Choosing the right cellular phone plan can feel overwhelming. With so many providers and plans available, it’s tough to know if you’re getting the best deal and the coverage you need. Are you paying too much for data you don’t use? Could a different carrier offer better service in your area? Comparing cellular phone plans is the key to unlocking potential savings and ensuring you have a plan that perfectly fits your lifestyle.
These smaller carriers, known as MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators), utilize the same networks as the larger providers. This means if you experience strong coverage with a major carrier in your area, you’ll likely receive comparable coverage from the discount carriers that use the same network. We’ll help you navigate this landscape by identifying which smaller carriers operate on which major networks, simplifying your comparison process.
When we Compare Cellular Phone Plans, our primary focus is on value: how much data are you getting for your monthly payment? We also consider network performance and any additional perks that might enhance your overall experience. Our goal is to help you cut through the noise and find a plan that not only saves you money but also meets your specific needs and usage patterns.
This guide highlights some of the top cellular phone plans currently available, focusing on budget-friendly options from providers like Mint Mobile and Visible, alongside strong offerings from established carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you find your ideal plan.
Top Cell Phone Plan Picks at a Glance
| Plan | Best For | Starting Monthly Price | Network |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Mobile | Overall Value | $15 | T-Mobile |
| Visible | Cheap Unlimited Data | $25 | Verizon |
| Verizon Prepaid | Tiered Data Plan | $35 | Verizon |
| T-Mobile Go5G | Family Plans | $155 for 4 lines | T-Mobile |
| AT&T Prepaid Annual Plan | Bulk Data, Pay-in-Advance | $25 | AT&T |
| Boost Mobile Unlimited | Price Guarantee | $25 | DISH/AT&T/T-Mobile |
1. Mint Mobile: Best Overall Cell Phone Plan
Alt text: Mint Mobile logo, a green and white stylized logo representing affordable cell phone plans.
The best plan overall
For those prioritizing cost savings without sacrificing essential data, Mint Mobile stands out as a top contender. Their plans begin at an incredibly affordable $15 per month, making it a leading choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking significant reductions in their monthly wireless bills.
Mint Mobile’s pricing structure is unique. The initial low rates apply to your first three months of service. To maintain these discounted rates long-term, you commit to purchasing service in bulk – typically a year in advance.
Delving into Mint Mobile’s plans, you’ll find a range of data options starting from 5GB and extending to an unlimited data plan. The tiered data plans include 5GB, 15GB, and 20GB options, alongside their unlimited offering. Starting at just $15/month for 5GB, prices incrementally increase by $5 for each data tier: $20 for 15GB, $25 for 20GB, and $30 for unlimited data. For many users, 5GB provides ample data for everyday use, making the $15 plan particularly attractive. Importantly, Mint Mobile doesn’t impose overage charges; instead, if you exceed your data limit, speeds are simply reduced for the remainder of your billing cycle.
The initial three-month period allows you to test out Mint Mobile’s service at their lowest advertised monthly rates. For the 5GB plan, this means an initial payment of $45 for three months. After this trial, you decide whether to commit to a longer-term plan to keep the discounted rate. Opting for a full year of 5GB service requires a one-time payment of $180, effectively locking in the $15 monthly rate. Similarly, the unlimited plan necessitates a $360 upfront payment for a year of service at the $30 monthly rate. Currently, a promotion reduces the unlimited plan to $25/month when you prepay $300 for a year, saving $60 annually. While the upfront cost is substantial, the long-term savings compared to traditional carriers are considerable.
Mint Mobile’s blend of competitive introductory pricing and low long-term monthly costs presents a compelling value proposition, particularly for those comfortable with an annual prepayment model. However, if you prefer the flexibility of month-to-month payments, alternative carriers might be a better fit.
