The new year is the ideal moment to evaluate your current mobile phone plan and determine if it still aligns with your needs. If you find yourself wanting more data or seeking a lower monthly bill, now is the perfect time to explore your options and discover plans that offer greater value for your money. By carefully comparing the available choices, you might be surprised at how much you can reduce your wireless service costs while potentially upgrading your data allowance.
After years of monitoring mobile phone plan prices, I’ve learned that the key to unlocking better deals lies in looking beyond the major carriers. While established providers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon certainly offer competitive plans – and we will highlight some of their best options – smaller carriers often provide more generous data packages at significantly lower prices.
Coverage concerns should not deter you from considering these smaller providers. These carriers, known as MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators), operate on the networks of the larger companies. This means if you experience strong coverage from a major carrier in your area, the discount carriers utilizing that same network will provide comparable service quality and reach. To help you navigate this landscape, we clearly identify which network each smaller carrier uses in our plan selections below.
Ultimately, the most crucial factor when choosing a mobile phone plan is assessing the data you receive for your monthly expenditure. Beyond data and cost, network performance and additional perks also play significant roles in making an informed decision.
This guide focuses on highlighting cost-effective plans from providers like Mint Mobile and Visible, with Visible currently offering a notable promotion extending through January. We also include recommendations from Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T for those who prefer sticking with more established wireless providers.
The Quick List of Best Mobile Phone Plans
- Mint Mobile
The best plan overall
Starting at just $15 per month, Mint Mobile presents an excellent opportunity to drastically lower your mobile phone bill. These affordable rates apply to your initial three months of service, and you can maintain these low prices by committing to a year of service upfront.
- Visible
Best unlimited plan
Visible simplifies choices with only two plans, both offering unlimited data. Their more affordable option provides Verizon network coverage for only $25 per month, even less than many of Mint’s plans.
Explore Visible’s Unlimited Plan
- Verizon
Best tiered data plan
Verizon’s prepaid plan stands out, costing just $35 per month with automatic payments. It includes 15GB of data, usable as hotspot data, and access to Verizon’s nationwide 5G network.
Discover Verizon’s Prepaid Options
- T-Mobile
Best family plan
T-Mobile’s Go5G plan is an exceptional unlimited option, especially for families. Priced at $200 per month for four lines, with potential discounts, this plan includes a Netflix subscription and covers taxes and fees.
Learn about T-Mobile Family Plans
- AT&T
Best pay-in-advance plan
AT&T excels with its substantial data offering when you pay annually. This reduces your monthly cost to $25 for unlimited data, with 16GB at high speeds.
See AT&T’s Prepaid Annual Plan
- Boost Mobile
Locked-in rate
Boost Mobile’s most attractive plan is also its cheapest unlimited option at $25/month. While basic, Boost guarantees this rate will remain constant as long as you maintain active service.
Explore Boost Mobile’s Price Guarantee
In-Depth Look at the Best Mobile Phone Plans
The Best Cell Phone Plan Overall
1. Mint Mobile
The best cell phone plan overall
Plan Specifications
- Data Amount: 5GB
- Monthly Cost: $15
- Parent Network: T-Mobile
Advantages of Mint Mobile
- Highly affordable pricing
- Generous data allowances for the price
Disadvantages of Mint Mobile
- Requires annual prepayment for the best rates
Mint Mobile is an excellent choice for individuals prioritizing a low monthly mobile phone bill. However, achieving these low rates involves a unique approach.
Let’s first examine the best Mint Mobile plans. They offer a range of data options, starting with 5GB and scaling up to an unlimited data plan. Mint’s pricing begins at $15/month for 5GB, incrementally increasing by $5 for 15GB ($20), 20GB ($25), and unlimited data ($30). For many users, 5GB provides sufficient data, making this plan a strong recommendation. Even if you exceed your data limit, Mint implements data speed throttling for the remainder of the month rather than imposing overage charges.
