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Fed up with the endless loop of steep fees and convoluted invoices from the big three?
As they celebrate their ballooning profits and prep for another wave of rate hikes, one vital detail slipped their minds: your power as a discerning consumer.
Drawing on a decade of deep-dive experience in the mobile sector, I've meticulously evaluated 30 alternative providers and over 100 phone plans to cut through the clutter for you.
To save you time, I have excluded carriers that:
- Only offer unlimited data plans
- Only advertise multi-line prices
- Have confusing phone bills with unexpected fees
- Lure customers with "free" phones
- Constantly try to upsell additional lines
- Bundle plans with unnecessary subscriptions
- Need loads of small print to explain their offers
- Want you to go to a store
- Need a commission-based salesperson
- Reward customer loyalty with increased prices
And guess what? All of these cost-efficient options tap into the same premium networks you already rely on.
From casual surfers to data-heavy users, I've identified the top-tier and best value prepaid family plans across all networks, highlighting the one that stands out for overall sheer value.
The decision-making power is squarely in your corner. Ready to explore?
Best prepaid family plans on T-Mobile
These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers with T-Mobile coverage to consider.
Cheap T-Mobile plan
Tello 2GB plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Build your own plan with Tello family plans and keep things simple with no hidden fees or no contracts.
Although Tello doesn't provide any discounts for purchasing multiple lines, you can still save hundreds of dollars on your monthly plan thanks to the affordable nature of their single line plans. Check out our review about best value prepaid T-Mobile family plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free international calling to 60+ countries
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- No multi-line discounts
- It's worth checking each family member's usage, as you get to choose how much data, minutes, and texts each person needs, as a set data plan could cut your monthly rate and help restrict excessive phone usage.
- You'll also get additional features like free international calls to 60+ countries on all plans, including Canada and Mexico, and a range of data allowances suitable for light to heavy users.
- Mobile hotspot is available with a limit of 5GB.
- Tello doesn't provide any discounts for purchasing multiple lines. However, you can still save money with their affordable individual plan prices.
- Being online-based means that if everyone's phone supports eSIM, your family plans will be live in just a few clicks, or you can have the SIM cards mailed to you.
Best family plan on T-Moble
Mint Mobile 15GB plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Mint Mobile is powered by the T-Mobile network, and the Mint Mobile family plan provides the same great service at a lower cost. Mint Mobile provides a range of data allowances, one of which is an unlimited plan offering a 40GB high-speed data cap and unlimited talk and text.
Their messaging emphasizes transparency and highlights the potential for increased savings with longer commitments. Check out our review about best value T-Mobile plans for families.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free calls to Mexico and Canada
- Free mobile hotspot with all plans
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- Limited customer service
- 3-month minimum sign-up
- Mint Mobile knows family is who you make it, so their family plan is all about helping you save money in bulk. Starting at two lines, you can use the Mint Mobile app to easily keep track of everyone's usage.
- Mobile hotspot access is available with all plans, and the unlimited plan includes a 10 GB hotspot data limit.
- A minimum 3-month upfront commitment is required to subscribe. The longer commitment period means more savings. Choose a 3, 6, or 12-month pricing structure available after initial commitment.
- They offer a 7-day money-back guarantee if you're not satisfied with the service.
- To save money, you can bring your own phone; however, if you prefer a new smartphone, they offer various options, including iPhones, Samsung phones, and other Android models such as Google Pixel, with a 0% finance over 1-2 years.
- One drawback is that international roaming comes at an additional cost. While calls to Canada and Mexico are free, calls made to other international countries will incur extra charges.
Best unlimited plan on T-Mobile
Tello unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Build your own plan with Tello family plans and keep things simple with no hidden fees or no contracts.
