Canada’s main mobile providers are Rogers, Bell, and Telus, known as the “big three”. They have nationwide 4G networks and large customer bases, dominating the market. This guide compares the big three to regional carriers and MVNOs to help choose the best network based on plans, devices, coverage, and more.

canada Mobile Operator

1. List of Mobile Operators in Canada

To understand your options for acquiring mobile service in Canada, it’s helpful to know how many major Canada mobile operators provide cellular coverage nationwide, from major mobile operators to regional ones and their MVNOs.

1.1. Main Mobile Operators in Canada

The “Big Three” mobile networks in Canada refer to the three largest telecommunications companies that own nationwide mobile networks. They are:

  • Rogers – Rogers Communications is Canada’s largest wireless carrier with over 10 million subscribers. They operate the largest LTE network covering 99% of the population. Rogers has retail stores nationwide and offers popular phones from Apple, Samsung and Google.
rogers store
Rogers store
  • Bell – Bell Mobility is the second-largest Canada mobile operator with over 9 million customers. They offer coast-to-coast LTE coverage a fast-growing wing 5G network. Bell offers a wide selection of phones and connectivity options.
bell store
Bell store
  • Telus – Telus Mobility is Canada’s 3rd biggest mobile operator with 8 million subscribers. They have an extensive LTE network that covers 99% of Canadians. Telus offers flagship devices, unlimited data plans, and flexible Bring-Your-Own-Device options.
telus store
Telus store

For more details on Canada mobile carriers, see our guide on each mobile operator in Canada: 

1.2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Canada

MVNOs offer lower prices and flexible plans compared to the big three (Bell, Rogers, Telus). However, some MVNOs aren’t fully independent and can’t access the top networks. Some top Canadian MVNOs include:

No. MVNOs Network Highlights
1 Fido Rogers Targets budget-conscious customers with BYOP plans starting from $29 USD monthly.
2 Chatr Wireless Low-cost wireless brand. Plans from 11 USD for unlimited nationwide talk and text with 1GB data.
3 Petro-Canada Mobile Offers prepaid plans with no contracts or system access fees or credit checks, starting at ~ 29 USD/month for talk and text with 1GB data.
4 7-Eleven SpeakOut Same like Petro-Canada Mobile. Can get a free SIM when you buy a 18 USD top-up voucher at any 7-Eleven store in Canada.
5 CityFone Offers postpaid plans with unlimited talk and text options and data options ranging from 250MB to 10GB.
6 Zoomer Wireless Specializes in providing affordable cell phone plans for seniors.
7 Virgin Plus Bell Offers similar services to Koodo Mobile. It is also known for its affordable plans, starting at 37 USD/month
8 Lucky Mobile Offers budget-friendly plan, from 11 USD/month for talk and text only.
9 Koodo Mobile Telus Offers a wide range of plans, Starting plans offer 1-6GB of data from 33-55 USD per month.
10 Public Mobile Known for affordable plans starting at 7 USD/month for talk and text only.
11 Fizz Mobile Videotron Offering coverage across Quebec and Eastern Ontario. Available online and entirely self-serve.

There are many MVNOs in Canada. When picking one, consider your needs and budget. You can compare plans from the different Canada mobile operators on WhistleOut to find the best deal.

2. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operator in Canada

Determining the best Canada mobile operator is difficult as there are many factors. The best option depends on your priorities and preferences. Consider network coverage, data plans, cost, and extras when comparing the major providers:

  • Network coverage in your areas – Check coverage maps for the best in your neighborhood, city, places you visit.
  • Compare plans and rates – Match your usage, prepaid cheaper for light users, postpaid for heavy users.
  • Consider customer service reputation – Research who provides the best support when problems arise.
  • Check WiFi calling and roaming support – Important if you call over WiFi or travel.
  • Ask about discounts – Ask your current provider about loyalty credits, BYOP plans can save too.
  • Watch for extra fees – Some charge for call display, voicemail, and international rates.
  • Test the network yourself – Consider a travel SIM from each to test speeds in your areas.

Start with the big 3. If coverage is permitting, next look to regional providers like Freedom Mobile. Of course, the best fit is dependent on your usage and priorities.

