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Best Value Prepaid AT&T Data SIM Card in 2024

The key to finding the most affordable data only SIM card on AT&T's network is all about leveraging the competitive rates offered by low-cost carriers. You'll get the same AT&T coverage for a fraction of the cost without the worry of hidden fees and price hikes. Here are the best value 5G internet providers to consider.

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Data only SIM cards are perfect for WiFi devices when you're on the go, and AT&T MVNOs offer a low-cost way to access the nationwide network.

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) operate on the main US networks, so you'll receive the same quality coverage at half the cost.

We've broken down the data only SIM cards available with AT&T MVNOs to help you find your best deal.

Image of cell phone with Boost Mobile
Boost Mobile 2GB SIM card
Best prepaid AT&T data only SIM card
Image of cell phone with Boost Mobile
Boost Mobile Unlimited SIM card
Best AT&T data SIM card for hotspots

Best prepaid AT&T data only SIM card

Boost Mobile 2GB SIM card

Image of cell phone with Boost Mobile
  • AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
  • No talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
2GB
data
$10/mo
4 Read our Boost Mobile review
$780 in annual savings

Best AT&T data SIM card for hotspots

Boost Mobile Unlimited SIM card

Image of cell phone with Boost Mobile
  • AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
  • No talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
Unlimited
data
$12.50/mo*
$25/mo
See at Boost Mobile

*50% Off 1st Mth

4 Read our Boost Mobile review
$612.50 in annual savings

How to choose the best value prepaid data plan on AT&T

  1. Network coverage: Low-cost carriers operate on the same 5G & 4G LTE networks as major carriers. T-Mobile boasts the fastest 5G speeds, according to this Opensignal 5G experience report 2023. If there's a particular network you prefer, choose an MVNO that operates on that network. Use our coverage checker to find the best carrier coverage in your area.
  2. Data allowance: 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 you won't use a lot of data for things like video streaming, and your 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 data.
  3. Hotspot data: Most carriers allow mobile hotspot use but have a data cap on the amount of data that can be used via tethering. The limit depends on the carrier and plan you choose. Some carriers offer specific mobile hotspot plans.
  4. Price: While big wireless unlimited plans cost around $75-90 per month, MVNOs offer the best prepaid data 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, whereas the major providers, such as Verizon and AT&T, don't.
  5. Number of lines: With big wireless, you only get the advertised price if you buy 4 lines. With MVNOs, the price you see is the price you pay, even for one line. Many low-cost carriers now offer additional discounts for multi-line plans.
  6. Bring your own device or buy new: While the big three love keeping their customers locked into a constant device upgrade cycle, MVNOs encourage you to bring your own device. This means you take back control and only change your device when it suits you.
  7. Deals & promotions: Big wireless promotions can seem good at a glance. But once you read the fine print, it often leads to buying things you don't need and committing to 3-year contracts. Many MVNOs offer short-term introductory discounts for new customers, and their pricing is much more transparent.
  8. Perks & add-ons: Most big wireless plans include "free" TV subscriptions; 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.
  9. No contracts: Low-cost carriers have no contracts, offering more flexibility. However, some, like Mint Mobile, require you to sign up for a 3-month plan minimum, but their cheap data plans still offer better value for money than the big 3 wireless carriers.

Compare the best data SIM card plans to ensure you find the best deal.


AT&T network coverage

When it comes to 5G network coverage, T-Mobile scores the highest, according to the J.D. Power 2023 wireless network study with AT&T coming in 2nd and Verizon 3rd.

If AT&T isn't giving you the best coverage, check out the best T-Mobile data only plans and Verizon data only plans.


Comparing AT&T data only SIM plans

With an AT&T MVNO, you'll find the best data only plans for tablets and other mobile gadgets.

There's a variety of prepaid data plans, so you'll find something suitable for everyone, whether it's for watching Netflix, checking emails, or browsing the internet.

  • Nationwide coverage: Smaller cell phone carriers operate on the exact same networks as the big three carriers. Many already offer 5G network coverage, where it's available at no extra cost.
  • High-speed data: Get hotspot services on the same networks the big providers use. You'll get the same lightning-fast hotspot speeds you're used to, ideal for streaming video and playing games.
  • Much lower prices: AT&T MVNOs have lower overhead costs because most of them operate solely online. That means you pay less for your mobile internet plan.
  • No contracts: Low-cost carriers don't make you sign contracts. Switch carriers any time you find a better deal on a mobile hotspot plan.
  • Bring your own device: No need to buy an expensive hotspot from the carrier. Bring your own device to save even more money.
  • Customize your plan: Choose the data only plan that fits your needs. Get anywhere from 1 GB of data per month all the way up to unlimited.
  • Great customer support: Customer service ratings are consistently higher with MVNOs.

SIM cards for international travelers

In the quest for affordable and flexible communication, especially when traveling, prepaid SIM cards have become a pivotal part of helping to stay connected. For travelers jetting from the USA to Europe and other various countries, the GSM technology underlying most prepaid SIM cards ensures phone compatibility, catering to both iPhone, Android, and other smartphones.

Whether you're looking to buy a new SIM card on arrival or opt for a travel SIM card, either is a great option. Also, if your phone is compatible, an eSIM can make this process even easier.

However, your current carrier may offer international plans, but they usually come with a hefty price tag. The best option can be getting a local SIM card, which presents a cost-effective option, often providing a substantial GB of data, free mobile hotspot data, and local call minutes, which are invaluable for internet access to navigate via Google Maps or stay connected through WhatsApp and Skype.

A new SIM card can offer an ideal plan tailored for each destination and guarantee the best rates.


How to switch SIM cards

To remove the SIM card from your AT&T device, all you need is the SIM card remover tool provided to you when you bought your device or a small paper clip.

  1. If using the paperclip, unfold it and gently insert the end into the small pinhole in the SIM tray.
  2. Press gently until the SIM tray pops up, you do not need to use much pressure.
  3. Pull the SIM tray out gently, be careful the SIM card does not fall out.
  4. Swap your SIM card over, ensuring you have aligned the SIM correctly.
  5. Re-insert the SIM tray into the device.

Compare cheap prepaid AT&T data SIM plans

Carrier Network Data Price
Good2Go Mobile 1GB SIM card AT&T 5G/4G Coverage 1GB $5/mo
Good2Go Mobile 3GB SIM card AT&T 5G/4G Coverage 3GB $10/mo
Boost Mobile 2GB SIM card AT&T 5G/4G Coverage 2GB $10/mo
Red Pocket 1GB SIM card AT&T 5G/4G Coverage 1GB $10/mo
Boost Mobile Unlimited SIM card AT&T 5G/4G Coverage Unltd $12.50/mo $25/mo

AT&T data SIM card FAQs


Recap: What is the best data SIM on AT&T?

Saving money on a data only SIM card is easy with AT&T MVNOs, their low-cost plans and the same quality coverage means there are no sacrifices.

On average, we only use around 5GB of data per month, so do you really need all that unlimited data? You could even opt for a cheaper plan by choosing a set data limit.

Data SIM card guides

How we picked the best AT&T data only plans

MoneySavingPro reviewed the best value data only plans available on AT&T's network and ranked them based on various factors.

The most important factor we considered was the price of each plan in comparison to other similar plans available in the market. We also evaluated data limits, network coverage, perks, customer feedback, and overall service quality.

We regularly monitor the market to keep track of new products and plan changes offered by carriers. This list is updated at least once a month or more frequently as necessary.

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