Mint Mobile vs. Lyca Mobile: A Head-to-Head Comparison

When choosing between Mint Mobile and Lyca Mobile, you must prioritize coverage, data options, and affordability.  

Since both carriers offer budget-friendly prepaid plans with features like unlimited talk and text and affordable cell phones bundled with generous data allowances, users are often confused about this choice.

Also, there are various other carriers where users are often confused. One of our recent blogs addresses this concern by analyzing Mint Mobile vs. AT&T. 

However, they stand apart regarding network access, plan flexibility, and other aspects. 

In this article, we’ll highlight each carrier’s key strengths so you can make an informed choice. After thoroughly testing major carriers’ smartphones and cell phone plans, we’ve gathered the most accurate details. 

Here’s what you can expect: 

• A breakdown of the coverage differences between each provider 
• A comparison of pricing and what’s included in each plan 
• An overview of the unique features offered by each carrier 

Did it pique your interest? Let’s dive right in.  

Compare Mint Mobile to Other Carriers 

• PureTalk – An AT&T MVNO offering affordable, no-contract plans with nationwide 5G coverage. 

• Spectrum Mobile – A Verizon MVNO offering affordable mobile services exclusively to Spectrum Internet customers. 

• US Mobile – A flexible MVNO on Verizon and T-Mobile networks, offering customisable plans to fit various needs. 

• Xfinity Mobile is a Verizon MVNO exclusively available to Xfinity Internet customers. It offers affordable plans with access to millions of Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide. 

• Boost Infinite – Owned by Dish, offering postpaid unlimited plans with nationwide coverage, leveraging Dish’s growing 5G network. 

Mint Mobile Overview 

Mint Mobile is an MVNO that garnered great public interest after Ryan Reynolds acquired it.  

It operates on the T-Mobile network, leveraging the mobile network to maximize coverage and speeds.  

The carrier operates on the T-Mobile nationwide network, thus providing affordable coverage and the same high-speed data and call quality that T-Mobile customers enjoy.  

While Mint Mobile matches other MVNOs pricewise, it incentivizes more extended contracts instead of multi-line discounts.  

It also offers family plans, where every line within one plan pays the same per-line rate, enabling families to sign up and have their respective services at the same plan price.  

The company claims that this helps keep its service costs low, alongside the flexibility it provides. 

Lyca Mobile Overview 

Because of its global design and operation in many countries, Lyca Mobile is worth mentioning. Its coverage extends across the United States and T-Mobile’s 5G network.  

The combination of international service in their plans grants Lyca Mobile a unique edge over other carriers. It is ideal for those who need to stay in touch while travelling abroad. 

Users eligible for VoIP under Lyca Mobile receive free international calls to more than 80 countries. They offer multiple options, ranging from monthly to multi-month plans, offering great flexibility. 

Recommended Read: T-Mobile vs. Verizon vs. AT&T 

Comparing Mint Mobile with Lyca Mobile

Let’s compare Mint mobile with Lyca mobile for various factors and see which one is better.

1. Speed & Coverage 

Here is a breakdown of the speed and coverage aspects of both providers: 

Mint Mobile: Speed and Coverage 

Mint Mobile is powered by T-Mobile’s 5G and 4G LTE networks. It uses T-Mobile’s coverage maps, ensuring good service and availability in these areas, along with fast data and 5G services.  

Active 5G expansion is in progress as T-Mobile attempts to reach 90% coverage within a few years.  

Even though it hasn’t yet fully achieved its goal, T-Mobile’s extensive tower network has enabled it to provide strong service across the U.S. 

Checking Mint Mobile’s coverage map is smart for the most accurate coverage information and to ensure the best cell service in your area. 

Lyca Mobile: Speed and Coverage 

As an MVNO, Lyca Mobile operates by purchasing network coverage from one of the major carriers—in this case, T-Mobile—while other MVNOs may use AT&T or Verizon’s networks. Lyca Mobile boasts T-Mobile for 5G coverage across the U.S. 

Comparing coverage maps from various providers is essential to determine which network has better coverage in your vicinity. Lyca Mobile’s coverage map provides an overview of where the cell towers are located and which company operates them.  

This information should help you determine which major network providers suit your requirements. 

Comparative Data for Coverage 

Mint Mobile and Lyca Mobile run off T-Mobile’s network, which provides nationwide coverage, with areas of 5G across much of the countryside and some urban areas. 

Each carrier offers good coverage, but Mint Mobile is best for users who care about consistent performance, whereas Lyca Mobile’s international abilities make it attractive to those who travel often. Always check local coverage maps to be sure you have the best service for your area. 

Mobile Plan

Both Lyca Mobile and Mint Mobile are renowned for there cost-effective plans that cater to the requirements of a broad spectrum of users, offering competitive pricing, rewards for long-term users and limited time discounts.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the latest mobile plans offered by both providers.

Mint Mobile Plans 

Mint mobile is currently offering 5 mobile plans from 5GB to 40GB data, along with a family plan offering a customized mobile experience.

