Some MVNOs operate only on one primary carrier’s network, while others roam on multiple. The carrier that an MVNO is under also tells you the type of cellular network it operates on: GSM or CDMA.
So to answer the question, is Boost Mobile, MetroPCS, Verizon, Cricket & Sprint GSM, or CDMA? Well, they operate on different networks. Most wireless carriers use either GSM (T-Mobile, AT&T) or CDMA (Sprint, Verizon) networks.
However, we’ve written this guide to answer your questions.
Is Boost Mobile GSM or CDMA?
Boost Mobile is a CDMA network. Boost Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). They offer prepaid cell service using Sprint’s network. That is, Boost is owned by Sprint, which runs on the Sprint CDMA network.
Is MetroPCS GSM or CDMA?
MetroPCS is a prepaid cellphone service provider based in the United States. It is a subsidiary of T-Mobile US.MetroPCS operates using GSM technology after it shut down its CDMA network in 2015. It provides nationwide talk, text, and data depending on the plan services. So if you’re interested in using MetroPCS, there are other requirements that your phone must meet. These include:
- Your phone has to be unlocked
- It is a GSM phone. This is a phone that works with AT&T and T-Mobile networks
- Your device has to be compatible with all the frequencies MetroPCS uses. Primarily 1900MHz (3G) and 700MHz and finally 1700Mz (4G LTE)
Is Verizon CDMA or GSM?
Verizon operates using a CDMA network carrier, works with only CDMA cell phones, and does not support GSM.
Is Mint Mobile GSM or CDMA?
Mint Mobile is an MVNO or mobile virtual network operator. This wireless service provider uses another company’s infrastructure to provide service instead of running its own. For example, mint Mobile uses T-Mobile’s network for its service. Meaning it operates using GSM and does not support CDMA.
Is Sprint GSM or CDMA?
Sprint is primarily a CDMA carrier with GSM capabilities. So, for example, A Sprint iPhone is sold as CDMA and will only work on the Sprint CDMA network. At the same time, it will still work on T-Mobile, AT&T, most international networks, etc.
Is T-Mobile GSM or CDMA?
T-Mobile is a GSM network carrier that supports GSM-compatible phones. The basic rule is that a CDMA phone will not work on a GSM network and vice versa—their frequencies are incompatible.
Is Cricket GSM or CDMA?
Cricket is currently a GSM carrier. However, it was not always. Before its 2015 merger with major carrier AT&T, the carrier offered CDMA service. Being a GSM carrier, Cricket offers a plethora of benefits to consumers who opt to acquire a plan with the network. Its LTE speed is super-fast.