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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With so much choice these days, finding the best cell phone plan can feel overwhelming, but that's where MoneySavingPro can help.
When it comes to cell phone plans we believe in saving you money and transparency which is why we love MVNOs - Mobile Virtual Network Operators.
These low-cost carriers are becoming more popular because they provide the same coverage by operating on the main US networks at half the price.
We've broken it down for you below, to help you find your perfect cell phone plan that could save you up to $600 a year.
Tello 1GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 1GB data for only $10 per month. Tello plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Tello review
Twigby 4GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 4GB data for only $10 per month. Twigby plans offers wireless coverage on the Verizon 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Twigby review
US Mobile 5GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 5GB data for only $15 per month. US Mobile plans offers wireless coverage on the Verizon & T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networks. Read US Mobile review
Mint Mobile 15GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 15GB data for only $20 per month. Mint Mobile plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Mint Mobile review
Boost Mobile Unlimited plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and unlimited data for only $12.50 per month. Boost Mobile plans offers wireless coverage on the AT&T & T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networks. Read Boost Mobile review
Want to stay on the same network, keep your phone and number, plus get greater flexibility?
Yep. You've got it. Forget the major carriers. Plans include everything you need but come at a much better price with an MVNO.
Same great nationwide coverage: These cell phone carriers operate on the very same networks as the big three carriers.
Much lower prices: Save up to $600 per year on your cell phone plan. Why are MVNOs so much cheaper? They don't have the huge overhead and advertising costs the big guys do.
No contracts: Don't get trapped into a two-year agreement. Switch carriers when you decide.
Same cell phone service: Just because you're paying less, that doesn't mean you have to scrimp on features. Plans with unlimited everything are easy to find from these prepaid carriers. Usually, a low-cost carrier plan comes with unlimited talk and text as standard, high-speed data, and even mobile hotspot data features.
Keep your phone and number: You can bring your own phone and keep your phone number. No need to sign up for pricey device payments.
Customize your plan: You decide how much data you need. Choose to pay as you go, opt for unlimited or no data, minimal minutes, or unlimited talk text and data. Unlimited data plans come at a much better price with an alternative carrier. Pick the plan options that fit your budget - not the one your carrier thinks you need.
Great customer support: Smaller mobile providers are known for their attention to their customers. Stop feeling like an anonymous number getting lost in the crowd! Check out our carrier user reviews before switching.
4G LTE & 5G data speeds: Since MVNOs operate on the big three cellular networks you'll pay less without sacrificing speed. More and more are adding 5G coverage all the time so you can expect high-speed data.
Unlimited talk and text messaging: Finding a new unlimited plan has never been easier. Virtually all small carriers include unlimited text and calling in their plan options.
International calls to Canada and Mexico: International calling is a must for many people. Luckily MVNOs offer some of the best international phone plans, with free calling to certain countries like Canada and Mexico, and discounted rates on others.
Wi-Fi calling: This feature is handy when you're out of your service area, allowing you to make calls over the internet instead of on your cellular connection.
Tethering/hotspot data: Many low-cost carriers allow you to use your phone as a hotspot. Pick an MVNO with the best mobile hotspot plans so you can share your mobile hotspot data with other devices.
HD video streaming: Just like the big guys, some MVNOs offer HD video streaming and some don't. Read the fine print to find the option you want.
Which cell phone plan is best for you?
Unlimited plans: Looking for unlimited talk text and data? Alternative carriers have got you covered. Data-hungry users looking for unlimited data can save serious money by switching to one of the best unlimited data plans. Not sure how much data you need? Check out our data usage calculator.
Basic plans: If you (or a loved one) only use a cell phone to make a few calls, send a couple of messages, and rarely go online then you can opt for a simply prepaid plan. You get basic cell phone functions, an allowance for minutes of talk, and usually around 2GB of data at a great price. Once you run out of your data allotment, speeds slow, but it's usually very easy to add on more.
Bring your own phone plans:BYOP plans are the norm with smaller carriers. Compare cell phone prices and get a great deal to go with your cheap cell phone plan!
Talk and text only plans: Don't need data? No problem with talk and text plans. Bonus, you'll save a ton of money if you're not paying for data!
How we picked the best individual cell phone plans
MoneySavingPro reviewed the best value cell phone plans for 1 line 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.
Phone plans for one FAQs
What is the best cell phone plan for one person?
The best single line plan depends on your needs and budget. MVNOs running on the main US networks offer the best value for money, providing access to nationwide coverage but with plans starting from $10 a month.
Who has the cheapest unlimited plan for one?
Low-cost carriers like Mint Mobile offer fully unlimited plans from around $30. These cheaper carriers run on the main telecom networks giving you access to the same quality coverage you're used to at half the cost.
How much is a phone bill for one person?
It can vary depending what features you need included, but a cell phone plan with an MVNO like Red Pocket or Ultra Mobile can range from $10 to around $70.
Recap
MVNOs can save you hundreds of dollars a year on your cell phone bill without sacrificing your coverage. And with a variety of options, you can find a customized plan to fit your needs.
With no contracts and cheap prices, it's now easier than ever to find the best cell phone plans and if your needs change you can cancel at any time without worrying about early termination fees.
Bringing your own phone can save you even more money, but if you do want to purchase the latest handset some MVNOs offer 0% interest over two years.
It's always a good idea to compare cell phone plans to ensure that you're getting the best deal.
