Best Prepaid Data SIM Cards 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.
Rob's Expertise
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.
Amanda's Expertise
Writing, editing, proofreading, researching, blogging, collaborating, communicating, CMS, eSIMs, MVNOs, 5G home internet & comparison
Last updated on November 6th, 2023
We compared cheap data only SIM plans with 4G LTE & 5G coverage: Switch & save $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 SIM card with free trial
- Tello 2GB: Best data only SIM card
- Boost Mobile 5GB: Best prepaid SIM card for tablets
- Mint Mobile 20GB: Best prepaid SIM card for iPads
- Boost Infinite Unlimited: Best prepaid SIM card for hotspots
Table of contents
- Cheapest data only SIM plans in December
- How to choose the best value prepaid data SIM plan
- The cheapest prepaid data SIM on T-Mobile
- The cheapest prepaid data SIM on Verizon
- The cheapest prepaid data SIM on AT&T
- Comparing prepaid data SIM cards
- Data SIM cards for international travelers
- Compare cheap prepaid data SIM plans
- Prepaid data SIM card FAQs
- Can I get a prepaid data SIM card?
- What is the best prepaid data SIM card?
- What is the cheapest prepaid data SIM card?
- Recap: What is the best prepaid data SIM?
- Data SIM card guides
- MoneySavingPro methodology
1. Best SIM card with free trial: 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*50 Day FREE Trial
US Mobile SIM cards provide budget-friendly SIMs that are powered by the Verizon and T-Mobile networks, accompanied by excellent customer support and customizable features.
You have the ability to create personalized SIM card plans that cater to your specific requirements, including unlimited talk and text, as well as international roaming capabilities. Additionally, they do not impose restrictive long-term contracts, granting you the flexibility to switch or modify your SIM card plan at any time. Check out our review about best free SIM card.
Pros
- T-Mobile and Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Free trial available
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- TV, music, & gaming subscription perks on unlimited plans
Cons
- International calling is an extra cost
- International roaming is an extra cost
- Mobile hotspot allowance only available on unlimited plans
- US Mobile offers a unique customer service approach with 24/7 support via phone or online chat.
- Test out their service with a free trial.
- Family plans offer significant savings on cell phone bills with multi-line discounts available.
- Their international coverage has drawbacks. Add-on packages for roaming can be costly, and international calling rates may be higher than other carriers.
- Streaming service perks are available with unlimited SIM card plans of at least three lines, with perks including Disney Plus bundle with Hulu and ESPN, HBO Max, Apple TV, Spotify Family, PlayStation Plus, and more.
- Perks are available to new or existing US Mobile customers, and the subscription cost must be paid by the customer and verified every three months. The cost will be credited to the account via Autopay for up to a maximum of 12 months.
2. Best data only SIM card: 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 a Tello SIM card, you'll get access to a straightforward wireless service that eliminates any hidden fees or binding long-term contracts.
With every SIM card, you can enjoy free international calls to over 60 countries, including Canada and Mexico, along with a variety of data options designed for both casual and frequent users. Check out our review about best data only SIM card.
Pros
- T-Mobile 4G LTE and 5G coverage
- Free international calling to 60+ countries
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
Cons
- No international roaming
- No multi-line discounts
- Tello SIM cards are cost-effective for all budgets. You can customize your plan based on your usage and select the number of minutes, texts, and data that suits you.
- Check your monthly data usage before purchasing a SIM card, as opting for a set data plan could lead to even greater savings.
- Tello operates on T-Mobile's network, so you can enjoy all its exceptional advantages without breaking the bank.
- There are no discounts for multiple-line purchases, and each line will be billed at full price as an individual line, but it still saves hundreds of dollars due to the low cost of their individual plans.
- Ordering your new Tello SIM card is as simple as a few clicks, and it will be delivered straight to you.
3. Best prepaid SIM card for tablets: 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 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 prepaid SIM card for tablets.
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.
4. Best prepaid SIM card for iPads: 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 SIM cards are prepaid SIMs on the T-Mobile network, allowing customers to benefit from excellent service at a more affordable price. They offer various data packages, including an unlimited SIM card plan with up to 40GB of high-speed data and unlimited talk and text for all SIM cards.
Mint Mobile's clear communication highlights how customers can achieve greater savings by committing to longer-term plans. Check out our review about best prepaid SIM card for ipads.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Free calls to Mexico and Canada
- Free mobile hotspot with all SIM cards
Cons
- No international roaming
- Limited customer service
- 3-month minimum sign-up
- Mint Mobile offers mobile hotspot access with all SIM cards with a 10GB hotspot data limit on the unlimited plan.