Best Overall Cell Phone Plan: Mint Mobile’s 5GB plan is our top pick for overall value, offering sufficient data for social media, web browsing, and navigation apps. After an initial $45 for three months, a $180 annual payment secures the lowest $15 monthly rate. Mint Mobile leverages T-Mobile’s extensive network, ensuring broad coverage including 5G access for compatible devices.
Mint Mobile | 5GB Plan | $15/month – Best Overall Value
2. Visible: Best Cheap Unlimited Data Plan
Alt text: Visible logo, a vibrant purple and white logo symbolizing affordable unlimited data plans.
Best unlimited plan
Visible simplifies choices with just two plans, both featuring unlimited data. If you’re a single-line user seeking generous data without breaking the bank, Visible is an excellent option. However, it’s less ideal for families as Visible doesn’t offer multi-line discounts; for family plans, carriers like T-Mobile often provide more cost-effective solutions.
Visible’s base plan is priced at a competitive $25 per month. It operates on Verizon’s robust nationwide network (Visible is owned by Verizon), ensuring widespread coverage. The plan includes unlimited talk and text to Canada and Mexico, along with mobile hotspot functionality. A potential drawback of the base plan is that data speeds may be temporarily slowed during periods of network congestion.
For users requiring guaranteed high-speed data, the $45 Visible Plus plan offers 50GB of premium data that is not subject to throttling. It also unlocks access to Verizon’s faster 5G Ultra Wideband network where available. The absence of data throttling on the Plus plan is a significant advantage, especially in areas with heavy network usage, though Verizon’s nationwide 5G is generally quite fast for most applications.
Visible Plus also includes a Global Pass for one day of international roaming (a $10 value otherwise) and the ability to add a cellular smartwatch to your plan at no extra cost – a feature that typically incurs a monthly fee of around $10 with larger carriers. If you travel internationally or use a smartwatch, Visible Plus offers enhanced value.
Currently, Visible Plus is even more attractive due to a promotion reducing the monthly cost to $35 with the code ‘35PLUS‘ at signup. This limited-time offer, expiring March 31st, makes the premium unlimited plan exceptionally affordable.
Visible also offers annual payment options, providing further savings compared to month-to-month billing. For instance, the $25/month unlimited plan can be prepaid for a year at $275. Existing Visible customers can also switch to annual billing.
In our testing, Visible’s performance closely mirrors Verizon’s network, with occasional speed variations depending on location and time of day. However, with Visible plans starting at least $20 cheaper than Verizon’s own unlimited plans, the trade-off is often worthwhile for budget-conscious users seeking reliable unlimited data.
Best Cheap Unlimited Data: Visible’s $25 unlimited plan is our top recommendation for affordable, no-strings-attached unlimited data. Leveraging Verizon’s extensive network, including 5G coverage, Visible provides excellent value. Both the base Visible plan and Visible Plus include all taxes and fees in the quoted monthly price.
Visible | Visible Unlimited | $25/month – Best Cheap Unlimited Data
3. Verizon Prepaid: Best Tiered Data Plan
Alt text: Verizon logo, the iconic red checkmark logo representing reliable network coverage.
Best tiered data plan
While Verizon’s postpaid plans are heavily focused on unlimited data, starting at $65 per month, the best deals from Verizon are often found in their prepaid offerings. For those seeking cost-effective data plans and predictable wireless expenses, Verizon’s prepaid options are worth exploring.
Verizon offers three prepaid plans, two of which are unlimited. However, we recommend the 15GB plan as the standout choice. 15GB of data is generally sufficient for the average smartphone user, preventing overspending on unnecessary data. Verizon’s 15GB prepaid plan is priced at $45 per month, but enrolling in autopay immediately reduces the monthly cost by $10, bringing it down to $35. This price point rivals discount carriers like Mint Mobile and Visible, while offering the reliability of Verizon’s network.
