The 5 best prepaid data plans for iPads in 2023
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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.
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5G wireless networks, cell phone plans, cell phone deals, MVNOs, internet services, tablets, comparison shopping, money saving, reviewing telecom products & services
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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.
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Last updated on November 15th, 2023
We compared the best prepaid iPad data 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 30GB: Best free trial
- Tello 2GB: Best cheap iPad data plan
- Boost Mobile 5GB: Best prepaid iPad data plan
- Mint Mobile 20GB: Best data only plan
- Boost Infinite Unlimited: Best unlimited iPad data plan
- Tello 5GB: Best BYOD plan for iPads
- Boost Mobile Unlimited: Best AT&T iPad data plan
- Mint Mobile 15GB: Best T-Mobile iPad data plan
- US Mobile 2GB: Best Verizon iPad data plan
- Tello Unlimited: Best 5G data plan
Table of contents
- Cheap prepaid iPad plans in December
- How to choose the best prepaid iPad 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?
- The best prepaid T-Mobile iPad plan
- The best prepaid AT&T iPad plan
- The best prepaid Verizon iPad plan
- Compare the cheapest prepaid iPad data plans
- Prepaid iPad data plans FAQs
- What is the best prepaid cellular data plan for an iPad?
- Who has the cheapest prepaid iPad data plan?
- Recap: What is the best prepaid iPad data plan?
- Prepaid plan guides
- MoneySavingPro methodology
1. Best free trial: US Mobile 30GB
- 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
- 30GB data
- $350 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the US Mobile 30GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
FREE*
$50/mo*30 Day FREE Trial
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 cheap iPad data 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
- $828 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.
$6/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 plans for ipads.
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 prepaid iPad data plan: 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 for ipads.
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 only plan: 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
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 byod 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 iPad data 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 plans for ipad.
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 for iPads: 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
- $780 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.
$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
7. Best AT&T iPad data 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 1st Mth
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 ipad 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 iPad data 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
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 ipad data 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 iPad data 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*
*30 Day FREE Trial
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 ipad data 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 5G 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
- $600 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.
$25/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 5g hotspot 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 prepaid iPad plans in December
Find the best prepaid data plans for iPad with a Mobile Virtual Network Operator like US Mobile or Red Pocket.
MVNOs are low-cost carriers that are powered by the main US networks, so you'll receive the same coverage, but at half the price. So your iPad data-only plan doesn't have to be another expensive monthly cost.
We've selected the best prepaid data plans for iPads below to help find the ideal plan for you.
How to choose the best prepaid iPad 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.
The best prepaid T-Mobile iPad plan
T-Mobile vs Tello 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 | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Tello | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $25/mo | $300/yr |
| Savings | $50/mo | $600/yr | ||
Check out our review of the best prepaid T-Mobile iPad plans
The best prepaid AT&T iPad 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 prepaid AT&T iPad plans
The best prepaid Verizon iPad plan
- Verizon & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks
- No talk and text
- 30GB data
Verizon vs US Mobile comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $350 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 | 30GB | $50/mo | $550/yr |
| Savings | $25/mo | $350/yr | ||
Check out our review of the best prepaid Verizon iPad plans
Compare the cheapest prepaid iPad data plans
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Mobile 30GB data plan | Verizon & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 30GB | $0/mo $50/mo |
| Tello 2GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 2GB | $6/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 |
Prepaid iPad data plans FAQs
Yes, you can purchase a cellular data plan from numerous low-cost carriers.
The cheapest iPad data plans are available from low-cost carriers, such as US Mobile, Tello, and Red Pocket. They have data plans starting at $5 per month.
Recap: What is the best prepaid iPad data plan?
Getting an iPad SIM card is simple with MVNOs. You choose your plan online, and your SIM card kit is sent directly to your door. You'll be up and running in a few days.
Some MVNOs offer a mobile hotspot allowance, so you can use your iPad as a separate hotspot device to tether to your laptop when there's no Wi-Fi available.
Operating on the main wireless networks, Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, you'll get access to their 4G LTE data speeds and the fast 5G speeds where it's available.
Prepaid plan guides
- The 5 Best Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The 5 Best Prepaid Unlimited Data Plans
- The 5 Best Prepaid Family Phone Plans
- Best Pay As You Go Phone Plans
- 10 Cheap Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The Best Verizon Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The Best AT&T Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The Best T-Mobile Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The 5 Best Prepaid Data Plans for Tablets
- The 5 Best Prepaid Data Plans for iPads
- The 5 Best Prepaid Hotspot 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.