The best phone plans under $30

Get the same coverage 3x cheaper!

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Verizon
coverage
2GB
$5
/mo
$15/mo
Verizon
coverage
0GB
$5
/mo
$10/mo
T-Mobile
coverage
0GB
$8
/mo
Free yourself from price hikes:
Cut your phone bill by $600/yr
Coverage
Any network
  • Any network
  • T-Mobile
  • Verizon
  • AT&T
Data
Any data
  • Any data
  • No Data
  • 2GB or more
  • 5GB or more
  • 10GB or more
  • 15GB or more
  • 20GB or more
  • Unlimited
Price
$30 or less
  • Any price
  • $30 or less
  • $40 or less
  • $50 or less
  • $60 or less
  • $70 or less
Twigby Mobile 2GB
4.3
Unlimited calls & texts
Coverage
Verizon
Data
2GB
Price
$5*
$15/mo
Promo: *$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths
See at Twigby Mobile
Plan details
Save $750/yr vs big wireless
Twigby Mobile 0GB
4.3
Unlimited calls & texts
Coverage
Verizon
Data
0GB
Price
$5*
$10/mo
Promo: *$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths
See at Twigby Mobile
Plan details
Save $795/yr vs big wireless
Tello 0GB
4.4
Unlimited calls & texts
Coverage
T-Mobile
Data
0GB
Price
$8
Plan details
Save $804/yr vs big wireless
Tello 1GB
4.4
Unlimited calls & texts
Coverage
T-Mobile
Data
1GB
Price
$9
Plan details
Save $792/yr vs big wireless
Twigby Mobile 10GB
4.3
Unlimited calls & texts
Coverage
Verizon
Data
10GB
Price
$10*
$25/mo
Promo: *$10/mo for 1st 3 Mths
See at Twigby Mobile
Plan details
Save $645/yr vs big wireless
We currently have no deals for that combination, please change the filters
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Disclaimer: MoneySavingPro is a free price comparison service but we do not provide service directly. We do our best to keep all the information up to date but there may be some discrepancies between the price you pay.

Don't pay more for the same coverage
Big wireless costs $1,800 extra
1 year2 years3 years
Big Wireless$900$1,800$2,700
Alternative$300$600$900
You save$600$1,200$1,800
Same coverage: Better service
Time to switch? There’s a message in the stars
We compare: You decide
Tello
Reviews 12,022+
Excellent
4.6
Twigby Mobile
Reviews 1,482+
Excellent
4.7
Red Pocket
Reviews 3,713+
Excellent
4.4
$300
/yr
Switch online in mintues
vs
Monkey
Old Wireless
Stores & sales people
T-Mobile
Reviews 5,914+
Bad
1.4
Verizon
Reviews 5,567+
Bad
1.2
AT&T
Reviews 8,139+
Bad
1.3
$900
/yr
+ fees, taxes & price hikes
Keep your coverage: Save your money
The coverage you expect at prices you don’t!
T-Mobile coverage map
T-Mobile coverage
Plans from $10
Plans on T-Mobile
Verizon coverage map
Verizon coverage
Plans from $10
Plans on Verizon
AT&T coverage map
AT&T coverage
Plans from $10
Plans on AT&T
Cut your phone bill by $600/yr
Tello
T-Mobile
AT&T
Verizon
TrustPilot rating
4.6
1.4
1.3
1.2
Price
$25
$75
$75
$75
Data
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Minutes & Texts
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Nationwide coverage
5G & 4G LTE
Hotspot Data
International Calls
Annual cost
$300/yr
$900/yr
$900/yr
$900/yr
Phone service without tricks
Man with phones in his jacket
No stores or sales people
Golden phone in a bear trap
No 3 year contracts
Man holding long contract
No hidden fees
Monkey wrapped in wires
No confusing bundles
Premium wireless without premium prices
Ookla speed test intelligence report 2024
Low cost carriers
197 Mbps
T-Mobile MVNO
101 Mbps
Verizon MVNO
95 Mbps
AT&T MVNO
$25 per month
vs
Monkey
Big wireless
188 Mbps
T-Mobile
103 Mbps
Verizon
109 Mbps
AT&T
$75 per month
How it works
3 simple steps to switching carriers
1. Pick your coverage & plan
2. Bring your phone & number
3. Instant online switch & activation
All plans include
Unlimited talk & text
99% coverage
5G speeds
International calls
Buy a new phone or bring your own
Change your plan or phone whenever you want

MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.

