A Simple Guide to Mobile Providers in Canada for Newcomers

Welcome to Canada! One of the first things you'll need to sort out when you arrive is getting a mobile phone plan. With several providers to choose from, it can be a bit overwhelming. This guide will help you understand the main mobile providers in Canada, so you can pick the one that best suits your needs.

We have got business plans for all major providers such as Telus, Bell and Rogers. If you're looking for the best deals tailored to your region, feel free to reach out to us via the contact form. Be sure to include your preferences after reading this blog post.

Major Mobile Providers

1. Rogers Communications

   • Coverage: Rogers has extensive coverage across Canada, making it a reliable option for most areas, including rural regions.
   • Plans: They offer a variety of plans, but the data and value you get are relatively lower than Bell and Telus.
   • Rogers for small business: Rogers small business plans are not as good as competitors. They also do not have an app like the non-business customers have currently. 

2. Bell Canada

   • Coverage: Bell and Telus share networks are currently based on region. So overall it should be good.
   • Plans: They offer a variety of plans, but the data and value you get are relatively lower than Telus but better than Rogers.
   • Bell for small business: If you can go to local stores you can get good offers occasionally. However, online offers are generally not that great and customer care is also not very good.

3. Telus

   • Coverage: Bell and Telus share networks are currently based on region. So overall it should be good. There could be occasional connection issues with Telus.
   • Plans: Telus offers a range of plans, and becomes good when bundled with their other products such as internet.
   • Telus for small business: Telus generally has better plans for small business compared to others and if you follow up customer care could make some exceptions for you too. However, recently there has been instances where customer care is not very responsive. 
   • Special notes:
     • If you use the change number feature, you can't use it again in 90 days.
     • You can use the iPhone eSim feature to transfer pixel phones also currently. 

Budget-Friendly Options

1. Koodo Mobile

   • Parent Company: Telus
   • Coverage: As a subsidiary of Telus, Koodo benefits from the same strong network coverage.
   • Plans: Koodo offers affordable and flexible plans with no fixed-term contracts.
   • Special Features: Koodo's Tab system allows you to pay for your phone over time without interest.

2. Fido

   • Parent Company: Rogers
   • Coverage: Fido uses the Rogers network, so you get the same wide coverage.
   • Plans: Fido provides a variety of plans, including data rollover and affordable options for students.
   • Special Features: Fido offers perks like Fido XTRA, which gives you access to weekly deals and contests.

3. Virgin Plus

   • Parent Company: Bell
   • Coverage: Virgin Plus uses Bell's network, ensuring reliable coverage.
   • Plans: They offer competitive pricing with flexible plan options.

Prepaid Providers

For those seeking flexibility and no long-term commitments, prepaid options can be ideal. Here are some of the top prepaid providers in Canada:

• Public Mobile (owned by Telus)

  • Coverage: Public Mobile operates on Telus' network, providing excellent coverage across Canada.

• Lucky Mobile (owned by Bell)

  • Coverage: Lucky Mobile operates on Bell's strong network, ensuring good coverage across Canada.
  • Special Notes: After staying in Lucky mobile for sometime Bell generally gives good offers to switch to Bell.

• Chatr Mobile (owned by Rogers)

  • Coverage: Chatr Mobile uses the Rogers network, providing reliable coverage in urban areas.

Regional Providers

1. Freedom Mobile

   • Coverage: Freedom Mobile primarily covers urban areas in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
   • Plans: They offer competitive pricing, especially for data-heavy plans.
   • Special Features: Freedom Mobile often has promotions for new customers, making it a cost-effective choice for city dwellers.

2. Videotron

   • Coverage: Videotron is primarily available in Quebec and parts of Ontario.
   • Plans: Videotron offers affordable plans with a good balance of talk, text, and data.
   • Special Features: Videotron customers can benefit from bundled services if they also subscribe to Videotron’s internet or TV services.

3. Eastlink

   • Coverage: Based in the Atlantic provinces and parts of Ontario, Eastlink offers mobile, internet, and TV bundles, catering primarily to those in the eastern regions of Canada.
   • Plans: They provide affordable packages, especially if you bundle services like home internet and TV.
   • Special Features: Eastlink's bundles make it easy to manage all your home services with one provider.

4. SaskTel

   • Coverage: SaskTel is Saskatchewan's primary mobile provider, offering excellent coverage across the province.
   • Plans: They offer competitive plans that cater to the needs of Saskatchewan residents.
   • Special Features: SaskTel is ideal for those living or traveling within Saskatchewan.

5. Tbaytel

   • Coverage: Tbaytel serves Northern Ontario and is known for strong local coverage in the region.
   • Plans: Tbaytel offers affordable plans that work well for residents in Northern Ontario.
   • Special Features: Tbaytel also provides home internet and TV services, making it a convenient option for bundling.

Tips for Choosing a Mobile Provider

1. Coverage: Make sure the provider has good coverage in the area where you will live and work. Check coverage maps on their websites.
2. Plan Type: Consider what you need most – is it unlimited data, international calling, or a good family plan? Choose a plan that fits your usage habits.
3. Budget: Compare prices and see which provider offers the best value for your money. Don't forget to look for promotions and special offers.
4. Contract Length: Some plans require long-term contracts, while others are month-to-month. Choose what suits your preference.

I will be publishing a new post explaining these tips. However, if you want immediate help, feel free to reach out through our contact page. I am connected with most mobile providers and may be able to get you a good deal.

Final Thoughts

Selecting a mobile provider is one of the first steps in settling into your new life in Canada. By understanding the major players and their offerings, you can make an informed decision that keeps you connected without breaking the bank. Happy settling in!

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out through our contact page. I am connected with most mobile providers and may be able to get you a good deal.

If you're looking for the best deals tailored to your region, feel free to reach out to us via the contact form. Be sure to include your preferences after reading this blog post.