Boost Mobile vs Verizon: Plans Compared

Verizon Wireless is the biggest carrier in the country, with national 4G LTE and 5G networks that stretch from coast to coast. Boost Mobile is a slightly smaller provider that makes use of its own network (powered by Dish)—plus some partner networks—to provide nationwide coverage to its 7.5 million customers.

Both carriers offer high quality—if quite different—customer experiences. In this article, we’ll compare the two, paying particular attention to the types of plans each offer. By the end, you should have a clear idea about which one is for you. Read on as we compare Boost Mobile vs. Verizon. 

Boost Mobile vs Verizon: Similarities

• Both Boost Mobile and Verizon offer multiple unlimited plans.
• Both Boost Mobile and Verizon’s plans include international travel privileges.  
• Both Verizon and Boost Mobile allow you to sign up for multiple lines of service (also known as family plans), which result in cost savings. 
• Both carriers operate their own 5G networks.

Boost Mobile vs Verizon: Differences

• Verizon’s plans are among the most expensive around, while Boost Mobile’s are more affordable. 
• Boost Mobile’s largest premium data allotment is 50GB; Verizon offers plans with fully unlimited premium data.
• Boost Mobile does not offer dedicated mobile hotspot data; Verizon offers dedicated hotspot data with all of their unlimited plans.

Boost Mobile vs Verizon: Unlimited Plans

Verizon sells three primary postpaid unlimited plans: the entry-level Unlimited Welcome ($65/month), mid-tier Unlimited Plus ($80/month), and premium Unlimited Ultimate ($90/month). All three include unlimited calling, texting and data in Mexico, while the latter two also feature monthly mobile hotspot allowances. From here, you can add on various streaming, gaming, music, shopping, and travel perks for an additional $10/month as part of the carrier’s myPlan program. 

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Boost Mobile also sells three core unlimited plans: the entry-level $25/month Unlimited, the mid-range $50/month Unlimited+, and the $60/month Unlimited Premium. The latter two plans feature unlimited talk and text to 200+ countries, as well as hotspot functionality. 

We recommend going with Unlimited Premium or Unlimited+ if you’re looking for a plan that includes lots of premium data (50GB and 40GB respectively), as well as the ability to apply that data towards hotspot usage. If, instead, you can make do with less data—and don’t need hotspot data—you’ll save a lot by going with the standard Unlimited plan at $25/month. 

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Boost Mobile vs Verizon: Coverage

Verizon’s 4G LTE network is generally understood to be the best in America, outdoing the likes of AT&T and T-Mobile. Verizon’s 5G network, while smaller and less far-reaching, is growing fast as the company installs more towers. The combination of these two networks means that Verizon offers some of the best coverage in the country. 

Boost Mobile mostly uses its own system of top-notch 5G and 4G LTE networks to provide coverage to their customers (the company claims it offers 99% nationwide coverage). This includes the powerful nationwide Dish network. You can check out Boost's coverage reach below: 

The Bottom Line

Signing up for a Verizon plan means you get all of the perks that come along with going with a major postpaid carrier, including excellent coverage, generous plan extras, and huge mobile hotspot allowances. Of course, it all comes at a price, as Verizon’s unlimited plans are some of the most expensive on the market. 

Boost Mobile is a bit more pared-back and budget-oriented in its offerings. While the carrier is not technically a prepaid brand anymore, it retains an MVNO vibe. You’ll save money by going with Boost, but still enjoy the backing of excellent nationwide coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boost Mobile cheaper than Verizon?

Yes. Boost plans start around $25/month, while Verizon’s unlimited plans usually start at $65/month or more.

Can I use a Verizon phone on Boost Mobile?

Yes, if the phone is unlocked and compatible with Boost’s network.

Which has better coverage, Boost Mobile or Verizon?

Verizon has better nationwide coverage (about 99% of the U.S.) compared to Boost Mobile’s ~80% coverage through Dish’s network.