Public Mobile vs Fido is updated for 2026 and explains the important Public Mobile details in plain English. Use referral code 5ESROG during activation to claim the available Public Mobile referral credit, then confirm the final offer on the official checkout screen.
Public Mobile vs Fido quick answer
Public Mobile vs Fido matters because Public Mobile plans, activation methods, coverage, rewards, and referral credits can change over time. This guide keeps the main details in one place, explains how referral code 5ESROG fits into activation, and links to related Public Mobile guides for deeper help.
How Public Mobile vs Fido works in 2026
Public Mobile is a prepaid subscription carrier on the TELUS network. There are no long-term contracts, and most new customers can activate with eSIM or a physical SIM card. During activation, the Referral Code field is where you enter 5ESROG. That code is the only referral code recommended on PublicMobileReferrals.ca.
The safest approach is simple: choose a plan, enter 5ESROG, review the credit shown at checkout, and finish activation only after the offer looks correct. Public Mobile promotions can change, so always verify the live plan price, data amount, and included features before subscribing.
Current Public Mobile plan prices in 2026
Public Mobile plan pricing changes often, but the current public plan lineup includes 5G Canada-US-Mexico plans at $35/25GB, $40/100GB, $45/150GB, and $50/200GB. Current 4G Canada-wide plans include $22 talk and text with add-ons at 4G speed, $25/3GB, $27/10GB, and $30/20GB. Always confirm the final price and included data on publicmobile.ca before activating.
Quick verdict
Full comparison
| Feature | Public Mobile | Fido |
|---|---|---|
| Network | TELUS | Rogers |
| 5G availability | Yes | Yes |
| $40/month data | 100GB 5G | ~40-50GB 5G |
| Canada-US-Mexico roaming | Included ($40 plan) | Extra cost |
| Device financing | No | Yes |
| Physical stores | No | Select locations |
| Referral credit | Up to $40 (code 5ESROG) | Varies |
Network: TELUS vs Rogers
This is the most important difference. Public Mobile runs on TELUS, the largest network by geographic coverage in Canada. Fido runs on Rogers, which has strong coverage in urban Ontario and Quebec in particular. Check both the TELUS coverage map and Rogers coverage map for your specific address before deciding.
Price comparison
Public Mobile’s $40/month plan gives you 100GB 5G with Canada-US-Mexico roaming included. A comparable Fido plan typically costs $60-$70/month for similar data. Annual saving: approximately $240-$360.
Who should choose Public Mobile over Fido?
- You have good TELUS coverage in your area.
- You want the lowest monthly cost.
- You do not need in-person retail support or device financing.
- You frequently travel to the US or Mexico, with roaming included from $40.
Current Public Mobile plans to compare
Public Mobile currently lists 5G Canada-US-Mexico plans at $35 for 25GB, $40 for 100GB, $45 for 150GB, and $50 for 200GB. It also lists Canada-wide 4G options at $22, $25 for 3GB, $27 for 10GB, and $30 for 20GB. Plans change often, so always confirm the latest details on the official Public Mobile plans page before subscribing.
| Plan | Current data | Useful for |
|---|---|---|
| $35 5G Canada-US-Mexico | 25GB | Light to moderate users who want cross-border coverage |
| $40 5G Canada-US-Mexico | 100GB | Strong value for most heavy data users |
| $45 5G Canada-US-Mexico | 150GB | Very heavy data users |
| $50 5G Canada-US-Mexico | 200GB | Maximum current data option |
| $25 4G Canada-wide | 3GB | Light users who want a low monthly price |
| $30 4G Canada-wide | 20GB | Budget users who still want useful data |
Why use referral code 5ESROG?
Referral code 5ESROG is included throughout this Public Mobile vs Fido guide because it is the site’s locked referral code. Do not enter another person’s referral code if you want to follow this site’s recommendation. The code should be entered only during activation, because referral credits usually cannot be added after the account is created.
Public Mobile vs Fido related guides
For more help, read Public Mobile Guides, Public Mobile promo code, Public Mobile coupon code, Public Mobile eSIM, Public Mobile number transfer. These internal guides keep the Public Mobile activation, savings, and comparison information connected in one place.
Official Public Mobile resources
Always confirm the latest plan prices on the official Public Mobile plans page. You can also check the Public Mobile help centre, the TELUS coverage map, and the CRTC Wireless Code.
Public Mobile vs Fido FAQ
Is Public Mobile cheaper than Fido?
Yes. Public Mobile is typically $15 to $25 per month cheaper than Fido for comparable data plans. On a $40/month Public Mobile plan vs a comparable Fido plan, you can save $180-$300 per year.
Does Public Mobile or Fido have better coverage?
Both have strong urban coverage. Fido uses the Rogers network, Public Mobile uses TELUS. Coverage varies by location, so check both coverage maps for your specific area.
Can I keep my Fido number when switching to Public Mobile?
Yes. You can port your Fido number to Public Mobile using the standard number transfer process. See the number transfer guide.
What does Fido have that Public Mobile doesn't?
Fido offers device financing, in-store support at select retailers, and Rogers-network coverage. Public Mobile is online-only on the TELUS network.
Is Public Mobile on the same network as Fido?
No. Public Mobile uses TELUS. Fido uses Rogers. Both are strong national networks but coverage differs by location.