What Is the Difference Between Boost Mobile and Other Cell Phone Companies?

by Kristin N. Fitzgerald
Boost Mobile sells Blackberries as well as Samsung, Motorola and Sanyo cell phones..

Boost Mobile sells Blackberries as well as Samsung, Motorola and Sanyo cell phones..

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Originally launched in Australia, Boost Mobile has gained millions of customers since the company began operations in 2000. Sprint Nextel owns the prepaid wireless company, which offers a variety of unlimited plans, walkie-talkie services and "pay as you go" deals. Many cell phone users prefer Boost Mobile because, unlike most larger providers, its plans do not require a long-term contract..

Long-Term Contracts

While most cell phone companies require customers to sign two-year contracts, Boost Mobile does not. Customers can end their service whenever they choose without incurring early termination fees. This gives customers more flexibility, since they are not locked into a contract with Boost Mobile for more than a month at a time.

Unlimited Plans

Instead of charging individually for calls, texts and Internet use, Boost Mobile offers only unlimited plans for a flat fee. Thus, customers do not ever pay over usage fees for going over a certain number of minutes or texts. They simply pay the same price each month.

Shrinkage

Because Boost Mobile does not require contracts, they offer discounts according to the length of time a customer has used their services. The discount increases every six months until a customer has reached 18 months of service, at which point the discount remains in effect but does not progress further. This program, known as "Shrinkage," encourages Boost Mobile's customers to remain loyal and continue their cell phone services.

Pay As You Go

For customers who prefer not to have a monthly bill, Boost Mobile also offers a "Pay As You Go" plan, which simply charges a flat fee per minute and text. This plan benefits those who do not use a cell phone very often, giving them service when they need it and freedom when they don't.

About the Author

Based in Nashville, Tenn., Kristin Fitzgerald has been a freelance writer since 2011. She focuses on cooking, DIY projects, history, education and politics. Fitzgerald earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in history and German from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Photo Credits

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