How to Switch to Ultra Mobile

Ultra Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that uses T-Mobile’s nationwide network to offer no-frills phone plans at a fraction of the cost you’d pay with the major carrier. Switching to Ultra Mobile is as easy as checking your phone’s compatibility, picking a plan, and activating your Ultra SIM or eSIM.

Whether you’re looking to save money or take advantage of Ultra Mobile’s flexible plans, switching is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you switch to Ultra Mobile seamlessly.

Before switching to Ultra Mobile 

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Before switching to Ultra, there are a few things to handle for a smooth transition, including checking Ultra’s coverage in your area, making sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with Ultra’s network, and wrapping up any loose ends with your current carrier.

Check Ultra Mobile coverage

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As a T-Mobile MVNO, Ultra Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s 4G and 5G networks. So if you’re considering switching to Ultra, you first need to make sure you have strong T-Mobile coverage where you live, work, and often frequent.

We break down T-Mobile’s coverage compared to the other two major networks, Verizon and AT&T, but the best way to check your own coverage is to use our interactive coverage map. Zoom in to your area to determine whether Ultra Mobile is a good fit for your needs.

Make sure your phone is unlocked

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If you’re bringing your phone when you switch to Ultra Mobile, it must first be unlocked from your current carrier. Most carriers keep devices “locked” to their networks for a period of time, meaning you can’t use it with another carrier.

An important note: Check to see whether your carrier charges early termination fees (ETF) for unlocking your phone or leaving their network early. 

For details on what unlocking means and how to go about it with your specific carrier—including the Big Three networks and smaller MVNOs—jump over to our carrier unlocking guide.

Check your phone's compatibility with Ultra's network

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Your phone must also be compatible with Ultra’s network if you’re planning on bringing it with you when you switch. If your phone works with T-Mobile, it should work on Ultra as well.

To check your phone’s compatibility with Ultra:

• Head over to Ultra Mobile’s compatibility checker.
• Enter your phone’s IMEI number—essentially, its unique ID number.
• On your TV, open your YouTube app

You’ll get an instant result telling you whether your phone can operate on Ultra’s (and T-Mobile’s) 4G and 5G networks. If not, you’ll need to explore Ultra’s device options as part of your switch.

For more information, visit our guide to switching cell phone providers.

Grab your carrier and account info

To make the switch, you'll need a few details from your current carrier, which include your:

• Account number
• Billing address
• Transfer PIN 
• Select ‘Pair’
• A nine digit code should appear, leave this screen showing

Don’t cancel your current wireless account until after you’ve fully switched over to Ultra. You’ll need your account information, and you risk losing access to cell service if you cancel your current plan too early.

Switch to Ultra Mobile in 4 steps

1. Choose your Ultra Mobile plan 

Ultra Mobile provides a variety of different phone plans that you can choose from based on your individual needs, from a data-free option to fully unlimited data plans. You can also choose how you want to pay—either monthly, or in 3-, 6-, or 12-month increments. The more you purchase upfront, the cheaper your overall cost will be.

If you don’t use a ton of data, Ultra’s Talk and Text plan starts at just $11 per month. On the other hand, if you often stream music from your phone, watch and upload videos, and live for the latest TikToks, consider Ultra’s Unlimited plans options that start at $44/month (still way cheaper than a major carrier unlimited plan). We tested Ultra Mobile’s unlimited plan for a month and found that it worked great, even in on an international adventure.

Each plan offers access to T-Mobile’s network coverage and options for international calling, making Ultra Mobile a good choice for those looking for affordable and flexible service with international capabilities. Not sure which plan to choose? We’ve done the leg work for you and narrowed down what we think are the best Ultra Mobile plans. 

2. Select either a physical SIM card or eSIM 

Once you pick your plan and start the purchasing process, you'll need to decide on whether you want a physical SIM card or, if your phone supports it, an eSIM.

• A physical SIM is suitable for most unlocked devices and is quick to remove and insert. The downside is that you’ll need to wait to receive your SIM in the mail before you can activate your Ultra plan and start service.
  
• An eSIM is already embedded in your phone, meaning you can digitally activate your Ultra plan immediately. All new iPhones are eSIM only (beginning with the iPhone 14), and many new Android models offer both physical or eSIM capability. Ultra will email you with the info you need after you complete your purchase.

3. Port your number

If you want to keep your current number, Ultra Mobile makes it easy with a quick porting process. Simply provide the transfer PIN you received from your current carrier, along with your account information, when you’re prompted to during the checkout process. Note that the number transfer may not happen immediately—it can take a few hours, or up to 24 hours in some cases. Ultra Mobile will notify you once it’s said and done.

4. Activate your Ultra Mobile plan 

Once your SIM card or eSIM is ready, follow these steps to activate your service:

1. Insert your SIM card or activate your eSIM: If you received a physical SIM, remove the existing one from your phone and swap it for your new Ultra Mobile SIM card. If you’re using an eSIM, follow the eSIM activation instructions from Ultra Mobile (typically sent via email).
2. Follow the activation prompts on your phone: Ultra Mobile provides a simple, guided activation process. Once complete, you’ll have access to your Ultra Mobile plan, including any selected data, calling, and international features.

After activation, ensure your service is active by making a quick call or browsing the web. You’re all set to enjoy your new Ultra Mobile plan!

Switching to Ultra Mobile: FAQS 

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Can I keep my number when switching to Ultra Mobile?

Yes, Ultra Mobile allows you to keep your number when you switch. You’ll need your account number and a transfer PIN from your current carrier.

How long does it take to switch to Ultra Mobile?

Typically, the switch takes a few hours, but in some cases, it may take up to 24 hours for your service to be fully active. 

What is an unlocked phone?

An unlocked phone is one that can be used with any carrier, allowing you the freedom to switch networks without restrictions. Most of us buy phones through major carriers like Verizon or AT&T to take advantage of deals that can significantly lower the cost. However, these phones often come locked, meaning they only work on that specific carrier's network. To switch to a different carrier, you’ll need to unlock your phone first.

For more information on unlocking your device, check out our article on how to unlock your phone.

Does Ultra Mobile support eSim? 

Yes, Ultra Mobile supports eSIM for compatible devices, so you can switch without needing a physical SIM card.

What should I do if my phone isn’t working after switching? 

First, ensure your phone is compatible with Ultra Mobile’s network. If the issue persists, contact Ultra Mobile’s customer service.