The 5 best GSM carriers in 2023
Founder
About Rob
Rob has 15+ years experience running price comparison & review websites that empower consumers to find the cheapest cell phone services, cell phone deals, home phone, and internet providers available. He has been published in Forbes, US News, Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, Inc.
Rob's Expertise
5G wireless networks, cell phone plans, cell phone deals, MVNOs, internet services, tablets, comparison shopping, money saving, reviewing telecom products & services
Editor
About Amanda
Amanda has 20+ years of experience as an educator. Her teaching career, paired with her love for research and technology, has led her to MoneySavingPro. Her personal experience with eSIMs and MVNOs after switching her entire family away from big wireless in the last few years has taught her the ins and outs of the industry. And saved her hundreds per month.
Amanda's Expertise
Writing, editing, proofreading, researching, blogging, collaborating, communicating, CMS, eSIMs, MVNOs, 5G home internet & comparison
Last updated on November 2nd, 2023
What carriers run on the GSM network?.
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Top plans list
- Tello 1GB: Best GSM carrier with free trial
- Mint Mobile 5GB: Best cheap GSM carrier
- US Mobile 12GB: Best prepaid GSM carrier
- Tello Unlimited: Cheap GSM carrier for families
- Boost Mobile 5GB: Cheap GSM carrier for unlimited data
Table of contents
- GSM network carriers
- How to choose the best GSM carrier
- What network coverage do you prefer?
- How much data do you need?
- Is hotspot data included?
- What's the monthly price?
- How many lines do you need?
- Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
- Are there any deals or promotions?
- What perks or add ons can I expect?
- Is international calling included?
- Are there parental controls?
- GSM carriers on T-Mobile
- GSM carriers on AT&T
- GSM network coverage
- Find the best cell phone service in your area
- Compare the cheapest GSM phone plans
- GSM carriers FAQs
- Is AT&T GSM?
- Is T-Mobile GSM?
- Is Verizon GSM?
- Recap
- Carrier guides
1. Best GSM carrier with free trial: Tello 1GB
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks Tello operates on the T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks. This allows you to receive the same wireless coverage but at a fraction of the cost.
- Unlimited talk and text
- 1GB data
- $784 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Tello 1GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$6/mo*
$10/mo* Only $6 for first month
Tello phone plans keep things simple with their wireless service. None of those hidden fees or long-term contracts that'll leave you feeling trapped.
With free international calls to 60+ countries on all plans, including Canada and Mexico, and a range of data allowances suitable for light to heavy users. Check out our review about the best free eSIM service.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free international calling to 60+ countries
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- No multi-line discounts
- Not only are their plans affordable for all budgets, but you can build your own plan. Depending on your usage, you get to choose how much data, minutes, and texts you need, so you're not paying for stuff you don't use.
- It's always worth checking your data usage as a set data plan could save money and help restrict excessive phone usage.
- Mobile hotspot is available with a limit of 5 GB of data.
- Tello doesn't offer any discounts if you purchase multiple lines, so if you're looking to get a plan for another family member, each line is billed as a single line at full price. However, you can still save money due to the low cost of their individual plans.
- Being online-based means that activation of an eSIM plan can take just a few clicks, or you can have a SIM card mailed to you.
2. Best cheap GSM carrier: Mint Mobile 5GB
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks Mint Mobile operates on the T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks. This allows you to receive the same wireless coverage but at a fraction of the cost.
- Unlimited talk and text
- 5GB data
- $765 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Mint Mobile 5GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$7.50/mo*
$15/mo* 50% Off - $45 for 6 Mths Service
Mint Mobile phone plans are powered by the T-Mobile network, providing the same great service at a lower cost. They offer various data allowances, including an unlimited plan with 40GB of high-speed data and unlimited talk and text.
With Mint Mobile, their transparent messaging shows how you can save more money the longer you commit. Check out our review about best cheap cell phone plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free calls to Mexico and Canada
- Free mobile hotspot with all plans
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- Limited customer service
- 3-month minimum sign-up
- Mint Mobile offers mobile hotspot access with all of their plans. So you can use your phone to tether to tablets or other mobile devices, and the unlimited plan includes a 10 GB hotspot data limit.
