Best prepaid data plans in 2024
The key to finding the best value prepaid data plan is all about leveraging the competitive rates offered by low-cost carriers. You'll get the same coverage for a fraction of the cost without the worry of hidden fees and price hikes. Here are the best value providers to consider.
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Top plans list
- Tello 2GB data plan: Best cheap data only plan
- Tello 10GB data plan: Best data only plan
- US Mobile unlimited data plan: Best unlimited data only plan
- Mint Mobile 5GB data plan: Best BYOD plan
- Tello unlimited data plan: Best AT&T data only plan
- Red Pocket 20GB data plan: Best T-Mobile data only plan
- US Mobile 2GB data plan: Best Verizon data only plan
Table of contents
- My list of recommended prepaid data plans for March
- How to choose the best prepaid data only plan
- The best T-Mobile prepaid data plan
- The best Verizon prepaid data plan
- The best AT&T prepaid data plan
- Compare the cheapest prepaid data plans
- Prepaid data plans FAQS
- Recap: What is the best prepaid data plan?
- How we choose the best providers and data plans
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Looking for a data-only plan with no contract? You'll find the best prepaid data only plans with MVNOs like US Mobile and Mint Mobile.
A Mobile Virtual Network Operator is powered by the major wireless networks, so you can expect the same cellular service without the long-term commitment.
We've selected the best prepaid data only plans from all MVNOs to help you find the right prepaid data monthly plan to suit your needs.
My list of recommended prepaid data plans for March
Best cheap data only plan
Tello 2GB data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 cheapest 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
- 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.
Best data only plan
Tello 10GB data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 best mobile 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
Best unlimited data only plan
US Mobile unlimited data plan
- Verizon & T-Mobile coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 best unlimited data only 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
- 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.
Best BYOD plan
Mint Mobile 5GB data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 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.
Best AT&T data only plan
Tello unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 cheapest data only plans on AT&T.
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
Best T-Mobile data only plan
Red Pocket 20GB data plan
- AT&T coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Red Pocket Mobile data only plans offer a range of data allowances and are powered by all three major networks: T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. Check out our review about the cheapest data only plans on T-Mobile.
Pros
- T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Roaming is available in Mexico and Canada
- Wide range of data options
- Mobile hotspot access on all plans
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- Limited international roaming
- Red Pocket Mobile offers transparent plans without any hidden charges
- You can use your phone as a hotspot in the absence of Wi-Fi.
- Additionally, if you have doubts about Red Pocket Mobile, their eSIM plans come with a 7-day money-back guarantee.
- Similar to other MVNOs, international roaming options are limited. However, Red Pocket Mobile provides complimentary roaming services in Mexico and Canada.
Best Verizon data only plan
US Mobile 2GB data plan
- Verizon & T-Mobile coverage
- No talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 cheapest data only plans on Verizon.
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
How to choose the best prepaid data only 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 prepaid data 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 data plans
The best Verizon prepaid data 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 prepaid Verizon data plans
The best AT&T prepaid data 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 data plans
Compare the cheapest prepaid data plans
Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Tello 5GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $10/mo |
Tello 10GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 10GB | $15/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 |
US Mobile unlimited data plan | Verizon & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $15/mo |
Prepaid data plans FAQS
The best value prepaid data only plans are available from MVNOs operating on the major wireless networks. Carriers such as Red Pocket Mobile and US Mobile offer prepaid plans.
Tello offers one of the best value prepaid data plans. As an MVNO, they provide the same coverage as the major US networks they operate on, but plans are half the price.
Recap: What is the best prepaid data plan?
No matter how much data you're looking for, you'll find some of the best options at an affordable price, whether you want a set data limit or unlimited data.
Are you looking for truly unlimited data? MVNOs offer unlimited data plans. However, be sure to check the fine print, as unlimited doesn't always mean unlimited.
With a data-only plan, you can use your phone's hotspot or a standalone hotspot device to tether your tablet or laptop when there's no Wi-Fi available.
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.