The cheapest data plans for tablets: Starting at $6
Unlocking the most affordable tablet 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.
We helped over 2 million users compare phone plans in 2023
We've reviewed 30 carriers & compared over 120 phone plans
Over 15 years of experience helping people save money on their phone bills
Top plans list
- Tello 2GB data plan: Best cheap data plan
- Tello 10GB data plan: Best eSIM data plan
- US Mobile unlimited data plan: Best unlimited data only plan
- Mint Mobile 5GB data plan
- Tello unlimited data plan
- Red Pocket 20GB data plan
- US Mobile 2GB data plan
Table of contents
- The best tablet data plans in March 2024
- How to choose the best value tablet data plan
- The cheapest T-Mobile tablet plan
- The cheapest Verizon tablet plan
- The cheapest AT&T tablet plan
- Compare the cheapest prepaid tablet data plans
- Tablet data plans FAQs
- Recap: What is the best cheap tablet plan?
- How we choose the best providers and data plans
MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.
Finding the cheapest tablet data plans doesn't have to be hard work or overwhelming.
MVNOs, also known as Mobile Virtual Network Operators, offer affordable data-only SIM cards for your tablet. Powered by the cell towers of the big three, you'll receive the same coverage at half the price.
With their prepaid plans, you don't have to worry about additional charges at the end of the month, you only pay for what you need.
We've compared the cheapest tablet data plans from all MVNOs below to help you find the right deal for you.
The best tablet data plans in March 2024
Best cheap data 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 best tablet data 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 eSIM data 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 byod 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 plans for tablets.
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.
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 the cheapest data only 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.
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 best value AT&T tablet 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
Red Pocket 20GB data plan
- AT&T & Verizon 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 best value T-Mobile tablet plans.
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.
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 best value Verizon tablet 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
How to choose the best value tablet data plan
- Network coverage: 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.
- Data allowance: 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.
- Hotspot data: 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.
- 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.
- Number of lines: With big wireless, you only get the advertised price if you buy 4 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.
- Bring your own device or buy new: 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.
- Deals & 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.
- Perks & add-ons: 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.
- No contracts: 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 cheapest T-Mobile tablet 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 cheapest T-Mobile tablet plans
The cheapest Verizon tablet plan
- Verizon & T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE networks
- No talk and text
- 10GB data
Verizon vs US Mobile comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $720 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 | 10GB | $15/mo | $180/yr |
Savings | $60/mo | $720/yr |
Check out our review of the cheapest Verizon tablet plans
The cheapest AT&T tablet 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 cheapest AT&T tablet plans
Tablet data plans pros & cons
Pros
- No contracts: It's easy to switch if you find a better internet plan from another carrier.
- Flexible plans: Choose the amount of data that you want to pay for.
- Cheaper for all your wireless needs: Get a cheap cell phone plan, and mobile hotspot features all from one low-cost carrier.
Cons
- Limited availability: Not all MVNOs sell data-only SIM cards. Several do, so you can typically find what you need at a great price.
- Relies on a cellular signal: Mobile hotspots use your carrier's wireless network coverage. So if you're in an area with a spotty signal, your hotspot will be spotty too.
Compare the cheapest prepaid tablet data plans
Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red Pocket 1GB data plan | AT&T & Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $10/mo |
Tello 10GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 10GB | $15/mo |
Mint Mobile 20GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 20GB | $15/mo |
Boost Mobile unlimited data plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $12.50/mo |
US Mobile unlimited data plan | Verizon & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $15/mo |
Tablet data plans FAQs
Yes, you can purchase a cellular data plan from numerous low-cost carriers online.
The cheapest tablet data plans are available from low-cost carriers, such as US Mobile, Tello, and Red Pocket. They have data plans starting at $6 per month.
Recap: What is the best cheap tablet plan?
Getting a tablet data-only plan doesn't have to mean another expensive monthly cost. With MVNOs, there's a range of plans to choose from, and depending on how much data you want, plans can start from as little as $10 a month.
It's easy to choose your plan online and have it sent straight to your door, so you can pop your new data-only SIM card into your tablet and be up and running in no time.
Operating on the same wireless networks means you'll receive access to their 4G LTE data and fast 5G speeds, where it's available, depending on the carrier you choose.
Cheap data plan guides
- The Cheapest Data Only Plans
- The Cheapest Data Plans for iPads
- The Cheapest Hotspot Plans
- Best Prepaid Data Plans for Tablets
- Best Prepaid Data Plans for iPad
- Best Prepaid Hotspot Plans
- Best Prepaid Internet Service
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.