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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Top plans list
- Boost Mobile 2GB SIM card: Best prepaid AT&T data only SIM card
- Boost Mobile Unlimited SIM card: Best AT&T data SIM card for hotspots
- Boost Infinite Unlimited SIM card: Best AT&T unlimited data only SIM card
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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.
My list of recommended tablet SIM cards on AT&T
Best prepaid AT&T data only SIM card
Boost Mobile 2GB SIM card
- AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Boost Mobile SIM cards are prepaid SIMs that operate on both the AT&T and T-Mobile networks.
They come with various data allowances ranging from 2GB to unlimited, and if you require multiple SIM cards for your family members, there are discounted rates available that allow for even greater savings. Check out our review about the cheapest data SIM cards on AT&T.
Pros
- AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Mobile hotspot access
Cons
- No free international calls
- International roaming is limited
- All of Boost Mobile's SIM cards have unlimited talk and text included. They offer unlimited options with up to 30GB of high-speed data for those who use a lot of data.
- They provide a discount on additional lines to save money for families.
- Boost Mobile offers a diverse selection of phones, including the latest models from popular brands such as Apple and Samsung. With 0% financing options over 1-2 years.
- Their international features may not be as comprehensive.
- International roaming options are limited compared to other carriers. In comparison to other carriers, their international roaming options are limited, and making international calls requires an additional add-on.
Best AT&T data SIM card for hotspots
Boost Mobile Unlimited SIM card
- AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Boost Mobile SIM cards are prepaid SIMs that operate on both the AT&T and T-Mobile networks.
They come with various data allowances ranging from 2GB to unlimited, and if you require multiple SIM cards for your family members, there are discounted rates available that allow for even greater savings. Check out our review about best value AT&T hotspot plans.
Pros
- AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Mobile hotspot access
Cons
- No free international calls
- International roaming is limited
Best AT&T unlimited data only SIM card
Boost Infinite Unlimited SIM card
- AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
The Boost Infinite SIM card - a single plan with a fixed price. Boost Infinite ensures simplicity by operating on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks. For just $25, you can experience 5G on one of the major networks through their unlimited SIM card plan (with high-speed data capped at 30GB). Check out our review about best value AT&T unlimited hotspot plans.
Pros
- AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Unlimited SIM card plan (capped at 30GB high-speed data)
- Set price of $25 per month forever
Cons
- No multi-line discounts
- International add-ons available
- For just $25, enjoy unlimited talk, text, and data (up to 30GB of high-speed data).
- There are no surprise charges or hidden fees, only taxes.
- Flexibility to switch plans at any time with no contract.
- Option to add additional features for an extra fee, including roaming in Mexico and Canada (up to 1GB), unlimited international calls to over 80 countries, and text messages to more than 200 countries.
- No additional discounts are available for families looking to join; the cost remains at $25 per person per month.
How to choose the best value prepaid data plan on AT&T
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- If using the paperclip, unfold it and gently insert the end into the small pinhole in the SIM tray.
- Press gently until the SIM tray pops up, you do not need to use much pressure.
- Pull the SIM tray out gently, be careful the SIM card does not fall out.
- Swap your SIM card over, ensuring you have aligned the SIM correctly.
- 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 |
AT&T data SIM card FAQs
AT&T MVNOs offer a variety of prepaid plans. You just purchase a SIM card kit, with no need to upgrade your handset.
AT&T MVNO prepaid plans start from around $10.
When you receive your SIM card, pop it into your device and follow the activation instructions.
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
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- Best Value Prepaid AT&T Data SIM Card
- Best Value Prepaid T-Mobile Data SIM Card
- Best Value Prepaid Verizon Data SIM Card
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.