The best phone plans for 1 line in 2025

Ready for a change from the big three's rigid options, cryptic charges, and budget-draining fees?

As these telecom giants revel in their windfall profits and plot yet another round of price increases, they've overlooked one crucial detail: today's consumer is informed and in control.

Leveraging over a decade of industry expertise, I've navigated the vast landscape of wireless plans, analyzing 30 alternative carriers and over 100 prepaid plans, saving you the legwork.

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

The revelation? A wealth of carriers are still in the fray, offering competitive services on those very networks you trust without the premium price tag. Finding the right plan boils down to your personal usage and network preference.

I've curated a list of the best value plans for 1 line across all data usage profiles for each major network. Moreover, I've identified what I believe to be the top value plan out there - but the power to choose is yours alone!

Tello offers the best plan with low data for 1 line

Tello 2GB plan for $10/mo

• T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk and text with 2GB data
• Instant online activation

5

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Looking for an easy way to cut your phone bill without losing reliable service? Tello offers one of the best low-cost options on T-Mobile's network.

You get unlimited talk and text, plus free international calls to 60+ countries (including Canada and Mexico). Tello's flexible approach allows you to build your own plan, selecting just the right amount of data, talk, and text to match your needs.

Get mobile hotspot use with every plan, but the unlimited plan is capped at 5GB. There are no discounts for multiple lines, but at these prices, bundling isn't necessary.

Getting started is seamless with eSIM. The activation takes just a few taps. Or you can order a physical SIM if preferred.

I also looked into other options. Ultra Mobile is a great choice for international calls but costs more for similar data. Metro by T-Mobile requires in-store activation and is more expensive. Boost Mobile has attractive pricing, but hidden fees and inconsistent service take away its appeal.

For an affordable, flexible, and commitment-free phone plan, Tello remains the top pick.

• Custom plans – Only pay for what you need, with no forced extras.
• Simple, transparent pricing – No contracts, no hidden fees.
• Easy setup – eSIM activation in minutes or a shipped SIM card.

Visible offers the best unlimited data plan for 1 line

Visible unlimited plan for $25/mo

• Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

3.4

Read our Visible review

See at Visible

Tired of complicated wireless plans? Visible keeps it simple with just two unlimited options, both with no contracts, no extra fees, and no hassle.

For $25/month, you get unlimited talk, text, and data, plus mobile hotspot access with speeds of 5–10 Mbps. If you need faster speeds and premium data, the Visible+ plan gives you 50GB of priority data and Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband access.

International perks make Visible+ even better. It includes free international calling to 30+ countries and texting to over 200 destinations. Plus, eSIM activation lets you start service in just minutes.

Although multi-line discounts aren't available, Visible's low individual pricing ensures great value for single users. Just keep in mind that customer support is online-only.

Compared to Tracfone, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile, Visible stands out. Tracfone is cheaper but restricts data speeds. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile have good pricing, but you must be an internet customer to sign up.

For no-fuss unlimited service with clear pricing, Visible is the best pick.

• Unlimited plans, no surprises – Simple, all-in pricing with no hidden fees.
• Built-in extras – Mobile hotspot included, plus free international calling & texting with Visible+.
• Instant activation – eSIM lets you switch in minutes, or order a SIM card.

Total Wireless offers the best single line with Verizon coverage

Total Wireless unlimited plan for $50/mo

• Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

4

Read our Total Wireless review

See at Total Wireless

Total Wireless keeps wireless service simple and affordable, offering no-contract plans with Verizon's coverage.

With unlimited talk and text, generous high-speed data allowances, and hotspot access up to 15GB, you get everything you need at a lower cost.

International features are built in with select plans include free calling to 85+ destinations and roaming in Canada and Mexico.

You can manage your plan easily online, with no activation fees, no contracts, and no hassle.

I compared other budget-friendly carriers on Verizon's network. Tracfone's pay-as-you-go plans limit high-speed data. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile provide solid deals, but require home internet service.

