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Fed up with the big three's limited options, perplexing billing, and ridiculous prices?
As the major wireless companies kick off the year by boasting about their record profits and simultaneously rolling out price increases, it's clear they've not fully grasped the needs of today's consumers.
With over 10 years of experience in the wireless industry, I've seen the pricing gap widen dramatically, yet finding a more cost-effective carrier has become easier than ever.
To spare you the exhaustive research, I've delved into over 30 alternative carriers and examined more than 100 pay-as-you-go phone plans.
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
Finding the best pay-as-you-go plan will depend on your network preference and cell phone usage. Therefore, I've compared the cheapest pay as you go plans across all three major networks, designed for light, moderate, and heavy data users.
Furthermore, I've highlighted what I consider to be the best overall value pay-as-you-go plan. However, the final decision is yours to make.
Cheapest pay as you go 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
Keep things simple with Tello prepaid plans. Their plans cater to all budgets, and you have the flexibility to build your own plan according to your specific needs. This allows you to choose the amount of data, minutes, and texts that fit your usage, making sure that you only pay for what you actually use.
When it comes to data, it's worth checking how much data you use as a set data plan can help you get the cheapest plan. Check out our review about best pay as you go phone plans on T-Mobile.
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
- Customize your own plan. Depending on your usage, you can choose the amount of data, minutes, and texts that you require. It's always worth checking your average data usage, as a set data plan can help cut costs.
- Mobile hotspot is available with a limit of 5GB.
- You won't have to worry about any hidden fees or long-term contracts that will make you feel trapped.
- They offer free international calls to over 60 countries, including Canada and Mexico, on all their plans.
- Tello doesn't provide any discounts for purchasing multiple lines. So, if you want to get a plan for another family member, each line will be billed at the full price as a single line. However, you can still save money because Tello offers low-cost individual plans.
- Since Tello is an online-based service, you can easily activate an eSIM plan with just a few clicks. Alternatively, you can choose to have a SIM card sent to you by mail.
Best family plan on T-Moble
Mint Mobile 15GB plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
A Mint Mobile prepaid plan is powered by the T-Mobile network, so you'll get access to their 5G & 4G LTE wireless network at a lower price. Mint Mobile provides a range of data allowances, which includes an unlimited plan offering up to 40GB of high-speed data and unlimited text and talk.
Through their transparent messaging, Mint Mobile shows how you can increase your savings by committing for longer. 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 includes mobile hotspot access with all of their plans, allowing you to connect your phone to other devices when Wi-Fi is unavailable. And their unlimited plan comes with a 10GB limit on hotspot data usage.
- To subscribe to Mint Mobile, you must commit to a minimum of 3 months in advance. While their plans are cheaper compared to T-Mobile, this upfront commitment may not be preferable for some. But the longer you commit, the more money you can save.
- After the initial three months, you have the flexibility to choose between 3, 6, or 12-month pricing structures.
- They offer a 7-day money-back guarantee if you're not satisfied with the service.
- You don't need to purchase an expensive iPhone as you can bring your own phone to Mint Mobile. However, if you prefer a new smartphone, there are various options available, such as iPhones, Samsung phones, and other Android models like Google Pixel, with a 0% finance over 1-2 years.
- The Mint Mobile app is also a great feature that allows for easy monitoring of your usage and managing multiple plans.
- On the downside, international roaming comes at an additional cost. While calls to Canada and Mexico are free with Mint Mobile, 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
Keep things simple with Tello prepaid plans. Their plans cater to all budgets, and you have the flexibility to build your own plan according to your specific needs. This allows you to choose the amount of data, minutes, and texts that fit your usage, making sure that you only pay for what you actually use.
When it comes to data, it's worth checking how much data you use as a set data plan can help you get the cheapest plan. 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/mo | $10/mo | $15/mo* | $25/mo |
| $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 |
Cheapest pay as you go 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
With Twigby prepaid phone plans, you have the option to customize a plan that fits your individual needs. They offer a variety of cheap no-contract plans that are powered by the Verizon network, so you don't have to sacrifice quality for affordability. Check out our review about best pay as you go phone plans on Verizon.
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 Twigby, you can create plans whatever your needs and budget.
- Twigby provides free international calling to 80 different countries, ideal for those with family or friends living abroad.
- They're 100% online based, so you can order your SIM card from the comfort of your couch and have it delivered straight to your door.
- 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 cheap if you're looking for a family plan.
- Frequent travelers might find the lack of international roaming services less than ideal, as it could lead to a considerably higher monthly bill.