Best overall phone plan

Mint Mobile unlimited data plan

Image of cell phone with Mint Mobile
  • T-Mobile coverage
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
Unlimited
data
$15/mo*
$30/mo
See at Mint Mobile

*$45 for 3 Months

3.9Read our Mint Mobile review
$585 in annual savings

Mint Mobile phone plans are powered by the T-Mobile network, providing the same great service at a lower cost. They offer various data allowances, including an unlimited plan with 40GB of high-speed data and unlimited talk and text.

With Mint Mobile, their transparent messaging shows how you can save more money the longer you commit. Check out our review about best cell phone plans.

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 offers mobile hotspot access with all of their plans. So you can use your phone to tether to tablets or other mobile devices, and the unlimited plan includes a 10 GB hotspot data limit.
  • A minimum 3-month upfront commitment is required to subscribe. The longer commitment period means cheaper prices. Choose a 3, 6, or 12-month pricing structure available after initial commitment.
  • If you're unsatisfied, Mint Mobile offers a 7-day money-back guarantee.
  • You can bring your own device, so there's no need to buy an expensive iPhone. However, if you prefer a new smartphone, there are many options available, including iPhones, Samsung, and other Android models like Google Pixel, with a 0% finance over 1-2 years.
  • With the Mint Mobile app, you can easily monitor your usage and manage multiple lines and plans.
  • One downside is that international roaming is an additional cost, and although you get free calls to Canada and Mexico, other international countries are extra.

Best prepaid phone plan under $30

Tello 2GB plan

Image of cell phone with Tello
  • T-Mobile coverage
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
2GB
data
$10/mo
5Read our Tello review
$780 in annual savings

Tello phone plans keep things simple with their wireless service. None of those hidden fees or long-term contracts that'll leave you feeling trapped.

With free international calls to 60+ countries on all plans, including Canada and Mexico, and a range of data allowances suitable for light to heavy users. Check out our review about the cheapest prepaid 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
  • Not only are their plans affordable for all budgets, but you can build your own plan. Depending on your usage, you get to choose how much data, minutes, and texts you need, so you're not paying for stuff you don't use.
  • It's always worth checking your data usage as a set data plan could save money and help restrict excessive phone usage.
  • Mobile hotspot is available with a limit of 5 GB of data.
  • Tello doesn't offer any discounts if you purchase multiple lines, so if you're looking to get a plan for another family member, each line is billed as a single line at full price. However, you can still save money due to the low cost of their individual plans.
  • Being online-based means that activation of an eSIM plan can take just a few clicks, or you can have a SIM card mailed to you.

Best phone plan for one under $30

Ultra Mobile 3GB plan

Image of cell phone with Ultra Mobile
  • T-Mobile coverage
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
3GB
data
$10/mo*
$19/mo
See at Ultra Mobile

*$30 for 3 Mths

3.4Read our Ultra Mobile review
$699 in annual savings

Ultra Mobile phone plans offer low-cost access to the T-Mobile network. Offering a range of data allowances from 2GB up to 40GB of high-speed data on their unlimited plan, there's something to suit light and heavy data users.

There are no contracts, and if you've got loved ones abroad, they offer free international calls to 80 countries. Check out our review about the cheapest phone plans for one person.