Although Tello doesn't provide any discounts for purchasing multiple lines, you can still save hundreds of dollars on your monthly plan thanks to the affordable nature of their single line plans. Check out our review about best value T-Mobile unlimited data plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free international calling to 60+ countries
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- No multi-line discounts
How T-Mobile compares
The table below demonstrates that choosing the Tello unlimited data plan would save you $600 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile directly.
| T-Mobile | T-Mobile coverage at a fraction of the cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
*$45 for 3 Months
|
|
| T-Mobile 4G & 5G | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | |
| Unlimited data *not unlimited | 2GB data | 15GB data | Unlimited data |
| $75/line | $10/line | $15/line* | $25/line |
| $900/yr | $120/yr | $225/yr | $300/yr |
| 1.4 on Trustpilot | 4.6 on Trustpilot | 2.9 on Trustpilot | 4.6 on Trustpilot |
| Annual savings | $780/yr | $675/yr | $600/yr |
Best prepaid family plans on Verizon
These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers with Verizon coverage to consider.
Cheap Verizon plan
Twigby 2GB plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Though Twigby phone plans don't offer a typical family phone plan, and there is no multi-line discount, you can still save hundreds of dollars on your bill by opting for an individual line while accessing Verizon's network.
Twigby allows you to customize your plan so you only pay for what you need. Check out our review about best value prepaid Verizon family plans.
Pros
- Verizon 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free international calls to 80+ countries
- Wide range of plan choices
- Free mobile hotspot access
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
Cons
- No multi-line discounts
- No International roaming
- Not eSIM-compatible
- With a range of data options available, Twigby plans can be customized for each family member.
- Twigby provides free international calling to 80 different countries, which is ideal if you have family abroad.
- Being 100% online based, you can purchase your plan from home, and your SIM card will be sent in the mail.
- Mobile hotspot allowance is available and comes out of your monthly data usage, which for unlimited plans is a maximum of 20GB.
- There are no discounts for additional lines, which may not be cost-effective for family plans.
- If you like to roam while on family holidays, Twigby doesn't provide international roaming, so using your phone abroad could end with an expensive bill.
Best family plan on Verizon
US Mobile 10GB plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Powered by the T-Mobile and Verizon networks, US Mobile family plans provide access to the same 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks, so you don't have to sacrifice quality.
US Mobile doesn't lock you into any long-term contracts, and you can customize each of your family members' plans to suit individual needs. Check out our review about best value Verizon plans for families.
Pros
- T-Mobile and Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Free trial available
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- TV, music, & gaming subscription perks on unlimited plans
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- International calling is an extra cost
- International roaming is an extra cost
- Mobile hotspot allowance only available on unlimited plans
- They consistently receive top ratings for customer service due to their 24/7 availability for support via phone or online chat.
- Try before you buy on a 50-day trial period.
- Mobile hotspot data allowance is dependent on the plan you choose. There are sharable data options or a cap of 5 GB, 10 GB, or 50 GB with unlimited plans.
- They offer discounts for additional lines, perfect when you're looking for plans for the whole family.
- If you want extra family perks, with an unlimited prepaid plan and at least three additional lines, there's the option to choose streaming services like Disney Plus bundle with Hulu and ESPN, HBO Max, Apple TV, Spotify Family, PlayStation Plus, and more.
- Streaming services are available to new and existing US Mobile customers. You'll need to pay for the subscription yourself and verify it every three months for a maximum of 12 months. The extra cost will be credited to your account via Autopay.
- If you travel abroad on a family holiday, US Mobile may not be the best option for international coverage. Plus, their add-on packages for roaming can be expensive, and their international calling options are not as accessible as other MVNOs.
Best unlimited plan on Verizon
US Mobile unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Powered by the T-Mobile and Verizon networks, US Mobile family plans provide access to the same 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks, so you don't have to sacrifice quality.
