Best Cell Service in Sarasota Florida?

I've never been that far south of Tampa but from what I generally read about the west coast of Florida, T-Mobile is one to avoid for now as they're still building out in that area. I've also never really been that impressed in general with Verizon's PCS networks. Although I had the most experience in Eastern NC which is a very poor Verizon PCS network. Tampa wasn't bad when I had Verizon, but I'm not sure how far away from the big city they remain well built-out. Definitely not worth the extra cost for Verizon service though.

If I could place a bet, I would say either alltel or at&t. At&t is supposedly very strong in South Florida and dominates the 850 band. Alltel is supposedly very strong in the western coast of Florida and is also in the 850 band for Sarasota as well the rest of the western coast. It might be worth it to force your Sprint phone over to 'Roam Only' for a few comparisons to test out Sprint vs. Alltel while you're in the area. There should be a noticeable difference at least indoors in most places. But remember, you won't get M2M minutes when roaming. But I have been satisfied with Alltel's coverage around Tampa, but again, I've never been as far south as Sarasota.

 

My parents live in Sarasota & have Alltel, they have been very happy with the coverage down there with them. They are thinking of switching to AT&T since my sister & I have them for the M2M usage.
The last time I was down there maybe 2 years ago, I had no problems with my then AT&T Wireless/Cingular coverage as well.

I would say these 2 are your best bets in FL & this area, then Sprint.

 

Ill throw in other vote for AT&T. My uncle frequently visits sarasota on business and says that he hasn't had any issues with AT&T.