Best Unlimited Data Plans of 2021

The best unlimited cell phone plans in April

Table of Contents

• Unlimited data plan benefits
• Unlimited data plan features
• Carrier coverage comparison
• Carrier customer service comparison
• Unlimited data plan types

Check Carrier CoverageSee Deals

Unlimited data plan benefits

If you use your phone a lot when you're away from Wi Fi then you know how important it is to have a lot of data.

Play more unlimited games and watch more of your favorite shows without spending a fortune on your wireless service.

The best way to save money on cell phone plans is to switch to a smaller carrier. These providers are called MVNOs or mobile virtual network operators. They use the big wireless networks to give you cheaper unlimited data plans.

• Same great coverage: Alternative carriers like Mint Mobile and Tello rent space on the major wireless networks and sell it for less. So you get the very same nationwide coverage and high speed data as usual.

• Much lower prices: MVNOs typically operate completely online. This keeps their overhead and marketing costs down. The result is that you save up to 50% off your unlimited plan costs.

• Same great service: Don't sacrifice premium features just for a cheaper plan. Smaller carrier plans include unlimited talk text and data just like the major carriers. Plus, providers like US Mobile offer perks and extras like free Apple Music or HBO Max.

• No contracts: It's no fun getting stuck in a long term commitment with an expensive carrier. Compare no contract phone plans and keep your freedom. Leave whenever you're ready.

• Keep your phone and phone number: Low cost carriers wrote the book on bring your own phone plans. They make your switch hassle free and port your number over for you.

• Customize your plan: One of our favorite things about MVNOs is that they help you avoid overpaying for things you don't need. You pick how much texting, calling and data you need. Need plans for 2 lines or more? Design each one exactly the way you want.

T-Mobile vs Mint Mobile Plan Comparison

Keep your T-Mobile phone, number & coverage: Save $360 per year

Unlimited data plan features

• 4G LTE data and 5G access: MVNOs operate on the AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon networks. So you'll get the benefit of the latest wireless technology. That typically includes 5G nationwide coverage where it's available, at no extra charge.

• Unlimited talk and text messaging: Don't worry about counting every little thing you use. Most low cost carriers include unlimited calling and texting. Compare cheap talk and text plans with or without data.

• International calls to Mexico and Canada: Pick a carrier with plan offers like free calling and texting to Canada and Mexico. Choose from the best international phone plans to get deep discounts on many other countries too.

• Multiline discounts: Smaller carriers are also ideal for plans for 3 lines or more. They have the cheapest family cell phone plans thanks to rock bottom pricing and multi line discounts.

• Wi-Fi calling: Make calls over your internet connection if you're in an area with a weak cellular signal.

• Mobile hotspot data: Love tethering your phone to other devices? Pick an MVNO with the best mobile hotspot plans so you can share your data.

• HD video streaming: Don't miss out on your crisp, clear HD video experience. Read the terms and conditions of each plan as some provide 720p and some 1080p.

Carrier coverage comparison

Choosing the best unlimited data plan depends on several factors. All the features in the world aren't much good unless your network has the best coverage in your area.

Check out the performance ratings of the AT&T network, the T-Mobile network and the Verizon network.

Network performance ratings

Source: Rootmetrics

Best carriers by network

• AT&T unlimited plans carriers: Red Pocket, Pure Talk, and Good2Go Mobile.

• Verizon unlimited plans carriers: US Mobile, Reach Mobile, and Ting.

• T-Mobile unlimited plans carriers: Mint Mobile, Tello, and Boost Mobile.

As we've pointed out your service will be delivered on one of the big three networks. Additionally, most low cost carriers offer 5G phone plans at no extra cost.

Find Cheap Cell Phone Plans in Your AreaSee Deals

Carrier customer service comparison

Yet another benefit of smaller carriers is their high customer service ratings. MVNOs score much better on average than their big provider counterparts. Check out our ratings chart below.

Unlimited data plan types

MVNOs offer pretty much any kind of unlimited plan you need. Choose the

• Bring your own phone plans: Save a ton by going with a BYOP plan. Smaller carriers help you make the switch without any hassle. You can keep your phone number too.

• Single line plans: Shopping for one line can be frustrating. Major carriers charge you more when you're not buying plans for 4 lines. Enjoy discount prices just like everyone else with the best phone plans for individuals.

• Tablet plans: Save on wireless for your other devices with the cheapest data plans for your tablet or iPad.

• Kids plans: Save money on the best phone plans for kids whether they need a lot of data or a little.

• Senior plans: Low cost carriers have everyone in the family covered. Compare cheap cell phone plans for seniors and pay only for what you actually need.

Unlimited data plans comparison chart

Do you actually need unlimited data?

We know the pain of paying for a ton of something and wasting most of it. Like those 500 cable TV channels that gather dust.

The same thing happens with cell phone plans. Most people only use about 3-5GB of mobile data each billing cycle. That means the average wireless customer is paying for way more than they need.

Unlimited data may be the right choice if you:

• Often stream video and/or play games while away from Wi-Fi

• Need frequent internet access for work while on the go

• Often exceed your wireless data cap

• Have a shared data plan

Check out our data usage calculator to figure out how much you actually need. You can also track your data use in the settings of your Android or iPhone.

The thing to remember is that most average smartphone users don't need unlimited data. Most people can save a bundle with a smaller plan - for example, you can get 5 GB for about $20 per month. Compare cheap cell phone plans now.