Currently, Mint offers an initial three-month period at $15 per month for any plan, requiring an upfront payment of $45. Following this introductory period, to maintain Mint’s lowest rates—$15/month for the 5GB plan—you must commit to a full year of service. This translates to a one-time payment of $180 for the 5GB plan. Similarly, the unlimited plan necessitates a $360 upfront payment to secure the $30 monthly rate. While this upfront cost is substantial, the trade-off is significantly lower monthly expenses compared to many other carriers.
As of this writing, Mint’s most compelling offer is on its unlimited data plan, currently discounted by half when committing to a year of service. This reduces the annual cost to $180 instead of the usual $360 for unlimited data. This is a limited-time promotion, expiring on January 24th.
Mint Mobile presents a highly attractive option for those comfortable with an annual payment due to its generous introductory rates and low monthly costs. However, individuals preferring month-to-month payments will need to explore alternative providers.
Best cell phone plan overall: Mint’s 5GB plan stands out as the best budget-friendly option for most users, providing ample data for social media, web browsing, and map navigation. Following a $45 three-month trial, a $180 annual payment secures the lowest monthly rate of $15. Coverage is provided via T-Mobile’s network, including 5G service for compatible devices.
The Best Unlimited Data Plan
2. Visible
The best unlimited data plan
Plan Specifications
- Data Amount: Unlimited
- Monthly Cost: $25
- Parent Network: Verizon
Advantages of Visible
- Very low monthly rate for unlimited data
- Utilizes Verizon’s excellent network performance
Disadvantages of Visible
- No discounts for multiple lines
Visible simplifies plan selection with just two unlimited data options. Either plan is an excellent choice for single-line users. Families seeking multi-line discounts should consider carriers like T-Mobile, which reduces per-line costs as more lines are added.
Visible’s basic plan is priced at $25/month, providing coverage on Verizon’s extensive nationwide network (Visible is owned by Verizon). It includes unlimited calls and texts to Canada and Mexico, and mobile hotspot functionality. A potential drawback is that network speeds may be temporarily slowed during periods of Verizon network congestion.
The upgraded $45 Visible Plus plan guarantees 50GB of premium high-speed data, free from data throttling, and access to Verizon’s faster 5G Ultra Wideband network where available. The absence of data throttling is a significant advantage, as Verizon’s nationwide 5G is generally fast enough for most activities unless you are consistently downloading large files.
Visible Plus also includes a Global Pass for one day of international use (typically a $10 value) and the ability to add a cellular smartwatch to your plan at no additional cost (major carriers usually charge around $10 for adding devices). For smartwatch users or frequent travelers, Visible Plus offers compelling value beyond the basic plan.
A current promotion further enhances Visible’s appeal, especially for the Visible Plus plan. By using the code ‘SWITCH25‘ when signing up, Visible reduces the monthly rate for the next 25 months. The standard Visible plan drops to $20/month, while Visible Plus becomes just $30. For Visible Plus, this represents a substantial saving of $375 over 25 months. This offer is valid until January 31st, so act quickly to take advantage.
In addition to monthly plans, Visible also offers annual prepayment 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 pricing.
Personal testing of Visible revealed performance consistent with Verizon’s network, with occasional speed reductions in specific locations or at peak times. However, with Visible plans costing at least $20 less than Verizon’s cheapest unlimited plan, it represents a worthwhile trade-off for budget-conscious users.
Best cheap unlimited data: While Visible’s $45 Plus plan offers enhanced features, the standard $25 unlimited plan is our top recommendation for the most affordable unlimited data without commitments. (Both plans are even cheaper with the ‘SWITCH25‘ promotion until January 31). Visible leverages Verizon’s reliable network, including 5G coverage. Both Visible and Visible Plus plans include taxes and fees in their quoted rates.
The Best Tiered Data Plan
3. Verizon
Best tiered data plan
Plan Specifications
- Data Amount: 15GB
- Monthly Cost: $35
- Parent Network: Verizon
Advantages of Verizon Prepaid
- Substantial 15GB data allowance
- Excellent network coverage and speeds
- Nationwide 5G network access
Disadvantages of Verizon Prepaid
- Not the absolute cheapest prepaid option available
- Does not include Verizon’s fastest Ultra Wideband 5G
Verizon’s postpaid plans primarily focus on unlimited data, with the most affordable option starting at $65/month. While these are among the best unlimited data plans available, Verizon’s prepaid plans offer better value for budget-conscious users. Prepaid plans involve paying for data upfront, providing cost predictability for your wireless expenses.