Pros

  • T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
  • Free international calls to 80 countries
  • Mobile hotspot access included
  • eSIM compatible

Cons

  • Extra cost for International roaming
  • Ultra Mobile offers a variety of options for affordable cell phone plans with good coverage on the T-Mobile network.
  • You'll get free international calls to 90+ countries, and cheap family plans with multi-line discounts are available.
  • Mobile hotspot access is available with a limit of 10GB on unlimited plans.
  • While the plan doesn't include international data roaming, you have the option to purchase the UpRoam add-on, which allows you to access roaming services at a discounted rate by adding credit.

Best phone family plan under $30

US Mobile unlimited data plan

Image of cell phone with US Mobile
  • Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile coverage
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
Unlimited
data
$25/mo
4.6Read our US Mobile review
$600 in annual savings

US Mobile phone plans offer affordable deals on the Verizon and T-Mobile networks, with good customer service and customizable options. You can build the best phone plans to suit specific needs, with unlimited talk and text and even international roaming options.

Plus, they don't lock you into any long-term contracts, giving you the freedom to switch whenever you like. Check out our review about the cheapest family phone 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
  • US Mobile stands out with its exceptional customer service, offering 24/7 support by phone or online chat.
  • 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 family plans, you can save hundreds of dollars on your cell phone bill by adding multiple lines. The more lines you add, the more discount you receive.
  • For extra perks, US Mobile offers streaming services like Disney Plus bundle with Hulu and ESPN, HBO Max, Apple TV, Spotify Family, PlayStation Plus, and more, with an unlimited prepaid plan and at least three additional lines.
  • Available to new and existing US Mobile customers with an unlimited plan and at least three additional lines. 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.
  • They may not be the best option for frequent travelers seeking reliable international coverage. Their add-on packages for roaming can be expensive, and their international calling features may not be as competitive as other carriers.

Cheap unlimited plan under $30

Mint Mobile unlimited data plan

Image of cell phone with Mint Mobile
  • T-Mobile coverage
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
Unlimited
data
$15/mo*
$30/mo
See at Mint Mobile

*$45 for 3 Months

3.9Read our Mint Mobile review
$585 in annual savings

Mint Mobile phone plans are powered by the T-Mobile network, providing the same great service at a lower cost. They offer various data allowances, including an unlimited plan with 40GB of high-speed data and unlimited talk and text.

With Mint Mobile, their transparent messaging shows how you can save more money the longer you commit. Check out our review about the cheapest unlimited data plans.

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

Cheap phone plan for kids

Twigby Mobile 2GB plan

Image of cell phone with Twigby Mobile
  • Verizon coverage
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
2GB
data
$5/mo*
$15/mo
See at Twigby Mobile

*$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths

4.4Read our Twigby Mobile review
$750 in annual savings

Twigby Mobile phone plans give you the option to customize your plan and only pay for what you need. They have a range of affordable no-contract plans that are powered by the Verizon network, so you don't have to sacrifice quality for flexibility.

Plus, if you have loved ones abroad, Twigby Mobile offers free international calling to 80 countries.

Pros

  • Verizon 5G & 4G LTE wireless coverage
  • Free international calls to 80+ countries
  • eSIM compatible
  • Free mobile hotspot access
  • Excellent score on Trustpilot

Cons

  • No multi-line discounts
  • No International roaming
  • Offering a selection of customizable wireless plans with a range of data options, with Twigby Mobile, you can create plans, whatever your needs and budget.
  • Twigby Mobile provides free international calling to 80 different countries, ideal for those with family or friends living abroad.
  • Being 100% online based, you can purchase your plan from home, and your SIM card will be sent in the mail.
  • Mobile hotspot allowance is available and comes out of your monthly data usage, which for unlimited plans is a maximum of 20GB.
  • Twigby Mobile doesn't offer multi-line discounts, so if you're looking for more than one line, they may not be the low-cost carrier for you.
  • There are no international roaming services, which may not be ideal for frequent travelers as it could result in a significantly higher monthly bill.