Perks are minimal with the 15GB prepaid plan, but it does include access to Verizon’s nationwide 5G network. For most users, nationwide 5G speeds are more than adequate. If you require more features, Verizon’s $60/month prepaid unlimited plan offers faster Ultra Wideband 5G speeds and 25GB of hotspot data. However, for balanced value and sufficient data, the $35 15GB prepaid plan is highly compelling.
Best Prepaid Plan: Verizon’s 15GB prepaid plan strikes an excellent balance of price and data allowance. 15GB monthly data is ample for most users, and autopay lowers the monthly rate to $35. (Without autopay, loyalty discounts eventually reduce the price to $35 after nine months of service.) While perks are basic, the plan includes 5G coverage and mobile hotspot capability.
Verizon | 15GB Prepaid | $35/month – Best Prepaid Plan
4. T-Mobile Go5G: Best Family Cell Phone Plan
Alt text: T-Mobile logo, the magenta square logo representing a leading family-friendly carrier.
Best cell phone plan for families
T-Mobile’s Go5G plan is a strong contender for individuals seeking an unlimited plan with added benefits, exceeding the basic offerings of carriers like Visible. While a single line of Go5G costs $75/month, the value truly shines when adding multiple lines for families. Compared to similarly priced plans from AT&T and Verizon, Go5G often includes more travel and streaming perks.
T-Mobile employs a multi-line discount strategy, reducing the per-line cost as you add more lines to a Go5G plan. For a family of four, the Go5G plan is typically $200/month, but a current promotion waives the cost of the third line, bringing the total to $155/month for four lines. This equates to just $38.75 per line. Even without the promotion, the per-line cost for four lines would be $45, making Go5G a highly competitive family cell phone plan due to its escalating discounts.
Among T-Mobile’s numerous unlimited plan options, Go5G offers an optimal blend of price and perks. Plans with two or more lines include a complimentary Netflix Standard subscription and six months of Apple TV Plus. Travel benefits include free in-flight texting and video/music streaming on four flights annually.
The enhanced Go5G Plus plan is available at a slightly higher price – $30 more than Go5G when the third line is waived. Go5G Plus offers additional streaming and travel perks. However, for most families, the standard Go5G plan provides the best balance of features and affordability.
T-Mobile Go5G | 4-Line Family Plan | $155/month – Best Family Plan
5. AT&T Prepaid Annual Plan: Best Pay-in-Advance Plan
Alt text: AT&T logo, the blue globe logo representing extensive network coverage and prepaid options.
Best value for paying in advance
Similar to Verizon, AT&T’s postpaid plans are primarily focused on unlimited data. However, the most compelling value from AT&T often lies in their prepaid offerings, particularly the annual plan. AT&T mirrors Mint Mobile’s approach by offering substantial data at a reduced monthly rate in exchange for an upfront annual payment, and in some cases, AT&T offers even lower monthly costs.
AT&T’s unlimited data prepaid plan offers a remarkably low $25 monthly rate when you commit to a year of service. This requires a $300 upfront payment but delivers a lower monthly cost than Mint Mobile’s unlimited data plan.
A limitation of AT&T’s plan is a 16GB cap on high-speed data per month. After 16GB, speeds are reduced. In contrast, Mint Mobile recently removed data caps on their unlimited plan. AT&T’s strategy assumes that 16GB is sufficient for most users, and for many, this is likely true. However, exceeding 16GB will result in reduced speeds (1.5Mbps) for the remainder of the billing cycle.
Despite the data cap, the $25 monthly rate and the predictability of a locked-in annual cost make AT&T’s prepaid annual plan an attractive option for those comfortable with a larger upfront payment.
AT&T | Unlimited 12-Month Prepaid | $25/month – Great Value on AT&T
AT&T | Unlimited 12-month prepaid | $25/month – Great value on AT&TThe main carriers rarely offer the best value prepaid plans and these tend to be more common from MVNOs. However, AT&T can be slightly more affordable and flexible than the likes of Sprint or Verizon. While you can pay for one month at a time, the best price is going to come from investing in a 12-month prepaid plan with AT&T by paying $300 upfront. That gives you unlimited data, though speeds will slow down should you use more than 16GB in a month. If you prefer monthly payments to larger annual ones, you can get 5GB of data from AT&T for $30 per month.
