AT&T vs. Verizon: Which Provider Tops the Chart?
AT&T and Verizon are leading names when we talk about U.S. cell phone providers. If you wonder if AT&T is better, it’s important to look at the details. AT&T covers 59% of the nation, more than Verizon’s 56%. AT&T is ahead in 5G with 29% basic coverage, outdoing Verizon’s 9%. They also lead in midband 5G, serving 18% coverage versus Verizon’s 6%, reaching over 290 million Americans.
Cost plays a big role in choosing between AT&T and Verizon. AT&T offers its cheapest 5G plan at $25 per line for four lines. Verizon’s Welcome Unlimited plan starts at $30 per line for the same number of lines. AT&T’s family plans are also $5 cheaper per line each month. Yet, Verizon offers more phone models, with 98 options against AT&T’s 39.
Customer support is almost a tie between the two. Verizon ranked second in J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. study for enterprise internet. Each provides 60GB for mobile hotspots and options for international use. But, AT&T charges $10 for such use in top-tier plans, while Verizon gives 10GB of international data.
Financial strength varies between them since 2007, with AT&T often leading in revenue and dividends. AT&T’s diverse business and fiber optics investments strengthen its market stance. Meanwhile, Verizon keeps up with major acquisitions and a solid wireless revenue segment.
Deciding on AT&T or Verizon depends on what you need, like coverage, costs, phones, and quality of service. Both are powerful contenders in the U.S. wireless scene, each with unique benefits.
Pricing and Plans Comparison
Choosing between AT&T and Verizon is big when switching carriers. People look at prices and value to make their decision.
Cheapest Plans
Starting with the basics, let’s compare. AT&T offers cheaper prepaid options than its unlimited ones. Their Unlimited Starter SL starts at $65.99 for a single line. This price goes down to $30.99 for five lines.
Verizon, on the other hand, has a plan called myPlan Unlimited Welcome. It begins at $65 for one line. For five or more lines, it drops to $27.
Unlimited Plans
For unlimited data users, both AT&T and Verizon have good options. AT&T’s Unlimited Premium Plan is $85.99 for one line. It gets cheaper at $45.99 for five lines. This plan gives you 100GB of premium data and 30GB for hotspot use.
Verizon’s equivalent, the myPlan Unlimited Plus, starts at $80 for a single line. It reduces to $42 per line for a group of five. It offers 50GB of premium data and 30GB of hotspot data. Then there’s Verizon’s best, the Unlimited Ultimate plan. This one starts at $90 for one line and falls to $52 for five. It includes 60GB for hotspot usage.
| Plan | Provider | Cost (1 Line) | Cost (5 Lines) | Premium Data | Hotspot Data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Starter SL | AT&T | $65.99 | $30.99 | No premium | None |
| myPlan Unlimited Welcome | Verizon | $65.00 | $27.00 | No premium | 5GB |
| Unlimited Premium PL | AT&T | $85.99 | $45.99 | 100GB | 30GB |
| myPlan Unlimited Plus | Verizon | $80.00 | $42.00 | 50GB | 30GB |
Network Coverage Comparison
Choosing between AT&T and Verizon requires knowing their network coverage. Both have vast 4G LTE and 5G networks. Let’s look closer at how they compare.
4G LTE Coverage
Verizon often leads in 4G LTE coverage. It has a wide network across the nation, reaching remote places. For example, Verizon works almost 20 miles offshore and excels in some rural and mountain areas. AT&T also offers good 4G LTE coverage but has more gaps in places like Eastern Oregon.
| Aspect | AT&T | Verizon |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Coverage | Extensive | Extensive |
| Offshore Coverage | Up to 40 miles | Up to 125 miles |
| 4G LTE Performance | Strong inland | Strong offshore and in mountainous areas |
5G Coverage
The competition is fierce for 5G coverage between AT&T and Verizon. Both claim wide 5G coverage, but differences exist. Some users find T-Mobile’s 5G not as good as advertised, affecting views on AT&T and Verizon.
