We've all been there. That amazing deal that attracted you to your current wireless carrier just isn't working for you anymore.
Maybe your bills have gone up over time or another provider is offering better features at a lower price.
Have you considered the T-Mobile network? No, I'm not talking about signing up with "The Uncarrier" itself. I'm talking about taking advantage of its nationwide 4G LTE and 5G coverage without paying T-Mobile rates.
We're going to let you in on a little industry secret - MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators). Read on to find out what these are and how they can give you quality, cheaper cell phone service.
| Best prepaid plan | Tello |
| Best unlimited plan | Mint Mobile |
| Best BYOP plan | Red Pocket |
| Best data only plan | US Mobile |
Best T-Mobile prepaid plan
- Minutes
- Unlimited
- Texts
- Unlimited
- Data
- 1GB
- Price
- $10/mo
Tello 1GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 1GB data for only $10 per month. Tello plans offer wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. To learn more about why this is one of the best cell phone plans, check out MoneySavingPro's Tello review
Pros
24/7 customer support
No contracts
Budget friendly family plans
Cons
No roaming
Coverage in rural areas
Benefits
Service on the nationwide T-Mobile network
Money-back guarantee on phones (no refunds on plans)
Prepaid - no contract, credit check, or activation fee
Bring your own phone or choose from a modest selection of new or refurbished devices
Keep your current phone number
Use of your plan data as a mobile hotspot through your phone is allowed
Use your minutes to call Canada, China, and Mexico
Minutes to other countries available as add-on
24/7 customer service
Best T-Mobile unlimited data plan
- Minutes
- Unlimited
- Texts
- Unlimited
- Data
- Unlimited
- Price
- $30/mo** Buy 3 Months Get 1 Free
Mint Mobile Unlimited plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and unlimited data for only $30 per month. Mint Mobile plans offer wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. To learn more about why this is one of the best cell phone plans, check out MoneySavingPro's Mint Mobile review
Pros
Offers the latest phones with 0% finance
Prepay months in bulk for more savings
Reliable network coverage
Works with most GSM phones
Cons
No family plans
Minimum 3 months
Benefits
Operates on the nationwide T-Mobile network
7-day money-back guarantee
Prepaid - no contract, credit check, or activation fee
Bring your phone or buy a Mint Mobile device
Keep your phone number
Using your phone as a mobile hotspot is permitted
Free calling to Canada & Mexico, affordable rates to 160+ other locations
Flat-rate international roaming available as an add-on feature
Customer service by phone on weekdays and weekends, 24/7 by virtual chat
Best T-Mobile BYOP plan
- Minutes
- Unlimited
- Texts
- Unlimited
- Data
- 3GB
- Price
- $20/mo
Red Pocket 3GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 3GB data for only $20 per month. Red Pocket plans offer wireless coverage on the AT&T, Verizon & T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networks. To learn more about why this is one of the best cell phone plans, check out MoneySavingPro's Red Pocket review
| Plan | Data | Price | View plan |
|---|---|---|---|
Red Pocket 500MB | 0.50GB | $10 | View Plan |
Red Pocket 3GB - 12 Mths | 3GB | $15* * $180 for 12 Months Service | View Plan |
3GB | $20 | View Plan | |
Red Pocket 10GB - 12 Mths | 10GB | $22.50* * $270 for 12 Months Service | View Plan |
Red Pocket 25GB - 12 Mths | 25GB | $30* * $360 for 12 Months Service | View Plan |
10GB | $30 | View Plan | |
Red Pocket 100GB - 12 Mths | 100GB | $37.50* * $450 for 12 Months Service | View Plan |
25GB | $40 | View Plan | |
100GB | $50 | View Plan |
Pros
Nationwide coverage
No contracts
Latest selection of phones
Cons
Account dashboard needs work
No 0% financing options on latest phones
Customer service
Benefits
Operates on all four networks - AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, and Verizon
Prepaid cell phone plans - no contract, credit check, or activation fees
Bring your own GSM or CDMA device and keep your phone number
Mobile hotspot/tethering allowed with your plan data
Free international calling to 70+ countries
Customer service available in English, Chinese, Filipino, and Spanish via chat or phone
Best T-Mobile data only plan
- Minutes
- 0
- Texts
- 0
- Data
- 4GB
- Price
- $15/moFree Starter Kit with code: MSPUSM
US Mobile 4GB plan includes 0 mins, 0 texts and 4GB data for only $15 per month. US Mobile plans offer wireless coverage on the Verizon & T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networks. To learn more about why this is one of the best cell phone plans, check out MoneySavingPro's US Mobile review
Pros
Flexible, no contract plans
24/7 customer service
5G coverage available
Cons
No international calling
Phone selection
Benefits
Coverage on either the T-Mobile or Verizon network
Risk-free trial: Full refund within 14 days or before 1000 talk, text, or MB's is used
Prepaid - no contract, credit check, or activation fee
Bring your own GSM or CDMA phone or choose from a small selection of phones for sale
Keep your own phone number
Mobile hotspot use available as add-on option with unlimited data plans
International roaming plans available with eSIMs
Add-ons available for talk, text, and data, with rollover
24/7 customer support
T-Mobile switch deals starting at $10
Switching to a cheap T-Mobile carrier
MVNOs are companies like U.S. Mobile, Mint Mobile, and TPO Mobile. These alternative mobile service providers rent space on the major carriers' towers and resell it to you at a lower cost than what you're paying the big guys.
