The 5 best data only plans 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 15th, 2023
We compared the best data only plans on the AT&T, Verizon & T-Mobile networks: Cut your bill by $600/yr.
We helped over 2 million users compare cell phone plans in 2022
We've reviewed 30 carriers & compared over 120 phone plans
Over 15 years of experience helping people save money on their phone bills
Top plans list
- US Mobile Unlimited: Best cheap data only plan
- Tello 2GB: Best prepaid data only plan
- Boost Mobile 5GB: Best data plan for iPads
- Mint Mobile 20GB: Best data plan for hotspots
- Boost Infinite Unlimited: Best unlimited data only plan
- Tello 5GB: Best BYOD plan
- Boost Mobile Unlimited: Best AT&T data only plan
- Mint Mobile 15GB: Best T-Mobile data only plan
- US Mobile 2GB: Best Verizon data only plan
- Tello Unlimited: Best eSIM data plan
Table of contents
- Cheap data only plans in December
- How to choose the best data plan
- 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 device or buy a new one?
- Are there any promotions?
- What perks are included?
- How long is the contract?
- Best T-Mobile data only plan
- Best Verizon data only plan
- Best AT&T data only plan
- Compare the cheapest data only plans
- Data only plans FAQS
- Who has the best data only plan?
- Who has the cheapest unlimited data only plan?
- Recap: What is the best data only plan?
- Data plan guides
- MoneySavingPro methodology
1. Best cheap data only plan: US Mobile Unlimited
- 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.
- No talk and text
- Unlimited data
- $400 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the US Mobile Unlimited vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
FREE*
$50/mo* FREE 50 Day Trial + $50 Gift Card
US Mobile data only plans offer affordable access to the Verizon and T-Mobile networks for your tablet, iPad, or mobile hotspot device.
With good customer service, they don't lock you into any lengthy contracts, giving you the freedom to amend your plan at any time. Check out our review about the best free eSIM service.
Pros
- T-Mobile and Verizon 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Wide range of data options
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- International roaming is an extra cost
- Mobile hotspot allowance only available on unlimited plans
- US Mobile stands out for its customer service approach, providing 24/7 support through phone or online chat.
- They offer streaming options as extra benefits, including the Disney Plus bundle featuring Hulu and ESPN, HBO Max, Apple TV, Spotify Family, PlayStation Plus, and more for gamers and music enthusiasts.
- To access these perks, you must be on an unlimited plan with at least three additional lines. The subscription costs are paid upfront but are credited back to you every three months via Autopay once payment is verified, lasting for a maximum of 12 months.
- However, if you frequently travel and require reliable international coverage, US Mobile may not be the most suitable choice due to expensive add-on packages for roaming costs abroad.
2. Best prepaid data only plan: Tello 2GB
- 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.
- No talk and text
- 2GB data
- $780 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Tello 2GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$10/mo
With Tello data-only plans there are no hidden charges or lengthy contracts, accommodating everyone from occasional to heavy data users. Check out our review about 10 cheap data only plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 4G LTE and 5G coverage
- Wide range of data choices
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- Powered by T-Mobile's network, offering unbeatable benefits without breaking the bank.
- Build your own plan based on your data usage to save money.
- Being online-based means you can order your SIM card conveniently at home.
- Cheap data only plans that are perfect for iPad, tablet, or mobile hotspot devices.
3. Best data plan for iPads: 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.
- No 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 data only plans allow customers to enjoy the same 5G & 4G LTE network coverage on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks at a significantly lower cost.
Whether you're a casual or heavy user, there's a wide range of data allowances available, starting from 2GB and going all the way up to unlimited. Check out our review about the 5 best prepaid data plans.
Pros
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE coverage
- Wide range of data options
- Mobile hotspot access
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- International roaming is limited
- Boost Mobile offers various data allowances, including unlimited plans that provide up to 30GB of high-speed data for customers who require a significant amount of data usage.
- If mobile hotspot data is important to you, it's advisable to verify if your data-only plan includes this feature.
- Their international roaming options are limited and come at an extra expense. However, by utilizing an eSIM, customers have the option to add international roaming for over 100 countries.
4. Best data plan for hotspots: Mint Mobile 20GB
- 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.
- No talk and text
- 20GB data
- $675 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Mint Mobile 20GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$12.50/mo*
$25/mo* 50% Off - $75 for 6 Mths Service
Mint Mobile data only plans have 5G and 4G LTE wireless coverage powered by the T-Mobile network, giving the same great service at a more affordable price.
