What is an MVNO?
A phone company that sells service on another company's network.
The short version
MVNO stands for mobile virtual network operator. It is a phone company that sells service using another company's network instead of its own towers.
Ask which network it uses
An MVNO page usually names the network it runs on, or the company will tell you if you ask. Write that name down. You will use it to check coverage.
Coverage comes from the host
The FCC says its Mobile Broadband Map lets you compare mobile wireless coverage reported by different mobile providers. Look up the host network at your address. Our coverage guide shows how.
Data priority
Some plan terms say data may be slowed when the network is busy, or that the plan's data gets lower priority than other customers' data. Read the plan terms for words like priority, deprioritization, or network management.
Your phone has to fit
The FCC says "unlocking a phone designed for one network may not make the phone technologically compatible with another wireless provider's network." Check the MVNO's compatibility page with your phone model.
What we do not do
We do not rank MVNOs or name one as a pick. See the current price at the carrier.
This is general information, not legal advice. Plan terms come from the carrier.
Sources: FCC, Broadband Data Collection Consumer Information; FCC, Cell Phone Unlocking.
FAQ
Next: check coverage
Your address, on the FCC map.
