In these uncertain times, the last thing you need is to be stressed by high cell phone bills.
So you'll be pleased to hear that there are much cheaper cell phone plans available that can save you up to $600 per line without sacrificing anything.
We're a group of cell phone geeks and we've analyzed the best cell phone plans from low-cost carriers so you can quickly find the best.
Cell phone service plans
Tello 1GB plan: Best cheap cell phone plans
Reach Mobile 2GB plan: Best prepaid cell phone plans
US Mobile 5GB plan: Best family cell phone plans
Mint Mobile 10GB plan: Best 5G cell phone plans
Mint Mobile Unlimited plan: Best unlimited cell phone plans
Best cheap cell phone plans
- Minutes
- Unlimited
- Texts
- Unlimited
- Data
- 1GB
- Price
- $10/mo
Tello 1GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 1GB data for only $10 per month. Tello plans offer wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network.
| Plan | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|
Tello Unlimited Talk & Text | 0GB | $8 |
Tello 1GB | 1GB | $10 |
Tello 2GB | 2GB | $14 |
Tello 5GB | 5GB | $19 |
Tello 10GB | 10GB | $24 |
Tello Unlimited Data | Unlimited | $29 |
Pros
No contract. No bulk buying.
24/7 friendly customer support
4G LTE/5G nationwide coverage
Free Hotspot & Wi-Fi Calling
Free international calls to 60+ countries
Cons
No roaming
Coverage in rural areas
Best prepaid cell phone plans
- Minutes
- Unlimited
- Texts
- Unlimited
- Data
- 2GB
- Price
- $10/mo** $10 Off for 3 Months
Reach Mobile 2GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 2GB data for only $10 per month. Reach Mobile plans offer wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network.
| Plan | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|
Reach Mobile 2GB | 2GB | $10* * $10 Off for 3 Months |
Reach Mobile 5GB | 5GB | $20* * $10 Off for 3 Months |
Reach Mobile 10GB | 10GB | $25* * $10 Off for 3 Months |
Reach Mobile 15GB | 15GB | $30* * $10 Off for 3 Months |
Reach Mobile 25GB | 25GB | $35* * $10 Off for 3 Months |
Pros
5G coverage available
24/7 live customer support with helpful humans
No contract, no bulk-order commitment
Hotspot enabled
A socially conscious provider who gives back
Cons
Small selection of handsets
Best family cell phone plans
- Minutes
- Unlimited
- Texts
- Unlimited
- Data
- 5GB
- Price
- $15/mo* FREE 10-Day Trial
US Mobile 5GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 5GB data for only $15 per month. US Mobile plans offer wireless coverage on the Verizon & T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networks.
| Plan | Data | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
US Mobile 500MB | 500MB | $5 | ||
US Mobile Unlimited Talk & Text | 0GB | $8 | ||
US Mobile 2GB | 2GB | $12 | ||
US Mobile 5GB | 5GB | $15 | ||
US Mobile 15GB | 15GB | $20 | ||
US Mobile 25GB | 25GB | $25 | ||
US Mobile Unlimited Data Basic | Unlimited | $35 | ||
US Mobile Unlimited Data Premium | Unlimited | $45 | ||
* FREE 10-Day Trial | ||||
Pros
Flexible, no contract plans
24/7 customer service
5G coverage available
Cons
No international calling
Phone selection
Best 5G cell phone plans
- Minutes
- Unlimited
- Texts
- Unlimited
- Data
- 10GB
- Price
- $20/mo
Mint Mobile 10GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 10GB data for only $20 per month. Mint Mobile plans offer wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network.
| Plan | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|
Mint Mobile 4GB | 4GB | $15 |
Mint Mobile 10GB | 10GB | $20 |
Mint Mobile 15GB | 15GB | $25 |
Mint Mobile Unlimited Data | Unlimited | $30 |
Pros
Offers the latest phones with 0% finance
Prepay months in bulk for more savings
Reliable network coverage
Works with most GSM phones
Cons
No family plans
Minimum 3 months
Best unlimited cell phone plans
- Minutes
- Unlimited
- Texts
- Unlimited
- Data
- Unlimited
- Price
- $30/mo
Mint Mobile Unlimited plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and unlimited data for only $30 per month. Mint Mobile plans offer wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network.
| Plan | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|
Mint Mobile 4GB | 4GB | $15 |
Mint Mobile 10GB | 10GB | $20 |
Mint Mobile 15GB | 15GB | $25 |
Mint Mobile Unlimited Data | Unlimited | $30 |
Pros
Offers the latest phones with 0% finance
Prepay months in bulk for more savings
Reliable network coverage
Works with most GSM phones
Cons
No family plans
Minimum 3 months
Big carriers vs MVNOs
The best way to save money on cell phone plans is to switch to a smaller carrier.