In urban and suburban areas, both AT&T and Verizon have excellent 5G coverage. They offer faster speeds and better connectivity. Verizon’s 5G network uses low-band, mid-band, and mmWave spectrum for better speed and reliability in different areas.
| Aspect | AT&T | Verizon |
|---|---|---|
| 5G Spectrum | Low-band, mid-band | Low-band, mid-band, mmWave |
| Urban Coverage | Extensive | Extensive |
| Suburban Coverage | Good | Good |
| Rural Areas | Limited | Limited |
Phone Options and Availability
When choosing between AT&T and Verizon, both offer lots of phone options and great device compatibility. If you’re looking for the best cell phone choices, think about which provider has the devices you want. Also, consider how well these phones will work with each network.
Phone Selection
Verizon offers a wider variety of phones than AT&T, with 98 models to pick from. You can find the latest from Apple, Samsung, and Google at Verizon. They have high-end smartphones, mid-range options, and affordable models.
AT&T may have fewer options, but they focus on the most popular devices. They make sure their phones work well on their 5G and 4G LTE networks. This means AT&T customers get strong connections and fast data speeds.
Device Compatibility
Verizon and AT&T use different tech for their networks. Verizon uses CDMA, while AT&T relies on GSM. This difference made switching phones between them hard in the past. Yet, 4G LTE and 5G have made this less of an issue.
GSM phones often work fine on AT&T. But, Verizon phones need to support CDMA and new LTE bands. Make sure a new phone works with your network. This is key if you travel internationally since GSM is more common worldwide.
In the end, both AT&T and Verizon work with many devices, including the latest smartphones. They ensure phones work with their 5G features. Picking the right carrier depends on which devices you like and need.
Network Performance
Choosing between AT&T and Verizon often comes down to network performance for many buyers. This part sheds light on their download speeds and how reliable their networks are.
Download Speeds
Verizon leads in fast download speeds, thanks to its mmWave technology. The most recent at&t vs verizon speed test shows Verizon’s superior speed in cities. But AT&T is also strong, with its wide 4G LTE network serving many users well.
Reliability
Knowing how reliable a network is is key. Both AT&T and Verizon offer solid services. Yet, they have differences worth noting. AT&T’s broad 5G network reaches far, ensuring stable service in less populated areas. On the other hand, Verizon’s mmWave 5G shines in speed but not in distance. Past studies show both are top-notch. However, AT&T covers more of the nation, making it a tad better in less city-like places.
Is AT&T Better Than Verizon?
To find out if AT&T or Verizon is better, we must look at pricing, network coverage, and plan features.
Pricing and plans are where we start. AT&T’s Unlimited Starter is $65.99 per line. Their Unlimited Extra costs $75.99, and the Unlimited Premium is $85.99. Verizon’s myPlan Unlimited Welcome is $65. The Unlimited Plus is $70, and the Unlimited Ultimate is $80. AT&T charges more for top-tier plans. Yet, both companies offer cool perks. For extras, Verizon could be better because of deals like 2TB cloud storage and the Disney Bundle for an extra $10.
Next, let’s talk network coverage. Verizon has a big 4G LTE and mmWave 5G network. It’s fast but doesn’t cover everywhere. AT&T uses a low-band spectrum, giving wider but a bit slower service. Reports show Verizon keeps a steady LTE connection while AT&T might slow down sometimes.
Looking at plan features, things get interesting. AT&T gives you lots of mobile hotspot data. You get 15GB with Unlimited Extra and up to 60GB with Unlimited Premium. Verizon matches this with 30GB for Unlimited Plus and 60GB for Unlimited Ultimate. But, Verizon’s top plan also offers 10GB of speedy international data. This could be a big win for travelers.
Streaming Quality differs between the two. AT&T’s best plan lets you stream in HD. Verizon streams in 480p but can go HD for an extra $5. If you love watching stuff in high quality, Verizon lets you choose the streaming quality for a small fee.
| Feature | AT&T | Verizon |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing for Entry Unlimited Plan | $65.99 per line | $65 per line |
| Top-Tier Plan Cost | $85.99 per line (Unlimited Premium) | $80 per line (Unlimited Ultimate) |
| Mobile Hotspot Data (Top Tier) | 60GB | 60GB |
| International Data | None | 10GB (Ultimate Plan) |
| Streaming Quality | Up to HD (Unlimited Premium) | 480p by default, HD for $5 |
Choosing between AT&T and Verizon depends on what you value most. If you need lots of hotspot data and text options, AT&T might be for you. However, if you’re into savings on high-tier plans and like customization, Verizon could win your vote. Remember to consider what’s most important to you when picking a provider.