- A minimum 3-month upfront commitment is required to subscribe. The longer commitment period means cheaper prices. Choose a 3, 6, or 12-month pricing structure available after initial commitment.
- If you're unsatisfied, Mint Mobile offers a 7-day money-back guarantee.
- You can bring your own device, so there's no need to buy an expensive iPhone. However, if you prefer a new smartphone, there are many options available, including iPhones, Samsung, and other Android models like Google Pixel, with a 0% finance over 1-2 years.
- With the Mint Mobile app, you can easily monitor your usage and manage multiple lines and plans.
- One downside is that international roaming is an additional cost, and although you get free calls to Canada and Mexico, other international countries are extra.
3. Best prepaid GSM carrier: US Mobile 12GB
- Verizon & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks US Mobile operates on the Verizon & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks. This allows you to receive the same wireless coverage but at a fraction of the cost.
- Unlimited talk and text
- 12GB data
- $600 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the US Mobile 12GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$25/mo*
* FREE 50 Day Trial + $50 Gift Card
US Mobile phone plans offer affordable deals on the Verizon and T-Mobile networks, with good customer service and customizable options. You can build the best phone plans to suit specific needs, with unlimited talk and text and even international roaming options.
Plus, they don't lock you into any long-term contracts, giving you the freedom to switch whenever you like. Check out our review about the 5 best prepaid cell phone plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile and Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Free trial available
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- TV, music, & gaming subscription perks on unlimited plans
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- International calling is an extra cost
- International roaming is an extra cost
- Mobile hotspot allowance only available on unlimited plans
- US Mobile stands out with its exceptional customer service, offering 24/7 support by phone or online chat.
- Try before you buy on a 50-day trial period.
- Mobile hotspot data allowance is dependent on the unlimited plan you choose. You'll get either 5 GB, 10 GB, or 50 GB.
- With their family plans, you can save hundreds of dollars on your cell phone bill by adding multiple lines. The more lines you add, the more discount you receive.
- For extra perks, US Mobile offers streaming services like Disney Plus bundle with Hulu and ESPN, HBO Max, Apple TV, Spotify Family, PlayStation Plus, and more, with an unlimited prepaid plan and at least three additional lines.
- Available to new and existing US Mobile customers with an unlimited plan and at least three additional lines. You'll need to pay for the subscription yourself and verify it every three months for a maximum of 12 months. The extra cost will be credited to your account via Autopay.
- They may not be the best option for frequent travelers seeking reliable international coverage. Their add-on packages for roaming can be expensive, and their international calling features may not be as competitive as other carriers.
4. Cheap GSM carrier for families: Tello Unlimited
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks Tello operates on the T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks. This allows you to receive the same wireless coverage but at a fraction of the cost.
- Unlimited talk and text
- Unlimited data
- $552 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Tello Unlimited vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$29/mo
Tello phone plans keep things simple with their wireless service. None of those hidden fees or long-term contracts that'll leave you feeling trapped.
With free international calls to 60+ countries on all plans, including Canada and Mexico, and a range of data allowances suitable for light to heavy users. Check out our review about the 5 best family phone plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free international calling to 60+ countries
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- No multi-line discounts
5. Cheap GSM carrier for unlimited data: Boost Mobile 5GB
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks Boost Mobile operates on the AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks. This allows you to receive the same wireless coverage but at a fraction of the cost.
- Unlimited talk and text
- 5GB data
- $750 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Boost Mobile 5GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$5/mo*
$15/mo* $15 for 3 months service
Boost Mobile phone plans are powered by the AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G networks, giving you the same wireless coverage at a fraction of the price.
With a range of data allowances from 2GB up to unlimited, there's something for the light to heavy data users. Check out our review about the 5 best unlimited data plans.
Pros
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Mobile hotspot access
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No free international calls
- International roaming is limited
- All of Boost Mobile's prepaid plans come with unlimited calling and text.