These companies offer several major advantages over the big four carriers.
- Better prices: T-Mobile MVNOs don't have the same massive overhead and marketing costs as the major carriers, so they can sell you a similar service at much lower prices.
- Customised plans: the vast majority of smartphone users don't need unlimited data, yet they pay for it. That's like paying for 100 channels when you're only going to watch 20 of them. MVNOs let you decide what kinds of services - and how much - you need, so you're only paying for what you actually use.
- No contracts: all low-cost carriers offer prepaid plans. If you're unhappy you can leave at any time you want.
- BYOP: Bringing your own phone to a T-Mobile MVNO you can pocket the extra money you'd put into a costly device payment plan. And don't worry, you can keep your number too.
Now that you know how switching to the T-Mobile network by way of an alternative carrier can save you money, let's look at the details of how to do so.
T-Mobile unlimited data plans
| Plan | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile Magenta | Unlimited | $70 | $840 |
| T-Mobile Magenta Max | Unlimited | $85 | $1,020 |
T-Mobile vs Mint Mobile comparison
Keep your T-Mobile phone, number & coverage: Save $600 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Unltd* | $70/mo | $840/yr |
| Mint Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | 10GB | $20/mo | $240/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $50/mo | $600/yr | |
Cheap T-Mobile plan features
- 4G LTE data speeds: Since T-Mobile MVNOs are all powered by the T-Mobile network, you'll pay less without sacrificing speed.
- Unlimited talk and text messaging: Finding a new unlimited plan has never been easier. Virtually all small carriers include unlimited text and calls in their plan options. Compare cheap talk and text plans with or without data.
- International calls to Canada and Mexico: International calling is a must for many people. Luckily MVNOs offer some of the best international phone plans, with free calling to certain countries like Canada and Mexico, and discounted rates on others.
- Multiline discounts: Low-cost carriers also offer some of the cheapest family cell phone plans, with multi-line discounts.
- Wi-Fi calling: This feature is handy when you're out of your service area, allowing you to make calls over the internet instead of on your cellular connection.
- Tethering/hotspot data: Many low-cost carriers allow you to use your phone as a hotspot. Pick an MVNO with the best mobile hotspot plans so you can share your mobile hotspot data with other devices.
- HD video streaming: Just like the big guys, some MVNOs offer HD video streaming and some don't. Read the fine print to find the option you want.
Compare cheap T-Mobile plans
| Carrier | Network | Minutes | Texts | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tello | T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | 1GB | $10 |
| Reach Mobile | T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | 2GB | $10** $10 Off First 3 Months |
| US Mobile | Verizon & T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | 5GB | $15Free Starter Kit with code: MSPUSM |
| Mint Mobile | T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | Unltd | $30** Buy 3 Months Get 1 Free |
| Tello | T-Mobile | Unltd | Unltd | 2GB | $14 |
How to switch to a cheap T-Mobile deal
Some aspects of changing your mobile service are the same regardless of your current provider or device. Here are the basic steps:
- Choose a carrier. Some alternative cell carriers are best for heavy data users, some are geared toward light users like senior citizens. You'll want to choose a service that offers the best rates on the features you need. You'll find a list of T-Mobile MVNOs later in this guide.
- Choose a plan. The average smartphone user only goes through about 3GB of data per month. Yet you're likely paying the better part of $80 per month for unlimited data you'll never use. MVNOs give you customization options so that you only pay for what you'll use.
- Get your phone unlocked. If you're bringing a compatible phone to your new carrier you'll need to request an unlock code from your current mobile provider. This will allow you to use your phone on any carrier.
Switching from Verizon
In order to switch to a T-Mobile MVNO from Verizon, you'll need to make sure your device is compatible. Verizon uses CDMA technology in their phones, which may or may not be compatible with T-Mobile's GSM network. You may be able to bring your LTE device or newer iPhone as some do work on both types of technology. If your existing device won't carry over to your new provider, it is very affordable to buy a pre-owned or refurbished phone.
