Ultra Mobile and 5G: Everything You Need to Know


Ultra Mobile and 5G: Everything You Need to KnowPin

What exactly does Ultra Mobile offer in terms of 5G? Let’s break it down.


Key Takeaways

  • Ultra Mobile offers free 5G on all its plans.
  • The carrier relies on T-Mobile’s extensive 5G network.
  • 5G-capable phones are required to access the 5G network.
  • Hotspot usage and data allotments apply similarly to both 4G and 5G.

5G is changing the game in mobile connectivity, offering faster speeds and more reliable networks. Ultra Mobile is not lagging behind in this revolution. But what exactly does Ultra Mobile offer in terms of 5G? Let’s break it down.

Free 5G on All Plans: A Game-Changer

Ultra Mobile and 5G: Everything You Need to KnowPin

The Offer

Ultra Mobile offers free 5G access on all its plans. Yes, you read that right. Whether you’re on a budget plan or a premium one, 5G comes at no extra cost.

The Network

Ultra Mobile leverages T-Mobile’s 5G network, which is one of the largest in the nation. This means you’re getting reliable and extensive coverage.

Device Compatibility: What You Need

iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro MaxPin

5G-Capable Phones

To access Ultra Mobile’s 5G network, you’ll need a 5G-capable phone. Most new models from major manufacturers will work, as long as they are 4G VoLTE or 5G compatible and use a SIM card.

And if you need to buy one, either outright or on finance, Ultra Mobile has you covered with the latest iPhone models, a huge selection of Samsung phones, and plenty of wallet-friendly mid-range Android phones from brands like Nokia, Motorola, and TLC.

Why is 5G Important?

The world is becoming more connected. From smartphones to smart cities, the demand for faster and more reliable internet is ever-increasing. 5G is designed to not only meet but also provide a stable platform to exceed these demands.

  1. Speed: 5G can deliver download speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G.
  2. Connectivity: It can support up to a million devices per square kilometer. That’s massive!
  3. Low Latency: Response times can be as low as 1 millisecond.

Unlocked Phones

Having an unlocked phone is crucial when switching to Ultra Mobile to access its 5G network. But what does “unlocked” mean? An unlocked phone is not tied to a specific carrier, giving you the freedom to switch providers without changing your device.

How to Know If Your Phone is Unlocked

If you’re not sure whether your phone is unlocked, there are several ways to check:

  1. Contact your current carrier and ask.
  2. Insert a SIM card from a different carrier and see if it works.
  3. Check in your phone’s settings under the “About Phone” or “Network” section.

Steps to Unlock Your Phone

If you find that your phone is locked, you’ll need to contact your current carrier to unlock it. The process varies by carrier, but generally, you’ll need to meet certain criteria, like:

  1. Your account must be in good standing.
  2. Your phone must be fully paid off.
  3. You may need to have been a customer for a certain period.

Once you meet these criteria, your carrier will provide instructions to unlock your phone, usually involving a code or a series of steps to follow.

Speed and Data Allotments: The Nitty-Gritty

How Fast Is Ultra Mobile Data? Real-World TestsPin

Speeds

5G offers faster download speeds compared to 4G. However, the actual speed will depend on various factors like your location and network conditions.

Data Caps

If your plan has a data cap, it applies to both 4G and 5G. Once you exhaust your high-speed data, expect throttling regardless of whether you’re on 4G or 5G.

Hotspot Usage: Yes, It’s Possible

Hotspot Functionality: 4G vs. 5G

Ultra Mobile allows you to use the mobile hotspot feature on your 5G smartphones, just like you would on 4G LTE devices. This means you can share your phone’s internet connection with other devices, such as laptops or tablets.

Data Usage: Keep an Eye on It

When you use the hotspot feature, the data consumed will count against your monthly data allotment. Whether you’re on 4G or 5G, the same data rules apply. If your plan offers 10GB of high-speed data, for example, hotspot usage will draw from this pool.

Speed and Performance

Because you’re on a 5G network, expect faster and more reliable hotspot connectivity. This is especially useful for tasks that require high-speed internet, like video conferencing or large file downloads.

Final Thoughts: Is Ultra Mobile’s 5G for You?

Three 5G CoveragePin

Ultra Mobile’s 5G services are strong and reliable, largely due to its strategic alliance with T-Mobile. This partnership allows Ultra Mobile to offer free 5G access across all its plans, making it an attractive choice for anyone considering upgrading to a 5G network.

Additionally, the carrier supports a broad spectrum of 5G-compatible devices, further enhancing its appeal.

However, before you make the transition, it’s crucial to do some groundwork. Always verify that 5G coverage is available in your specific location. Also, double-check that your device is not only 5G-capable but also unlocked if you’re switching from another carrier.

These steps will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience as you move to Ultra Mobile’s 5G network.

