T-Mobile and Verizon are two of the largest wireless carriers in the United States. But how does their coverage stack up? This article will compare T-Mobile and Verizon’s coverage using data from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
4G LTE Coverage: Verizon Takes the Lead
According to the FCC’s interactive map, Verizon boasts broader 4G LTE coverage than T-Mobile. As of December 2022, Verizon covers approximately 55% of the country, while T-Mobile covers around 35%. Verizon’s gaps in coverage are primarily in Nevada, Utah, Oklahoma, and Kentucky. T-Mobile’s coverage is noticeably stronger in the eastern half of the US, with significant gaps in the western states.
Verizon 4G LTE Coverage Map (Source: FCC)
T-Mobile 4G LTE Coverage Map (Source: FCC)
5G Coverage: T-Mobile Pulls Ahead
While Verizon leads in 4G LTE coverage, the situation reverses when comparing 5G. Specifically, focusing on the fastest 5G coverage tracked by the FCC (5G-NR, 35/3 Mbps), T-Mobile offers broader geographic reach than Verizon. T-Mobile’s fast 5G covers approximately 12.5% of the country, compared to Verizon’s 8.1%.
Verizon’s 5G strength is concentrated around major cities, California, and the East Coast. T-Mobile’s 5G coverage is more evenly distributed but has gaps, especially in less populated areas of the West and Plains states.
Verizon 5G Coverage Map (Source: FCC)
T-Mobile 5G Coverage Map (Source: FCC)
Comparing Coverage in Your Area
To determine which carrier offers better coverage in your specific location, utilize the FCC’s interactive map. By entering your address and selecting “Mobile Broadband,” you can compare 4G and 5G availability from different providers. The map allows you to zoom in and directly compare coverage from Verizon and T-Mobile.
Conclusion: It Depends on Your Needs
The best carrier for you depends on your priorities. If reliable 4G LTE coverage is paramount, Verizon is likely the better choice. However, if you prioritize 5G access and speeds, T-Mobile might be more suitable. Using the FCC’s interactive map is crucial for making an informed decision based on your location’s specific coverage landscape. Remember, the FCC coverage maps reflect outdoor and in-vehicle connectivity, not indoor coverage.
