What network does Mint Mobile run on?
Best answer: Mint Mobile operates on T-Mobile's network with total 5G and 4G support. The done deal was announced by T-Mobile on May 1, 2024, a process that began in March 2023. The closure of the purchase means that the un-carrier's leading 5G network will be with Mint Mobile for many years to come.
- MVNO deals: Mint Mobile | Visible | Boost | Tello | Cricket
What is Mint Mobile?
Mint Mobile is a prepaid MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) that provides a great prepaid experience and uses T-Mobile's network to connect its customers. On May 1, 2024, T-Mobile announced that the transaction was a done deal, and as a result, T-Mobile will bring great perks to new and existing customers in the following months. T-Mobile will keep the current $15 plan for new customers and will bring perks such as Scam Screener and free Canada and Mexico roaming.
In the U.S., Mint's services are operated entirely online rather than in physical brick-and-mortar stores. The company's business model is structured around buying months of service in bulk. Specifically, you can buy three, six, or 12 months of service in advance.
Because Mint has no physical locations, it ships out any SIM cards or phones you order and should arrive in three to five days for free. But if you can't wait that long, you can get service in minutes by opting for an eSIM.That doesn't mean you have to buy a phone from them. Since the MVNO runs off of T-Mobile's cellular towers, you can use any T-Mobile phone you might already own or pick up an unlocked phone (provided it supports T-Mobile's network).
If you're unsure if your phone is unlocked or compatible, you can use the Phone Compatibility tool on Mint's site to check. You'll need to provide information such as brand, model, and IMEI number, but checking for your phone's IMEI number is quick and easy.
Can I bring my own phone to Mint Mobile?
Along with T-Mobile phones, most of the best Android phones should work just fine on Mint Mobile. You can also use phones from AT&T, Cricket, Simple Mobile, Straight Talk, or Metro by T-Mobile, so long as they've been unlocked by their respective carrier to work on other networks — in most cases, carriers are happy to help you unlock your phone once it's been fully paid off. You can even bring your current number to Mint.
Of course, if you're thinking about getting a new phone to pair with your new wireless service, you can also take a look at our guide to the best Mint Mobile phones. Buying a phone through Mint could also hook you up with deals that get you free wireless service, deep discounts, and more.
- MVNO deals: Mint Mobile | Visible | Boost | Tello | Cricket
