The Plans
Koodo vs. Virgin Plus: the plans
Virgin Plus and Koodo’s Larger Plans
Koodo offers the same data allowance of 250MB with their Starter Plan. This plan is not recommended for those who intend to stream music or videos; it is advisable to limit updates and downloads to when connected to WiFi.
If your usage includes music streaming and occasional downloads, a 20GB plan, available from Koodo Mobile exclusively in Quebec, would be a suitable choice. However, Virgin Mobile does not currently offer plans with this data allowance.
For users consistently engaged in internet activities, video streaming, and frequent downloads, a minimum of 60GB is recommended. Fido offers a lower price with an auto-payment discount. Additionally, by spending a few extra dollars, you can potentially double your data. It is also worth noting that, for both companies, postpaid plans typically provide more data at a lower cost compared to prepaid plans.
Unlimited
Minutes
50 GB
Data
- No Contract
- Postpaid
- Unlimited Messages
Unlimited
Minutes
50 GB
Data
Opting for a Smaller Plan
If you don’t intend to extensively use the internet on your phone, opting for a smaller plan might be suitable. Even basic phone operations such as web app notifications and GPS require some data.
Essentially, Koodo includes 500MB of data, and Virgin Plus includes 250MB in their cheapest plans, but these plans do not come with unlimited calls. For those seeking unlimited calls and some data, Koodo offers a cheaper and more valuable plan that includes 3GB of data at a lower price compared to Virgin Plus.
Virgin and Fido’s Bigger Plans
If you frequently browse the internet on your phone without heavy music or video streaming, the 3GB Starter Plan could be a great fit. Virgin Plus offers a similar plan at a slightly higher price but provides more data. For heavy data users, the 50GB plan is an excellent choice. Virgin Plus also offers the same data allowance at a slightly higher cost. However, Fido provides an additional discount if you enable auto top-up.
Regardless of whether you’re an occasional or frequent internet user, both Virgin Mobile and Fido provide larger data plans at cost-effective rates.
Smaller Plans
Compact plans cater to individuals with modest internet usage on their mobile phones. Despite limited usage, having a small data plan remains essential, as your phone continuously consumes data for background operations, app notifications, and GPS functionality.
The most budget-friendly plans offered by both companies are slightly different; Fido offers a cheaper postpaid plan with the same data. If you are in search of an unlimited calling and messaging plan without data, both providers offer it at the same price.
How Do You Choose the Best Plan?
Choosing the best plan involves considering both pricing and coverage aspects. If affordability and generous data allowances are a priority, exploring Virgin Plus plans is recommended. However, for those emphasizing network coverage, it’s crucial to understand the mobile networks each company utilizes— Virgin Plus on Bell Mobility, Koodo on Telus, and Fido Mobile on Rogers. Referring to the Canadian Cellular Towers Map for Bell, Telus, and Rogers can optimize signal strength based on tower proximity.
Once the right plan size is determined, evaluating service coverage is essential. Virgin Plus (Bell) and Koodo (Telus) operate on different networks. Check coverage maps for both networks and gather insights from friends and family. If one carrier offers superior coverage in your area, it may be the optimal choice. However, if both carriers have excellent coverage, the decision can be based on the best plan for your needs.
Crucially, Fido, Koodo, and Virgin all provide Bring Your Own (BYO) phone plans on a monthly basis without long-term contracts, offering the flexibility to switch providers if dissatisfied. Be mindful of potential activation fees when considering a switch. Ultimately, your decision should align with your budget, data needs, and the network coverage that best fits your specific locations of use.