Cricket Wireless offers a range of mobile phones and prepaid plans on AT&T’s nationwide network. In this in-depth review of Cricket Wireless mobile phones, we cover network performance (speed and coverage), pricing (device costs and plan rates), and key features (device specs and services). As a subsidiary of AT&T, Cricket leverages AT&T’s 4G LTE and 5G infrastructure. This means users get access to the same broad coverage (over 99% of Americans) that AT&T provides.
For example, an independent test by Clark.com found Cricket’s voice service to be “consistently reliable, clear, with no dropped calls or undelivered texts” during a month-long trial. Data speeds on Cricket’s network are also solid: official FCC labels indicate average high-speed downloads of 7–61 Mbps on 4G LTE and up to 254 Mbps on 5G.
In practice, users often see real-world download speeds around 20–30 Mbps (sufficient for standard-definition video streaming). Importantly, all Cricket plans include 5G access at no extra cost, so anyone with a 5G-capable phone can enjoy faster speeds in supported areas.
Figure: A person using a smartphone, illustrating typical use of a Cricket Wireless mobile phone. Cricket Wireless phones benefit from AT&T’s infrastructure. According to Cricket’s own site, “Cricket is on the AT&T Network,” offering “clear connections, nationwide access, and reliable, affordable service”. Coverage and speed can vary by location, but overall Cricket’s network mirrors AT&T’s footprint. To check local service, customers can use Cricket’s coverage map (entering a ZIP code on CricketWireless.com); similarly, AT&T’s coverage map is a reliable proxy because the networks are shared. In short, Cricket Wireless performance is on par with its parent company’s network: excellent in urban/suburban areas and still competitive in many rural zones.
Device Selection and Pricing
Cricket Wireless sells a wide spectrum of smartphones, from ultra-budget models to high-end flagships. Entry-level devices (often Cricket-branded) can cost under $50. For instance, the Debut Flex Android phone (4GB RAM, 512MB storage) is available for around $29.88. Popular midrange phones like the Moto G Play 2024 (64GB) go for about $39.88, while the Moto G Power 5G (2024) with 128GB storage costs about $75.95. Upper-midrange models (4GB+ RAM, 128GB storage) are roughly $80–$120 (e.g. LG K92 5G at ~$99.99).
On the high end, Cricket even offers Apple iPhones: a brand-new iPhone 12 (64GB) is listed at $359.00, whereas refurbished older iPhones (e.g. iPhone XR 64GB) can be under $130. In short, device prices range from ~$30 for basic phones up to $350+ for premium handsets (with finance options also available).
Cricket also offers no-contract prepaid plans to pair with these phones. Their plans start affordably: a 10 GB data plan is $35/month, and unlimited talk/text plans begin at $40/month (with “Select Unlimited”) up to $60/month (with “Supreme Unlimited”). Special promotions lower these rates further: for example, paying 12 months in advance yields unlimited service for $25/mo, and a 3-month prepaid deal can be $15/mo (with upfront payment). All Cricket plans include 5G data (no extra charge) and have no hidden fees or annual contract. Overall, Cricket’s pricing is very competitive: phones are affordably priced, and plan rates are simple and generally lower than major carriers’.
Features of Cricket Wireless Mobile Phones
Cricket’s devices share many modern smartphone features. Most new models support 5G connectivity, multi-lens cameras, and large high-resolution screens. For example, the Cricket Wireless Moto G 5G (2024) boasts a 6.6″ HD+ display (120Hz) and a 50 MP dual-camera system. It also has a 5000 mAh battery with 18W fast charging, 128 GB of onboard storage (expandable to 1 TB via microSD), and runs Android 14.
This means many Cricket phones easily handle video streaming, gaming, and multitasking. Likewise, budget models still include essentials: expandable storage slots, decently sized screens (usually 6–6.5″), and long-life batteries (typically ~4000–5000 mAh). Some phones even include specialty features: for instance, the Moto G Stylus series (available on Cricket) comes with a built-in stylus for note-taking, while Samsung Galaxy models on Cricket often add water resistance and Super AMOLED displays.
Key features to expect in Cricket Wireless phones include:
- 5G and LTE Support: Every Cricket phone (new or BYOD) can access AT&T’s 4G LTE and 5G networks where coverage is available.
- Large, High-Refresh Displays: Many Cricket phones offer 6″+ screens with smooth 90–120Hz refresh rates for better scrolling and gaming.
- Advanced Cameras: Modern sensors (e.g. 48–50 MP main cameras) plus multi-lens setups deliver sharp photos even in low light.
