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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 US 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.
This Tello data only plan includes 1GB data for only $6 per month. Tello internet plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Tello review
This US Mobile data only plan includes 4GB data for only $15 per month. US Mobile internet plans offers wireless coverage on the Verizon & T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networks. Read US Mobile review
This Mint Mobile data only plan includes 15GB data for only $15 per month. Mint Mobile internet plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Mint Mobile review
This Red Pocket data only plan includes 20GB data for only $40 per month. Red Pocket internet plans offers wireless coverage on the AT&T & Verizon 5G and 4G LTE networks. Read Red Pocket review
Same nationwide coverage: Operating on AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon's networks you'll get the same cellular service you're used to. You can find the best coverage in your area with our coverage map.
Low price: MVNO data-only plans offer a good choice of plans at budget-friendly prices.
No long-term commitment: There's no need to be stuck in an expensive contract that doesn't work for you. With MVNOs there's no contract, so you can change carriers at any time to make sure you have the best option for you.
Bring your own device: With technology ever-changing, you don't have to upgrade to the latest device with these low-cost carriers. They give you the option to bring your own device so there's no hefty upfront fee.
Prepaid data plan features
4G LTE data speeds: Get access to 4G LTE data internet speed from wireless providers, helping you to stream video, listen to music or browse the internet.
5G speeds: With an MVNO, 5G is supplied at no extra cost. As long as your phone is compatible, you can access top speeds where it's available.
Mobile hotspots: Whether you have a separate hotspot device or you want to use your phone's hotspot, a data-only plan with a low-cost carrier offers the best budget option.
Unlimited data: How much data do you need? If you're looking to get an unlimited data only plan you'll find a range of affordable options with wireless providers like Mint Mobile.
Wondering about customer support with a smaller company? On average MVNOs score much higher customer ratings than the major carriers. Check out the comparison chart below:
CARRIER
TRUSTPILOT USER RATING
Tello
4.6
US Mobile
4.6
Red Pocket Mobile
4.5
T-Mobile
1.5
Verizon
1.3
AT&T
1.2
Comparing prepaid data only plans
Price is just one factor to consider when shopping for a data only plan for laptops, tablets or WiFi hotspot devices.
Coverage: Data only SIM cards give you an internet connection over a cellular network. So you want to make sure you pick the one with the best coverage in your area. All three major networks have pretty solid nationwide coverage. For the best rural network coverage look at smaller carriers that offer Verizon data only plans. In urban areas T-Mobile data only plans offer great service and extensive 5G coverage.
Speed: You need your plan to keep up with your demanding data only devices. With a mobile internet plan on one of the major 4G LTE networks you shouldn't have any issues with speed. The only time you might run into a problem is if you run out of high-speed data. Even unlimited data only plans usually have a data cap. Once you've hit it you might experience 2G or 3G data speeds for the rest of the billing cycle.
Data allowance: Low cost carriers are known for their flexibility. Customize your plan to fit your needs, whether that's 1GB or 20GB of high-speed data per month. You can get unlimited tablet data, just keep in mind that unlimited doesn't mean unlimited at 4G and 5G speeds. It's simple to add more high-speed data if you need to though.
Switch to a cheap prepaid data plan
Don't worry if you've already got a data only plan. Switching is simple.
Pick a plan. Consider how many connected devices you have and then choose the amount of data you need. Not sure? Get a clearer picture with our data usage calculator.
Prepare to make the switch. Make sure your current account is paid up and in good standing. If you're bringing a mobile hotspot device with you, make sure it's unlocked to use on another carrier.
Set up your new plan. Keep your current carrier account open until your new one is ready to go. You'll get a data only SIM card from your new provider. Follow their instructions to activate your new plan.
Prepaid data plans FAQS
Who has the best prepaid data plan?
The best value prepaid data only plans are available from MVNOs operating on the main US networks. Carriers such as Red Pocket Mobile and US Mobile offer prepaid plans.
Who has the best prepaid unlimited data plan?
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
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.