- To sign up for Mint Mobile, you need to commit to a minimum of 3 months upfront. After the initial three months, you can choose from a 3, 6, or 12-month pricing structure.
- They offer a 7-day money-back guarantee with no questions asked.
- You can bring your own device, so there's no need to upgrade to an expensive iPhone. But they also offer options for new smartphones, including iPhones, Samsung, Google Pixel, and more.
- Download the Mint Mobile app to easily track your usage and manage multiple SIM card plans.
- One drawback is that international roaming and calls to countries outside of Canada and Mexico come at an additional cost.
5. Best prepaid SIM card for hotspots: 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
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 prepaid SIM card for hotspots.
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.
Cheapest data only SIM plans in December
You'll find the cheapest prepaid data SIM card deals from low-cost carriers like US Mobile and Mint Mobile.
These low-cost carriers, also known as MVNOs, are powered by the same major networks, but with prices starting as low as $5 a month, you could save up to $600 a year.
At MoneySavingPro, we like to make it as easy as possible to find your perfect prepaid data SIM card, so we've compared the deals available from all MVNOs for you below.
How to choose the best value prepaid data SIM plan
- 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.
The cheapest prepaid data SIM on T-Mobile
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
- No talk and text
- 15GB data
T-Mobile vs Mint Mobile comparison
Keep your T-Mobile phone, number & coverage: Save $720 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Mint Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | 15GB | $20/mo | $180/yr |
| Savings | $55/mo | $720/yr | ||
Check out our review of the best prepaid T-Mobile data SIM card
The cheapest prepaid data SIM on Verizon
- Verizon & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks
- No talk and text
- 12GB data
Verizon vs US Mobile comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $600 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 | 12GB | $25/mo | $300/yr |
| Savings | $50/mo | $600/yr | ||
Check out our review of the best prepaid Verizon data SIM card
The cheapest prepaid data SIM on AT&T
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks
- No 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 data SIM card
Comparing prepaid data SIM cards
There's a range of benefits to choosing a cheap data SIM card from a low-cost carrier, you'll find the cheapest price with an MVNO.
- Lower price: MVNOs offer affordable plans when purchasing a SIM card with one of these low-cost carriers. With all the same options available but at half the price of going direct to one of the big three.
- Same excellent coverage: Being powered by the main networks, you'll get access to the same good coverage.
- No annual contracts: There are no 24 or 36 months commitments or hidden fees with prepaid data SIM cards.
- 4G LTE data speeds: You'll have access to the nationwide 4G LTE data speeds operating on the same wireless networks.
- 5G network: If your mobile device is compatible, you can find deals on 5G SIM cards with low-cost carriers, offering 5G at no extra cost on their data-only SIM cards.
- Unlimited plans: If you use a lot of data for browsing the internet, video streaming, listening to music, or you're looking for a hotspot SIM card for tethering, the good news is you can get unlimited hotspot data for half the price.
- Tablets & iPads: You'll find a range of iPad data SIM cards and tablet data SIM cards to help you stay connected.
- Cellular devices: Whether you're looking for a cheap SIM card for alarm systems or a GPS tracker SIM card MVNOs offer the cheapest solution.
- High-speed hotspot data: Ideal for travelers, you can stay connected on your laptop, even if there's no WiFi using cellular networks.
Data 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.
Compare cheap prepaid data SIM 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 | $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 data SIM card FAQs
Yes. You can get a cheap prepaid data SIM card which is ideal for tablets and iPads. Data only plans start at just $6 per month.
The best prepaid data plan depends on how much data you need and your budget. Estimate how much data you really use so you're only paying for what you need.
The cheapest data SIM card starts at $5 per month. Low-cost carriers have a selection of data plans so you only need to pay for the data you use.
Recap: What is the best prepaid data SIM?
MVNOs like Ultra Mobile offer the cheapest prepaid data SIM card deals while still giving you access to the same quality coverage.
With these prepaid data SIM cards, there's no long-term contract, so you have the freedom to amend your plan or cancel and change carriers at any time.
Depending on how much data you're looking for, you could save hundreds of dollars on a data-only SIM card for your tablet or mobile device.
Data SIM card guides
- Best Data Only SIM Card
- Best Prepaid SIM Card for Hotspots
- Best Prepaid SIM Card for iPads
- Best Prepaid Data SIM Cards
- Best Prepaid SIM Card for Alarm Systems
- Best Prepaid SIM Card for GPS Trackers
- Best Prepaid SIM Card for Tablets
- Best Prepaid T-Mobile Data SIM Card
- Best Prepaid Verizon Data SIM Card
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.