Yes, Google Fi is a good alternative to AT&T for many people. Google Fi is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that uses T-Mobile and US Cellular networks. This means that you can get the same great coverage as you would with AT&T, but at a lower price.
Is Google FI a Good Alternative to AT&T?
Yes, Google Fi is a good alternative to AT&T for many people. Here’s a detailed comparison of the two carriers:
Network
- Google Fi: Google Fi is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that uses the networks of T-Mobile and US Cellular for nationwide coverage. This means you can get the same great coverage as you would with AT&T, but at a lower price.
- AT&T: AT&T operates its own nationwide 4G LTE network, and it also has some 5G+ coverage. AT&T’s overall coverage is slightly better than Google Fi’s, but Google Fi’s coverage is still very good.
Coverage
- Google Fi: Google Fi covers over 95% of the US population with its T-Mobile and US Cellular networks. However, there may be some areas where you only get 4G LTE coverage on Google Fi instead of 5G+.
- AT&T: AT&T covers over 70% of the US population with its nationwide 4G LTE network. It also has some 5G+ coverage, but it’s not as widely available as Google Fi’s 5G+ coverage.
Speed
- Google Fi: Google Fi’s average download speed is 50 Mbps. This is slower than AT&T’s average download speed of 56.8 Mbps, but it’s still plenty fast for most people’s needs.
- AT&T: AT&T’s average download speed is 56.8 Mbps, which is the fastest average download speed of any major carrier in the United States.
Price
- Google Fi: Google Fi’s plans start at $15 per month for one line. This includes unlimited talk and text, and 22GB of data per month. Once you use up your data, you can pay $0.15 per MB for additional data.
- AT&T: AT&T’s cheapest plan is the $30 per month prepaid plan, which includes unlimited talk and text, and 2GB of data per month.
Plans
- Google Fi: Google Fi offers a variety of plans to choose from, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget. You can choose from plans that include unlimited talk, text, and data, or plans that have a limited amount of data. Google Fi also offers international roaming, so you can use your phone for free in over 200 countries.
- AT&T: AT&T offers a wide variety of plans to choose from, with prices ranging from $30 to $85 per month. These plans include unlimited talk, text, and data, as well as data-free streaming of some popular music and video services.
Customer service
- Google Fi: Google Fi has excellent customer service. You can get help online, by phone, or by chat. Google Fi’s customer service representatives are knowledgeable and helpful, and they are always happy to answer your questions.
- AT&T: AT&T’s customer service is good, but it’s not as good as Google Fi’s. AT&T’s customer service representatives can be difficult to reach, and they may not be as knowledgeable or helpful as Google Fi’s customer service representatives.
Overall
Google Fi is a good choice for people who are looking for a reliable and affordable mobile carrier. It has a good network, a variety of plans to choose from, and excellent customer service. However, AT&T is also a good choice, especially if you need the fastest possible speeds.
Google Fi vs. AT&T: Side-By-Side Comparison
Aspect | Google Fi | AT&T |
---|---|---|
Network Coverage | Utilizes networks from T-Mobile, Sprint, US Cellular | Boasts one of the most extensive U.S. networks |
Flexible Plans | Offers flexible pay-as-you-go plans based on data usage | Provides a range of unlimited and shared data plans |
International Use | Ideal for travelers with coverage in 200+ countries | Good international options but may incur extra fees |
Network Variety | Relies on multiple networks for broader coverage | Uses its own network with extensive rural reach |
5G Availability | Provides access to 5G networks where available | Offers widespread 5G coverage |
Data Usage | Pay only for the data you use, with a bill protection cap | Various unlimited data plans for data-heavy users |
Family Plans | Family-friendly pricing with discounts for additional lines | Offers family plans with shared data and discounts |
Bundled Services | Limited bundled services; emphasis on simplicity | Offers bundles like DIRECTV and HBO Max |
Budget-Friendly | Cost-effective for light data users | Competitive pricing with a variety of plans |
Customer Support | Support is generally good, but options are more streamlined | Extensive customer service and retail presence |
Extras | Provides free international texting and affordable calling | Offers exclusive content like HBO Max and premium bundles |
Google Fi Plan
Google monthly plan starts at $20 with a flat fee rate, this fee is usually paid at the beginning of each month. All Fi plans come with unlimited texting and calls. Unused data are credited back to the user’s account and overused data are charged at $10 per GB. Since Fi traditionally works in the US, when the user is out data costs $10, phone calls cost $0.20 per minute and texting is free. Google Fi also provides a data-only SIM card which can be used on all compatible devices such as Nexus 7, Nexus 9, and iPad Air 2 but the device must be compatible with the T-Mobile network.