- Long Battery Life: Battery capacities typically range 4000–5000 mAh, giving all-day use. For example, the Moto G Power’s 5000 mAh cell can last 8–10 hours in heavy use.
- Ample Storage & RAM: Most devices come with 64–128 GB storage and 4–6 GB RAM (often expandable storage via microSD), so apps and media have plenty of space.
- Android OS: Cricket’s phone lineup is mostly Android-based (with versions up to Android 14 as of 2025). iPhones (iOS) are also supported if activated on Cricket’s plans.
In addition to hardware, Cricket’s service features add value: some plans include perks like HBO Max Basic (with ads) at no extra cost, unlimited international texting, and discounted data for tablets/wearables. Cricket’s simple billing (taxes included in price) and easy auto-pay discounts (e.g. $5 off on plans ≥$35) make ownership straightforward.
Summary: Value and Recommendations
Cricket Wireless offers strong value for prepaid users. You get the advantage of AT&T’s network (good coverage and 5G speeds), at typically lower device and plan prices than traditional postpaid carriers. For example, a budget phone and a 5 GB plan might total $30 + $30 = $60 monthly, far below the $100+ often charged by big carriers for similar service. Even with premium phones, Cricket’s discounts and financing help ease the cost.
Key takeaways about Cricket Wireless mobile phones:
- Coverage & Speed: Uses AT&T’s towers for 4G/5G; users report clear calls and fast data (e.g. 5G+ speeds up to ~444 Mbps). Coverage is nationwide, though like any carrier, rural spots can vary.
- Device Options: Wide range from ~$30 basic Androids to high-end iPhones (~$360). Midrange phones (Moto G, Galaxy A series) hit sweet spots around $50–$100.
- Phone Features: Expect modern specs – large HD screens, multi-camera (often ≥50 MP), and 4000–5000 mAh batteries. Many phones also support Cricket’s 5G and NFC for mobile payments.
- Pricing: Plans start low ($35–$60 for unlimited data) with extra discounts on prepay. No hidden fees.
- Customer Feedback: Reviews generally note Cricket’s easy activation and app management, though like all carriers some customers mention occasional speed throttling during congestion (Cricket may slow data after a certain usage per plan).
If you need reliable prepaid service and want to save on phone costs, Cricket Wireless mobile phones are worth considering. Their low entry prices and AT&T-level coverage make them a strong budget alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What network does Cricket Wireless use?
A: Cricket Wireless runs on AT&T’s nationwide network. It offers the same 4G LTE and 5G service as AT&T (Cricket “mirrors AT&T’s footprint”).
Q: Are Cricket Wireless phones unlocked?
A: Phones sold by Cricket are typically locked to its service. However, any unlocked phone that is compatible with AT&T’s GSM frequencies can be brought to Cricket and activated (a “BYOD” option). Always check Cricket’s coverage map to confirm compatibility.
Q: Does Cricket Wireless support 5G?
A: Yes. All Cricket Wireless plans include 5G access at no extra fee. If you have a 5G-capable phone, you will be able to connect to Cricket’s 5G network where coverage is available.
Q: How much do Cricket Wireless phones cost?
A: Cricket phones range from very cheap to premium. Basic Android models can be as low as $30, midrange models $50–$100, and premium smartphones (new iPhones or Samsung Galaxy S models) several hundred dollars. (For example, the iPhone 12 is ~$360.) There are often sales and financing plans to lower upfront cost.
Q: Can I bring my own phone to Cricket?
A: Yes. Cricket is an AT&T-based provider, so any unlocked phone that works on AT&T can be activated on Cricket’s network. You’ll need to purchase a Cricket SIM card (or bring one if you already have it) and activate the phone on a Cricket plan.
Q: What are some of the best Cricket Wireless phones?
A: Tech reviewers recommend devices like Apple’s iPhone 14 series and Samsung’s Galaxy S21 FE for top performance, as well as midrange favorites like the Galaxy A53 5G, iPhone SE (2022), and Moto G Power (2022). Budget-conscious picks include the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G and Moto G Stylus series. Cricket’s own Icon phones (2026) also target value buyers. Always check current deals, as Cricket frequently updates its featured devices and discounts.
Feel free to share this review on social media if it helped you, and leave a comment below with your experiences or questions about Cricket Wireless mobile phones. Our goal is to help you find the right device and plan for your needs.
Sources: Cricket Wireless official site; Clark.com review of Cricket; Walmart device listings for Cricket phones; PrimeWay (network comparison); Android Authority (best phones). These sources provided up-to-date details on network, speed, plans, and device specs for the 2024–2025 timeframe.
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