Introduction: The Essence of Rakuten Mobile, Unseen Through Price Comparison Alone

The image of “Rakuten Mobile is cheap!” is widely spread, but when choosing a mobile carrier, price is not the only important factor. Communication quality, service content, support system, and unique strengths. By comparing these with major carriers (Docomo, au, SoftBank) and MVNOs (low-cost SIMs), the “true appeal” of Rakuten Mobile emerges. Can Rakuten Mobile meet your expectations in aspects other than price? In this article, we analyze Rakuten Mobile from multiple angles and explore its essence through comparison with other companies.

1. Communication Quality & Area: The Balance of Evolving Rakuten Network and Partner Network

Although Rakuten Mobile was once criticized for “poor connectivity,” the development of its base stations has been progressing rapidly.

1. Major Carriers: Wide area coverage and stable communication quality remain their strengths. Especially in rural areas, underground, and inside high-rise buildings, connectivity is generally good.
2. MVNOs (Low-cost SIMs): Since they borrow lines from major carriers, their basic coverage is equivalent to major carriers. However, communication speed tends to slow down during peak hours.
3. Rakuten Mobile:
   1. Own Network Area: Expanding mainly in urban areas. Within this area, it increasingly offers speed and stability comparable to or even better than major carriers. Users can fully enjoy the benefits of unlimited data.
   2. Partner Network Area: Connects to au lines outside its own network area. While there is a monthly data limit of 5GB, it covers the entire country and provides stable communication. This hybrid strategy supports Rakuten Mobile’s communication area.

Rakuten Mobile is characterized by the balance between improved quality in its own network area and nationwide coverage by its partner network. It offers an experience comparable to major carriers within its own area, and basic communication is secured even outside, making it more stable than MVNOs.

2. Services & Features: Value Beyond Price

Rakuten Mobile not only offers affordable prices but also provides unique services that are beneficial to users.

1. Major Carriers: Comprehensive services are abundant, including carrier emails, family discounts, unique point programs, and extensive in-store support.
2. MVNOs (Low-cost SIMs): Services are generally simple, focusing only on calls and data communication, with limited added value.
3. Rakuten Mobile:
   1. Free domestic calls via Rakuten Link app: This is its biggest weapon. Unlimited free domestic calls are a significant advantage not offered by other companies.
   2. Free overseas data roaming up to 2GB: For those who travel or go on business trips abroad frequently, this service is an exceptional benefit. Being able to communicate overseas without additional charges is generally a paid option for major carriers.
   3. Strong integration with Rakuten Points: For users within the Rakuten ecosystem, a financially friendly cycle is created where they earn points while paying communication fees, and can then use those points to pay their bills.

3. Support System: Balance of Online and Physical Stores

A reliable support system is also important when you encounter problems.

1. Major Carriers: Many directly managed stores and agencies nationwide, making it easy to receive extensive face-to-face support.
2. MVNOs (Low-cost SIMs): Primarily online support, with few or no physical stores in many cases.
3. Rakuten Mobile:
   1. Online Support: Comprehensive chat and phone support.
   2. Rakuten Mobile Shops: Stores are deployed nationwide, allowing for face-to-face consultations and contract signing. Compared to MVNOs, its strength lies in the ease of receiving in-store support.

Conclusion: Rakuten Mobile is the Strongest Candidate for a “Smart Choice”

Rakuten Mobile aims to “take the best of both worlds” from major carriers and MVNOs by not only being “cheap” but also offering evolving communication quality, unique attractive services like Rakuten Link and free overseas roaming, and in-store support.

It is a well-balanced option that fulfills your wish to “keep communication costs down but not compromise on quality and service.” Rakuten Mobile will likely be the strongest candidate for a “smart choice” that makes your smartphone life more comfortable and economical. Please experience its true value yourself.

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