A Mobile Virtual Network Operator or MVNO is a wireless communication service provider that enters into an agreement with a mobile network operator to obtain bulk access to its network services at wholesale rates. It then sets its retail prices on its own.
Explore Your Options
Don’t be quick to dismiss these smaller players. Most people assume that these won’t be as good as the four major U.S carriers, but you’d be surprised. Because these small players run on the same network as the big four, their network is identical.
What’s The Catch?
Now that you know about these secretive smaller carriers, or MVNOs, that piggyback on the networks set up by the biggest carriers. You may realize that you now have access to more cell phone plans that most people. If choices cause stress, just stick to one of the original four. But, for those willing to hunt for the best deal, having more options is better, for deals too.
Shopping At MVNOs
There are a couple of things you need to keep in mind when shopping for a phone plan at an MVNO. The first is knowing how much data you need. The best savings are usually with limited data plans. But unlimited data is more accessible than ever, and you’re likely to save much more. MVNO plans also don’t have the extras that are normally available on major-carrier plans. Remember that these plans are cheap because they don’t have all the features that may be offered with a more expensive plan.
Prepaid MVNOs
Cheap cell phone plans may not be enough for you. In that case, you may need to check prepaid MVNO plans that include no overages and no contracts. These are fading away in the postpaid works but are new in the prepaid one. You pay for what you want, and that is what you will get. You will not be facing charges you did not even know existed. And there’s no need to be tied down to a 2-year contract. Also, since services are paid for in advance, carriers don’t run the risk of not paying your bills. Carriers also lose the risk of customers not paying bills.