Network metrics weren’t as good as Verizon Wireless, but T-Mobile still edged out No. 1 carrier
Tech reviewer Tom’s Guide, in a comparison of nine wireless carriers, concluded that T-Mobile US is the best “all-around” carrier based on a combination of its performance, plans, customer service, phone selection and extras.
Tom’s weighted each of those categories on a 100-point scale, which resulted in T-Mobile US coming out on top.
T-Mobile US came out with 91 out of 100 points, compared to Verizon Wireless with 89 out of 100 points, AT&T with 85 out of 100 points and Sprint with 77 out of 100 points. Metro PCS and Boost Mobile tied for 5th place with 69 out of 100 points and Virgin Mobile, Straight Talk and Cricket, in descending order, rounded out the list.
Verizon edged out T-Mobile US in Tom’s Guide review of network quality, but T-Mobile US’ performance in the other metrics brought to the top of the list.
“T-Mobile didn’t top our network performance tests,” reviews wrote, “but it finished second to Verizon, making it a great choice in cities where customers can best enjoy its mix of performance, price and customer service. (T-Mobile’s network has not traditionally fared as well outside of cities, but it is making progress with extended range LTE.) T-Mobile CEO John Legere likes to accuse other carriers of following his company’s lead. Based on our evaluation, that would be a wise strategy.”
Tom’s Guide wrote that T-Mobile pros were “lots of data at competitive prices; perks like free music streaming and rollover data; strong network performance in many cities; [and] good for international travel.”
Cons were performance outside of cities not being comparable to Verizon and AT&T, while customer support testing reviews “finished behind other major carriers.”
