Wanted to share a recent unplanned experiment using Consumer Cellular, since the topic comes up on ER every so often.
My friend and I were out for a drive in the country near Portland. We stopped to check GPS directions with our data service (wifi turned off). We have identical phones (iPhone SE 2nd gen). We both are using the TMobile network. We both showed good cell coverage (3 bars). We both used the Google Maps app. However, her phone was able to get directions quickly, whereas my phone just stalled ("loading..."). Only difference I could think of was that she is a TMobile customer, whereas I'm with Consumer Cellular.
My understanding is that "secondary" carriers like CC can offer cheaper rates because while they use the same networks as AT&T, TMobile, etc. they effectively are put into the "slow lane" in terms of speed. This experience with my friend seemed to confirm that. I'd had similar issues recently but thought maybe I just was out of range or something.
FWIW I will say that when I was on the AT&T network with CC the service seemed better, so I will switch back and see how things go (got a TMobile SIM earlier this year when I went to Europe, since apparently AT&T SIM doesn't work there with CC). If I still have issues, I'll probably try another carrier, as it's no use having cell service if it doesn't work reliably even where there's coverage.
My friend and I were out for a drive in the country near Portland. We stopped to check GPS directions with our data service (wifi turned off). We have identical phones (iPhone SE 2nd gen). We both are using the TMobile network. We both showed good cell coverage (3 bars). We both used the Google Maps app. However, her phone was able to get directions quickly, whereas my phone just stalled ("loading..."). Only difference I could think of was that she is a TMobile customer, whereas I'm with Consumer Cellular.
My understanding is that "secondary" carriers like CC can offer cheaper rates because while they use the same networks as AT&T, TMobile, etc. they effectively are put into the "slow lane" in terms of speed. This experience with my friend seemed to confirm that. I'd had similar issues recently but thought maybe I just was out of range or something.
FWIW I will say that when I was on the AT&T network with CC the service seemed better, so I will switch back and see how things go (got a TMobile SIM earlier this year when I went to Europe, since apparently AT&T SIM doesn't work there with CC). If I still have issues, I'll probably try another carrier, as it's no use having cell service if it doesn't work reliably even where there's coverage.