These mobile plans cater to the requirements of various type of users, whether they are light data users who mainly rely on Wi-Fi or high data users who solely count on their mobile plans for their internet needs.

Unlimited Data (40GB) 

The Unlimited Data (40GB) plan is a good fit for users with plenty of data. Mint’s Unlimited Data (40GB) plan is the most economical unlimited data plan, first offered for 3 months at $30/month. 

• You get high-speed data for the first 40GB, which afterwards drops to 3G. 

• 3G speeds enable texting, emailing, and social media, but gaming and streaming videos can be complex without Wi-Fi. 

• This plan is $30 for the first 3 months and $40 for each 3-month renewal thereafter. 

• It is $35 monthly for the 6-month plan and $30 for the 12-month plan. 

Best for: Heavy data users looking for budget-friendly high-speed data and mobile hotspot access plans. 

20GB Plan 

The 20GB plan is good enough for the average user, who uses about 20GB of data monthly. 

• $25 for the first 3 months 
• $35 for the 6-month option 
• $25 for the 12-month package 

Best for: Average users. 

15GB Plan 

Mint Mobile’s 15GB plan is suitable for light-to-average data users. 

• All 15GB can now be utilized as hotspot data. 
• The first 3 months are $20/month, then $35/month for the 6-month option. 
• $25/month for the 6-month plan, returning to $20 for the 12-month plan. 

Best for: Light to average data users. 

5GB Plan 

If you use very little data and utilize Wi-Fi almost exclusively, this is the plan for you. 

• $15/month for the first 3 months 
• $25 for every 3-month renewal 
• $20/month for the 6-month plan 
• $15/month for the 12-month plan 

Best for: Light data users or those who mainly use Wi-Fi. 

Family Plans Offerings 

Mint Mobile family plans to offer the cheapest family plan, allowing a maximum of 5 lines on one account. 

• You can mix and match different-sized lines (e.g., one line on unlimited while another has 5GB). 
• Every line receives the lowest Mint Mobile rate available, e.g., the unlimited line for only $30/month. 
• Family plans allow a 3-month trial with savings offered to families. 

Lyca Mobile Plans 

Lyca Mobile plans are way more diverse than those of Mint Mobile. Starting from 500 MB, Lyca Mobile is determined to cater to the diverse requirements of its user base.

Here’s a breakdown of all the plans offered by Lyca Mobile:

60GB Plan 

The 60GB plan provides communications features at 2G speeds (128 kbps) after the limit of 60GB has been exceeded. At 2G speed, texting, emailing, and web browsing continue, though streaming and gaming become problematic. Hotspot access isn’t available either. 

Pricing Options: 

• Monthly plan: $59 
• 3 Months: $177 
• 6 Months: $354 
• Annual: $708 

Cost per GB: $0.98 

Pros: Offers a sizeable data plan. 
Cons: No hotspot service. 

40GB Plan 

The 40GB plan offers 40GB of data each month, which drops to 2G speeds once the limit is reached. This plan does not include hotspot access. 

Pricing Options: 

• Monthly: $49 
• 3 Months: $147 
• 6 Months: $294 
• Annual: $588 

Cost per GB: $1.23 

• Pros: Decent data allocation.  
• Cons: No hotspot service. 
• Best for: Heavy data users on a tight budget. 

15GB Plan 

The 15GB plan includes 15GB of high-speed data monthly before slowing to 2G. Hotspot access is not available. 

Pricing Options: 

• Monthly: $39 
• 3 Months: $117 
• 6 Months: $234 
• Annual: $468 

Cost per GB: $2.60 

• Pros: Sufficient data for moderate usage. 
• Cons: No hotspot access. 
• Best for: Light to moderate users who occasionally stream or browse. 

12GB Plan 

The 12GB plan offers 12GB of high-speed data each month, with speeds reduced to 2G after exceeding the limit. No hotspot access is included. 

Pricing Options: 

• Monthly: $33 
• 3 Months: $99 
• 6 Months: $168 
• Annual: $396 

Cost per GB: $2.75 

• Pros: Affordable and decent data for light users. 
• Cons: No hotspot access. 
• Best for: Light users with minimal streaming needs. 

10GB Plan 

The 10GB plan provides 10GB of data each month, slowing to 2G speeds once the limit is reached. There is no hotspot access. 

Pricing Options: 

• Monthly: $29 
• 3 Months: $87 
• 6 Months: $174 
• Annual: $348 

Cost per GB: $2.90 

• Pros: Compact data plan for basic needs. 
• Cons: No hotspot access. 
• Best for: Light users who mainly browse or use apps. 

5GB Plan 

The 5GB plan includes 5GB of high-speed data monthly, with speeds reduced to 2G once the data cap is reached. Hotspot access is not available. 

Pricing Options: 

• Monthly: $23 
• 3 Months: $69 
• 6 Months: $138 
• Annual: $276 

Cost per GB: $4.60 

• Pros: Very affordable. 
• Cons: Only 5GB of data. 
• Best for: Light data users or those who mainly use Wi-Fi. 