Their range of data allowances includes an unlimited plan with up to 40GB of high-speed data. By committing for longer, you can save even more money. Check out our review about the 5 best mobile hotspot plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Wide range of data options
- Free mobile hotspot with all plans
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- Limited customer service
- 3-month minimum sign-up
- Mint Mobile offers high-speed data plans with 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage powered by T-Mobile.
- Mobile hotspot access is included with all plans, allowing you to tether your phone to other devices. There is a 10GB hotspot data limit on the unlimited plan.
- A 3-month minimum commitment is required, with 3, 6, and 12-month pricing plans available after the initial period. The longer you stay, the more you save.
- A hassle-free 7-day money-back guarantee is available.
- You can bring your own device and use the Mint Mobile app to monitor usage easily.
- International roaming comes at an extra cost.
5. Best unlimited data only plan: Boost Infinite Unlimited
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks Boost Infinite 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.
- No talk and text
- Unlimited data
- $600 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Boost Infinite Unlimited vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$25/mo*
* $25/mo Forever
Introducing the Boost Infinite plan - a single, all-inclusive package at a fixed price. Powered by the reliable AT&T and T-Mobile networks, Boost Infinite offers simplicity and convenience. For just $25, you can enjoy 5G connectivity on one of the leading networks, with unlimited data (up to 30GB of high-speed data). Check out our review about the 5 best unlimited data only plans.
Pros
- AT&T and T-Mobile 4G LTE and 5G coverage
- Unlimited plan (capped at 30GB high-speed data)
- Set price of $25 a month
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- International features are an add-on
- For just $25, enjoy unlimited talk, text, and data (up to 30GB of high-speed data).
- There are no unexpected charges or undisclosed fees, only taxes. And there's no contract, so you can switch whenever you wish.
- Boost Infinite offers roaming in Mexico and Canada (with a limit of 1GB) but at an extra cost.
6. Best BYOD plan: Tello 5GB
- 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.
- No talk and text
- 5GB data
- $720 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Tello 5GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$15/mo
With Tello data-only plans there are no hidden charges or lengthy contracts, accommodating everyone from occasional to heavy data users. Check out our review about the 5 best byod plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 4G LTE and 5G coverage
- Wide range of data choices
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
7. Best AT&T data only plan: Boost Mobile Unlimited
- 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.
- No talk and text
- Unlimited data
- $612.50 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Boost Mobile Unlimited vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$12.50/mo*
$25/mo* 50% Off First Month
Boost Mobile data only plans allow customers to enjoy the same 5G & 4G LTE network coverage on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks at a significantly lower cost.
Whether you're a casual or heavy user, there's a wide range of data allowances available, starting from 2GB and going all the way up to unlimited. Check out our review about the best AT&T data only plans.
Pros
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE coverage
- Wide range of data options
- Mobile hotspot access
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- International roaming is limited
8. Best T-Mobile data only plan: Mint Mobile 15GB
- 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.
- No talk and text
- 15GB data
- $720 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Mint Mobile 15GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$10/mo*
$20/mo* 50% Off - $60 for 6 Mths Service
Mint Mobile data only plans have 5G and 4G LTE wireless coverage powered by the T-Mobile network, giving the same great service at a more affordable price.
Their range of data allowances includes an unlimited plan with up to 40GB of high-speed data. By committing for longer, you can save even more money. Check out our review about the best T-Mobile data only plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Wide range of data options
- Free mobile hotspot with all plans
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- Limited customer service
- 3-month minimum sign-up
9. Best Verizon data only plan: US Mobile 2GB
- 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.
- No talk and text
- 2GB data
- $780 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the US Mobile 2GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$10/mo*
* FREE 50 Day Trial + $50 Gift Card
US Mobile data only plans offer affordable access to the Verizon and T-Mobile networks for your tablet, iPad, or mobile hotspot device.
With good customer service, they don't lock you into any lengthy contracts, giving you the freedom to amend your plan at any time. Check out our review about the best Verizon data only plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile and Verizon 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Wide range of data options
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- International roaming is an extra cost
- Mobile hotspot allowance only available on unlimited plans
10. Best eSIM data plan: 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.
- No 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
With Tello data-only plans there are no hidden charges or lengthy contracts, accommodating everyone from occasional to heavy data users. Check out our review about the 5 best tablet data plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 4G LTE and 5G coverage
- Wide range of data choices
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
Cheap data only plans in December
No matter how much data you need, you'll find the best data only plans from a Mobile Virtual Network Operator who could save you hundreds of dollars without compromising quality.