Latest Smartphone Releases


  • Xiaomi 15S Pro

    The Xiaomi 15S Pro didn’t come with a flashy launch, but it brings some seriously heavy hardware to the table. A custom 10-core chip, Leica-engineered cameras, and one of the brightest displays on the market

  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge

    At just 5.8mm thick, it’s one of the thinnest Android phones ever made—but don’t let the slim profile fool you. This phone is all flagship under the hood.

  • Nothing Phone (3a) Pro

    It’s got the same slick design and OLED display, but adds a periscope zoom camera and a 50MP front-facing shooter.

  • Nothing Phone (3a)

    The Nothing Phone (3a) nails the formula: give people what they actually want, keep the price low, and make it look cooler than anything else in its class.

  • Motorola EDGE 60 Pro

    With a bold design, flagship-like display, and surprisingly refined camera system, it’s one of the most interesting mid-range phones of 2025.

  • Google Pixel 9

    I’ve been using the Pixel 9 for a few weeks now, and honestly? It nails all the basics—and a bit more. Killer stuff all round!

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro

    I’ve used the Pixel 9 Pro as my daily device, and it’s hands-down the best balance of power, practicality, and photography you’ll find on Android right now.

  • OnePlus 13

    I’ve been using the OnePlus 13 as my daily driver for a few months now—and I’ve got to say, it’s easily one of the best Android phones I’ve tested this year.

  • Xiaomi 15 Ultra

    After using the Xiaomi 15 Ultra for over a week, I can confidently say: this phone is an absolute beast. It’s made for camera nerds, power users, and creators.

  • iPhone 16 Pro Max

    If you’ve been holding out for a truly complete iPhone, the 16 Pro Max delivers—hard. After using it daily, I won't be going back…

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

    Big screen, big battery, and even bigger brains—this is the Pixel to get if you want Google’s best hardware and longest support.

  • Google Pixel 9a

    The Pixel 9a brings Google’s flagship-level smarts to a budget-friendly package, and it’s easily one of the best-value Android phones of 2025.

Best SIM-Only Plans & Deals


  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 108GB

    Another high-data, low-cost option with no contract. 108GB for just £9, full 5G access, and the same goodies you get with 12-month deals.

    +

    Data: 108GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 20GB

    The lowest price option. 20GB for £6 with all the same perks as pricier plans. Great if you don’t use much data and want to save every penny.

    +

    Data: 20GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 110GB

    This plan gives you big data and zero commitment. 110GB for just £10 with all perks intact. If you need more data but want the freedom to cancel, this is the one.

    +

    Data: 110GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 60GB

    More data, same price. For just £8/month, you get 60GB on a no-strings 1-month rolling plan. Ideal for users who stream often but don’t want long commitments.

    +

    Data: 60GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 40GB

    Perfect if you want full flexibility. You get 40GB and all of iD Mobile's perks with no lock-in, annual increases, or setup fees. Great for short-term users.

    +

    Data: 40GB

  • iD Mobile 12 Month SIM-Only: 60GB

    One of the best pound-per-GB plans around. You get 60GB for £8 with £25 cashback, which means you’re effectively paying closer to £6/month. Includes roaming and data rollover.

    +

    Data: 60GB

  • iD Mobile 12 Month SIM-Only: 108GB

    This deal gets you a healthy 108GB of 5G data for less than a tenner, with no upfront costs and £24 cashback. All the perks are included too: data rollover, roaming, and loyalty rewards.

    +

    Data: 108GB

  • iD Mobile 12 Month SIM-Only: Unlimited Data

    This iD Mobile plan doesn’t just compete on price, it’s up there with the best of them. Unlimited everything, a year-long lock-in with no price rises, and £42 cashback straight to your pocket. It’s like getting nearly 3 months free.

    +

    Data: Unlimited, No Speed Caps

  • Mint Mobile 20GB Plan

    If you're looking to save some cash on your bills, this plan is an awesome option. You'll get 20GB of data per month and 20GB hotspot data allowance. For moderate to heavy users, that should be more than enough. I seldom use more than 10GB of data a month, and I'm always using my phone

    +

    Data: 20GB

  • Mint Mobile 15GB Plan

    If you don't use a lot of data, this plan is a great option. You'll get 15GB of data per month and 5GB hotspot data allowance. It's not a lot but for light users, it is likely more than you'll ever need

    +

    Data: 15GB

  • Visible+ Pro Plan

    Visible+ Pro is built for heavy users who want it all: 4K streaming, ultra-fast hotspot speeds, and premium 5G access on Verizon’s best network. No throttling. No compromises. Just pure, high-performance mobile.

    +

    Data: Unlimited

  • Visible+ Plan

    If you’re tired of overpaying for unlimited data, Visible is one of the best alternatives out there—especially right now. For a limited time, you can get Visible’s unlimited plan for just $20/month, and that price is locked in for an entire year when you use code SAVE5 at checkout.

    +

    Data: Unlimited