Verizon offers three prepaid plans, two of which are unlimited. However, the 15GB option stands out as the most compelling. 15GB is generally sufficient data for average users, preventing overspending on unnecessary data. Furthermore, Verizon’s $45 monthly rate for the 15GB plan reduces by $10 upon enrolling in autopay, bringing the monthly cost closer to discount carriers like Mint Mobile or Visible.
Perks are minimal with the 15GB prepaid plan, but it does include access to Verizon’s nationwide 5G network. (As mentioned with Visible, nationwide 5G speeds are adequate for most users). For enhanced features, the $60/month unlimited prepaid plan provides faster Ultra Wideband 5G speeds and 25GB of hotspot data. However, at $35 per month with autopay, the 15GB plan offers a more affordable balance of price and data.
Best prepaid plan: Verizon’s 15GB prepaid plan strikes an optimal balance between price and data. 15GB per month adequately serves most users, and autopay discounts lower the monthly rate to $35. (Without autopay, loyalty discounts eventually reduce the rate to $35 after nine months of continuous service). Plan perks are basic, but 5G coverage and mobile hotspot capability are included.
The Best Family Plan Overall
4. T-Mobile
Best cell phone plan for families
Plan Specifications
- Data Amount: Unlimited
- Monthly Cost: $200 (4 lines)
- Parent Network: T-Mobile
Advantages of T-Mobile Go5G Family Plan
- Includes free Netflix subscription
- 5G network access
- Data speeds not throttled unless exceeding 100GB
Disadvantages of T-Mobile Go5G Family Plan
- Inability to mix-and-match different T-Mobile unlimited data options
T-Mobile’s Go5G plan is a strong contender for individuals seeking an unlimited plan with more features than Visible, and who are willing to pay a slightly higher price. A single line of Go5G costs $75/month, presenting better value than similarly priced plans from AT&T and Verizon, as those typically lack the travel and streaming benefits included in T-Mobile’s offering. The value truly shines when adding multiple lines to a Go5G plan.
T-Mobile applies per-line discounts as you add lines, reducing the overall per-line cost. A family of four currently pays $155/month for four Go5G lines, thanks to T-Mobile waiving the cost of the third line. This equates to $38.75 per line. Even at full price, four lines would only cost $45 per line. This multi-line discount structure makes T-Mobile’s Go5G the best family cell phone plan, effectively lowering the cost per person as you add more lines.
Among T-Mobile’s numerous unlimited options, the Go5G plan offers the best balance of price and included perks. Plans with two or more lines include a complimentary Netflix Standard subscription, and six months of Apple TV Plus. Travel benefits with Go5G include unlimited in-flight texting and the ability to stream video and music on four flights annually.
The Go5G Plus plan is available at a slightly higher cost—$30 more than Go5G when factoring in the waived third line—and offers additional streaming and travel perks. However, for most families, the standard Go5G plan provides an optimal combination of features and affordability.
The Best Pay-In-Advance Plan
5. AT&T
Best value for paying in advance
Plan Specifications
- Data Amount: Unlimited data
- Monthly Cost: $25
- Parent Network: AT&T
Advantages of AT&T Prepaid Annual Plan
- Generous data allowance
- Very low monthly cost when prepaid annually
Disadvantages of AT&T Prepaid Annual Plan
- Requires a significant upfront payment
- Speeds may be slowed after 16GB of high-speed data usage
Similar to Verizon, AT&T’s postpaid plans are centered around unlimited data. However, for the best value from AT&T, their prepaid options, particularly the annual plan, deserve close attention. Mirroring Mint Mobile’s strategy, AT&T offers an annual plan that provides substantial data in exchange for a large upfront payment, but AT&T achieves an even lower monthly cost.
