Methodology
NetspeedCanada has no affiliations with any mobile phone provider. We use advanced data aggregation and our proprietary database to compare cell phone plans with user priorities in mind.
Our conclusions are based on pricing, data allocation, network capabilities and coverage, and any limitations or advantages inherent in the plans we analyze. At the same time, we access public forums to examine questions like service reliability and customer service track record.
Limitations exist. While every attempt to cover your cell phone plan selection criteria has been made, we advise you to conduct your own research using our online tool.
Before committing to your selection, be sure to confirm questions like coverage with your shortlisted providers – especially if you live in, or frequently visit, remote areas.
Cell Phone Carrier Network Coverage in Canada
Network infrastructure in Canada is primarily owned by Canada’s “big three” carriers: Rogers, Bell, and Telus.
These, in turn, have “flanker” brands that offer service through their networks. For example, Public Mobile is owned by Telus. Flanker brands generally offer lower prices than those bearing the flagship brand name.
Quebecor (Videotron) is an exception, owning some infrastructure, but piggybacking off its “partner networks” aka, the big three.
Coverage estimates indicate that up to 98 percent of Canadians enjoy mobile network access. However, major cities and highways enjoy the best service quality, and some remote areas still lack reliable service.
As a matter of course, always check network coverage in your area before choosing a cell phone plan.
The Difference Between Postpaid and Prepaid Plans
There are pros and cons to both prepaid and postpaid plans. The initial difference, the fact that you pay in advance for prepaid plans, and after use for postpaid ones, is fairly superficial. Consider the deeper implications before deciding what’s right for you.
With unlimited talk time being a feature offered by most brands, the primary difference relates to what occurs if you run out of data.
If you have a prepaid plan, you buy more data. If you don’t use it before the expiration date, it disappears unless your carrier allows for rollover.
If you have a postpaid plan, your service keeps on working, but if you miss the notification that your data has run out, you may incur charges you didn’t budget for. However, you’re only billed for the data you use.
Other differences that matter include the need for credit checks if you take a postpaid plan. And, most postpaid plans require a contractual commitment which may make switching providers more difficult.
How to Get the Best Cell Phone Deals in Canada
When it comes to getting good prices on devices, it’s usually best to buy a phone outright. You can finance it through a carrier along with a postpaid plan, but there will be finance charges.
If you’re planning on doing this anyway, you can see what your phone ultimately costs by comparing the talk and data version of your plan to the one that includes a device.
When it comes to choosing a plan, the best deals usually come from flanker brands, with the top three: Bell, Rogers, and Telus, charging more for service. However, they’re the only options if you want unlimited data.
Choose a plan according to your needs. For example, if you frequently call the US, a plan offering unlimited US call time will be to your advantage.
As for data, you may need less than you expected. The average Canadian uses just over 6 GB of data per month, so unless you’re a heavy data user, you can right-size your plan and save.
Best Cell Phone Plan Overall
