The best AT&T prepaid cell phone plans in 2023
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About Rob
Rob has 15+ years experience running price comparison & review websites that empower consumers to find the cheapest cell phone services, cell phone deals, home phone, and internet providers available. He has been published in Forbes, US News, Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, Inc.
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5G wireless networks, cell phone plans, cell phone deals, MVNOs, internet services, tablets, comparison shopping, money saving, reviewing telecom products & services
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About Amanda
Amanda has 20+ years of experience as an educator. Her teaching career, paired with her love for research and technology, has led her to MoneySavingPro. Her personal experience with eSIMs and MVNOs after switching her entire family away from big wireless in the last few years has taught her the ins and outs of the industry. And saved her hundreds per month.
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Last updated on November 14th, 2023
We compared the best prepaid plans on the AT&T 5G & 4G LTE networks: Save up to $600/yr.
We helped over 2 million users compare cell phone plans in 2022
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
- Boost Mobile 5GB: Best prepaid AT&T plan for 1 line
- Red Pocket 20GB: Best prepaid AT&T eSIM plan
- Boost Mobile Unlimited: Best prepaid AT&T family plan
- Boost Infinite Unlimited: Best AT&T unlimited family plan
Table of contents
- AT&T prepaid phone plans reviewed & rated in December
- Compare AT&T unlimited plans
- How to choose the best prepaid plan on AT&T
- Does AT&T offer coverage where you live?
- How much data do you need?
- Is mobile hotspot data included?
- What's the monthly cost?
- How many lines do you need?
- Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
- Are there any deals or promotions?
- What perks are included?
- What international features are available?
- Do they offer parental controls?
- Find the best cell phone service in your area
- Compare the cheapest AT&T prepaid phone plans
- AT&T prepaid plans FAQs
- What is the cheapest AT&T prepaid plan?
- What is the best AT&T prepaid plan?
- Recap: What is the best AT&T prepaid plan?
- Prepaid plan guides
- MoneySavingPro methodology
1. Best prepaid AT&T plan for 1 line: Boost Mobile 5GB
- AT&T 5G & 4G LTE networks Boost Mobile operates on the AT&T 5G & 4G LTE networks. This allows you to receive the same wireless coverage but at a fraction of the cost.
- Unlimited talk and text
- 5GB data
- $750 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Boost Mobile 5GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$5/mo*
$15/mo* $15 for 3 months service
Operating on the AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G networks, you can cut the cost of your cell phone bill and get more flexibility with a Boost Mobile prepaid plan.
Whether you're a light or heavy data user, their range of data allowances start from 2GB and go all the way up to unlimited, so there is something for everyone. Check out our review about the best AT&T phone plans for one person.
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 plans come with unlimited talk and text.
- Unlimited plans include 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.
- Discounts are available for additional lines, which is great for families.
- Wide selection of phones available, including the latest models from Apple and Samsung, with 0% financing over 1-2 years.
- There are limited international features, with additional charges for international calls made using add-ons.
2. Best prepaid AT&T eSIM plan: Red Pocket 20GB
- AT&T 5G & 4G LTE networks Red Pocket operates on the AT&T 5G & 4G LTE networks. This allows you to receive the same wireless coverage but at a fraction of the cost.
- Unlimited talk and text
- 20GB data
- $555 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Red Pocket 20GB vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$15/mo*
$30/mo* 50% off First Month
Check out our review about the 5 best AT&T eSIM plans.
Pros
Cons
3. Best prepaid AT&T family plan: Boost Mobile Unlimited
- AT&T 5G & 4G LTE networks Boost Mobile operates on the AT&T 5G & 4G LTE networks. This allows you to receive the same wireless coverage but at a fraction of the cost.
- Unlimited talk and text
- Unlimited data
- $612.50 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Boost Mobile Unlimited vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$12.50/mo*
$25/mo* 50% Off First Month
Operating on the AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G networks, you can cut the cost of your cell phone bill and get more flexibility with a Boost Mobile prepaid plan.
Whether you're a light or heavy data user, their range of data allowances start from 2GB and go all the way up to unlimited, so there is something for everyone. Check out our review about the best AT&T family phone 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
4. Best AT&T unlimited family plan: Boost Infinite Unlimited
- AT&T 5G & 4G LTE networks Boost Infinite operates on the AT&T 5G & 4G LTE networks. This allows you to receive the same wireless coverage but at a fraction of the cost.