Customer Service
When you think about AT&T vs Verizon customer service, it’s important to look closely at their support. Each company has its own strengths and weaknesses. But, some key differences might make you choose one over the other.
AT&T stands out with many ways to get help, like live chat, phone support, and social media help. They have many service centers for fixing devices. This makes them a top choice for many people.
Verizon offers great customer service too, with extra benefits for $10. These benefits can include insurance, cloud storage, and special tech support. While these options are great for those who love tech, their basic support like phone and chat is still solid and easy to use.
Both companies have apps that let you manage your account and fix problems. Yet, many people find Verizon’s app easier to use. They say it makes dealing with bills and plan changes smoother.
Here’s a look at how AT&T and Verizon compare in customer service:
| Service Metric | AT&T | Verizon |
|---|---|---|
| Average Call Wait Time | 4 minutes | 3 minutes |
| Resolution Time for Issues | Within 24 hours | Within 12 hours |
| Availability of Service Channels | 24/7 | 24/7 |
| Satisfaction Rate | 85% | 90% |
In the end, when choosing between AT&T and Verizon, it’s close. Verizon slightly leads with a focus on user needs. However, AT&T might be better for those who like in-person help. The best choice depends on what matters most to you.
Features and Perks
AT&T and Verizon bring great features and perks to their customers. They offer things like streaming services and mobile hotspot data. This adds more value than just regular connectivity.
Streaming Services
- Verizon: Verizon has a selection of streaming services. These are great for those who love to stream on their phones. You get the Disney Bundle (Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu), Apple Music Family, and more. Many perks are just $10 per line. Plus, Verizon gives 6 months free for some perks on certain plans.
- AT&T: AT&T also has great entertainment bundles. Customers get to enjoy HBO Max and AT&T TV with some packages. This is perfect for those wanting premium streaming through their cell plans.
Mobile Hotspot Data
Both providers know how crucial mobile hotspot deals are. Today, people want to stay connected everywhere they go.
- Verizon: Verizon’s top plans offer a lot of high-speed data. This makes them perfect for using as a mobile hotspot. The Unlimited Premium plan is $70/month with AutoPay. It gives you a strong connection, even when many devices are connected.
- AT&T: AT&T provides various plans that are flexible. Their Unlimited plans start at $50/month with AutoPay. These plans offer a lot of mobile hotspot data. This means you can share your connection easily, without hitting a data limit too soon.
| Verizon | AT&T | |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming Service Perks | Disney Bundle, Apple Music Family, YouTube Premium, Netflix & Max, Apple One, Apple Arcade | HBO Max, AT&T TV |
| Mobile Hotspot Data | Available in Unlimited Premium plans with minimal throttling | Generous allowances with Unlimited plans |
| Pricing | Unlimited Premium: $70/month (AutoPay $60) | Unlimited Plan: $50/month with AutoPay |
Market Share and Subscriber Data
Getting to know the competition between AT&T vs Verizon market share shows how big these companies are. They both have impressive numbers, from new subscribers every quarter to their overall money reports.
Current Market Share
AT&T and Verizon are giants fighting in the telecom world. This quarter, AT&T did great by adding 429,000 retail postpaid subscribers, of which 403,000 were phone users. Meanwhile, Verizon wasn’t far behind. They added 349,000 retail postpaid net subscribers and gained 389,000 broadband users. These numbers show their strong positions and how they keep growing.
Subscriber Growth
Looking at subscriber growth rates, both AT&T and Verizon are neck and neck. AT&T’s mobile service made $16.5 billion in Q3, growing 4%. Their total mobile money grew by 1.7% to $21.1 billion. But, their equipment sales dropped by 5.7%. AT&T also saw a small rise in money made per phone subscriber.
Verizon, on the other hand, is doing well too. They managed to add 449,000 net subscribers in Q4 2023. They grew their broadband users by over 1.7 million compared to last year. Their stock price also went up by more than 35% since October 2023. Verizon’s steady growth shows they are serious about staying on top.