The nice thing about switching from Verizon is that their devices are not carrier locked. This means that if you do bring your own device, you shouldn't have to deal with asking Verizon to unlock it for use with your new carrier.
Switching from AT&T
If you're shopping around for a bring your own phone plan, it doesn't get much easier than the switch to the T-Mobile network from AT&T. Both carriers operate on GSM, making it simple to change over in most cases.
Take note, however, AT&T devices are typically carrier locked, which means you'll need to submit a request for them to unlock your phone if you plan to bring it with you.
T-Mobile cell phone deals
Buying a new phone is a huge investment, with prices running as high as $1000 for flagship devices. You have a better option - buying a used or refurbished smartphone.
The market is teeming with incredible values on phones in great condition, unlocked and ready for use on your chosen carrier.
Compare T-Mobile phone deals
| Device | Network | Carrier | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy A12 | T-Mobile | Mint Mobile | $199 |
| Samsung Galaxy A32 | T-Mobile | Ultra Mobile | $329 |
| Samsung Galaxy A42 | T-Mobile | Mint Mobile | $399 |
| Apple iPhone 11 | T-Mobile | Ultra Mobile | $499 |
| Apple iPhone 12 mini | T-Mobile | Ultra Mobile | $629 |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 | T-Mobile | Ultra Mobile | $799 |
| Apple iPhone 13 | T-Mobile | Mint Mobile | $829 |
| Apple iPhone 13 mini | T-Mobile | Mint Mobile | $829 |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Flip | Verizon, T-Mobile | US Mobile | $899 |
| Apple iPhone 13 Pro | T-Mobile | Ultra Mobile | $999 |
| Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra | T-Mobile | Ultra Mobile | $999 |
| Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max | T-Mobile | Ultra Mobile | $1,099 |
T-Mobile prepaid phone benefits
- Buying a prepaid T-Mobile phone makes switching carriers a breeze.
- Compare phone prices and save up to 25% on popular devices, like the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy.
- Save even more by choosing a refurbished phone.
T-Mobile prepaid carriers list
| Carrier | Network(s) |
|---|---|
| Boost Mobile | AT&T & T-Mobile |
| Boom! Mobile | Verizon & T-Mobile |
| Consumer Cellular | T-Mobile |
| FreeUP Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Metro by T-Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Mint Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Red Pocket | AT&T, T-Mobile & Verizon |
| Republic Wireless | T-Mobile |
| Simple Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Straight Talk | T-Mobile, AT&T & Verizon |
| Tello | T-Mobile |
| Ting | T-Mobile & Verizon |
| Tracfone | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile |
| Ultra Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Unreal Mobile | AT&T & T-Mobile |
| US Mobile | Verizon & T-Mobile |
| Gen Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Wing | AT&T, Verizon & T-Mobile |
| Good2Go Mobile | AT&T & T-Mobile |
| Hello Mobile | T-Mobile |
| GoSmart Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Reach Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Lycamobile | T-Mobile |
| Walmart Family Mobile | T-Mobile |
| Speedtalk Mobile | T-Mobile |
Switch to T-Mobile FAQs
How Do You Activate a T-Mobile MVNO SIM Card?
Once you order your SIM card you will follow the simple instructions provided by your chosen carrier.
Can I bring my own phone to T-Mobile?
Yes, you can keep your phone when you switch to a cheap AT&T carrier.
Can I transfer my phone number to T-Mobile?
Yes, you can keep your phone number when you switch carrier. The important thing to remember is not to cancel your current service until the transfer is complete. If you cancel your current cell phone service before the new provider brings your phone number over, your number will no longer be available.
Does T-Mobile have coverage in my area?
T-Mobile MVNOs enjoy the same national 4G LTE coverage as T-Mobile directly. However, if you live in a particularly remote area check the company's coverage map to be sure you can get service in your location.
Recap
With the rise of these low-cost carriers, there's no longer any reason to pay high rates for data and services you'll never use.
AT&T MVNOs offer the basics you expect like unlimited talk, text and data, even international calling options.
As intimidating as it can feel to change your cell service, an alternative mobile provider is a solid choice that will put hundreds of dollars back in your pocket.
| Carrier | Best for... | Mins | Texts | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Tello | Best prepaid plan | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1GB | $10/mo |
 Mint Mobile | Best unlimited plan | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | $30/mo |
 Red Pocket | Best BYOP plan | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3GB | $20/mo |
 US Mobile | Best data only plan | 0 | 0 | 4GB | $15/mo |