Google Fi also offers a group plan that allows users to add other users to their subscription. Users are called “managers” and those added are called “members”. Adding a “member” costs an extra $15 per user. The “manager” has specialized access to view the user’s data usage, set data, add monthly allowance, pause data, and remove a user from the group plan. This feature was updated in June 2017 to include a “Group Repay” which allows each user to calculate their monthly data usage and pay by sharing the data bill.
All Google Fi comes with an Unlimited plan for all its users for a flat rate of $70 per month which allows unrestricted access to 22GB of high-speed data but when you exhaust your allocated data, the speed drops to 256kbit/s which allows users to pay an additional $10 per GB until the start of the next month (where they can resubscribe for the monthly plan).
Google Fi Features
Network switching
Google Fi provides a unique feature that automatically switches between depending on the strength of the signal. This feature allows for automatic connection to any open Wi-Fi hotspot while it tries to secure data encryption through an automatic VPN. The phone calls also use this network switching ability of Wi-Fi to the cellular network.
Google Hangout
Google Fi users can use Google Hangouts on compatible devices such as phones, tablets, and computers to text and make calls.
5G network
Google Fi support the recent 5G network and it automatically search and switch to available network.
Data-only Sim card
Google Fi offers a data-only SIM card. This sim card is a specialized sim that is used exclusively for data and cannot be used to make calls or transmit text. It can be used on only compatible phones and tablets.
End-to-end Encryption
This feature is still under development but management has stated at a press conference that a call on the Fi Network would soon include end-to-end encryption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Google Fi and AT&T use 5G?
Yes, The users of Google Fi have access to the superior 5G network but AT&T users are resting in the thought that they are on the second-best 5G network.
Can I switch from AT&T to Google Fi?
Yes, you can. All you have to do is locate ‘Manage Device’ on your Fi phone, and you should see a link that reads “Transfer a number to Fi.” When you tap the number it would bring your number to the Fi Network.
Is it worth it to switch to Google Fi?
We cannot say if Fi would suit you because we cannot say your preference but Fi is worth considering. Fi offers a lot of good features which might just suit your demands. Features such as unlimited calls and text and data sharing might just be what your family and friends need.
Does Google Fi work on any phone?
Fi would work on any device that is unlocked, but that device that were not specifically designed for Fi might be seen missing out on Fi’s special features such as network switching or Google’s VPN.
Conclusion
Google Fi undoubtedly provides some amazing features and has become the network of choice for quite a lot of users. Yet many are aloof of its services whilst others just prefer other carriers.
Irrespective of the aforementioned unique feature of Fi, still it’s far away from replacing the giant AT&T network.
Source; https://www.androidauthority.com/google-fi-vs-att-1191667/
Hello, I’m Herman C. Miller, the founder of InternetPKG.com, your ultimate destination for all things Mobile Internet and Telecommunication Services. With a BSc in Telecommunication Services and over 6 years at AT&T, my passion for the industry led to this platform. At InternetPKG.com, we prioritize keeping you informed with the latest package offers, ensuring our content stays current. Our team, including a dedicated Internet Package and Mobile Data Plans Researcher, tirelessly researches emerging trends, identifies market opportunities, and provides expert product recommendations.