US Mobile doesn't lock you into any long-term contracts, and you can customize each of your family members' plans to suit individual needs. Check out our review about best value Verizon unlimited data plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile and Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Free trial available
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- TV, music, & gaming subscription perks on unlimited plans
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- International calling is an extra cost
- International roaming is an extra cost
- Mobile hotspot allowance only available on unlimited plans
How Verizon compares
The table below demonstrates that choosing the US Mobile unlimited data plan would save you $594 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from Verizon directly.
| Verizon | Verizon coverage at a fraction of the cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
*$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths
|
*$180 for 12 Mths Service
|
*30 Day FREE Trial
|
| Verizon 4G & 5G | Verizon & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Verizon & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | |
| Unlimited data *not unlimited | 2GB data | 10GB data | Unlimited data |
| $75/line | $5/line* | $15/line* | $15/line* |
| $900/yr | $150/yr | $180/yr | $306/yr |
| 1.2 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot | 4.7 on Trustpilot | 4.7 on Trustpilot |
| Annual savings | $750/yr | $720/yr | $594/yr |
Best prepaid family plans on AT&T
These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers with AT&T coverage to consider.
Cheap AT&T plan
Red Pocket 1GB plan
- AT&T coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Red Pocket Mobile family plans offer attractive options with multi-line discounts of $20 savings on each additional line.
Moreover, they provide the perk of free international calls to 80 countries, making it convenient to connect with family and friends around the globe. Check out our review about best value prepaid AT&T family plans.
Pros
- Verizon, and AT&T 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Free international calls to 80 countries
- Roaming available in Mexico and Canada
- Mobile hotspot access on all plans
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- Limited international roaming
- Red Pocket Mobile's plans are straightforward, with no hidden fees, and include features like unlimited talk and text.
- You get a $20 discount for each additional line added, which is ideal for family plans. You'll need to pay a setup fee, but after that, choosing a family plan could save you hundreds of dollars a year.
- With the unlimited plan, you get up to 30GB high-speed data allowance.
- Mobile hotspot access is available up to 30GB on the unlimited plan, which comes out of your monthly data allowance.
- They offer a 7-day money-back guarantee with their eSIM plans.
- Red Pocket Mobile offers free international calling to 80+ countries, with free roaming in Mexico and Canada.
Best family plan on AT&T
Boost Mobile 5GB plan
- AT&T coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Operating on the AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G networks, Boost Mobile family plans provide the same coverage at a fraction of the cost.
With a range of plans to choose from, there's something for the light to heavy data users in the family; plus, they have a multi-line discount, so you save on additional lines. Check out our review about best value AT&T plans for families.
Pros
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Mobile hotspot access
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No free international calls
- International roaming is limited
- All prepaid family plans come with unlimited talk and text.
- Unlimited family plans include up to 30GB of high-speed data.
- The amount of data allocated for the hotspot varies depending on the plan, with a maximum limit of 30GB. This usage will be deducted from your monthly data allowance.
- Discounts are available for additional lines, which can help cut the costs of your family plan.
- When it comes to devices, you have the option to either bring your own phone or purchase a new one. If the latter is preferred, Boost Mobile provides a variety of the latest models from Samsung and Apple. With 0% financing options available over a period of 1-2 years.
- Boost Mobile's international features are not as strong. International roaming options are limited, and making international calls requires the purchase of an add-on, resulting in additional charges for calls made to friends and family overseas.
Best unlimited plan on AT&T
Boost Mobile unlimited data plan
- AT&T coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Operating on the AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G networks, Boost Mobile family plans provide the same coverage at a fraction of the cost.
With a range of plans to choose from, there's something for the light to heavy data users in the family; plus, they have a multi-line discount, so you save on additional lines. Check out our review about best value AT&T unlimited data plans.
Pros
- AT&T & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network coverage
- Multi-line discounts for family plans
- Mobile hotspot access
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No free international calls
- International roaming is limited
How AT&T compares
The table below demonstrates that choosing the Boost Mobile unlimited data plan would save you $612.50 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from AT&T directly.
| AT&T | AT&T coverage at a fraction of the cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
*50% Off 1st Mth
|
| AT&T & Verizon 4G & 5G | AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | |
| Unlimited data *not unlimited | 1GB data | 5GB data | Unlimited data |
| $75/line | $10/line | $15/line* | $12.50/line* |
| $900/yr | $120/yr | $180/yr | $287.50/yr |
| 1.3 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot | 1.3 on Trustpilot | 1.3 on Trustpilot |
| Annual savings | $780/yr | $720/yr | $612.50/yr |
Best overall value prepaid family plan
Tello unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Build your own plan with Tello family plans and keep things simple with no hidden fees or no contracts.