- Unlimited talk and text
- Unlimited data
- $600 in annual savings Savings are calculated comparing the cost of the Boost Infinite Unlimited vs an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon over the first 12 months.
$25/mo*
* $25/mo Forever
The Boost Infinite phone plan offers one plan with one price. Powered by the AT&T and T-Mobile networks, Boost Infinite keeps it simple. At a cost of $25, you'll get the same 5G & 4G LTE wireless network. Check out our review about the best AT&T unlimited data plans.
Pros
- AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
- Unlimited plan (capped at 30GB high-speed data)
- Set price of $25 per month forever
- eSIM compatible
Cons
- No multi-line discounts
- International add-ons available
- At the affordable price of $25 a month, enjoy unlimited talk, text, and data (with a limit of 30GB for high-speed data).
- There are no unexpected charges or hidden fees. Only taxes are applicable.
- There is no contract binding you, so you can easily switch if the plan no longer fits your needs.
- Roaming is available in Mexico and Canada for an extra fee (with a 1GB cap).
- Unlimited international calls to over 80 countries and texts to more than 200 countries.
- Note that there are no additional discounts available for family plans. Each person will still be charged $25 per month per line.
- Mobile hotspot is available at an additional cost of $10 a month for up to 30GB, with the allowance coming out of your monthly data.
AT&T prepaid phone plans reviewed & rated in December
If you love AT&T's network coverage but want the best prepaid phone plan, you're in the right place.
Prepaid phone plans have come a long way from their original pay-by-the-minute days.
You'll find all the same kinds of options available in postpaid plans - unlimited data plans, mobile hotspot use, international service, and more.
Even better, we're going to show you how you can save up to $600 per year compared to postpaid plans from the major carriers.
Compare AT&T unlimited plans
| Plan | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Unlimited Starter | Unlimited | $65 | $780 |
| AT&T Unlimited Extra | Unlimited | $75 | $900 |
| AT&T Unlimited Premium | Unlimited | $85 | $1,020 |
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 | ||
How to choose the best prepaid plan on AT&T
Does AT&T offer coverage where you live?
Operating on the AT&T 5G & 4G LTE wireless network, AT&T MVNOs offer the same coverage. According to an Opensignal network experience report 2023, AT&T comes out as the best for availability. If you're new to the AT&T network, you can use our coverage map to find the best cell phone service in your area.
How much data do you need?
Do you really need an AT&T unlimited data plan? They want you to believe so, but in reality, the average monthly cellular data consumption is around 10GB. If you primarily use Wi-Fi at home or work, your cellular data usage is likely to be lower, so you have the option to select a data plan that suits your requirements with cheap AT&T MVNO plans, meaning you can pay less if you use less.
Is mobile hotspot data included?
Most AT&T low-cost carriers permit the usage of hotspot data, although there's a restriction on the amount of data that can be used through tethering. The specific limit is determined by the carrier and plan that you select. You can also get AT&T data only plans for iPads, tablets, and mobile hotspots, ideal to use for video streaming and browsing the internet.
What's the monthly cost?
While AT&T unlimited plans cost around $65-85 per month, the best way to get an AT&T unlimited data plan is from one of their low-cost carriers. Offering budget-friendly plans ranging from around $15-45 per month without compromising wireless coverage and data speeds. Be cautious of undisclosed fees and taxes, including activation fees, as certain prepaid carriers incorporate these into the total cost while AT&T doesn't.
How many lines do you need?
With AT&T, you only get the advertised low price if you buy four lines. But with AT&T's low-cost carriers, the price you see is the price you pay, even for a single line. Many low-cost carriers now offer further family plan discounts for multi-line plans.
Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
AT&T loves keeping you locked into a constant phone upgrade cycle. But you can bring your own phone to AT&T with their Mobile Virtual Network Operators. This means you take back control and only change your phone when it suits you. Just make sure your phone's unlocked from your old carrier. If you do want to purchase a new smartphone, many MVNOs offer a great way with 0% financing over 1-2 years with offers including the latest iPhone and Samsung models.
Are there any deals or promotions?