6. Boost Mobile Unlimited: Best Cell Phone Plan Price Guarantee
Alt text: Boost Mobile logo, a vibrant orange logo representing guaranteed low prices.
Lifetime price guarantee
Boost Mobile has transitioned from a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) to a national carrier, aiming to compete directly with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Boost has built its own network, leveraging agreements with AT&T and T-Mobile to expand coverage. To highlight its national carrier status, Boost offers several unlimited plans, with a standout plan focused on price stability.
Boost Mobile’s standard unlimited plan is priced at $25/month, matching Visible’s rate for month-to-month unlimited service. However, Boost distinguishes itself by guaranteeing this $25 monthly rate for the lifetime of your service, as long as you remain a Boost customer on this plan.
This price guarantee provides long-term cost certainty, a valuable benefit in a market with fluctuating prices. While some Boost plans include taxes and fees, the $25 unlimited plan does not. The plan includes 30GB of high-speed data before potential slowdowns, offering a more generous high-speed data allowance than Visible’s $25 unlimited plan, which may experience speed reductions at any time due to network congestion.
Beyond the price guarantee, perks are minimal with this Boost plan. However, in an era of economic uncertainty, the predictability and locked-in rate provide significant appeal. Currently, a promotion halves the $25 monthly rate for the first month of service at Boost.
The Same Price Forever: For those seeking long-term cost predictability in cell phone coverage, Boost Mobile’s cheapest unlimited plan is an excellent choice. While perks are limited beyond 30GB of high-speed data, the plan guarantees a locked-in rate for as long as you maintain service with Boost and remain enrolled in autopay.
Boost Mobile | Unlimited Data | $25/month – The Same Price Forever
Cell Phone Plans Compared Side-by-Side
To facilitate easy comparison of the discussed cell phone plans, we’ve compiled a chart highlighting monthly rates for single lines and key plan features. Note that plans like Mint Mobile and AT&T require annual prepayments to achieve the lowest advertised monthly rates. The notes column also includes family plan pricing for T-Mobile’s Go5G plan.
The chart illustrates that AT&T, Boost, and Visible offer the lowest entry points for unlimited data, while Mint Mobile’s 5GB plan remains the most affordable overall. T-Mobile excels with multi-line discounts for families.
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Plan | Data Amount | Monthly Price, 1 Line | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Mobile 5GB Plan | 5GB | $15 (requires $180 annual payment) | $180 annual payment required for $15 monthly rate |
| Visible Wireless Visible Plan | Unlimited Data | $25 | Plus plan costs $45/month |
| Verizon Prepaid 15GB Plan | 15GB | $35 | Rate reflects $10 autopay discount |
| T-Mobile Go5G Family Plan | Unlimited Data | $75 | Family of four pays $155, or $38.75 per line |
| AT&T Prepaid Unlimited Plan | Unlimited Data | $25 | $300 annual payment required for plan |
| Boost Mobile Unlimited Plan | Unlimited Data | $25 | Rate is guaranteed for as long as you remain at Boost |
Our Methodology for Selecting the Best Cell Phone Plans
Selecting the best cell phone plans involves thorough research into the offerings of each carrier. This includes examining plans from major carriers and also exploring options from lesser-known MVNOs, which often provide more budget-friendly plans. After gathering comprehensive data on available plans, we prioritize options that offer the lowest costs.
Beyond price, we evaluate plans based on data allowances, focusing particularly on unlimited data plans while also considering tiered data plans for users with lighter data needs. Plan perks are also factored into our evaluations.
Network coverage is a key consideration, informed by third-party testing data and national averages for download speeds. Coverage can vary significantly by region and even within neighborhoods. Therefore, consulting with local contacts about carrier reliability in your specific areas is advisable when choosing a provider from our recommended plans.
