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Which Network Has the Best Coverage?

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  • T-Mobile is less expensive overall while providing more “premium” data that isn’t slowed down.
  • T-Mobile also delivers faster data speeds than AT&T.
  • You could justify paying more for AT&T for better coverage in rural areas.

While T-Mobile and AT&T share similar network technologies (previously known as GSM carriers), their services and offerings could not be any more different. Ultimately, the decision to go with either T-Mobile or AT&T boils down to price and coverage.

T-Mobile is known for offering better value than AT&T. You get more “premium” data — data that isn’t slowed down when there’s network congestion — with T-Mobile’s base and mid-range plans that have a lower monthly bill than AT&T.

However, coverage is more important than data speeds, let alone monthly cost savings. After all, fast speeds are meaningless if you can’t get a signal. You might regret going for T-Mobile if it doesn’t adequately cover your area or places you often go to. That’s especially true if you often visit rural areas. And likewise, for AT&T, you might think that spending more may guarantee better coverage, but that’s not always the case, as some areas are better served by T-Mobile.

Check out how T-Mobile and AT&T’s plans compare, and take the steps to find out which carrier has the coverage you need. In addition to reviewing coverage maps, ask friends, family, and even locals about the quality of service in the areas you live and plan to visit often.

Be sure to also read about how T-Mobile’s plans compare to Verizon’s.