- If you use a lot of data, unlimited plans include up to 30GB of high-speed data.
- Most plans include mobile hotspot data, but be sure to check. The allowance depends on the plan, but the maximum is 30GB, which comes out of your monthly data allowance.
- Discounts are available for additional lines, so you can save on a plan for the whole family.
- When it comes to devices, they provide a wide range of phones to choose from. Including the latest models from popular brands like Apple and Samsung, with financing options of 0% financing over 1-2 years. Helping to make it affordable to purchase a new phone.
- Boost Mobile's international features are not as strong. Their international roaming options are limited compared to other carriers, and international calls are an extra add-on, which means you'll have to pay extra if you want to make calls to friends and family overseas.
GSM network carriers
GSM is one of two cellular technologies that help bridge the gap when there's no 4G signal. AT&T and T-Mobile are the two main networks, along with their MVNO's (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) that run on the GSM network.
MVNOs have started growing in popularity along with a wide range of options whatever your needs and budget. And because they're powered by the main networks you don't have to sacrifice quality coverage.
If your phone is on the CDMA network or unlocked, you can still save money on the best MVNO plans.
We've broken it down further for you below.
How to choose the best GSM carrier
What network coverage do you prefer?
Network access is a key consideration wherever you live, but especially in rural areas. Luckily, low-cost carriers operate on the same 5G & 4G LTE networks as major carriers. T-Mobile scores the highest for 5G coverage, according to an Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023). If there is a particular network you prefer, choose an MVNO that operates on that network. Use our coverage checker to find the best cell phone service in your area.
How much data do you need?
Do you really need an unlimited data plan? The big wireless companies want you to believe so, but in reality, the average monthly cellular data consumption is around 10GB. However, if you spend most of your time at home or work on Wi-Fi, it's likely your cellular data usage will be much lower. You can choose a data plan tailored to your needs with cheap cell phone providers, meaning you can pay less if you use less. But if you do choose an unlimited data plan, be aware that high-speed data is normally capped.
Is hotspot data included?
Most carriers allow hotspot data usage but limit the amount of data that can be used via tethering. The limit depends on the carrier and plan you choose. Some carriers also offer data only plans so you can access the internet on mobile devices like iPads, tablets, and mobile hotspots when Wi-Fi's not available.
What's the monthly price?
While big wireless unlimited plans cost around $75-90 per month, the best MVNOs offer budget-friendly plans, ranging from $5-35 per month without sacrificing wireless coverage and data speeds. Watch out for hidden fees & taxes; some carriers include these in the price, and others, such as Verizon and AT&T, don't.
How many lines do you need?
With big wireless, you only get the advertised price if you buy four lines. With MVNOs, the price you see is the price you pay, even for one line. Many low-cost carriers now offer further discounts for multi-line plans.
Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
While the big three love keeping their customers locked into a constant phone upgrade cycle, MVNOs encourage you to bring your own phone. This means you take back control and only change your phone when it suits you. If you do want to purchase a new phone, many MVNOs offer an affordable and easy way with 0% financing over 1-2 years.
Are there any deals or promotions?
Big wireless promotions can seem good at a glance. But once you read the small print, it often leads to buying things you don't need and committing to 3-year phone contracts. Many MVNOs offer short-term introductory promotional pricing for new customers, and their pricing is much more transparent.
What perks or add ons can I expect?
Most big wireless plans include "free" TV subscriptions. Initially, these seem like a great deal. However, these usually turn into a paid subscription that is automatically added to your bill a few months down the line. A few low-cost carriers, such as US Mobile, do offer plan options with free subscription services, but we generally recommend keeping these subscriptions separate so you don't end up paying for things you don't need.
Is international calling included?
Most MVNOs offer free international calls to many countries. If this is important to you, make sure to choose a carrier that includes this.
Are there parental controls?
Some Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) provide parental controls that allow parents to monitor their children's cell phone usage and data consumption. By using these features, you have the ability to establish limits on data usage, limit access to specific apps or websites, and even keep track of your child's whereabouts. These capabilities are accessible either through subscription plans or can be adjusted in the settings of your mobile device.
