List of cell phone companies in October
We love helping our money savers find low-cost deals on their cell phone plans. But finding the best deal for your needs is about more than just the price. There's no one size fits all - no matter what the big telecom companies tell you.
That's why we provide clear information that includes network coverage and customer service. We want you to have all the information you need, without feeling overwhelmed. To help make switching providers as simple as possible.
Let's break it down further.
Compare best cell phone companies
Here at MoneySavingPro we're big supporters of MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators). These are low-cost carriers that piggyback off the big telecoms companies - Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. MVNOs help you slash the price of your monthly phone bill but still give you access to the best network coverage.
Cheap cell phone carriers often offer the same features as the big guys. Such as WiFi calling, tethering, hotspot data, WiFi hotspot, and HD video streaming.
So why are they so cheap? MVNOs are able to offer low price plans because they pay wholesale rates. They don't waste money on thousands of stores, salespeople, and massive advertising campaigns.
Any catch? The speeds can be slowed at busy times in favor of customers on the main network. This isn't a big deal, it's unlikely you'll notice it slowing down, especially if you're avoiding crowded places right now.
What to look out for when choosing the best cell phone company for you;
- First things first, let's start with coverage. For the best cell phone company in your area check our coverage map to see what's available where you are.
- Are you looking to bring your own phone or buy a new one on 0% finance over 2 years?
- Most unlocked phones will work with all carriers. It's super important to check phone compatibility on the carrier's site before signing up.
- Keep an eye on your monthly phone use, how many calls, texts, and data you use. You'll nail a better deal by only paying for what you need.
- We know price isn't the only factor you'll consider when switching. Customer service is important. Check out the user reviews from our money savers to ensure your new carrier has top-rated customer support.
| Carrier | Network | Minutes | Texts | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tello | T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | 1GB | $10 |
| Mint Mobile | T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | 4GB | $15** $45 for 3 Months Service |
| Twigby | Verizon | Unltd | Unltd | 5GB | $12.50** 50% Off for 6 Months |
| Ting | T-Mobile & Verizon | Unltd | Unltd | Unltd | $25** $20 Off for 3 Months |
| US Mobile | Verizon & T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | 30GB | $30Free Starter Kit with code: MSPUSM |
Best AT&T cell phone companies
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
6 GB
4G/5G data
$22.50/mo*
$30/mo
$5.00 per GB
Powered by: AT&T
AT&T vs Pure Talk Plan Comparison
Keep your AT&T phone, number & coverage: Save $562 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | AT&T 4G LTE | Unltd* | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Pure Talk | AT&T 4G LTE | 6GB | $30/mo | $338/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $45/mo | $562/yr | |
See more deals with AT&T cell phone companies
Best Verizon cell phone companies
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
8 GB
4G/5G data
$23/mo*
$45/mo
$5.63 per GB
Powered by: Verizon
Verizon vs Reach Mobile Plan Comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $486 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | Verizon 4G LTE | Unltd* | $80/mo | $960/yr |
| Reach Mobile | Verizon 4G LTE | 8GB | $45/mo | $474/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $35/mo | $486/yr | |
See more deals with Verizon cell phone companies
Best T-Mobile cell phone companies
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
4 GB
4G/5G data
$15/mo*
$3.75 per GB
Powered by: T-Mobile
T-Mobile vs Mint Mobile Plan Comparison
Keep your T-Mobile phone, number & coverage: Save $660 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | T-Mobile 4G LTE | Unltd* | $70/mo | $840/yr |
| Mint Mobile | T-Mobile 4G LTE | 4GB | $15/mo | $180/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $55/mo | $660/yr | |
See more deals with T-Mobile cell phone companies
Best Sprint cell phone companies
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
4 GB
4G/5G data
$19/mo
$4.75 per GB
Powered by: T-Mobile
Sprint vs Tello Plan Comparison
Keep your Sprint phone, number & coverage: Save $228 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sprint | Sprint 4G LTE | $0/mo | $0/yr | |
| Tello | Sprint 4G LTE | 4GB | $19/mo | $228/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $19/mo | $228/yr | |
See more deals with Sprint cell phone companies
Do you really need unlimited data?
It's easy to sign up for something that looks good on the outside. And unlimited data does just that.
In reality we only use around 3 to 5GB of data monthly. With Wi-Fi so widely available, especially with the more time we're spending at home. Why not find out your estimated monthly data use and save yourself money in the long run.
We don't believe you need unlimited data and here's why;
- By choosing a set data plan you'll get more bang for your buck
- With a cheap cell phone carrier there are no contracts. This means if you find you're using more data just contact your carrier and increase it.
- Use our phone plan savings calculator to find out how much you can save by paying for what you need.
We know it's a headache to run out of data and if you do a lot of HD video streaming and music streaming, you may want to choose a cell phone plan with a higher data allowance. That's why we love that you can adapt a plan to fit your needs.
If you still feel you can't live without it, compare unlimited data plans from online carriers which can help cut the cost.