AT&T’s fiber and broadband money is also going up, which is good news for them. By the end of Q3, they had 9 million fiber subscribers, up from 8 million the year before. This helped their broadband money rise by 6.4% to $2.8 billion. These numbers highlight the ongoing battle and growth in the AT&T vs Verizon market share.
Business Segments and Revenue Streams
The business parts and income sources of big telecom firms like AT&T shows us their financial strength and future plans. Both have diversified their income to stay ahead in the fast-changing market.
AT&T Business Segments
AT&T’s business covers communication, media, and international services. They focus on video and wireless bundles, reaching 39 million homes with DirecTV or AT&T wireless. Also, they are growing their IoT income, moving beyond mobile data to enterprise solutions.
AT&T aims to shake up the Mexican wireless scene. It’s ranked third, looking for big growth.
Verizon Business Segments
Verizon centers on wireless and wireline services, plus digital media. The wireless part is crucial, making up most of their earnings. They’re also pushing into 5G and business solutions.
With a market cap of $171 billion, Verizon shows strong finances. They’re noted for clear communication with the outside world, say analysts.
| Company | Market Cap | Dividend Yield | Earnings Multiple |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | $134 billion | 5.90% | 8 – 8.50 times |
| Verizon | $171 billion | 6.50% | 8.50 – 9 times |
The future success of AT&T and Verizon hinges on adapting to market shifts. They need to innovate and keep operations efficient and transparent.
Financial Performance
The financial status of AT&T and Verizon shows their unique strengths. By looking at the AT&T financial performance and Verizon earnings report, we can understand where they stand in the market.
Revenue
In 2023, AT&T made $181 billion. This huge amount shows how big and widespread AT&T is. Verizon, on the other hand, earned $134 billion in 2023. This is a bit less than AT&T but still impressive. Despite this, Verizon’s wireless sales reached $76.7 billion in 2023, up by 3.2% from last year. This shows us how each company does well in different areas.
Earnings
Verizon earned more in operating profits than AT&T. But, AT&T had a higher net profit. This shows they focus differently on making money. In 2023, AT&T’s free cash flow went up to $16.8 billion from $14.1 billion in 2022. This means they’ve gotten better at managing their cash. Verizon’s free cash flow was even higher at $18.7 billion in 2023.
At the end of 2023, AT&T’s debt was $128.9 billion. They plan to lower their debt-to-EBITDA ratio to 2.5 by early 2024. Verizon’s debt was slightly less at $126.4 billion, with a ratio of 2.6. This comparison between AT&T and Verizon shows their various strategies in making profits and staying competitive.
Putting the financial achievements of AT&T next to Verizon’s shows the different ways they remain leaders in telecom. This clear view into their finances is vital for those investing or studying the market.
Dividend Growth Comparison
Dividend growth is key for investors looking for stable and growing returns. Knowing the dividend growth of AT&T and Verizon helps investors make smart choices.
AT&T Dividend History
AT&T offers a dividend yield of 6.6%, which is quite high compared to the S&P 500’s yield of 1.8%. Though it cut its dividend by almost half in 2022, AT&T still pays $8.2 billion in dividends each year. This high yield is supported by a forward P/E ratio of 10.
AT&T has added net postpaid phone subscribers for 15 straight quarters. This growth helps AT&T stay financially stable and keep paying dividends.
AT&T predicts a 3% rise in wireless revenue this year and has a strong fiber market presence. It has reached 28.3 million fiber locations and aims for 30 million by next year’s end. This growth supports its high dividend yield.
Verizon Dividend Track Record
Verizon, on the other hand, has a slightly higher dividend yield at 6.7%. It has increased its dividend for 18 years in a row, showing steady growth. In the last ten years, Verizon has raised its dividend by 23%, showing its dedication to shareholders. Verizon’s forward P/E ratio is just under 9.
Verizon’s stock has increased by 9% this year, with a 3.3% growth in wireless revenue in the first quarter. It made $33 billion in Q1 revenue, 10% more than AT&T. Verizon plans to buy Frontier Communications for $20 billion, which could grow its fiber network.
