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August 19, 2024
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As of 2023, Optimum provides cable services to over 2 million homes; however, the telecommunications company now offers cellular service. By contracting with T-Mobile, Optimum now provides cellular service for as low as $15 per month.
Although Optimum does not offer a specific discounted plan for seniors, for those who currently subscribe to their cable or internet service, Optimum Mobile can be a highly affordable option.
Pro Tip: Not subscribed to Optimum TV or internet? Then take a look at our rundown of the best phone plans for seniors.
Optimum Mobile Pros and Cons
Pros
- 5G nationwide coverage: Using T-Mobile’s network, Optimum gives mobile subscribers access to the nation’s largest 5G network.
- Bundled savings: Subscribing to Optimum Mobile gives you extra discounts on Optimum TV and internet.
- Multi-line savings: For its unlimited data plans, Optimum will offer discounts with the purchase of additional lines.
- Cable and internet not required: Unlike Cox Mobile and Xfinity Mobile, which require an existing internet or TV subscription, Optimum Mobile does not require subscribers to purchase these services.
Cons
- High costs for unlimited data: Plans with unlimited data start at $45 per month for one line, which is higher than other plans like T-Mobile’s senior plans.
- No senior-specific savings: Unfortunately, Optimum does not offer any special offers or discounts for seniors at this time.
Optimum Mobile Plans and Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Price per Line | Talk and Text Allowance | Data Allowance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | $15 | Unlimited | 1 GB |
| 3 GB | $25 | Unlimited | 3 GB |
| Unlimited |
|
Unlimited |
|
| Unlimited Max |
|
Unlimited |
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Optimum Mobile Plans for Seniors
Optimum does not offer any special plan discounts for seniors at this time. However, we think that their 1 GB plan is an ideal option for most seniors. This plan costs $15 per month for one line, and it includes unlimited talk and text as well as 1 GB of data. While this is not enough data for those who frequently stream video or music, this plan would be ideal for those who primarily use data in their homes on a Wi-Fi connection.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for cellular deals for seniors, read our guide to senior discounts on phones.
How to Purchase Optimum Mobile
New and existing customers can sign up for Optimum Mobile online, in-store, or by phone. However, signing up online is the simplest and fastest option. On their website, you can view each of their plans, and pair them with either a new device or one that you currently have.
If you choose to purchase a new device, you will be presented with a wide range of choices, including Apple, Samsung, and Motorola phones. The cost of a phone can be added to your monthly mobile plan or purchased outright. Be sure to check out what deals Optimum is currently offering on their devices before making a purchase.
Optimum Mobile Pricing
For cellular service, Optimum has set rates based on the specific mobile plan you choose. For their unlimited data plans, you can get each line at a discounted rate when purchasing multiple lines.
When purchasing a new phone line from Optimum, you will be charged a one-time fee of $20 to initiate service for each line on your plan. Plans from Optimum Mobile require no long-term contracts, so you can cancel the service at any time. AutoPay, where your payments will be automatically deducted from your debit or credit card each month, is required for all plans.
If you are looking to call outside the U.S., Optimum has four international plans ranging from $20-$60 a month. If you're traveling internationally, you can add a Daily Travel Pass or Weekly Travel Pass to your plan. Based on location, pass prices range from $10-$35 per day and $40-$100 per week.
Optimum Mobile Network Coverage
Optimum Mobile uses T-Mobile 4G LTE and 5G networks, so you will have access to nationwide coverage. As the country's largest cellular network, T-Mobile’s coverage is accessible to 99 percent of Americans.
That said, although their mobile service works throughout the country, Optimum Mobile is only available for purchase in the following states:
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Connecticut
- Idaho
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
- Virginia
- West Virginia
Optimum Mobile vs. T-Mobile
Although both plans use T-Mobile's network, Optimum Unlimited is slightly more expensive than T-Mobile’s senior plans; that is, unless you want to bundle your internet and mobile plans. In addition, there is no guarantee that Optimum's fees won't increase in the future.
| Optimum Unlimited | T-Mobile Essentials 55+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $30 per line for 2 lines $45 for one line | $27.50 per month |
| Price Increases | Potential | Never |
| 5G Access | Yes | Yes |
| Long-Term Contracts | None | None |
| Age Requirement | None | Must be 55+ |
Bottom Line
Fast-downloading 5G options, nationwide coverage, simplified plans, and no contracts are just some of the appealing features of Optimum Mobile. As compared to its competitors, however, Optimum's pricing and offerings fall somewhere in the middle (unless you bundle internet and mobile services).
For seniors, we’d recommend subscribing to one of T-Mobile’s senior plans, which cost less and offer greater international coverage.
>> Related Reading: Optimum Internet for Seniors
Optimum Frequently Asked Questions
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Does Optimum have a cellular plan?
In addition to cable and internet, Optimum offers nationwide cellular service.
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Do I have to have Optimum cable to use Optimum Mobile?
You are not required to have Optimum cable or home internet to sign up for Optimum mobile.
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What are the downsides of Optimum Mobile?
Optimum’s plan prices are slightly higher than their competitors. They also charge a $20 activation fee per line, which is higher than most.