For a cost-effective plan with Verizon's coverage and useful extras, Total Wireless is a smart choice.

• Verizon's coverage, lower price – Reliable service without the premium cost.
• Great extras included – Hotspot access up to 15GB on certain plans, plus free international calling & roaming.
• No long-term commitments – Manage your plan online with total flexibility.

Tello offers the best plan with T-Mobile coverage for 1 line

Tello unlimited plan for $25/mo

• T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

5

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Tello is all about giving you affordable wireless service without the headaches of big carrier contracts.

Every plan includes free international calling to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, along with flexible data options tailored to your needs.

With Tello, you build your own plan-picking just the right amount of data, talk, and text. That means no paying for features you don't use. Every plan includes mobile hotspot access, with a 5GB limit on unlimited plans, and while multi-line discounts aren't available, individual pricing is so competitive that bundling isn't necessary.

Switching is fast and hassle-free-if your phone supports eSIM, you can activate your plan in just a few taps. If not, Tello will send you a physical SIM card for easy installation.

I looked at other options, including Metro by T-Mobile, Ultra Mobile, and Boost Mobile. Metro by T-Mobile requires in-store activation and charges more for similar plans. Ultra Mobile offers good international calling perks but costs more. Boost Mobile has attractive pricing but taxes and fees can vary and customer support is inconsistent.

For low-cost, no-commitment service with full flexibility, Tello is a standout choice.

• Personalized plans – Create a plan with just the right amount of talk, text, and data-no wasted money on extras.
• No hidden fees, no contracts – Pay month to month with transparent pricing and no surprise charges.
• Seamless activation – eSIM allows for instant setup, or you can get a SIM card shipped and activate at your convenience.

Red Pocket offers the best plan with AT&T coverage for 1 line

Red Pocket unlimited plan for $30/mo

• AT&T 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

4

Read our Red Pocket review

See at Red Pocket

If you're looking for an unlimited plan for the whole family, Red Pocket Mobile offers major savings on AT&T's network.

You'll get a $20 discount per extra line, helping families cut costs while still enjoying premium network coverage. Although there's a small setup fee, the overall savings make it worth the switch.

Plans come with unlimited talk and text, no hidden fees, and up to 30GB of high-speed data, plus hotspot access for added flexibility.

For international users, Red Pocket Mobile includes free calls to 80+ countries and free roaming in Mexico and Canada, all at no extra cost. eSIM users also get a 7-day money-back guarantee, allowing them to try the service risk-free.

I reviewed other AT&T-powered budget carriers, including Cricket Wireless, which costs more despite being AT&T's own prepaid brand, H2O Wireless, which has international perks but isn't as competitively priced, and Good2Go Mobile, which offers lower prices but limited plan choices.

For an affordable unlimited plan with premium features and great family savings, Red Pocket Mobile is a top choice.

• Multi-line savings – Save $20 per extra line and lower your family's phone bill.
• Built-in global perks – Free calls to 80+ countries and free roaming in Mexico & Canada.
• No contracts, no surprises – Clear pricing with a 7-day eSIM refund policy.

Big wireless: Big prices, big profits, little value

With the average phone bill of $155 per month and the prices of other basic needs rising, it's no wonder nearly 38 million Americans are living in poverty. The government's recent response? To cut funding to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which helps 22 million low-income families access affordable internet and cell phone service.

At the same time, the big three spent January celebrating record profits and multi-billion dollar shareholder dividend payouts. To add insult to injury, they are simultaneously announcing yet more price hikes. With consumers outnumbering shareholders, the math doesn't add up.

Awareness is power - there are other 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.

An unlimited data plan with a major provider 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 only cost you $900.

So, buying plans 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?

Big wireless companies tack on extra expenses. Essentially, you are paying for multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople - all these costs are passed onto the many to maximize profits and dividend payouts of the few.

With the next generation of MVNOs, you instantly switch online and simply pay for phone service - none of the extras.