These providers are called MVNOs or mobile virtual network operators. They use the big wireless networks to give you cheaper unlimited data plans.
- Same great coverage: Alternative carriers like Mint Mobile and Tello rent space on the major wireless networks and sell it for less. So you get the very same nationwide coverage and high-speed data as usual.
- Much lower prices: MVNOs typically operate completely online. This keeps their overhead and marketing costs down. The result is that you save up to 50% off your unlimited plan costs.
- Same great service: Don't sacrifice premium features just for a cheaper plan. Smaller carrier plans include unlimited talk text and data just like the major carriers. Plus, providers like US Mobile offer perks and extras like free Apple Music or HBO Max.
- No contracts: It's no fun getting stuck in a long-term commitment with an expensive carrier. Compare no contract phone plans and keep your freedom. Leave whenever you're ready.
- Keep your phone and phone number: Low-cost carriers wrote the book on bring your own phone plans. They make your switch hassle-free and port your number over for you.
- Customize your plan: One of our favorite things about MVNOs is that they help you avoid overpaying for things you don't need. You pick how much texting, calling and data you need. Need plans for 2 lines or more? Design each one exactly the way you want.
Best cheap T-Mobile phone plan
T-Mobile unlimited data plans
| Plan | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile Magenta | Unlimited | $70 | $840 |
| T-Mobile Magenta Max | Unlimited | $85 | $1,020 |
T-Mobile vs Mint Mobile 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 | Unltd* | $70/mo | $840/yr |
| Mint Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | 10GB | $20/mo | $240/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $50/mo | $600/yr | |
Compare: best T-Mobile phone plans
Best cheap Verizon phone plan
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
15GB
4G/5G data
$20/mo
Powered by: Verizon & T-Mobile
Verizon unlimited data plans
| Plan | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon Play More Unlimited | Unlimited | $80 | $960 |
| Verizon Do More Unlimited | Unlimited | $80 | $960 |
| Verizon Get More Unlimited | Unlimited | $90 | $1,080 |
Verizon vs US Mobile comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $720 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | Verizon 4G & 5G | Unltd* | $80/mo | $960/yr |
| US Mobile | Verizon 4G & 5G | 15GB | $20/mo | $240/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $60/mo | $720/yr | |
Compare: best Verizon phone plans
Best cheap AT&T phone plan
Unlimitedmins
Unlimitedtexts
5GB
4G/5G data
$5/mo*
$15/mo
Powered by: AT&T & T-Mobile
AT&T unlimited data plans
| Plan | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Unlimited Extra | Unlimited | $75 | $900 |
| AT&T Unlimited Elite | Unlimited | $85 | $1,020 |
AT&T vs Boost Mobile comparison
Keep your AT&T phone, number & coverage: Save $750 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | AT&T 4G & 5G | Unltd* | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Boost Mobile | AT&T 4G & 5G | 5GB | $15/mo | $150/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $60/mo | $750/yr | |
Compare: best AT&T phone plans
Compare cell phone coverage
| 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
Which cell phone plans are available in my area?
What features do the best cell phone plans include?
- 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 calls in their plan options. Compare cheap talk and text plans with or without data.
- 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.
- Multiline discounts: Low-cost carriers also offer some of the cheapest family cell phone plans, with multi-line discounts.
- 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.
Types of cell phone plans
- Unlimited plans: Looking for unlimited talk text and data? Alternative carriers have got you covered. Data hungry users looking for unlimited plus plans can save serious money by switching to one of the cheapest unlimited data plans. Not sure how much data you need? Check out our data usage calculator.
- Family plans: Need four lines or more? Many MVNOs offer group plans. Compare the cheapest family phone plans so you can pick and choose what each family member needs.
- 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!
- Single-line plans: Stop paying a premium rate just because you only need one line. Find the best phone plans for individuals.
- Talk and text only plans: Don't need data? No problem - compare cheap talk and text plans. Bonus, you'll save a ton of money if you're not paying for data!
- Tablet plans: Find the cheapest data plan for your tablet or iPad.