Best cheap cell phone companies
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
1 GB
4G/5G data
$10/mo
$10.00 per GB
Powered by: T-Mobile
We love crazy affordable plans, and that's exactly how Tello describe theirs. Powered by Sprint, you can guarantee there will be no crazy expensive bills. Tello are one of the cheapest cell phone services, providing plans to save you money.
Best cell phone companies for unlimited data
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
Unlimited
4G/5G data
$41.25/mo*
$55/mo
Powered by: AT&T
We may not be the biggest fans of unlimited data plans, but if you'd be lost without it PureTalk's plan is the best. Operating on AT&T's network, there's an option to bring your own phone or find a great deal on a handset with 0% finance.
Best cell phone companies for unlimited talk and text only
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
0 GB
4G/5G data
$10/mo
Powered by: AT&T & T-Mobile
Looking for a basic plan without all the puzzling features you don't use? Good2Go mobile talk and text options are a great first choice phone plan for kids. Their plans are inexpensive and trustworthy.
Best cell phone companies for mobile hotspots and tablets
With a hotspot plan you can get internet access even when you're away from home. A mobile hotspot plan is ideal if you routinely spend time away from home and need a trusty connection. Or even if you've got shaky home Wi-Fi. We like this Tello plan best.
Best cell phone companies for coverage
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
3 GB
4G/5G data
$10/mo*
$20/mo
$6.67 per GB
Powered by: AT&T, Verizon & T-Mobile
Powered by all four major telecom networks, Red Pocket Mobile is a winner when it comes to coverage.
Best cell phone companies for customer service
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
5 GB
4G/5G data
$15/mo
$3.00 per GB
Powered by: Verizon & T-Mobile
There's nothing better than a company that saves you money and has great customer service. That's why we love US Mobile. Check out their customer reviews for frequently glowing comments.
Best cell phone companies for individuals
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
4 GB
4G/5G data
$15/mo*
$3.75 per GB
Powered by: T-Mobile
For super budget-friendly plans, Mint Mobile hit the nail on the head. They offer awesome options for single line plans with complete value for money. Plus we love their bold and cheeky attitude.
Best cell phone companies for your family
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
8 GB
4G/5G data
$23/mo*
$45/mo
$5.63 per GB
Powered by: Verizon
For the best deal on a family plan, you'll want to find out everyone's text, talk, and data usage. Getting unlimited talk and text is a great way to free yourself of any unwanted costs.
You can estimate everyone's monthly data use by using our free tool. Choosing a set data plan can help you get the best bargain for a multi-line plan.
With super flexible options to suit a variety of needs, we like Reach Mobile's family plans.
Best cell phone companies for seniors
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
3 GB
4G/5G data
$10/mo*
$20/mo
$6.67 per GB
Powered by: Verizon
Looking for a plan without all those distracting features? Twigby offers affordable basic plans. You can build your own and add more features on for a smartphone. Hooking onto Verizon and Sprint they offer reliable coverage.
Looking for something less basic? Compare more prepaid plan options
Best cell phone companies for kids
500mins
500texts
0.5 GB
4G/5G data
$10/mo
$20.00 per GB
Powered by: AT&T, Verizon & T-Mobile
Red Pocket are the choice for reliability. Operating on Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint, and AT&T their coverage is guaranteed. A great option for cheap plans for kids this award-winning carrier offers smaller set data plans.
Keep track of how much data is being used each month and tailor the plan to suit them.
Things to figure out before you switch
- How much voice, data, and text messages do you need? Keep track of your usage for one month so you can tailor a plan to your needs. Cheap online carriers give you the flexibility to add more or less to your plan at any time.
- New phone or bring your own? Most prepaid carriers allow you to bring your own phone to save some dollars. If you're looking for a new phone check out the carriers handset range and get a new phone with 0% finance over 2 years.
- How long is the contract? There is no contract. You have full control of your plan, with no activation cost, and if you want to leave there are no early termination fees.
- Does the carrier have good service? If you're not sure which network is best for your area you can use our coverage map to find out.
Cell phone companies list
Best cell phone companies FAQs
Who has the best cell phone service?
Low-cost carriers can save you money while offering the same quality coverage from one of the big networks. Check out a full list of MVNOs for comparison.
What is the #1 cell phone company?
It can vary depending on what you're looking for from your cell phone plan. Verizon MVNOs get access to Verizon's top nationwide coverage, with AT&T MVNOs providing faster LTE speeds.
Who has the worst cell phone coverage?
Sprint had the lowest coverage rating, however since the T-Mobile merger Sprint now has access to their nationwide coverage.
Recap
With prepaid cell phone service providers, you get more bang for your buck and avoid the rising costs from the major networks. With no contract if you're not happy you can cancel at any time and not pay a dime more.
What ever your budget you'll find a cell phone plan for your needs without losing the network you love.
It's never been easier to find that perfect cell phone plan.
Deal of the Month: Ting - Unlimited Data for $25/mo