Cut your phone bill, not your coverage

Low-cost carriers are an unbeatable alternative. They offer transparent pricing, a wide range of customizable data plans to fit your needs, and higher-rated customer service experiences.

The best news? Keep your phone, number, coverage, and most importantly, your money!

It's quick and easy. You can complete the entire switching process online in minutes with an eSIM-compatible phone.

Now is the time to reevaluate your options and take back control of your phone bill. Free yourself from price hikes forever!

Compare the cheapest cell phone plans for 1 line

Check out our 1-line phone plan comparison to find the best deal.

How to choose the best value single line carrier

• Network: Dependable coverage is a must, whether you're navigating city streets or finding peace in rural hideaways. Luckily, cost-conscious carriers provide access to the same wide-reaching 5G and 4G LTE networks as the industry giants. According to the latest Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023), T-Mobile shines in terms of 5G coverage. Opting for an MVNO on your chosen network means you won't have to compromise on connection quality.
• Data needs: Despite the deluge of unlimited data plans, you might be surprised to learn your actual usage is quite modest. Due to Wi-Fi availability both at home and on public networks, the average monthly cellular data usage is 10GB. Budget-friendly carriers offer plans tailored to your real requirements.
• Hotspot: Tethering is crucial for some people because it allows them to stay connected on the go. Fortunately, hotspot capability is typically standard, although the details can vary across plans and providers. You're never more than a few taps away from the web.
• Price: While traditional plans direct from big networks run you anywhere from $75 to $90, savvy individuals can find MVNO deals from $5 to $35, providing significant savings without cutting corners on quality.
• Lines: Reject the major carriers' push for multi-line bundles. MVNOs excel with straightforward, single-line pricing. They offer great value and simplicity for anyone looking to keep life and their mobile plan uncomplicated.
• Phones: MVNOs encourage using your existing phone, freeing you from the endless cycle of upgrades. But if you're in the market for a new device, there are affordable choices with 0% financing available.
• Promos: Avoid the complex and often misleading "deals" from the big names. MVNOs favor clear, simple promotions, ensuring you understand precisely what you're signing up for without any hidden fees.
• Perks: "Free" or trial subscriptions from big brands may be initially appealing. However, it's important to evaluate whether these bonuses genuinely enhance your lifestyle or will merely end up as another expense. Select benefits that truly meet your needs, avoiding unnecessary costs.
• International features: Staying connected with friends or family abroad is essential. Many MVNOs offer complimentary international calling to several countries, a vital feature for those with international connections. Stay in touch without breaking the bank.

Find the best phone service in your area

Single line phone plan FAQs

Recap: What is the best single line phone plan?

The relentless surge in prices by the big three carriers isn't about meeting consumer demands; it's about boosting their profit margins at the expense of individuals like you. In these times, where every aspect of living from groceries to utilities is becoming more expensive, understanding the value of every penny is crucial.

However, there's a ray of hope for reducing your cell phone bills. By choosing the best cheap cell phone plan for 1 with the right carrier, you can enjoy the quality service you're used to at a significantly lower cost. Imagine the potential of saving up to $600 per year on your single line plan.

For anyone considering a smart move to a more cost-effective plan, the choice is vital. That's why we've developed our comprehensive cell phone plan comparison tool specifically for you. It's designed to sift through a wide range of options, ensuring you find the perfect single line plan to fit your needs and budget precisely.

How I choose the best carriers and plans

To select the best carriers and plans, I evaluated over 30 different carriers.

I rate carriers in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. I then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:

1. Value for money: I 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.
2. Coverage: I look at network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US. I use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
3. Customer experience: I 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.
4. Transparency: I assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. I examine the fine print to check for hidden fees, confusing terms or conditions, and misleading offers to ensure upfront, honest prices and advertising.
5. Range of choice: I 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.

I regularly update the content so that we're always recommending the latest and best value plans and do my best to ensure the information is accurate.