Best family plan on Verizon
US Mobile 10GB plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
If you want a US Mobile prepaid plan, you'll find cheap cell phone deals on the Verizon and T-Mobile networks; featuring excellent customer service and the ability to personalize your options, you have the opportunity to create the perfect phone plans tailored to meet your specific needs.
Enjoy unlimited talk and text, as well as the option for international roaming. 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
- US Mobile distinguishes itself through its outstanding customer service, providing round-the-clock assistance via phone or online chat. They consistently get top marks for customer service.
- Try before you buy on a 50-day trial period.
- Mobile hotspot data allowance is dependent on the unlimited plan you choose. You'll get either 5 GB, 10 GB, or 50 GB.
- With their cheap US Mobile family plans, you can enjoy amazing savings on your cell phone bill, as they offer discounts for multiple lines. The more lines you add, the bigger the discount.
- If you want additional 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 frequently travel and require reliable international coverage, US Mobile may not be the most suitable choice. Their roaming add-on packages can be pricey, and their international calling features may not be as competitive as those offered by other carriers.
Best unlimited plan on Verizon
US Mobile unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
If you want a US Mobile prepaid plan, you'll find cheap cell phone deals on the Verizon and T-Mobile networks; featuring excellent customer service and the ability to personalize your options, you have the opportunity to create the perfect phone plans tailored to meet your specific needs.
Enjoy unlimited talk and text, as well as the option for international roaming. 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/mo | $5/mo* | $15/mo* | $15/mo* |
| $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 |
Cheapest pay as you go 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 prepaid plans are powered by the Verizon and AT&T wireless networks. They excel in family plans, providing a generous $20 discount per additional line for multi-line accounts.
Plus, with free international calling to 80 countries, staying in touch with family and friends overseas is cheaper than ever. Check out our review about best pay as you go phone plans on AT&T.
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.
- Include features like unlimited talk and text.
- 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.
- You get a $20 discount for each additional line added, 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.
- 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
With a Boost Mobile prepaid plan, you'll find cheap plans powered by the T-Mobile and AT&T 5G & 4G networks, giving you the same wireless coverage at half the price.
Featuring a variety of data allowances ranging from 2GB to unlimited, there's an option suitable for both individuals who use minimal data and those who require more. 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
- Boost Mobile's prepaid plans all include unlimited talk and text, and if you require a large amount of data, they offer unlimited plans that provide up to 30GB of high-speed data.
- Most plans include mobile hotspot data, but be sure to check. The allowance depends on the plan, but the maximum is 30GB, which comes out of your monthly data allowance.
- If you need lines for the whole family, Boost Mobile's cheap plans provide a discount on additional lines, allowing you to save money with a cheap family plan.
- They have a wide selection of phones available, including the latest models from top brands like Apple and Samsung. Financing options are provided to make purchasing a new phone more convenient, with 0% over a 1-2 year period.
- Their international roaming options are limited compared to other carriers, and international calls require an extra add-on. This can mean additional charges for making calls to friends and family abroad.
Best unlimited plan on AT&T
Boost Mobile unlimited data plan
- AT&T coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
With a Boost Mobile prepaid plan, you'll find cheap plans powered by the T-Mobile and AT&T 5G & 4G networks, giving you the same wireless coverage at half the price.
Featuring a variety of data allowances ranging from 2GB to unlimited, there's an option suitable for both individuals who use minimal data and those who require more. 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/mo | $10/mo | $15/mo* | $12.50/mo* |
| $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 pay as you go plan
Tello unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Keep things simple with Tello prepaid plans. Their plans cater to all budgets, and you have the flexibility to build your own plan according to your specific needs. This allows you to choose the amount of data, minutes, and texts that fit your usage, making sure that you only pay for what you actually use.
When it comes to data, it's worth checking how much data you use as a set data plan can help you get the cheapest plan. Check out our review about best pay as you go 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
The average phone bill is $155 per month, and while 38 million Americans live in poverty, 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 are paying for multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople - all these expenses get 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 data plans to customize to your needs, and more highly 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 pay as you go phone plans
| Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tello | 2GB | $10/mo | $120/yr | $780/yr | See at Tello |
| Mint Mobile | 15GB | $15/mo* |
$225/yr | $675/yr | See at Mint Mobile
*$45 for 3 Months
|
| Tello | Unlimited | $25/mo | $300/yr | $600/yr | See at Tello |
| Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twigby | 2GB | $5/mo* |
$150/yr | $750/yr | See at Twigby
*$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths
|
| US Mobile | 10GB | $15/mo* | $180/yr | $720/yr | See at US Mobile
*$180 for 12 Mths Service
|
| US Mobile | Unlimited | $15/mo* |
$306/yr | $594/yr | See at US Mobile
*30 Day FREE Trial
|
| Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Pocket | 1GB | $10/mo | $120/yr | $780/yr | See at Red Pocket |
| Boost Mobile | 5GB | $15/mo* | $180/yr | $720/yr | See at Boost Mobile |
| Boost Mobile | Unlimited | $12.50/mo* |
$287.50/yr | $612.50/yr | See at Boost Mobile
*50% Off 1st Mth
|
Check out our pay as you go cell phone comparison to find the best deal.
