Mobile phone carriers: US Cellular vs. AT&T Mobility
Quick Verdict
AT&T is a better choice for nationwide coverage, while US Cellular may be preferable for those in its core coverage areas who value rural coverage and roaming options.
- AT&T offers wider network coverage, especially for 5G and 4G LTE.
- US Cellular focuses on expanding coverage in rural areas and offers roaming on other networks.
- Both carriers offer unlimited data plans and international roaming options, but the specifics vary.
- Customer service experiences are inconsistent for both carriers.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | US Cellular | AT&T Mobility |
|---|---|---|
| Network Coverage Area | Fourth largest nationwide coverage, regional with stronger presence in the Midwest and parts of the Northwest. Roaming agreements with AT&T and T-Mobile. | Covers 78.1% of the U.S.; 4G LTE covers over 99% of the U.S. population |
| 5G Network | Covers a small percentage of the country, concentrated in parts of the Midwest, Washington, Oregon, and the Mid-Atlantic/Northeast, especially Maine. Uses "5G+" for enhanced 5G offering. | Covers 43.3% of the U.S., reaching over 300 million people (low-band); 5G+ covers a smaller area, reaching around 175 million people (C-band and mmWave) |
| Data Plan Options | Unlimited data plans with varying features and price points. Flat rate plans also available. Discounts for military members and veterans. Bundling home internet with a mobile plan can lead to savings. Prepaid plan options available. | Unlimited plans (Starter SL, Extra EL, Premium PL), 4GB plan ($50/month), Value Plus VL plan ($50.99/month) |
| International Roaming | Unlimited talk, text, and LTE data in Mexico and Canada. Daily and monthly travel passes are available. Roaming on cruise ships is available, but rates are high. | International Day Pass ($12/day), Cruise Travel Pass ($20/day); some unlimited plans include talk, text, and data in Mexico and Canada |
| Customer Service | Overall customer service quality varies, with some customers reporting positive interactions and others reporting issues. | Varies, with some reviews indicating great service and others reporting it's not the best |
Overall Comparison
Coverage: AT&T wins; Rural Focus: US Cellular wins; Customer Service: Both inconsistent
Pros and Cons
US Cellular
Pros:
- Focus on expanding coverage in rural areas
- Allows users to roam on other networks in areas where they don't have towers
- Offers discounts for military members and veterans
- Unlimited plans include unlimited talk, text, and LTE data in Mexico and Canada
- Localized deals
Cons:
- Limited 5G availability
- Customer service experiences vary
- Device selection may be more limited compared to larger carriers
- Data speeds may be temporarily slowed during times of congestion
- Early termination fees may apply
- Actual data speeds may be slower than advertised, especially during times of congestion
AT&T Mobility
Pros:
- Extensive network coverage nationwide
- Variety of data plan options, including unlimited plans
- Deals and promotions can provide significant savings
- Offers a wide range of smartphones with financing options
- Value-added services like the AT&T ActiveArmor app and streaming subscriptions
- Mix and match plans to fit your needs
Cons:
- 5G availability varies and may not be available everywhere
- Data speeds may be throttled or reduced after exceeding a certain data limit on some plans
- Customer service experiences vary, with some expressing dissatisfaction
- Hidden fees or charges like "Administrative Fee" and "Regulatory Cost Recovery Charge"
- Actual speeds may vary
- Coverage may not be guaranteed
User Experiences and Feedback
US Cellular
What Users Love
- Good performance in many rural areas and is improving (5G)
- Generally reliable network coverage in core areas
Common Complaints
- Spotty coverage in some rural areas
- Limited 5G availability
- Inconsistent customer support
- Issues with billing disputes and inaccurate charges
- Actual data speeds may be slower than advertised
Value Perception
- Affordable plans
- May be a good choice if you live in their coverage area and value rural coverage
AT&T Mobility
What Users Love
- Helpful and knowledgeable customer service representatives (in some cases)
- Extensive coverage nationwide
Common Complaints
- Customer service is not the best (in some cases)
- Hidden fees and charges
- Data throttling or reduced speeds after exceeding a certain data limit
Value Perception
- Deals and promotions can provide significant savings
- Mix and match plans to fit your needs