Fizz mobile review from a subscriber since their Canada wide expansion

Europa
4 min readSep 16, 2024

--

This review is based on my own experience, sharing both the pros and cons. I was searching for a budget-friendly mobile carrier, Fizz caught my attention due to its customizable plans and expanding network. Fizz, a Videotron brand under Quebecor, has been expanding beyond Quebec since 2023, offering a new mobile carrier alternative.

Keep in mind, Fizz is a low-cost wireless carrier tailored to those comfortable with a self-service model. If customer support is critical to you, Fizz may not be the best option. Additionally, there’s no support for 5G, eSIM, Wi-Fi calling, or large data plans (80GB+). Their self-service model relies on a web-based interface with no dedicated mobile app, which could be a drawback for some.

Despite these limitations, Fizz offered several features that convinced me to make the switch:

Flexible Plans

Fizz has a unique customizable plan structure, allowing me to pay only for the features I need, with no contracts. I can adjust data, voice, text, voicemail, and coverage on a month-to-month basis. Coverage zones (provincial, national, or Canada-US) are also modifiable. For example, I switched to provincial coverage when I didn’t need nationwide service. You can even opt for a data-only plan, perfect for tablets or smartwatches. However, changes only take effect at the start of the next billing cycle, so planning ahead is necessary.

Data Rollover

I find this feature particularly useful, as unused data can be carried over to the next month. This allows me to stick with a lower data plan without worrying about running out when I occasionally stream high-demand content.

Data Gifting

I often share unused data with my kids, making it an easy and affordable way to manage our family’s data needs. Plus, gifting data earns reward points that can be used for free upgrades (more on that later).

Signal Strength & Data Speed

One reason I decided to try Fizz was Quebecor’s acquisition of Freedom Mobile. They are using Freedom as a stepping stone to expand coverage across Canada. Now, they can leverage Freedom’s infrastructure and further extend their reach through partnerships with Rogers and other carriers.

My experience has been positive — download speeds range from 20 Mbps to over 100 Mbps, which is consistent with what I experienced with Freedom, Koodo, and Fido. Fluctuations in speed are common with smaller carriers that have fewer cell towers. I’m not a heavy data user (3–15 GB per month). For audio/video calls and general social media use, the speeds have been sufficient. Large carriers may have more towers, but that doesn’t always translate into better signal or speed. Your experience may vary depending on your location and usage. Be sure to check the coverage map. Fizz offers a 15-day trial period with a refund option, so you can test the service to see if it meets your needs (though I highly doubt the cost of the SIM card is reimbursable during the trial period — please share if you know otherwise).

Savings

Fizz has a reward points system where you can earn points for free upgrades like extra data. There are many ways to collect points: activating a plan, linking a credit card for payment, gifting data, or referring someone. The SIM card costs $15 (or $5 during promotions). Using a referral code from a family/friend or mine ZKZCF gives you $25 (or $40 during during promotion from time to time), which is credited towards your bill after two months.

Activation

If you’ve never activated a mobile plan online, here’s a quick guide:

  1. Log in and click “Activate my SIM card.”
  2. Enter your home address (to check coverage and receive your SIM).
  3. Input the 6-character SIM activation code.
  4. Customize your plan (changes will take effect at the start of each billing cycle).
  5. Choose to port your current number or get a new one (you can refresh number options up to four times, or log out, wait for five minutes, and try again).
  6. Enter your referral code.
  7. Activation is quick — under a minute for a new number, and a bit longer if you’re porting an existing one. Once activated, insert your SIM card and you’re ready to go.

Fizz could be a great choice if you’re looking for budget-friendly and flexible plans without a contract. However, if you need 5G, Wi-Fi calling, or top-tier customer support, Fizz might not be the best fit for you.

--

--