Bottom line: Both target value-conscious mobile users, but the service experience differs. Public Mobile is highly self-serve, while Chatr has a different retail and support footprint.
Current comparison snapshot
| Provider / option | Best for | Current facts | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Mobile | Higher data value and 5G users comfortable with self-service | Current Canada-wide pricing includes 10 GB for $28, 35 GB for $30 and 50 GB at 5G speed for $35, plus higher-data Canada-U.S.-Mexico options. Public Mobile also gives subscribers 2% back in Public Points on current plans. | Account management and support are primarily digital. Limited-time plan pricing can change rapidly. |
| Chatr | Prepaid users who want retail support and Rogers-network coverage | Current Chatr pricing includes 5 GB for $25, 15 GB for $30 and 30 GB for $35 with Auto-Pay bonus data, plus a $159/year 40 GB annual plan. Chatr advertises no credit checks, no contracts and over 3,000 retail locations. | Data is generally 4G and unused monthly data does not roll over. Current advertised data buckets often include an Auto-Pay bonus that depends on recurring payment. |
| Network and support model | Choosing based on practical everyday use | Chatr is powered by the Rogers network and adds Extended Coverage in eligible situations. Public Mobile operates on TELUS infrastructure and is strongly app/self-serve oriented. | Do not choose purely from a national coverage claim. Indoor and local signal quality can differ dramatically by neighbourhood and building. |
| Activation style | Newcomers arriving with an unlocked phone | Both are suitable for bring-your-own-device use. Chatr currently supports fast tourist eSIM activation and airport/retail purchase options; Public Mobile supports eSIM and online subscription activation. | Confirm that your exact phone model supports the carrier bands and eSIM profile before relying on instant activation after arrival. |
Choose Public Mobile when price per gigabyte is the main objective
At current pricing, Public Mobile generally supplies more data and access to 5G at the same $30–$35 range where Chatr remains primarily a 4G prepaid offer. Heavy data users should therefore start with Public Mobile as the benchmark.
Choose Chatr when retail support and prepaid familiarity matter more
Chatr is easier to buy and top up through a physical retail network, including tourist-focused airport locations. That can matter for a newcomer who does not yet want an entirely app-based account or needs in-person help with SIM activation.
The annual Chatr plan is a different use case
Chatr’s $159 annual plan is inexpensive on a monthly-equivalent basis, but its 40 GB allowance is for the full year rather than each month. It suits light-data users who value very low recurring cost, not people who stream heavily.
Provider pages checked for this comparison
These links go to the providers’ own current product or route pages. Re-check them before applying or purchasing because pricing and promotions can change.
What to compare
Do not compare brands on one promotional number. Put the products side by side using the same assumptions and the factors that affect your recurring cost and ability to use the product.
How to make the decision
- Check coverage where you spend most of your time.
- Compare same-price data buckets.
- Decide how much human support matters.
- Review roaming and international add-ons if relevant.
Calculate phone-plan value instead of comparing only headline data
Use the current carrier benchmark pages to compare annual cost, data allowance and simple cost per GB. Then use your actual monthly usage in the calculator so a huge unused data bucket does not automatically look like the best value.
Mobile Plan Value Calculator → · Mobile Data Value Reference →
CanadaStarter methodology
We prioritize total cost, eligibility, practical usability and downside risk. We separate temporary promotions from ongoing terms and prefer primary provider disclosures for fees and eligibility. We do not treat a higher affiliate payout as evidence that a product is better.
Because financial products, insurance policies, telecom plans and promotions change frequently, use this guide to narrow the field and then confirm the final terms on the provider’s official website before applying or purchasing.
Your consumer rights for cell phones
Use this primary source alongside our comparison when checking rules, consumer rights or government guidance.
CRTC →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper?
Plan pricing changes frequently. Compare current offers at the same data level rather than relying on an old headline price.
Can I port my number between them?
Generally yes if your number is eligible and the current account remains active during the porting process.