3GB Plan 

The 3GB plan offers 3GB of full-speed data per month, with speeds slowing to 2G after reaching the limit. Hotspot access is not provided. 

Pricing Options: 

• Monthly: $19 
• 3 Months: $57 
• 6 Months: $114 
• Annual: $228 

Cost per GB: $6.33 

• Pros: Cost-efficient for very light use. 
• Cons: Limited data.  
• Best for: Occasional data users or those who rely heavily on Wi-Fi. 

500MB Plan 

The 500MB plan includes 500MB of high-speed data per month, slowing to 2G speeds once the limit is exceeded. No hotspot access is available. 

Pricing Options: 

• Monthly: $15 
• 3 Months: $45 
• 6 Months: $90 
• Annual: $180 

Cost per GB: $30.00 

• Pros: Most affordable plan.  
• Cons: Minimal data. 
• Best for: Minimal users who primarily use Wi-Fi. 

Family Plans 

Lyca Mobile offers family plans with separate pricing for each line. These plans include free international calling to over 80 countries, making them ideal for global communication. You can add up to five lines on one account, and a 40GB 2-line family plan option is also available. 

• Pros: Great for families needing multiple lines. 
• Cons: Each plan is sold separately. 
• It is best for Families or groups needing affordable international communication. 

Plan Comparison 

Mint Mobile and Lyca Mobile are great for different needs, but with some differences: 

Mint Mobile’s extremely affordable pricing, plan flexibility, and arguably excellent coverage on T-Mobile’s 5G and LTE networks make it a strong competitor.  

Mint Mobile has some of the cheapest unlimited data plans, starting around $30/month. It’s an excellent option for good value, but throttled speeds after heavy data use and limited hotspot options may be a turn-off. 

Lyca Mobile, on the other hand, excels in providing international calling features and global coverage, making it a good option for frequent travelers.  

However, their plans lack hotspot data and slow down considerably to 2G after reaching their data limits. That’s ideal for lighter-data users. Moreover, you might face Lyca Mobile recharge issues, though not so often. 

Mint Mobile is the better option for flexibility and value, while Lyca Mobile fits perfectly for those requiring international services. 

Comparison of Unlimited Data-Prioritization and Throttling 

Here is a comparative analysis of both networks based on Data-Prioritization and Throttling. 

Mint Mobile Data Cap

Mint Mobile is an MVNO that operates on the T-Mobile network. At times of congestion, such as in busy urban areas such as New York and Chicago, where residents and commuters can place congestive demands on the network, data slowdowns occur.  

Some events, such as concerts or sports games, further create congestion and affect all users; Mint Mobile customers experience slow speeds before T-Mobile subscribers.  

To help gauge the service’s tendency to experience slowdowns, Mint Mobile will offer a three-month trial period, the ideal opportunity to assess how well they do in everyday network conditions. 

Lyca Mobile Throttling Cap

Lyca Mobile’s unlimited data plan is MVNO, a mobile virtual network operator that relies on T-Mobile’s network, which has specific stipulations.  

Throttling occurs when they exceed 40GB of high-speed data, with the caveat that T-Mobile customers are prioritized behind the scenes when posed with network congestion issues.  

It is worth mentioning that noticeable speed reductions become apparent through following dense, high-traffic areas in huge cities and massive events. Also, it has 5G, though speed reduction occasionally applies.  

Nevertheless, this carrier’s competitive price and international calling features have made it one of the most potent options. 

However, if your Lyca Mobile data is not working or you are facing network slowdowns, consider contacting their customer support. 

Customer Services and Accessibility 

Here is a comparative analysis of both networks based on customer service and accessibility. 

Mint Mobile’s Customer Service

Mint Mobile offers solid customer service and various accessible support options. These include a dedicated 1 (800) 683-7392 phone number and a live chat option on its website.  

It can be frustrating to deal with customer service from cell providers, yet Mint Mobile shines, providing abundant, resourceful, and reliable assistance.  

Whether it is a matter of plan issues, coverage concerns, or device-related problems, in most cases, their support team is remarkably speedy in providing solutions. 

Lyca Mobile’s Customer Service

Lyca Mobile offers fully online customer service with various support options. You can reach their team through chat support, available Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. EST and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. EST.  

Additionally, phone support is available during the same hours by calling 1 (866) 277-3221. This online-based support allows you to quickly get assistance for any issues related to your plan, coverage, or device within their hours. 

The Bottom Line 

Mint Mobile is perfect for users who want great value through low-cost plans, multi-month options, and dependable customer support. It utilizes T-Mobile’s network for good 5G coverage; however, throttling may occur after 40GB, particularly during busy times. 

Lyca Mobile excels for those who frequently connect internationally, providing attractive pricing and global reach. Like Mint, it operates on T-Mobile’s network and experiences throttling after 40GB, making it an excellent choice for individuals prioritizing international features. 

In conclusion, Mint Mobile suits U.S.-based customers who appreciate consistent coverage and strong customer service.  

Conversely, Lyca Mobile is preferred for global travelers seeking budget-friendly international service. Both providers have comparable throttling limitations but present unique advantages based on your requirements.