GSM and CDMA are two types of cellphone networks in the US. For the most part, if you have a phone on one network you can’t use it on the other. GSM means Global System for Mobile communications, which is a network that supports both cellular and data. The same goes for CDMA, which means Code Division Multiple Access.

The important thing to note is that both of these standards apply to 2G and 3G connectivity. 2G and 3G technologies have since been replaced with newer standards like 4G/LTE (Long Term Evolution) and 5G/NR (New Radio).

GSM networks like T-Mobile, and AT&T use removable SIM cards. This means that unlocked phones from other American GSM carriers will work on US Mobile’s GSM 5G network.

On the other hand, Verizon and Sprint are CDMA carriers. CDMA carriers don’t use SIM cards and most CDMA phones are locked into their network. These networks have now transitioned over to GSM to enable support for 4G/LTE and 5G/NR, which is why they now require SIM cards or eSIMs as well.

• Easier to switch phones

• Easier to switch carriers

• If you travel abroad you can switch your SIM card for a local SIM (just don’t forget to Snooze your US Mobile plan first)

LTE, is a 4G wireless technology, developed to achieve high-speed data. All LTE networks in the US are using GSM technology, as CDMA Technology can’t handle LTE. Due to this, newer Verizon and Sprint phones all use a SIM card (or eSIM) for LTE and 5G. CDMA was officially sunset in the US at the end of 2022.

If you’re planning on bringing your phone to US Mobile you can find more information about whether it will work with our services here. Or if you’re looking for a new phone, check out our web-shop for unlocked phones.