Although Tello doesn't provide any discounts for purchasing multiple lines, you can still save hundreds of dollars on your monthly plan thanks to the affordable nature of their single line plans. Check out our review about the cheapest prepaid family phone plans.
Pros
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Free international calling to 60+ countries
- Free mobile hotspot included
- Excellent score on Trustpilot
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No international roaming
- No multi-line discounts
Big wireless: Big prices, big profits, little value
Astoundingly, the average phone bill is $155 per month. Meanwhile, 38 million Americans live in poverty, and the government cut funding to the Affordable Connectivity Program, which was assisting 22 million low-income families with subsidized internet and cell phone service.
At the same time, the big three spent January celebrating record profits and multi-billion dollar shareholder dividend payouts while simultaneously announcing yet more price hikes.
So, big wireless continues to raise prices, and the government drops assistance to those in need. However, you do have options, so the power is in your hands.
Take back control of your phone bill
A big wireless unlimited plan will cost you $1,600 extra over the next 3 years compared to getting the same service from an MVNO.
A big wireless unlimited data plan will cost you $2,700 over the next 3 years for just 1 line. In comparison, unlimited plans from a low-cost carrier over the same period would cost only $900.
So, buying directly from Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T is now 3 times more expensive for the same coverage. This does not include fees and taxes or future price hikes.
Why is it so much more expensive to buy the same service directly?
With big wireless, you pay for multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople - all these expenses are passed onto you to maximize profits and dividend payouts.
With this next generation of MVNOs, you switch online and just pay for phone service.
Cut your phone bill, not your coverage
These low-cost carriers offer a great alternative with transparent pricing, a range of customizable data plans to fit your needs, and higher-rated customer service.
You can keep your phone, number, coverage, and most importantly, your money!
Even better, it's quick and easy. You can complete the entire switching process online in minutes with an eSIM-compatible phone.
So, now is the time to re-evaluate your options, take back control of your phone bill, and free yourself from price hikes forever!
Compare the cheapest prepaid family cell phone plans
| Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tello | 2GB | $10/line | $120/yr | $780/yr | See at Tello |
| Mint Mobile | 15GB | $15/line* |
$225/yr | $675/yr | See at Mint Mobile
*$45 for 3 Months
|
| Tello | Unlimited | $25/line | $300/yr | $600/yr | See at Tello |
| Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twigby | 2GB | $5/line* |
$150/yr | $750/yr | See at Twigby
*$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths
|
| US Mobile | 10GB | $15/line* | $180/yr | $720/yr | See at US Mobile
*$180 for 12 Mths Service
|
| US Mobile | Unlimited | $15/line* |
$306/yr | $594/yr | See at US Mobile
*30 Day FREE Trial
|
| Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Pocket | 1GB | $10/line | $120/yr | $780/yr | See at Red Pocket |
| Boost Mobile | 5GB | $15/line* | $180/yr | $720/yr | See at Boost Mobile |
| Boost Mobile | Unlimited | $12.50/line* |
$287.50/yr | $612.50/yr | See at Boost Mobile
*50% Off 1st Mth
|
Check out our prepaid family cell phone comparison to find the best deal.
How to choose the best value prepaid carrier for families
- Which network powers your family's daily discoveries? Whether it's the wide-open spaces of suburbia or the quiet nooks of rural life, connectivity is a must. Luckily, value-driven carriers offer access to the same vast 5G & 4G LTE networks as the industry giants. According to the latest Opensignal 5G Experience report from 2023, T-Mobile leads the pack in 5G coverage. Selecting an MVNO on your preferred network guarantees no drop in connection quality.