Specifically, AT&T’s unlimited data plan offers a remarkably low $25 monthly rate when you commit to a year of service. This necessitates a $300 upfront payment, but in return, you secure a lower monthly rate than Mint Mobile’s unlimited data plan.
One limitation of AT&T’s annual prepaid plan is a 16GB cap on high-speed data, after which speeds are reduced. Mint Mobile offers a more generous 40GB high-speed data cap. However, AT&T anticipates that most users will not approach the 16GB threshold, and in many cases, they are likely correct. Exceeding 16GB results in speeds dropping to 1.5Mbps for the remainder of the billing cycle – still, 16GB is ample data for many typical users.
As noted, the full year’s payment is required upfront. However, if a $300 payment is manageable, the locked-in monthly rate enhances the appeal of this AT&T plan.
AT&T | Unlimited 12-Month Prepaid Plan | $25/month – Best Value on AT&T The major carriers often don’t offer the most cost-effective prepaid plans, which are more commonly found among MVNOs. However, AT&T can be slightly more affordable and flexible than providers like Sprint or Verizon. While monthly payment options exist, the most economical choice is investing in a 12-month prepaid plan with AT&T for $300 upfront. This provides unlimited data, although speeds may be reduced after 16GB of monthly usage. For those preferring monthly payments, AT&T offers a 5GB data plan for $30 per month.
Best Cell Phone Plan Price Guarantee
6. Boost Mobile
Lifetime price guarantee
Plan Specifications
- Data Amount: Unlimited
- Monthly Cost: $25
- Parent Network: Dish (with access to AT&T and T-Mobile networks)
Advantages of Boost Mobile Unlimited Plan
- Low price guaranteed indefinitely
- Extensive network coverage utilizing multiple networks
Disadvantages of Boost Mobile Unlimited Plan
- Limited additional perks
Boost Mobile has transitioned from a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) to a network provider in its own right, aiming to compete directly with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. While building out its own network, Boost leverages agreements with AT&T and T-Mobile to ensure coverage in areas where its network is still developing. To highlight its status as a national carrier, Boost offers several unlimited plans, with one particularly noteworthy for its price stability in a market of fluctuating costs.
Boost Mobile’s standard unlimited plan is priced at $25/month, matching Visible’s monthly rate for unlimited service. However, what distinguishes this Boost plan is its price guarantee: customers signing up for this plan are assured of paying $25/month for as long as they remain Boost customers.
This provides predictability in your monthly mobile phone bill, aside from potential tax variations. While some Boost plans include taxes and fees, the $25 unlimited option does not. This plan includes 30GB of high-speed data before potential speed slowdowns, surpassing Visible’s $25 unlimited plan where speeds can be slowed at any time due to network congestion.
Regardless of extra features, this Boost plan offers cost certainty, a valuable commodity in today’s economic climate.
The same price forever: For those seeking long-term cost predictability in mobile phone coverage, Boost Mobile’s cheapest unlimited plan is an excellent choice. While lacking in extra perks beyond 30GB of high-speed data, it guarantees a locked-in rate for the duration of your Boost service, provided you maintain autopay enrollment.
Best Mobile Phone Plans Compared Side-by-Side
To facilitate a clearer comparison of the best mobile phone plans, the following table summarizes their monthly costs for a single line. It also notes plans requiring annual prepayment (Mint and AT&T) and the family plan pricing for T-Mobile’s Go5G plan.
As the table shows, AT&T, Boost, and Visible offer the lowest rates for unlimited data, while Mint Mobile’s 5GB plan is the most affordable overall. T-Mobile’s strength lies in its multi-line discounts for families.