Is unlimited data really unlimited?

The short answer is no.

Most unlimited data plans give you a set amount of high speed data. Once you go over that you'll drop to 3G speeds or even 2G data. You could also experience slow data speeds if the network is congested.

Just make sure you understand the terms and conditions before choosing the best unlimited plan for you.

Pros and cons of cheap unlimited data plans

Pros

• Same great networks and features: Keep your major wireless network and all the things you love about your service.

• No contracts: Switch carriers any time you find a better deal.

• Flexible plans: Customize plans for everyone in the family, even if you need plans for 5 lines and up.

• Cheaper prices: Compare plans priced at up to half of what you're used to paying.

• 5G network access: Most low cost carriers offer the entire network, including 5G speeds.

Cons

• Unlimited isn't actually unlimited: You may get slower speeds when the network is congested or after you hit your data cap.

What to look for when comparing plans

Sizing up all these options to find the perfect fit can be overwhelming. That's where we come in.

We stay on top of the latest industry information and design tools to help you determine your wireless needs.

Knowing exactly which features really matter to you helps you pick the ideal carrier and plan. Here are some things to consider.

Coverage

Are you on the network that has the strongest wireless signal in your area? That can make a big difference in your satisfaction with your service.

If you're worried that smaller carriers have worse coverage then you can rest easy. MVNOs use the very same cell towers that the major carriers use.

When you're choosing a plan you can rest assured that you'll be getting service on one of the major wireless networks. Choose the AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon network, depending on your preference.

Not sure which network to pick? See which is strongest in your area with our coverage checker.

Data allowance

You might be able to save money by opting for a plan with less data. Our data usage calculator helps you figure out exactly what you need.

If you do decide an unlimited data plan is right for you there are plenty of options. Carriers like Mint Mobile, Ting and Ultra Mobile all offer unlimited plans for way less than the big companies.

Perks and add-ons

Yep - you'll get your choice of the most popular features and extras even though you'll be saving a bundle.

Choose things like international calling add-ons and cashback guarantees. Some carriers give you even deeper discounts just for buying multiple months at one time.

Number of lines

What if you need multiple lines? You're in luck because virtually all smaller carriers give you the ability to manage everything through one account.

Where MVNOs differ is in their wording. Some give you multiline discounts on family plans. Others simply offer low prices for all the lines on your account whether that's one or 10.

Switching to an unlimited data plan

It's actually pretty simple to switch to a cheaper carrier.

1. Pick a carrier. Maybe you want one that runs on a specific network, like T-Mobile. Or maybe you're looking for mobile hotspot use and international calling. There's an MVNO for everyone.

2. Prepare to make the switch. Make sure your old bills are paid up and your phone is unlocked. If you're getting a new device, transferring your stuff to your new phone is simple. Even if you're going from an iPhone to Android, and vice versa.

3. Set up your new plan. Keep your current carrier account open until your number has ported over. Once you're sure your new plan is up and running, cancel your old account. If you bought a cell phone from your new carrier it should be ready to use when it arrives. If you're bringing your own phone you'll get a SIM card kit in the mail or in a store.

Bring your own phone & save even more

Why spend a bunch more money on a new phone if your current one is still in good condition?

Just make sure your phone is unlocked for use with a different carrier. Once you've checked phone compatibility with your new wireless provider you're good to go.

You'll get a prepaid SIM card either in the mail or in a store. Insert it in your device and follow the provider's instructions.

Just make sure you don't cancel your current phone plan until your new plan is active. Your phone number needs to be ported over first so you don't lose it.

Cheap unlimited plan carriers list

Best cell phone deals

So what if you do want to upgrade your phone? We find you the best deals there too. With a prepaid carrier you can save a ton of money by choosing one of these money saving options:

• Bring your own phone. The cheapest cell phone is the one you already own. It's also super simple to keep your phone number.

• Buy a new phone. Save up to 25% off retail when you buy a device through your new carrier.

• Buy a refurbished cell phone. Compare refurbished phone deals to save up to 50% on popular models in great condition.

Compare cell phone prices

Unlimited Data Plan FAQs

Recap

The wireless industry has shifted from carrier focused to consumer friendly. That means huge savings for you.

Compare cheap unlimited data plans from low cost carriers. Save up to $600 per line without sacrificing quality or features. Bring your own phone when you switch to cut your costs even more.

Time for an upgrade? Compare prices to ensure you get the best cell phone deal. Or buy a refurbished phone and save up to 50% on top of the line devices.

MoneySavingPro methodology

We're here to bring transparency to telecoms, putting power back in your hands. This guides everything we do.

• We've got high standards. We use our industry expertise to find carriers that reach these standards. We all deserve the best value for money, choice, and customer experience.

• We care about accuracy. MoneySavingPro is run by cell phone geeks and money saving obsessives. Our content team researches everything thoroughly so that information you read here will give you the whole picture. Everything we do is backed up by the data.

• We keep things simple. It's our job to break down what you need to know, so you can make informed choices.

Carrier	Best for...	Mins	Texts	Data	Price
Mint Mobile	Budget	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	$30/mo
Tello	Family	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	$39/mo
Ting	Prepaid	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	$45/mo
US Mobile	5G	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	$45/mo
Pure Talk	Kids	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	$55/mo
h2o Wireless	Seniors	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	$50/mo
Boost Mobile	Individual	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	$50/mo
Ultra Mobile	International	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	$40/mo