- Kids plans: MVNOs offer the best phone plans for kids because you can tailor them to exactly what you want your child to have.
- Senior plans: Senior citizens often have different cell phone needs. Compare cheap cell phone plans for seniors for the perfect fit.
How to pick the best cell phone plan
- Coverage: check cell phone coverage maps and choose a carrier with strong 4G LTE signal in your area.
- Cost: carriers offer a range of deals to suit different cell phone needs. Figure out what your needs will be. You might need lots of data and fancy features or a super basic plan might be more up your street.
- Number of lines: if you need more than one line, compare family plans to find the best deal.
- Features: each carrier will offer different extras. For example, you can find no contract phone plans with international calling, mobile hotspot usage, or add-ons for more data.
- Device: a new plan can come with a new device, or you might want to bring your own phone. Check yours will work with a new carrier plan before switching.
How do I switch cell phone plans?
It's actually pretty simple to switch to a cheaper carrier.
- Pick a carrier. Maybe you want one that runs on a specific network, like T-Mobile. Or maybe you're looking for mobile hotspot use and international calling. There's an MVNO for everyone.
- Prepare to make the switch. Make sure your old bills are paid up and your phone is unlocked. If you're getting a new device, transferring your stuff to your new phone is simple. Even if you're going from an iPhone to Android, and vice versa.
- Set up your new plan. Keep your current carrier account open until your number has ported over. Once you're sure your new plan is up and running, cancel your old account. If you bought a cell phone from your new carrier it should be ready to use when it arrives. If you're bringing your own phone you'll get a SIM card kit in the mail or in a store.
How to bring your own phone to a new carrier
Why spend a bunch more money on a new phone if your current one is still in good condition?
Just make sure your phone is unlocked for use with a different carrier. Once you've checked phone compatibility with your new wireless provider you're good to go.
You'll get a prepaid SIM card either in the mail or in a store. Insert it into your device and follow the provider's instructions.
Just make sure you don't cancel your current phone plan until your new plan is active. Your phone number needs to be ported over first so you don't lose it.
Compare the best cell phone plans
| Carrier | Data | Network | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tello 1GB plan | 1GB | T-Mobile | $10/mo |
| Twigby 4GB plan | 4GB | Verizon | $10/mo** $10 Off for 3 Months |
| Lycamobile 12GB plan | 12GB | T-Mobile | $5/mo** Only $5 for First 3 Months |
| US Mobile 15GB plan | 15GB | Verizon & T-Mobile | $20/mo* FREE 10-Day Trial |
| Mint Mobile Unlimited plan | Unltd | T-Mobile | $30/mo |
Cell phone plans FAQs
Who has the best cell phone plans?
With MVNOs you can build a plan to suit you. Check the coverage in your area to find the best network. Then compare the best phone plans on their network.
Who has the best unlimited phone plans?
Powered by AT&T, PureTalk offers a great value unlimited data plan. If that's not for you, check out more unlimited data plans.
What are the best no contract cell phone plans?
The best cell phone plans give you what you need from a phone whilst saving you money. And that's exactly what MVNOs offer.
Recap: Which cell phone plan is best for you?
Last things last. Dodge the rising costs of cell phone plans and still get great quality.
There are so many low-cost carriers emerging in the wireless industry. They're eager to help you save hundreds of dollars each year.
You don't have to sacrifice the wireless coverage you already know and trust. Each one is tailored toward specific needs. Finding that new, better plan has never been easier.
MoneySavingPro methodology
We're here to bring transparency to telecoms, putting power back in your hands. This guides everything we do.
- We've got high standards. We use our industry expertise to find carriers that reach these standards. We all deserve the best value for money, choice, and customer experience.
- We care about accuracy. MoneySavingPro is run by cell phone geeks and money-saving obsessives. Our content team researches everything thoroughly so that the information you read here will give you the whole picture. Everything we do is backed up by the data.
- We keep things simple. It's our job to break down what you need to know, so you can make informed choices.
| Carrier | Best for... | Mins | Texts | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Tello | Cheapest phone plan | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1GB | $10/mo |
 Reach Mobile | Best prepaid plan | Unlimited | Unlimited | 2GB | $20/mo |
 US Mobile | Best family plan | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5GB | $15/mo |
 Mint Mobile | Best 5G plan | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10GB | $20/mo |
| Mint Mobile | Best unlimited plan | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | $30/mo |
