Fido and Koodo are two of the most popular mobile providers in Canada, with millions of happy customers. They are part of the largest flanker brands in the country. A “flanker brand” refers to mobile companies that were created or acquired by bigger telecom giants. Fido is owned by Rogers, and Koodo is owned by Telus. Since Rogers and Telus are two of Canada’s biggest telecom companies, what can we expect from their flanker brands? In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Fido vs Koodo debate. If you want to learn all about these two providers and their mobile plans, you’re in the right place!
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Network Coverage and Speed
Fido and Koodo are popular mobile providers in Canada, both backed by major telecom companies.
Fido uses Rogers’ network, while Koodo relies on Telus‘. Both offer wide coverage, but there are differences. Telus (Koodo) covers 99% of Canada, reaching more rural areas, while Rogers (Fido) covers 97%, with better urban coverage. Fido offers the best 5G experience, while Koodo shines in overall coverage. Fido operates on Rogers’ 4G LTE, but lacks 5G access. Koodo offers 4G LTE with limited 5G coverage in some areas.
If coverage matters most, Koodo might be the way to go; if 5G is a priority, Fido is the winner.
History
Fido was launched as Microcell Solutions in 1996, known for affordable plans, great customer service, and inclusive options. After being acquired by Rogers in 2004, it was rebranded to Fido and positioned as a midrange provider. Rogers owns Fido, along with Chatr for entry-level plans, while offering higher-end contracts under its main brand.
On the other hand, Telus entered the flanker brand game in 2008 after a failed partnership with Amp’d Mobile. Koodo was created to target younger customers, standing out alongside Fido and Virgin Plus. While Telus focuses on families, Koodo has always aimed to attract a younger crowd.
Mobile Plans
Fido and Koodo are popular for offering simpler, more affordable plans compared to their parent brands. If you’re after a basic or midrange plan, these two providers are among the best options. Check out our Fido vs Koodo mobile plans below:
Fido
Cell Phone Plan
20 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
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Unlimited Calls
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Unlimited messages
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BYOD
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Québec
Koodo
Cell Phone Plan
20 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
-
Unlimited Calls
-
Unlimited messages
-
BYOD
-
Québec
Fido
Cell Phone Plan
50 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
-
Unlimited Calls
-
Unlimited messages
-
BYOD
-
Québec
Koodo
Cell Phone Plan
50 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
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Unlimited Calls
-
Unlimited messages
-
BYOD
-
Québec
Fido
Cell Phone Plan
75 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
-
Unlimited Calls
-
Unlimited messages
-
BYOD
-
Québec
Koodo
Cell Phone Plan
100 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
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Unlimited Calls
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Unlimited messages
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BYOD
-
Québec
Cell Phone Plans
If you’re in the market for a new phone along with your plan, Fido and Koodo have you covered with a great selection.
They offer the latest models like the iPhone 16 Samsung Galaxy S24, as well as top picks from previous years, such as the iPhone 15, Galaxy S23, and Google Pixel 9, all at more affordable prices. Plus, both providers give you the option to buy Certified Pre-Owned devices for even bigger savings.
Here’s a look at some of the best phones they currently offer:
Fido
iPhone 16
128 GB
60 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
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Unlimited calls
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Unlimited messages
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Upfront payment: $25.00
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Canada within Quebec
Koodo
iPhone 16
128 GB
50 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
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Unlimited calls
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Unlimited messages
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Upfront payment: $946.00
-
Canada within Quebec
Koodo
iPhone 15
128 GB
100 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
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Unlimited calls
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Unlimited messages
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Upfront payment: $1,027.08
-
Canada within Quebec
Fido
iPhone 15
128 GB
80 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
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Unlimited calls
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Unlimited messages
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Upfront payment: $25.00
-
Canada within Quebec
Koodo
Samsung Galaxy S24
128 GB
60 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
-
Unlimited calls
-
Unlimited messages
-
Upfront payment: $25.00
-
Canada within Quebec
Fido
Samsung Galaxy S24
128 GB
80 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
-
Unlimited calls
-
Unlimited messages
-
Upfront payment: $25.00
-
Canada within Quebec
Fido
Samsung Galaxy S23
128 GB
60 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
-
Unlimited calls
-
Unlimited messages
-
Upfront payment: $25.00
-
Quebec
Virgin Plus
Google Pixel 9 128 GB
60 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
-
Unlimited calls
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Unlimited messages
-
Upfront payment: $1481.00
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Canada within Quebec
Fido
Google Pixel 9 128 GB
60 GB mobile dataUnlimited calls
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Unlimited calls
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Unlimited messages
-
Upfront payment: $25.00
-
Canada within Quebec
Pros and Cons
If you’re still undecided between Fido and Koodo, don’t worry—this section will help you weigh the pros and cons of each provider to make an easier choice. Let’s start with Fido:
Fido Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Best 5G experience in Canada | Smaller data plans compared to Rogers |
Offers pre-owned phones at lower prices | Customer service isn’t as fast as Rogers |
Wide range of cell phones available | Limited availability in remote areas |
Koodo Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Covers 99% of Canadians | Smaller data plans compared to Telus |
Offers pre-owned phones at lower prices | Customer service isn’t as fast as Telus |
Shock Free data prevents overage fees | Long distance calling is an add-on |
When comparing these two, you’ll see that both have similar downsides, but their pros set them apart. Focus on what matters most to you—whether it’s coverage, 5G performance, or customer service—to make the best choice for your needs.
Reviews
Fido has received a lot of positive reviews from customers across Canada. People appreciate its affordable pricing and variety of plans. By leveraging Rogers’ coverage and infrastructure, Fido offers accessible, budget-friendly options, making it one of the most popular flanker brands in the country. If you’re curious about customer feedback, be sure to check out our Fido reviews page.
Koodo Mobile has also earned praise from its users. With access to Telus’ reliable coverage, Koodo provides affordable plans that resonate with younger customers. The reviews highlight the company’s wide range of budget-friendly options and friendly customer service. For more insights on Koodo, visit our Koodo reviews page.
FAQ
Who owns Fido and Koodo?
Fido is owned by Rogers and Koodo is owned by Telus.
Do plans from Fido and Koodo require a contract?
Although some Fido plans include contracts, both providers offer several prepaid plans.
Are Fido/Koodo’s plans cheaper than their parent brands?
Do Fido or Koodo offer unlimited data plans?
Do Fido and Koodo have 5G?
Yes, both providers have access to 5G towers across Canada. However, you’ll need a cell phone capable of wielding 5G technology in order to take advantage of their rapid speeds.