What network does Virgin Mobile Use?

Virgin Mobile is a subsidiary of Sprint. As a result, Virgin Mobile operates on Sprints CDMA network. Virgin Mobile customers get all the same network privileges as Sprint customers, but in a pre paid plan.
While Sprint is considered to be one of the major carriers for cell phones, their network is far behind its competitors. A major reason for this was Sprints decision to implement 4G Wimax technology. After millions were spent in network upgrades, Sprint realized it was inferior technology to 4G LTE and has since abandoned the project. They are now trying to catch up with their competitors by installing 4G LTE towers as fast as possible.
If you live in a major city, Virgin Mobile is likely to provide you with true 4G speeds on a pre paid plan. When using the 4G network users can expect download speeds of 3Mbps to 6Mbps. This is ideal for streaming video or audio nearly instantaneously. Surfing the web, even pages with several pictures will load with virtually no delay. Virgin Mobile customers can also access the WiMax network where available giving significantly faster download speeds than 3G coverage.
However, if you live in a rural area, you may not even have voice coverage much less data access at any speed. Because of the complete lack of coverage in some areas, you should look a Virgin Mobile coverage map and see if your area even has coverage. Even then, a coverage map does not guarantee service; it is a theoretical area the providers network should reach, when outdoors and in optimal conditions. In viewing Virgin Mobiles network coverage; you will see large portions of the United States that has no coverage at all.
If you live in a major metropolitan area, Virgin Mobile operates on a network few pre paid carries can compete with. However, if you live in a rural area or travel a lot, you may want to wait until Sprint completes their network upgrades before going with Virgin Mobile. Otherwise, you may spend all of your time looking for a signal instead of actually using your new cell phone.