Mobile Phone Plan Comparison Table
| Plan | Data Amount | Monthly Price, 1 Line | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Mobile 5GB Plan | 5GB | $15 (annual payment) | $180 annual payment required for $15 monthly rate |
| Visible Wireless Visible Plan | Unlimited | $25 | Plus plan costs $45/month |
| Verizon Prepaid 15GB Plan | 15GB | $35 | Rate reflects $10 autopay discount |
| T-Mobile Go5G Family Plan | Unlimited | $75 | Family of four pays $155, or $38.75 per line |
| AT&T Prepaid Unlimited Plan | Unlimited | $25 (annual payment) | $300 annual payment required for plan |
| Boost Mobile Unlimited Plan | Unlimited | $25 | Rate guaranteed for as long as you remain a Boost customer |
Methodology for Selecting the Best Mobile Phone Plans
Identifying the best mobile phone plans requires thorough research into each carrier’s offerings. This involves examining plans from the three major carriers and also exploring lesser-known MVNOs, which often present more budget-friendly options. After compiling data on available plans, we prioritize the lowest cost options.
Beyond pricing, we evaluate plans based on data allowances, focusing on unlimited data plans and also including tiered data plans for users with lighter data needs. Plan perks and features are also considered in our evaluations.
Network coverage is a significant factor, assessed using third-party testing data and national averages for download speeds. Coverage can vary geographically, so it’s advisable to consult local contacts regarding network reliability in your specific areas before choosing a provider.
Given the dynamic nature of mobile phone plan offerings, we regularly update our rankings, at least monthly, to reflect pricing and feature changes. We also strive to highlight promotional deals that can further reduce the cost of new mobile phone plans.
Choosing the Right Mobile Phone Plan for Your Needs
Price is a primary consideration when selecting a mobile phone plan, particularly for families needing multiple lines. Most carriers offer multi-line discounts, making it crucial to compare total plan costs based on the number of lines required.
However, mobile phone plans involve more than just monthly costs. Network coverage in your area and compatibility with your desired phone are equally important. Our guide to the best phone carriers provides insights into these aspects. Additionally, inquire about specific carrier coverage at your home and workplace when considering a provider switch.
Switching carriers can be incentivized by attractive promotions. Major carriers often offer deals to attract new customers, so monitor new carrier deals when contemplating a switch to potentially maximize savings.
5G network expansion has been a focus for wireless carriers in recent years. If you own a 5G-compatible phone, leveraging 5G speeds in your area can significantly enhance your mobile experience. 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 across its plans, including prepaid options. Verizon provides 5G access, with faster Ultra Wideband 5G available on select plans.
Determining Your Ideal Cell Phone Plan Type
(Image credit: AndreyPopov)
The optimal cell phone plan is subjective and depends on individual needs and usage patterns.
For budget-conscious users seeking flexibility, prepaid cell phone plans are often ideal. They are typically the most affordable options and eliminate contracts, offering freedom to switch carriers easily.
If you frequently stream video, play online games, or are a heavy data user, an unlimited data plan is highly recommended, especially with the increasing prevalence of 5G networks.
For deeper insights into data needs, consult our guide on how much data you need in your cell phone plan.
Family cell phone plans are an excellent way to reduce per-line costs, as carriers often decrease per-line rates for each added line. Some carriers, like Verizon and AT&T, allow mixing and matching plans, enabling parents to select premium unlimited plans while opting for more economical data plans for children.
If minimizing cost is your primary objective, carriers like Visible and Boost Mobile offer very low-cost plans, often with smaller data caps. Prepaid annual plans, such as those from Mint Mobile, can also provide significant savings by paying upfront for a year of service.
Understanding MVNOs and Their Role
MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) provide a cost-effective approach to mobile phone service. But what exactly are they, and how do they differ from major carriers?
The primary network operators in the US are AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile (which absorbed Sprint). Boost Mobile is also establishing itself as a national network provider.
MVNOs, in contrast, do not own or operate their own network infrastructure. Instead, they lease network access from one of the major carriers. This business model allows them to offer significantly lower prices but may come with limitations, such as deprioritization during peak network usage and fewer added benefits compared to major carrier plans.
Our MVNO guide offers further details. Key MVNOs and their parent networks 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
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Mobile Phone Plan
Choosing the right mobile phone plan involves balancing your data needs, budget, desired features, and coverage requirements. By comparing mobile phone plans and considering options from both major carriers and MVNOs, you can find a plan that delivers optimal value and meets your specific needs in 2024. Remember to regularly reassess your plan to ensure it continues to be the best fit as your needs and the mobile landscape evolve.
