How to choose the best 5G hotspot 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 T-Mobile 5G hotspot 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 T-Mobile hotspot plans
The best AT&T 5G hotspot 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 hotspot plans
The best Verizon 5G hotspot plan
- Verizon & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks
- No talk and text
- 6GB data
Verizon vs US Mobile comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $684 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 | 6GB | $18/mo | $216/yr |
| Savings | $57/mo | $684/yr | ||
Check out our review of the best Verizon hotspot plans
Network coverage comparison
| NETWORK | OVERALL | RELIABILITY | SPEED | DATA | CALL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon Coverage | 95 | 96 | 94 | 96 | 94 |
| AT&T Coverage | 94 | 94 | 95 | 96 | 92 |
| T-Mobile Coverage | 86 | 88 | 82 | 89 | 82 |
Source: RootMetrics RootScore 2022 report
When it comes to 5G network coverage, T-Mobile scores the highest, according to the J.D. Power 2023 wireless network study.
Carrier customer service comparison
| CARRIER | TRUSTPILOT USER RATING |
|---|---|
| US Mobile TrustPilot score | 4.8 |
| Tello TrustPilot score | 4.4 |
| Red Pocket Mobile TrustPilot score | 4.4 |
| T-Mobile TrustPilot score | 1.5 |
| Verizon TrustPilot score | 1.3 |
| AT&T TrustPilot score | 1.2 |
Comparing 5G hotspot plans
In addition to price, the right mobile hotspot data plan for you depends on several factors:
- Coverage - Mobile coverage used to be a big deal. Now, all of the major mobile networks boast very similar coverage areas. When you're shopping for a data only plan you'll want to look at the 5G coverage in the locations you'll be using your device. If you travel and need mobile data usage during those times check those zip codes as well.
- Speed - You'll want fast internet if you're powering compatible devices like your laptop and tablet. The good news is that most carriers deliver a 5G connection to enabled devices. This means that if your hotspot device or smartphone is capable of handling 5G data speeds then you will have a high-speed connection.
- Data Allowance - Your mobile hotspot usage will inform your decision as to what data allowance you need to buy. Packages are available in various sizes to meet all data usage needs, from 500 MB to unlimited. Of course the smaller the data bucket the less you'll pay. It's easy to add more data if you run out.
Compare the cheapest 5G mobile hotspot plans
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tello 2GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 2GB | $6/mo |
| Tello 5GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $10/mo |
| US Mobile 10GB data plan | Verizon & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 10GB | $15/mo |
| Mint Mobile 15GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 15GB | $15/mo |
| Boost Mobile unlimited data plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $12.50/mo |
How to switch to a cheap hotspot plan
Changing your hotspot data plan is simple and hassle-free.
- Pick a plan. Customize your plan to fit your needs. Get just a little bit or set up your tablet with unlimited data.
- Prepare to make the switch. Make sure your old bill is paid off, and your mobile hotspot is unlocked to use on another carrier.
- Set up your new account. Keep your current mobile hotspot device active until your new one is set up. It should be ready to go if you're buying a new Wi-Fi device. If not, you'll get a new SIM card in the mail or in a store. Just follow your provider's instructions to activate it.
How we picked the best 5G hotspot plans
MoneySavingPro reviewed the best value 5G mobile hotspot plans available 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.
5G hotspot plans FAQs
5G is still in the process of being rolled out and is not accessible for some people, so it's not likely anytime soon. WiFi works well to compliment 5G as there are many devices that can connect to WiFi but not cellular.
There's a number of unlimited mobile hotspot plans available, and you can save money with an MVNO offering plans starting from around $30 per month.
Recap: What is the best 5G hotspot data plan?
A 5G hotspot plan can give you peace of mind to make sure you have an internet connection when you're away from home.
As long as you have coverage with your cell phone provider, you can access 5G speeds to connect your laptop or tablet to the internet, even when there's no WiFi.
MVNOs can save you up to $600 a year on a WiFi hotspot plan, and operating on the main wireless networks provides you with the same quality coverage.
Data plan guides
- Best Data Only Plans
- Best Tablet Data Plans
- Best iPad Data Plans
- Best Mobile Hotspot Plans
- Best MiFi Plans
- Best BYOD Plans
- Best Prepaid Data Plans
- Best Unlimited Hotspot Plans
- Best Value AT&T 5G Hotspot Plans
- The Cheapest Data Only Plans on Verizon
- The Cheapest Data Only Plans on AT&T
- The Cheapest Data Only Plans on T-Mobile
How we choose the best providers and data plans
To select the best carriers and data plans, MoneySavingPro's team of experts evaluated over 30 different carriers.
Carriers were rated in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. We then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:
- Value for money: We compare carriers based on price, features, benefits, and promotions. It's not just about the lowest price but getting the most bang for your buck.
- Coverage: We look at network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US. We use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
- Customer experience: We take into account items such as current user experience, website and app usability, ease of switching, and customer service in terms of availability, channels, and satisfaction ratings.
- Transparency: We assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. We examine the fine print to check for hidden fees, confusing terms or conditions, and misleading offers to ensure upfront, honest prices and advertising.
- Range of choice: We evaluate the diversity of plan options to determine if they fit the individual needs of all customers.
Read more about our carrier ratings methodology and our editorial process.
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.