- Curious about your family's data usage? Despite the industry push for unlimited plans, you might be pleasantly surprised to learn your household's actual usage is quite modest, thanks to residential Wi-Fi and community hotspots. The average monthly data usage is under 10GB. Budget-friendly providers design plans that align with your true consumption, often revealing that your family's data needs are lower than anticipated.
- Is hotspot access a must-have for your clan? From supporting homework sessions on the move to streaming favorite shows during long trips, the ability to tether is indispensable for modern families. Rest assured, hotspot capabilities come standard, although the specifics can vary across plans and carriers, keeping you a mere tap away from the digital world.
- Worried about costs? Traditional family plans can quickly escalate to $75-90 per line, but savvy households can uncover MVNO offerings from $5-35 per line, securing significant savings without compromising on quality.
- Pondering the number of lines your family requires? Move beyond the restrictive packages of major networks, which often promote deals for four lines. MVNOs excel in providing adaptable, single-line pricing with the bonus of multi-line discounts, ensuring that everyone, from the youngest members to the elders, stays connected affordably.
- Considering your device options? We understand the goal is to maximize savings. MVNOs support you in bringing your own device, freeing you from the cycle of constant upgrades. If you're in the market for new tech, you'll find budget-friendly choices with zero-interest payment plans.
- On the hunt for deals or promotions? Bypass the intricate and often misleading offers of the big players. MVNOs opt for clarity with their straightforward promotions, ensuring you grasp exactly what's on the table - no hidden surprises.
- Thinking about perks or add-ons? The temptation of "complimentary" subscriptions or trial services from major brands can be strong, but it's wise to evaluate whether these benefits genuinely serve your family or will merely inflate your bill. Opt for perks that truly fit your family's lifestyle, avoiding superfluous costs.
- Need international calls? Staying connected with family and friends around the globe is essential, not a luxury. Numerous MVNOs include complimentary international calling to a variety of countries, an important feature for families whose loved ones span the continents.
- Keeping an eye on the littles? Many MVNOs offer parental control features that enable parents to supervise their children's phone usage and data consumption. You can set data limits, restrict access to particular apps or websites, and even track your child's location. These capabilities are available either as part of plans or can be configured in your cell phone's settings.
Check out our prepaid family phone plan comparison to help find the best deal.
Find the best phone service in your area
Prepaid family phone plans FAQs
You'll find the best value prepaid family phone plans are available from low-cost carriers like Tello, Mint Mobile, and Boost Mobile. Operating on the major wireless networks with plans from $5-30 per line.
MVNOs like Boost Mobile offer cheap family plans starting at $5 per month per line.
Recap: What is the best prepaid phone plan for families?
As the big three press forward with their relentless rate increases, it appears they're more focused on boosting their bottom lines than meeting actual consumer needs. In an era where the cost of essentials like food and utilities is on the rise, understanding the value of every dollar is crucial for families.
Thankfully, there's a beacon of hope when it comes to managing your family's cell phone bills. Choosing the right carrier can grant you the same quality of service you're accustomed to but at a significantly reduced cost. Imagine the potential of trimming up to $600 annually from each line with a cheap prepaid family plan.
For families poised to find a more budget-friendly alternative, making an informed choice is key. That's why I recommend our detailed cell phone plan comparison tool, designed with your family's needs and financial health in mind.
Family plan guides
- Best Family Cell Phone Plans
- Best Prepaid Family Phone Plans
- Best Phone Plans for 3 Lines
- Best Phone Plans for 4 Lines
- Best Phone Plans for 5 Lines
- Best Multi Line Phone Plans
- Best Shared Data Plans
- The Cheapest Prepaid Family Phone Plans
- Best Value Verizon Plans for Families
- Best Value AT&T Plans for Families
- Best Value T-Mobile Plans for Families
How we choose the best carriers and plans
To select the best carriers and 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.
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