oregon | Nevada | North Carolina | Maine Nova Scotia |
| N.H. | United States | South Carolina | St-Pierre |
| Idaho | Utah | Alabama | Florida |
| Wyoming | Indiana | Texas | Sargasso Sea |
Who Wins? – Google Fi wins in terms of network availability and coverage.
My Honest Customer Experience
In my honest customer experience, I would like to place Google Fi over Cricket Wireless. Several key factors have driven this decision:
- Google Fi’s flexibility in billing, where I only pay for the data I use, provided a sense of control and cost-effectiveness, which I won’t be available from Cricket’s fixed plans.
- Google Fi comes with the ability to switch between multiple networks, including international coverage, seamlessly. It ensures that I stay connected wherever I travel. Whereas, for Cricket Wireless, this facility is limited.
- While Cricket offers reliability and vast connectivity with AT&T infrastructure, I won’t access the internet in remote places as AT&T service is unavailable. Google Fi uses a wide variety of operator’s services like T-Mobile, Verizon, US Cellular, etc., So I have no worries about using the internet anywhere; there is at least one operational and active service.
- The absence of contracts and hidden fees with Google Fi aligned with my preference for transparent billing.
Ultimately, the combination of cost-efficiency, reliability, and transparent billing made Google Fi my preferred choice over Cricket Wireless.
Final Thoughts (Which Provider Should We Pick?)
I hope that now you have a very clear understanding of the context of Google Fi vs Cricket Wireless. To sum it up, Google Fi is great for those who want flexibility and travel a lot, while Cricket Wireless is solid for folks who prefer reliable domestic coverage and fixed plans. Your choice depends on what’s most important to you. However, We suggest you select your plan considering your needs, budget, family member number, etc.