Both AT&T and Verizon have strong dividend growth stories. With yields over 6%, they are attractive for income-seeking investors.
| Company | Dividend Yield | Annual Dividend Payment | Consecutive Dividend Raises | Forward P/E Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | 6.6% | $8.2 billion | – | 10 |
| Verizon | 6.7% | – | 18 years |
Pros and Cons
Choosing between AT&T and Verizon involves comparing their strengths and weaknesses. AT&T presents a broad range of plans and speeds, with options reaching up to 5Gbps. They offer competitive bundles that can lower your monthly costs. For $60 a month, AT&T’s Internet Air gives speeds of 75-225Mbps, fitting for moderate internet users.
Yet, AT&T Internet Air’s availability is limited nationwide, and speeds can vary by location. Some of their plans also have data caps, restricting usage for those who use the internet heavily.
Verizon stands out for its vast fiber and 5G network. Its 5G Home Internet provides up to 300Mbps download speeds, noted for reliability. With customer satisfaction at 4.0/5 for speed and reliability, it’s a solid choice. Verizon’s fibre plans, offering 300Mbps to 2Gbps speeds without data caps, enhance user experience.
Verizon’s fiber plans cost between $49.99 to $109.99 monthly, with a $15 discount for bundling with an unlimited mobile plan. While an installation fee for Verizon Fios exists, it can be avoided by ordering online. Despite being more expensive, Verizon’s larger coverage and faster speeds offer great reliability.
In customer service, AT&T and Verizon both scored 3.9/5, showing a tie in satisfaction from various surveys. AT&T shines with ongoing promotions and discounts. Verizon, however, offers data without caps and goodies like the Disney Bundle.
Deciding between AT&T and Verizon depends on what you need most. It could be about speed, cost, or where you live. Both have great offerings, making them tough competitors in the marketplace.
FAQs
Is AT&T better than Verizon?
AT&T and Verizon both have great services. Verizon excels in 4G LTE coverage. AT&T might be cheaper and has stronger 5G in certain areas. The best choice depends on what you value more.
Which provider has the best cell phone plans?
It depends on your needs. AT&T offers more flexible and cheaper options. Verizon is known for its reliable coverage and extensive reach.
How do AT&T and Verizon compare in terms of pricing and plans?
AT&T’s plans are generally less expensive. But Verizon’s plans include bonuses like streaming services and have better network speed.
Who offers better 4G LTE coverage, AT&T or Verizon?
For the best 4G LTE coverage across the US, Verizon is the leader. It’s the top choice for consistent nationwide coverage.
How do AT&T and Verizon’s 5G coverages compare?
Both have strong 5G networks. AT&T’s 5G covers more rural areas. Verizon offers faster speeds in cities with its 5G Ultra Wideband.
Which provider has a better selection of phones?
AT&T and Verizon both carry the latest smartphones from top brands like Apple and Samsung. Check their websites to see what’s available.
Is AT&T or Verizon better for network performance?
Verizon leads in reliability and speed, especially with 4G LTE. AT&T’s 5G network is also fast and can be quicker in some places.
How does customer service compare between AT&T and Verizon?
Both have strong customer support. Reviews often say Verizon’s service is a bit better.
What perks do AT&T and Verizon offer?
AT&T gives you HBO Max with some plans. Verizon includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ in its higher-tier plans. Each has mobile hotspot data, but differences may exist in allowances and speeds.
How do AT&T and Verizon’s market shares compare?
Verizon has a bigger market share. However, AT&T is growing fast. Both are leading wireless providers in the U.S.
What are the main business segments for AT&T and Verizon?
AT&T is into wireless services, WarnerMedia, and broadband. Verizon focuses on wireless services, its media group, and business solutions.
How does the financial performance of AT&T and Verizon compare?
Both are solid financially. Verizon usually posts higher revenue and profits. AT&T benefits from its media and entertainment divisions, too.
What are the pros and cons of choosing AT&T or Verizon?
AT&T Pros: Cheaper plans and strong 5G in rural places. Cons: Poorer 4G coverage. Verizon Pros: Best 4G LTE coverage and fast network. Cons: It’s more expensive.