Given the dynamic nature of cell phone plans, with frequent changes to pricing and features, we regularly update our rankings at least monthly. This ensures our recommendations reflect the most current plan details and promotions, helping you identify potential savings opportunities.
How to Choose the Right Cell Phone Plan for You
Price is a primary factor when comparing cellular phone plans, especially when considering plans for multiple family members. Most carriers offer tiered discounts for additional lines, so comparing the total plan cost based on the number of lines needed is essential.
However, choosing a cell phone plan involves more than just monthly cost. Network coverage in your area and compatibility with your phone are critical considerations. Our guide to the best phone carriers provides insights into network performance and coverage. Additionally, seeking local feedback on carrier coverage in your home and work areas is recommended when considering switching providers.
Switching carriers can often unlock additional savings. Major carriers frequently offer promotions to attract new customers, which can include discounts or credits. Staying informed about these carrier deals is advisable when contemplating a switch, as they can provide further cost reductions.
The expansion of 5G networks has transformed wireless connectivity. If you own a 5G-compatible phone and your area has 5G coverage, you can benefit from significantly faster speeds. T-Mobile includes 5G access in all plans, extending to MVNOs like Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile that utilize their network. AT&T also includes 5G in all plans, including prepaid options. Verizon offers 5G coverage, with some plans including access to their faster 5G Ultra Wideband network.
Determining Your Ideal Cell Phone Plan Type
Alt text: eSIM image, a circuit board representing modern, flexible mobile technology.
(Image credit: AndreyPopov)
The “best” cell phone plan is subjective and depends on individual needs and usage patterns. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
For budget-conscious users seeking flexibility, prepaid cell phone plans are often an excellent choice. They are typically the most affordable options and eliminate the commitment of long-term contracts, beneficial for those who prefer to switch carriers frequently.
If you are a heavy data user – frequently streaming video, playing online games, or using data-intensive apps – an unlimited data plan is highly recommended, especially as 5G availability increases.
For more guidance on data needs, our guide on how much data you need in your cell phone plan can be a valuable resource.
Family cell phone plans offer cost savings per line by reducing the per-line cost as lines are added. Some carriers, like Verizon and AT&T, allow plan mixing, enabling parents to opt for premium unlimited plans while choosing more economical data plans for children, optimizing overall cost.
If your primary concern is the lowest possible price, carriers like Visible and Boost Mobile offer very competitive rates, particularly if you are comfortable with slightly lower data caps or fewer included perks. Prepaying for a year of service, as with Mint Mobile, can also unlock significant savings.
Understanding MVNOs vs. Major Carriers
MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) provide a cost-effective route to cell phone service. But what are MVNOs, and how do they differ from major carriers?
The major carriers are AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile (which absorbed Sprint). Boost Mobile is also establishing itself as a national provider with its own expanding network.
MVNOs, in contrast, don’t own their network infrastructure. Instead, they lease network access from one of the major carriers. This business model allows MVNOs to offer lower prices but may result in deprioritization during peak network usage and potentially fewer added benefits compared to major carrier plans.
Our MVNO guide provides more detailed information. Key MVNO examples include:
- Mint Mobile (T-Mobile network)
- Metro by T-Mobile (T-Mobile network)
- Tello (T-Mobile network)
- Cricket Wireless (AT&T network)
- Visible (Verizon network)
- Xfinity Mobile (Verizon network)
Cell Phone Plans Comparison: Make an Informed Choice
Comparing cellular phone plans is essential to securing the best value and service for your needs. By evaluating factors like data allowance, monthly cost, network coverage, and plan perks across different carriers – both major providers and MVNOs – you can confidently choose a plan that optimizes your mobile experience and minimizes your monthly expenses. Use this guide to start your comparison and find the perfect cellular phone plan today.
