What Network Does Mint Mobile Use? Your Carrier Questions Answered

Known for its light-hearted, satirical marketing and celebrity ownership, Mint Mobile isn’t your traditional mobile provider. But this unconventional brand has more to offer than its minty fresh puns. With Mint Mobile plans starting at $15 per month, the company also offers some of the most affordable cell phone plans out there.

So, what network does Mint Mobile use to provide such affordable wireless coverage? Well, they don’t actually own any physical infrastructure. Instead, they rent from one of the largest networks in the United States—T-Mobile.

Mint Mobile Towers 

Much like other small service providers, Mint is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO). Essentially, what that means is they don’t have their own wireless infrastructure. Instead, they lease network access from one of the four major US network operators, in this case, T-Mobile. 

This partnership provides Mint Mobile customers with the same reliable coverage as T-Mobile’s customers. But, since Mint Mobile doesn’t have to worry about the complexities and costs of building and maintaining a network, they’re able to focus on what they do best — providing minty-fresh savings with a side of playful puns.

FYI: AT&T, Verizon, and UScellular also own and operate wireless networks used by MVNOs like Mint Mobile.

Mint Mobile Coverage

With access to T-Mobile's network, Mint users enjoy both 4G LTE and 5G coverage. While both options deliver fast data speeds and widespread coverage suitable for most users, 5G provides even faster speeds and lower latency — making it a better choice for those looking for high-speed data (online gamers and streaming media types, that’s you).

Unfortunately, regardless of which network you’re on in the US, at the time of the writing of this article,  5G coverage isn't as extensive as 4G LTE. For specific details about network availability and signal strength in your area, consult T-Mobile's Coverage Map. Remember, factors like terrain and congestion can impact coverage. That’s why we always recommend asking nearby friends and neighbors if they’re satisfied with their coverage before selecting a new carrier.

Curious about how Mint Mobile coverage compares to heavyweights like Verizon coverage and AT&T coverage? Connectivity may differ by location, so we prefer coverage maps that let you search at the address level. 

Who Owns Mint Mobile?

Behind Mint Mobile's unique, light-hearted, and friendly branding stands none other than Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds. Although he's unlikely to be personally crafting the witty copy, as a minority owner with an estimated 25% stake, Reynolds played a significant role in shaping the company's direction.

After years of operating independently as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Mint’s parent company, Ka'ena Corporation, was acquired by T-Mobile in March 2023 in a landmark deal valued at $1.35 billion. Luckily, this acquisition doesn’t seem to have diminished Reynolds' impact. Instead, it’s solidified Mint Mobile's position in the market, allowing it to continue its innovative approach under T-Mobile's umbrella.

Mint Mobile Plans

Another unconventional way Mint Mobile sets itself apart from other carriers? By offering a limited number of straightforward prepaid mobile phone plans. Their reasoning? To simplify the mobile experience and avoid overwhelming their customers with choices. 

Because of this, Mint Mobile customers essentially only have two decisions to make: how much data they need (for example, 5GB, 15GB, 20GB, or Unlimited) and how long they’re willing to commit to their plan (3, 6, or 12 months). 

Here’s a more detailed look at their current prepaid plans. Keep in mind that because these are prepaid plans, customers will have to pay a portion of the total cost upfront.

Regardless of how many GB of data you choose, all Mint Mobile cell phone plans include unlimited talk and text (including free international calling to Mexico and Canada), free mobile hotspot usage, WiFi calling, and high-speed (4G LTE and 5G) nationwide coverage on T-Mobile's network.

Are you worried about unexpected data overages affecting your budget? Don’t be. If you go over your monthly data allotment, Mint Mobile phone plans reduce your speeds rather than charge you overages. If you need to maintain your access to high-speed data, you can easily top up your account or upgrade to an unlimited plan from the Mint Mobile App.

As a budget-friendly provider, Mint Mobile encourages users to bring their own (unlocked) devices, offering a convenient phone compatibility checker and SIM cards for hassle-free activation. However, if you're in the market for a new phone, Mint Mobile offers new customers six months free with the purchase of an eligible device on any 12-month data plan.

Is Mint Mobile Good?

Just like finding the perfect phone, selecting the right mobile service provider is a personal choice. Before committing to one of their budget-friendly plans, it's important to evaluate your data requirements and coverage area. For instance, if you like streaming videos or music on the go, you might burn through a limited data plan and end up with reduced data speeds. Mint's coverage may also not be as dependable as that of other carriers in rural areas with less developed network infrastructure.

That said, if you’re a city dweller with modest data requirements and a tight budget, Mint Mobile’s cost-effective plans and flexible contract options will keep you connected at a fraction of the cost of other providers.

The Bottom Line

Before choosing any service provider, it’s always best to rank your priorities. If you're on the hunt for an affordable data plan with wide coverage, solid reliability, and a dash of witty sarcasm thrown in for good measure — then you just might be Mint to be. But if you’re in need of more premium data and prefer postpaid cell phone plans, try our free, unbiased Plan Finder below. 

Looking for a phone deal to go with that plan? Our Phone Deal Finder will sort through thousands of options for you — so you can quickly compare the best phone deals you qualify for across major carriers in seconds. Note, the deepest discounts can often be found on postpaid premium wireless plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Mint Mobile use AT&T Towers?

Mint Mobile does not use AT&T's towers. Instead, it operates on T-Mobile's network, relying on its towers for coverage. This gives Mint Mobile broad nationwide coverage that competes well with other carriers, especially for high-speed data plans.

Does Mint Mobile have hidden fees?

Mint Mobile is transparent about fees, so you'll know exactly what you're paying. The subtotal covers the cost of your selected plan, while the company says the Recovery Fee helps offset administrative expenses related to federal and state compliance. Fees are clearly laid out upfront.

Does Ryan Reynolds still own Mint Mobile?

No, Ryan Reynolds no longer owns part of Mint Mobile. In March 2023, T-Mobile acquired the company for up to $1.35 billion after getting the green light from the FCC. Reynolds, who held a 25 percent stake, reportedly made around $300 million from the sale.