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When today’s wireless service providers compete for new customers, there exists a common desire to make the ultimate claim that they are the “best” wireless network. For many Millennials, however, this ongoing war of words doesn't carry much weight because their wireless network choices were made when they received their first flip phone.
As this age demographic moves on to the post-college “real world,” it is important that they conduct their own research about what wireless network claims are really true. An impartial, third-party review can be the credible source that guides Millennials through the chaos of unending wireless network claims.
The most credible and respected sources many Millennials turn to are their own peers and family members. For nursing student and avid texter Bridget Sweetman, her point of reference has always been kept in the family. “I decide what is best for me based on what my family uses to get the best deals.” Rutgers student and iOS Smartphone user Nicole Rodriguez chooses a different route, judging network performance based on the feedback from her peers. “I always ask my friends what they pay and, most importantly, where they do and don’t have service.”
While friends and family are trustworthy sources in everyday life, they aren’t often the most knowledgeable when it comes to making wireless network decisions. Referencing a third-party review site that contains the essential information required to making these kinds of decisions is the more reliable way to proceed. Many individuals may believe any technology review website to be accurate and trustworthy, but that is not always the case. To avoid any confusion and find the information needed to make the most educated wireless network decisions, look no further than testing site RootMetrics.
The analysts at RootMetrics are dedicated solely to evaluating wireless networks and do so through the employment of a methodical and scientific model. The group uses random sampling for their testing, which eliminates any collection bias and allows them to “to gather test data that reflects the real-world mobile performance of the underlying population in each location.” The group releases two annual reports that cover the performance of such carriers as AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon.
RootMetrics tests data, call and text attributes over the wireless networks in Metro, National, State, Venue and Airport levels. The “Metro” level includes the 125 most populous regions in the nation and was tested for performance indoors, outdoors and while on the road. The “Airport” level covers the 50 busiest airports in the nation, while the “Venues” level reports findings at major events across the country.
Once results are in, it is still a fact that the “best” network can be defined in different ways by different people. Kelly Coleman, a Loyola University Maryland communications major, described her ideal coverage as “offering high quality and value at an affordable price. Because people are so mobile-centric, choosing a coverage plan that offers a lot of data for a low rate is key.” For the data-obsessed, check out the RootMetrics section on this topic, which tests reliability and speed for file uploads and downloads, email downloads and how each network worked with apps.
Before moving forward with your next wireless network plan, make sure to do your research, ask questions and always look to an unbiased third-party to validate the endless amounts of “best” claims.