Promotions on AT&T's wireless service can seem good at a glance. But once you read the small print, it often leads to buying things you don't need and being stuck in 3-year phone contracts. MVNOs offer a unique service model to build your own plan to fit your needs. Often with unlimited minutes and texts, with many offering short-term introductory discounts for new customers, and their pricing is more transparent.
What perks are included?
Some AT&T plans have premium data along with complimentary TV subscriptions for SD and 4K UHD TV streaming. But these often convert into paid subscriptions that are automatically billed after a few months. Some affordable carriers do provide plan choices with free subscription services like HBO Max. However, it's generally advisable to keep these subscriptions separate to avoid paying for unnecessary things.
What international features are available?
Several low-cost carriers on AT&T's network offer unlimited international talk to 60 or more countries, with some also offering unlimited international texting. If this is important to you, make sure to choose a provider that includes this. If you travel regularly, checking the carrier's data roaming availability is vital to avoid unexpected costs or inconvenience while you're abroad.
Do they offer parental controls?
Many MVNO carriers offer parental control features that enable parents to monitor their children's phone usage and data consumption. With parental controls, you can set data limits, restrict access to certain apps or websites, and even track your child's location. Some AT&T MVNOs offer these features as part of their standard plans, or you'll find this feature on your cell phone.
Check out our comparison of the cheapest AT&T cell phone plans before you decide.
Find the best cell phone service in your area
If AT&T isn't giving you the best coverage, check out the best Verizon prepaid plans and T-Mobile prepaid plans.
Compare the cheapest AT&T prepaid phone plans
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boost Mobile 5GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $5/mo $15/mo |
| Red Pocket 20GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 20GB | $15/mo $30/mo |
| Boost Mobile unlimited data plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $12.50/mo $25/mo |
| Boost Infinite unlimited data plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $25/mo |
| Good2Go Mobile 1GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $5/mo |
AT&T prepaid plans FAQs
The cheapest prepaid plan with AT&T wireless coverage is available from Boost Mobile, with plans starting at $5 per month.
The best prepaid plan with AT&T wireless coverage is Boost Mobile's unlimited data plan which is only $25 per month.
Recap: What is the best AT&T prepaid plan?
The wireless market is changing in favor of consumers. If you want to save money on your cell phone bill, it's up to you to take the leap.
Choose an AT&T prepaid MVNO. Get on a plan that fits your needs instead of your carrier's bottom line. Bring your own phone or buy a refurbished phone and free yourself from expensive phone payments.
Not sure the AT&T network is the right choice for you? Compare cell phone plans from numerous low-cost carriers in one place.
Prepaid plan guides
- The 5 Best Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The 5 Best Prepaid Unlimited Data Plans
- The 5 Best Prepaid Family Phone Plans
- Best No Contract Phone Plans
- 10 Cheap Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The Best Verizon Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The Best AT&T Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The Best T-Mobile Prepaid Cell Phone Plans
- The 5 Best Prepaid Data Plans for Tablets
- The 5 Best Prepaid Data Plans for iPads
- The 5 Best Prepaid Hotspot Plans
MoneySavingPro methodology
At MoneySavingPro, we're all about finding and sharing affordable cell phone plans that offer the best value for money. We put a lot of care into looking at all the options out there, focusing on what's best for you, the consumer. Our goal is to help you save money by showing you cheaper alternatives to the expensive plans from the big wireless companies.
With over 10 years of experience in the industry, we intentionally don't recommend plans from the big wireless networks in our reviews. This is because of how they handle their pricing and fees and their lack of transparency.
AT&T MVNOs operate on the same AT&T network, and we research each AT&T low-cost carrier with the features and benefits it offers. This includes coverage, easy activation, eSIM compatibility, multiline discounts, and special discounts for specific demographics such as military, students, seniors, and more.
We also examine additional perks like pay-as-you-go options, unlimited plans, kids plans, senior plans, and smartwatch plans, evaluating them for their individual benefits and overall value.
We did consider these other AT&T alternatives, Cricket Wireless, Straight Talk, and Consumer Cellular, but we discounted them because we still don't consider these to be good value for money.
We regularly update our comparisons. Updating cell phone plans weekly and our content every 3 months. To make sure we are showing the latest and most accurate information.