MVNOs operate on the same cell towers as the major providers, but with plans at half the price, they offer the best budget option.
We've compared the cheapest data only plans from MVNOs to help you find the best options for you.
How to choose the best data plan
What network coverage do you prefer?
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.
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 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. 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 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.
What's the monthly 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.
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 additional discounts for multi-line plans.
Can I bring my own device or buy a new one?
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.
Are there any 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.
What perks are included?
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.
How long is the contract?
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 cheap data plans to ensure you find the best deal.
Best T-Mobile data only plan
T-Mobile vs Tello comparison
Keep your T-Mobile phone, number & coverage: Save $552 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Tello | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $29/mo | $348/yr |
| Savings | $46/mo | $552/yr | ||
Check out our review of the best T-Mobile data only plans
Best Verizon data only plan
- Verizon & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks
- No talk and text
- Unlimited data
Verizon vs US Mobile comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $400 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | Verizon 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| US Mobile | Verizon 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $50/mo | $500/yr |
| Savings | $25/mo | $400/yr | ||
Check out our review of the best Verizon data only plans
Best AT&T data only plan
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks
- Unlimited talk and text
- Unlimited data
AT&T vs Boost Mobile comparison
Keep your AT&T phone, number & coverage: Save $612 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | AT&T 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Boost Mobile | AT&T 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $25/mo | $288/yr |
| Savings | $50/mo | $612/yr | ||
Check out our review of the best AT&T data only plans
Compare the cheapest data only plans
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Mobile unlimited data plan | Verizon & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $0/mo $50/mo |
| Tello 2GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 2GB | $10/mo |
| Boost Mobile 5GB data plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $5/mo $15/mo |
| Mint Mobile 20GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 20GB | $12.50/mo $25/mo |
| Boost Infinite unlimited data plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $25/mo |
Data only plans FAQS
The best value data only plans are available from low-cost carriers such as Tello, Mint Mobile, and US Mobile, with plans ranging from just $6-30 per month.
Tello offers the cheapest unlimited data only plan, it costs only $29 per month.
Recap: What is the best data only plan?
With Mobile Virtual Network Operators, you'll find a low price on a data-only plan without sacrificing features or coverage.
Data-only plans are a great way to stay connected to the internet using cellular service when there's no Wi-Fi available.
Operating on the main wireless networks, you'll get the same internet speed with 4G LTE data or 5G speeds, where it's available.
Data plan guides
- The 5 Best Data Only Plans
- The 5 Best Tablet Data Plans
- The 5 Best Mobile Hotspot Plans
- The 5 Best MiFi Plans
- The 5 Best BYOD Plans
- The 5 Best Prepaid Data Plans
- The 5 Best Unlimited Hotspot Plans
- The 5 Best 5G Hotspot Plans
- The Best Verizon Data Only Plans
- The Best AT&T Data Only Plans
- The Best T-Mobile Data Only Plans
MoneySavingPro methodology
MoneySavingPro is dedicated to analyzing and comparing hundreds of cell phone plans from over 30 carriers to help you find the best value plan based on your individual needs without sacrificing service coverage.
Contrary to what the big 3 wireless companies would like you to believe - one size certainly does not fit all. Our goal is to help you save money by providing affordable alternatives to the expensive unlimited plans from Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.
With over 15 years of experience working within the telecommunications industry, we believe that big wireless plans offer limited choice with pricing and fees that lack transparency, often resulting in ever-increasing phone bills and long phone contracts for many of their customers. This is why you won't find recommendations for any of the big 3 wireless companies on MoneySavingPro - even though this actually costs us money.
The carriers we do recommend have been researched and evaluated based on price, coverage, data limits, customer service, and additional features. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive view that balances cost and value, helping you find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
We did consider these other alternatives: Cricket Wireless, Total by Verizon, Xfinity Mobile, Spectrum Mobile, Straight Talk, Tracfone, Metro by T-Mobile, Visible, Google Fi, and Consumer Cellular, but we discounted them because we still don't consider these to be good value for money.
We regularly update our comparisons. Updating cell phone plans weekly and our content monthly to ensure we are showing the latest and most accurate information.