3. Best Mobile Operators in Canada – Detailed Comparison

To provide an at-a-glance view for evaluating the mobile network options in Canada, we present the latest Opensignal report about the Canadian mobile network experience:

Canada mobile experience 2023
Canada Mobile Experience Awards 2023. Source: Opensignal

In addition to statistics, here are some subjective factors to consider when choosing a Canadian mobile operator:

  • Network coverage: There is no significant difference between Bell, Rogers, and Telus regarding Availability. However, Bell network is available slightly more often than Rogers and Telus.
  • Internet speed: Bell and Telus jointly won fastest download speeds on 4G and 5G.
  • Voice quality: Telus tops the voice app experience, followed by Bell and Rogers.
  • Price: Depending on the included data and minutes, plans may vary in cost. In general, Telus is thought of as one of the best values among the three biggest phone companies in Canada.
  • Customer service: Telus consistently ranks highest in customer service reputation for problem solving.

So in summary, it qualitatively compares the major Canada mobile carriers Rogers, Bell, and Telus across key factors like coverage, speed, call quality, pricing, and customer service experience.

4. Where to Buy SIM Card from Canada Mobile Operators?

You can buy Canada SIM cards for tourists in several places, depending on your preferences and convenience. Here are some good options for where to buy a SIM card for Canada as a tourist:

  • At the airport – Many major Canadian airports like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal have stores from carriers like Rogers, Fido, Bell, and Telus where you can purchase directly a SIM at Canadian airports.
Rogers kiosk at Montreal airport
Rogers kiosk at Montreal airport
  • Carrier stores – Head to retail stores of major Canada mobile carriers in cities to buy a prepaid SIM. They often have tourist plans. Brands include Rogers, Fido, Bell, Telus, SaskTel, etc.
  • Online travel retailers – Sites like Canada SIM Cards, WorldSIM, and Roam Mobility offer mail delivery of SIMs with data plans tailored for travelers.
  • Mobile retailers – Phone stores like The Source, Wireless Wave, etc. outside airports may have pay-as-you-go SIM options.
the source in canada
The Source in Toronto
  • Supermarkets – Larger grocery chains like Loblaws, and Sobeys sell bring-your-own-phone SIM starter packs.
  • Drugstores – Buy a SIM starter kit from shops like Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, and Jean Coutu.
  • Canada Post – Some post offices near tourist areas might sell travel SIMs from local providers.

5. Do Mobile Operators in Canada Offer eSIM?

With compatible devices, eSIM is supported by major Canada mobile operators as well as most of their MVNOs. Canadian mobile carriers provide eSIM plans offering different data, talk, and text packages. There are various plan options for data allowance, network coverage area, and international roaming participation.

For information about whether your device is compatible with eSIM, refer to the Canada eSIM Compatible Devices List.

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6. FAQs about the best Canada mobile operators

What is the biggest mobile operator in Canada?

Rogers is Canada’s largest cell phone provider. They have over 10 million subscribers all over the country. Rogers began in 1960 and is still one of the top companies for mobile networks, phones, and plans in Canada.

Which is better – Rogers or Bell?

Bell and Rogers are the two giants of Canada’s telecom industry. In terms of network coverage and speeds, customer service rankings, device selections, and plan flexibility they are quite evenly matched. Look at their coverage maps and specific plan rates to see which fits you better.

Is Telus or Bell better?

Telus and Bell have very similar nationwide network coverage and speeds, so service quality is comparable. Both offer the latest phones and competitive rate plans. Telus has a better customer service reputation based on third-party surveys. Bell may have better bundle discounts if you want TV/internet too.

Is Fido or Koodo better for cheap plans?

Fido and Koodo are both popular discount brands owned by Rogers and Telus respectively. They offer very affordable talk, text, and data plans with no contracts. Koodo tends to lower-priced options for unlimited data while Fido offers perks like rollover data on shared buckets.

What is the most affordable Canadian cell phone provider?

Freedom Mobile is likely the most affordable option, especially in cities where they have coverage. Their plans start at just $25 per month. Other low-cost brands include Lucky Mobile, Public Mobile, Chatr, and Petro-Canada Mobility, all under $40 per month.

7. Conclusion

There are also many other considerations when looking for the best Canada mobile operator for your needs. Rogers, Bell, and Telus still hold a commanding share of Canada’s wireless market. To get the most for less, take advantage of low-priced brands; bring your device programs. Embrace the kind of zero-contracts with no limits you NEVER thought could exist. Thinking about plans carefully, and thinking about your usage can help you find the ideal mobile.