Cricket® Wireless Internet at a Glance
Cricket is a broadband internet provider best known for its affordable services. In fact, Cricket boasts that it has, “America’s most affordable 3G wireless network.”
Aside from the affordability, Cricket customers also enjoy the freedom of not being locked into a contract. Rather, each month they pay for the plan they think they’ll need, making for an economically efficient internet experience.
Having only been in business for a little bit over 10 years, Cricket is relatively new in comparison to larger mobile internet providers. Because of this, the Cricket mobile broadband coverage area isn’t nearly as large as those of AT&T or Verizon.
Cricket wireless Internet products and services:
Cricket Smartphones:
Cricket has always sold an extensive variety of cell phones, but until recently, their smartphone selection was relatively limited. However, they now offer cellular data plans for top of the line smartphones, like the iPhone 5. All smart phones can connect to Cricket’s 3G mobile network, when in their coverage area.
USB Modems:
All Cricket USB modems are equipped with 3G mobile broadband. Speeds are significantly slower than 4G, but remember, Cricket’s popularity is largely due to its affordability and flexibility – they don’t claim to be faster than the bigger providers.
It’s important to note that unlike many wireless internet providers, Cricket’s plans do limit a customer’s internet usage each month. Upon reaching their data limit, customers will experience noticeably slower speeds. However, Cricket’s website explains this in better detail, and describes more specifically how much usage each plan offers.
Wireless Hotspots:
The main product in this category is the Cricket Crosswave WiFi Hotspot. It connects to multiple wireless-ready devices at a time, and has a removable memory slot than can handle up to 32GB. The hotspot allows users to connect from up to 100 meters away if they have an external charger. Once again, the 3G speed brought to you by the hotspot is contingent upon being within a coverage zone.
More about Cricket broadband Internet:
When comparing Cricket Wireless Internet to other internet service providers, its main competitive advantage is its affordability. While its smartphone selection is broader than before, Cricket still has limited coverage, and no 4G network. As such, none of Cricket’s wireless modems deliver 4G internet speed either.
Despite a few shortcomings, Cricket could still be the right choice for some consumers, particularly those looking for affordable internet. As with all wireless Internet providers, be sure to check coverage and signal strength before purchasing a wireless device.
