AT&T or Verizon Which Is Better?
The choice between AT&T and Verizon often depends on various factors such as coverage in your area, pricing, customer service, and specific features you may be looking for. Both AT&T and Verizon are major telecommunications companies in the United States, offering a wide range of services including wireless plans, internet, and TV services.
Verizon typically boasts the largest and most reliable network coverage in the United States, especially in rural areas. However, AT&T also has extensive coverage and may offer competitive pricing or unique features that suit your needs better.
It’s a good idea to compare plans, coverage maps, and read reviews from customers in your area to determine which carrier would be the best fit for you. Additionally, consider factors such as customer service reputation, international roaming options if needed, and any special deals or promotions that might be available at the time you’re looking to switch or sign up for service.
Verizon vs. AT&T: A Comprehensive Comparison
When choosing a wireless carrier, Verizon and AT&T often stand out as top contenders. Both companies offer extensive coverage, high-speed data, and a range of plans tailored to different needs. This article provides a detailed comparison between Verizon and AT&T across various categories to help you decide which carrier is better suited for you.
Network Coverage and Speed
Coverage: Verizon and AT&T both provide extensive coverage across the United States, but there are some distinctions. Verizon generally excels in rural areas with its 4G LTE network covering over 70% of the country, slightly edging out AT&T’s 68% coverage . However, in terms of 5G coverage, AT&T leads with approximately 18% nationwide distribution compared to Verizon’s 11% .
Speed: Verizon is known for its superior data speeds, particularly with its 5G Ultra Wideband, which offers extremely high speeds in select areas. In contrast, AT&T’s 5G network, while more widely available, primarily uses lower-band spectrum, resulting in speeds that are faster than 4G LTE but generally slower than Verizon’s Ultra Wideband . Despite this, AT&T has recorded higher median speeds in some cities, indicating strong performance in urban areas .
Pricing Plans and Features
Verizon Plans:
- Start Unlimited: $70/month for a single line, with discounts for additional lines. Includes 6 months of Disney+, Apple Music, and Discovery+, and 600 GB of cloud storage.
- Play More Unlimited: $80/month for a single line, offering premium data, mobile hotspot allowance, and streaming service discounts.
- Get More Unlimited: $90/month for a single line, with 50 GB of premium data, larger hotspot data, and extensive entertainment perks .
AT&T Plans:
- Unlimited Starter: $65/month for a single line, with basic unlimited data and texting to over 120 countries.
- Unlimited Extra: $75/month for a single line, including 15 GB of hotspot data and enhanced security features.
- Unlimited Premium: $85/month for a single line, offering 50 GB of premium data and an HBO Max subscription .
Both carriers offer family plans with significant savings per additional line. Verizon’s family plans tend to be slightly more expensive but include more extensive perks like additional cloud storage and streaming service subscriptions. AT&T’s family plans are more budget-friendly and waive activation fees when you bring your own phone .
Customer Service and Reputation
Customer service quality is a critical factor when choosing a wireless carrier. According to J.D. Power’s recent studies, Verizon ranks higher in customer satisfaction compared to AT&T. Verizon’s extensive customer support options and better resolution of customer issues contribute to its higher ranking . However, both companies receive comparable scores on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, reflecting typical challenges in the telecom industry .
Additional Features and Perks
Verizon:
- Extensive entertainment perks, including free or discounted streaming services.
- Significant cloud storage options (600 GB).
- Exclusive devices such as premium Motorola phones.
AT&T:
- HBO Max subscription included with premium plans.
- Wider variety of phone models, including unique options like the Microsoft Surface Duo.
- More extensive 5G coverage, particularly beneficial for users in urban areas .
Conclusion
Choosing between Verizon and AT&T depends largely on your specific needs and priorities. If you value faster data speeds and superior rural coverage, Verizon might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer more comprehensive 5G coverage and slightly lower prices, AT&T could be more suitable.
Verizon offers extensive perks with its plans, including streaming services and cloud storage, making it ideal for users who consume a lot of digital content. AT&T’s plans, particularly with the inclusion of HBO Max, appeal to entertainment enthusiasts looking for bundled value.
Ultimately, both carriers offer robust networks and a variety of plans, so consider your coverage needs, budget, and desired features when making your decision .