Check out our cell phone plan comparison to ensure you find the best deal.
GSM carriers on T-Mobile
Boost Mobile
Boom! Mobile
Consumer Cellular
FreeUP Mobile
Metro by T-Mobile
Mint Mobile
Red Pocket
Straight Talk
Tello
TextNow
Tracfone
Ultra Mobile
US Mobile
Good2Go Mobile
Reach Mobile
Lycamobile
Kroger Wireless
Boost Infinite
WOW! Mobile
Gotalk Wireless
GSM carriers on AT&T
Boost Mobile
Cricket Wireless
Freedompop
PureTalk
Red Pocket
Straight Talk
Tracfone
Good2Go Mobile
Optimum Mobile
Boost Infinite
GSM network coverage
Which prepaid carrier is best for you? That depends on which network has the best coverage in your area.
Whether you go with a GSM carrier (T-Mobile and AT&T) or a CDMA carrier (Verizon) you'll enjoy national coverage, just like with the major carriers.
What is the GSM network?
GSM - or Global System for Mobile Communications - is a mobile network that is used worldwide, unlike CDMA which is used mainly in the US. It is the most popular cell phone technology and it is much easier to swap between phones on GSM networks as your information is stored on a SIM card.
Since it started GSM has evolved much faster than CDMA and 4G LTE is a GSM standard which means that both Verizon and Sprint are now using GSM technology on their previous CDMA phones. GSM, along with CDMA, is the technology that fills the gap when your 4G signal drops.
What is a GSM SIM card?
A SIM (subscriber identity module) card is what is provided to you by your carrier when you sign up to one of their plans. It has a unique identification number and holds your phone information, like your contacts and personal data.
The GSM SIM card makes it easy to switch between phones as you can just take it out from one phone and pop it into your new phone. Some older devices may still be locked to your current provider, so you will need to make sure they are unlocked before changing over.
When it comes to SIM cards, there are three types of SIM - standard SIM, micro SIM, and Nano-SIM. The type of SIM card you will need depends on your phone, but the most common is the Nano SIM.
Which is better CDMA or GSM?
This can still be a confusing topic for consumers, and it's really more of a personal preference when it comes to CDMA and GSM.
It's easier to swap phones with a GSM phone as the information is stored on a SIM card, and GSM carriers do not have as much control over the phone used. With CDMA, you need the permission of your carrier.
Whether you have a CDMA phone or a GSM phone, you can find the best low-cost carriers for both networks.
Find the best cell phone service in your area
Compare the cheapest GSM phone plans
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Mobile unlimited data plan | Verizon & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $0/mo $25/mo |
| Tello 1GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $6/mo $10/mo |
| Boost Mobile 5GB plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $5/mo $15/mo |
| Mint Mobile 15GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 15GB | $10/mo $20/mo |
| Boost Infinite unlimited data plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $25/mo |
GSM carriers FAQs
AT&T operates on the GSM network. AT&T unlocked phones should work with GSM carriers.
T-Mobile operates on the GSM network. T-Mobile unlocked phones should work with GSM carriers.
Verizon operates on the CDMA network. Verizon unlocked phones may only work with CDMA carriers.
Recap
There's a wide variety of the best cell phone plans available on the GSM network, with carriers like Mint Mobile, Tello, and Boost Mobile, to name just a few, that can save you money.
If you're looking to bring your own phone, as long as it's compatible, you can easily switch between carriers.
If you've got a CDMA phone without a SIM card slot, there are plenty of low-cost options to upgrade your handset, with most MVNOs offering 0% finance plans over two years.
Carrier guides
- The 5 Best Cell Phone Carriers
- The Best eSIM Carriers
- The 5 Best Cheap Cell Phone Providers
- The 5 Best Cell Phone Service
- The 5 Best Prepaid Phone Companies
- The 5 Best Cheap Prepaid Phone Providers
- The 5 Best Prepaid Cell Phone Service
- The 5 Best Wireless Phone Companies
- The 5 Best 5G Phone Companies
- The 5 Best GSM Carriers
- The 5 Best CDMA Carriers