How to choose the best value carrier for a PAYG plan
- What network coverage do you prefer? Network coverage is a crucial factor, particularly in rural areas. MVNOs operate on the same high-quality 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks as the big three. If you have a preferred network, choosing a pay-as-you-go MVNO that utilizes that network can ensure optimal service.
- How much data do you need? With regular Wi-Fi access at home or work, contrary to the big three pushing unlimited wireless plans, the reality is that the average monthly cellular data use is around 10GB. Low-cost carriers offer various data plans, allowing you to save money by selecting a plan based on your actual usage. However, if you opt for an unlimited plan, be aware of the high-speed data cap.
- Is hotspot data included? Most low-cost carriers offer mobile hotspot access with varying data limits for tethering, depending on the carrier and specific plan.
- What's the monthly price? While unlimited plans from big wireless can be expensive, averaging $75-90 per month, MVNOs offer more budget-friendly pay-as-you-go plans, with prices ranging from $5-35 per month and without the long-term commitment.
- How many lines do you need? The big three often advertise low prices that are contingent on purchasing multiple lines. In contrast, MVNOs offer straightforward pricing for any number of lines, while many still offer additional discounts for multiple lines.
- Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device? MVNOs typically allow you to bring your own device and ditch the upgrade cycle. This approach offers greater flexibility and control over when to upgrade. If you want to buy a new device, many MVNOs offer affordable options with 0% financing terms.
- Are there any deals or promotions? Promotions from the big three might seem appealing at first glance but often come with strings attached, leading to unnecessary expenses or long-term commitments. Conversely, many MVNOs offer straightforward, short-term promotional pricing for new customers with more transparent terms.
- What perks or add ons can I expect? Big wireless plans often come with "free" subscription perks, such as TV services, which may initially seem beneficial but can lead to unexpected charges later. Some affordable carriers do offer plans with free subscription services, but it's generally advisable to manage these subscriptions separately to avoid paying for services you don't need.
- Is international calling included? If you have loved ones abroad, a range of MVNOs includes free international calls to numerous countries in their pay-as-you-go plans, providing a cost-effective way to stay connected globally.
- Are there parental controls? An important feature if you're looking for a plan for the whole family, parental controls allow parents to monitor and manage their children's phone usage and data consumption. Several MVNOs offer parental control features, enabling restrictions on data usage, app access, and even location tracking, either through specific subscription plans or device settings.
Check out our cheap cell phone plan comparison to ensure you find the best deal.
Find the best PAYG phone plans in your area
Pay as you go plans FAQs
Low-cost carriers like Tello, Mint Mobile, and Boost Mobile, offer some of the cheapest pay as you go cell phone plans. With prices starting as low as $5 per month.
Yes, a pay as you go phone plan is cheaper and gives you the flexibility of no contracts and only paying for what you need.
Recap: What is the cheapest pay as you go plan?
Although the big three are signaling their intention to continue escalating prices, all at the expense of their dedicated customers, there's a glimmer of hope when it comes to your cell phone plan.
With cheap pay as you go phone plans, you now have the opportunity to access the same quality service at a significantly reduced cost, potentially saving up to $600 per year per line.
Before you make a decision on your next cell phone provider, I highly recommend taking advantage of our cell phone plan comparison. It's designed to help you sift through the range of options available, making sure you get the best deal for you.
Cheap phone plan guides
- The Cheapest Cell Phone Plans
- The Cheapest Prepaid Phone Plans
- The Cheapest Unlimited Data Plans
- The Cheapest Family Phone Plans
- The Cheapest Prepaid Family Phone Plans
- The Cheapest Phone Plans for One Person
- The Cheapest MVNO Plans
- The Cheapest Phone Plans for Seniors
- The Cheapest No Contract Cell Phone Plans
- The Cheapest 5G Phone Plans
- The Cheapest Talk & Text Plans
- The Cheapest eSIM Plans
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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