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If you're looking for an affordable way to get the best shared data plans, you'll find some great value deals with MVNOs.
Mobile Virtual Network Operators offer the same network coverage as they're powered by the major US networks, but their plans can cut your cell phone bill in half.
A shared data plan can be cheaper on a multi-line plan if you don't use much data, as you and everyone on your plan will have access to a prepaid pool of data.
We've broken down the best shared data plans from low-cost carriers below to help you find the perfect deal for you.
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
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 Unlimited plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and unlimited data for only $15 per month. Mint Mobile plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Mint Mobile review
Ultra Mobile 2GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 2GB data for only $14 per month. Ultra Mobile plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Ultra Mobile 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
Same nationwide coverage: MVNOs run on the three major networks. That means that carriers like Mint Mobile and Tello give you the same nationwide coverage and 4G LTE data you're used to.
Much lower prices: Most smaller carriers operate solely online. This allows them to give you better rates without sacrificing your favorite network.
Same great phone service: Don't give up your mobile essentials just to stay on budget. Low cost plans include all the most popular feature options. Compare cheap family plans with unlimited talk text and data, or choose one with mobile hotspot use.
No contracts: Most MVNOs only sell no contract cell phone plans. You won't have to make any commitments. Switch carriers at any time if you find a better deal.
Bring your own phones: Not ready to commit to $30 a month in device payments for each family member? No problem. Compare BYOP plans and keep your phones and your phone numbers.
Customize your plans: One of the best things about smaller carriers is that you can mix and match plans to fit each person. Get unlimited data plans for the heavy users and basic phone plans for everyone else.
Great customer service: Stop being an anonymous number in the hordes of customers. Low cost carriers are known for providing high quality customer support. Read our carrier user reviews to help you pick a provider.
4G LTE and 5G data speeds: Get the same nationwide 4G LTE coverage as your chosen network. Plus most smaller carriers include 5G coverage at no extra cost.
Unlimited talk and text messaging: No need to sacrifice your must-have features. Most smaller carriers give you unlimited calling and texting. You then add the necessary data amounts for each person.
International calls to Canada and Mexico: Need international calling? Compare the best international phone plans. You can find free international texting and talk to places like Canada and Mexico. Plus you'll get great rates to other countries.
Multiline discounts: Smaller carriers offer the cheapest family cell phone plans. Manage multiple lines on your account from one place.
Wi-Fi calling: Make calls over the internet when you're out of cellular range.
Tethering/hotspot data: Pick an MVNO with the best mobile hotspot plans. Carriers like Mint Mobile let you share your phone data. Others, such as US Mobile, also sell separate hotspot data.
HD video streaming: Get HD video streaming with subcarriers like Boost Mobile.
When on a family or multi-line plan you can opt for a data allowance that is shared between everyone on that plan, this can have pros and cons. It can be a hassle to keep checking everyone's data use, but by opting for a shared data plan it could save you money.
Can I share my data plan with another phone?
If you have a personal hotspot on your device you can allow another phone to use your data allowance.
Recap
When you, friends, or family don't use a lot of data, it can be cheaper to purchase a plan with a pool of data that everyone can share.
With MVNOs you can get the best multi-line phone plans at low prices. With individual lines already at a low-cost, most MVNOs provide an additional discount for each extra line added.
These plans could save you up to $600 a year per line.
