Sprint’s 3G and 4G LTE networks cover the smallest amount of territory in the United States of the four big players. The interpretation of the deficit only amounts to 1% is based on the uncertain test claimed by Sprint Corporation Telecommunications Company therefore the claim is no longer added in the company’s advertising.
In Sprint’s defense, though, their internet network does wield very reliable service in certain areas of the United States country, particularly along the eastern seaboard. And there is a litany of MVNOs that run on Sprint’s network, giving you the same coverage. This includes big players like Boost Mobile, Assurance Wireless and Virgin Mobile and smaller ones like FreedomPop and Red Pocket.
Additionally to their standard 3G and 4G LTE coverage, many Sprint plans also include different access to talk, text, and LTE data roaming in Mexico and Canada. This makes Sprint’s favorite mobile service provider for people who regularly travel outside the country.
Sprint cellular coverage maps
Cellular network service is split into two parts, voice, and data. You can have coverage on one but not another one. The cellular network coverage maps represent the overall area where service could be anticipated. Variables like phone type, weather, and terrain impact cellular coverage. The bars on your phone show the voice coverage. There is not a visual indicator of Sprint network data coverage although the differences between voice and data are getting much smaller. All coverage maps are approximations and don’t guarantee service in a particular area.
What is a cellular network?
A cellular network as well as you can say the mobile network is a communication network where the last link is wireless.
Sprint Mobile 2G/3G Coverage Map
As with all mobile carriers, if 4G signals aren’t available, a user’s phone will automatically connect to 3G or 2G, if available. While these speeds are slower than 4G, they still usually support voice calls, texting, and may permit some internet browsing.
Sprint’s 2G/3G coverage looks almost similar to its 4G coverage, with the significance of the Eastern US and irregular coverage throughout the Western US.
Sprint Mobile Coverage Map for 4G
In the Eastern US, Sprint Mobile’s 4G cellular network is the strongest network with a particular density along the eastern seaboard. However, in general, the Western US has small coverage. To make up for the gaps in coverage in these states, Sprint has partnered with off-network roaming partners to fill several of those service regions.
Although, it’s important to note the coverage provided by Sprint Mobile’s off-network partners is not guaranteed by Sprint Mobile. The carrier warns that speeds could vary considerably from standard Sprint speed expectations. Off-network roaming also may not be included in all Sprint Mobile or MVNO plans.
Sprint Mobile On and Off-Network Roaming Coverage Map
Sprint depends heavily on its off-network coverage to make the dense mobile coverage maps it touts on its website and through advertising. Although, roaming coverage is not included in every plan, making this Sprint Mobile coverage map slightly misleading.
Understanding of the Sprint Mobile Coverage Maps
In addition to Sprint wireless coverage maps that include third-party roaming partners, mobile coverage maps, in general, can be an inaccurate presentation of the service coverage clients will experience with Sprint Mobile. There is no technical or standardized method for creating coverage maps. Rather, these maps are refereed a “high-level best-case scenario estimate” of coverage.
In the mobile lingo“Best-case scenario” refers to flat topography (no mountains), no landscape interference (no trees), and also the user standing out on the road (not in a building or vehicle). It also includes having the best mobile phone and new versions of mobile phones have better compatibility with new and updated cell signal technology. And also refers to no interruption caused by whether and if you may experience any service problems or obstruction.
For the reason that these qualifications hardly ever apply to cellular customers, those coverage maps are better looked at as a way to assist customers see which provider offers coverage in their region and regions they frequently work or travel.
Extending Sprint Mobile Signal Strength
While Sprint is working to improve its LTE speeds, many Sprint customers find Sprint’s signal strength lacking. In these cases, the use of a cell signal booster can assist you in improving coverage and speed. If you have decent exterior coverage with Sprint Mobile but find your signal in a home, work-place, or vehicle is unreliable, you may consider investing in a mobile signal booster. Explore cell signal boosters for your home, work-place, or your vehicle. They’ve also highlighted several options below which we think you might find interesting.
How reliable is Sprint’s Network?
Here’s how the 4G coverage breaks down numerically between the four majors:
- Verizon: 70% 4G coverage
- T-Mobile: 59% 4G coverage
- AT&T: 58% 4G coverage
- Sprint: 27% 4G coverage
Verizon provides the most reliable 4G coverage in the U.S., followed by AT&T, T-Mobile, as well as Sprint.
Once again, Sprint is remarkably behind AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile when it comes to 4G coverage, via the carrier’s 3G network (the one your phone will fall back to in the absence of a 4G signal) bests T-Mobile’s.
How Sprint’s Coverage Compares
The national coverage map allows you to get a sense of Sprint’s cell phone reception compared with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Click on every carrier to get a glance at their nationwide 4G and 3G coverage. You can also zoom in to see what coverage is like in your specific space.
Sprint Mobile is the preferred provider for Many MVNOs
Besides offering Sprint coverage through its service, Sprint is also a network provider for several MVNOs or mobile effective network operators. MVNOs do not have their cell towers. Instead, they buy wholesale minutes and data from a nationwide provider to resell to their clients. Sprint is an overall carrier for MVNOs like Boost Mobile, Virgin Mobile, Net10, and more.
While these MVNOs will often include coverage maps that include Sprint’s third-party roaming service in their coverage area, these off-network roaming areas may or may not be included in the user’s plan.
Sprint’s 3G and 4G LTE networks cover the smallest amount of territory in the United States of the four big players. The interpretation of the deficit only amounts to 1% is based on the uncertain test claimed by Sprint Corporation Telecommunications Company therefore the claim is no longer added in the company’s advertising.