Cheap T-Mobile plan

Mint Mobile 15GB plan

Image of cell phone with Mint Mobile
  • T-Mobile coverage
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
15GB
data
$15/mo*
$20/mo
See at Mint Mobile

*$45 for 3 Months

3.9Read our Mint Mobile review
$675 in annual savings

Mint Mobile phone plans are powered by the T-Mobile network, providing the same great service at a lower cost. They offer various data allowances, including an unlimited plan with 40GB of high-speed data and unlimited talk and text.

With Mint Mobile, their transparent messaging shows how you can save more money the longer you commit.

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

Cheap AT&T plan

Red Pocket unlimited data plan

Image of cell phone with Red Pocket
  • AT&T coverage
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
Unlimited
data
$30/mo
4Read our Red Pocket review
$540 in annual savings

Red Pocket Mobile phone plans are powered by the AT&T wireless network. And if you're looking for multi-line discounts, they're one of the best MVNOs for family plans, with a $20 discount for each additional line added.

You also get free international calls to 80 countries, so you can stay connected with loved ones abroad.

Pros

  • AT&T 5G & 4G LTE 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
  • With Red Pocket Mobile, not only are their plans straightforward with no hidden fees, but they also offer features like unlimited talk and text.
  • Get up to 30GB high-speed data allowance with the unlimited plan.
  • Mobile hotspot access is available up to 30GB on the unlimited plan, which comes out of your monthly data allowance.
  • Being able to save on the whole family's bill is a benefit. You get a $20 discount for each additional line added. 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.

Cheap eSIM plan

Tello 10GB plan

Image of cell phone with Tello
  • T-Mobile coverage
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Instant eSIM activation
10GB
data
$19/mo
5Read our Tello review
$672 in annual savings

Tello phone plans keep things simple with their wireless service. None of those hidden fees or long-term contracts that'll leave you feeling trapped.

With free international calls to 60+ countries on all plans, including Canada and Mexico, and a range of data allowances suitable for light to heavy users.

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 to choose the best phone plan under $30

What network coverage do you prefer?

Network access is a key consideration wherever you live, but especially in rural areas. Luckily, low-cost carriers operate on the same 5G & 4G LTE networks as major carriers. T-Mobile scores the highest for 5G coverage, according to an Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023). If there is a particular network you prefer, choose an MVNO that operates on that network. Use our coverage checker to find the best cell phone service in your area.

How much data do you need?

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 your cellular data 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. But if you do choose an unlimited data plan, be aware that high-speed data is normally capped.

Is hotspot data included?

Most carriers allow hotspot data usage but limit the amount of data that can be used via tethering. The limit depends on the carrier and plan you choose. Some carriers also offer data only plans so you can access the internet on mobile devices like iPads, tablets, and mobile hotspots when Wi-Fi's not available.

What's the monthly price?

While big wireless unlimited plans cost around $75-90 per month, the best MVNOs offer budget-friendly 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, and others, such as Verizon and AT&T, don't.

How many lines do you need?

With big wireless, you only get the advertised price if you buy four lines. With MVNOs, the price you see is the price you pay, even for one line. Many low-cost carriers now offer further discounts for multi-line plans.

Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?

While the big three love keeping their customers locked into a constant phone upgrade cycle, MVNOs encourage you to bring your own phone. This means you take back control and only change your phone when it suits you. If you do want to purchase a new phone, many MVNOs offer an affordable and easy way with 0% financing over 1-2 years.

Are there any deals or promotions?

Big wireless promotions can seem good at a glance. But once you read the small print, it often leads to buying things you don't need and committing to 3-year phone contracts. Many MVNOs offer short-term introductory promotional pricing for new customers, and their pricing is much more transparent.

What perks or add ons can I expect?

Most big wireless plans include "free" TV subscriptions. Initially, these seem like a great deal. 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.

Is international calling included?

Most MVNOs offer free international calls to many countries. If this is important to you, make sure to choose a carrier that includes this.

Are there parental controls?

Some Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) provide parental controls that allow parents to monitor their children's cell phone usage and data consumption. By using these features, you have the ability to establish limits on data usage, limit access to specific apps or websites, and even keep track of your child's whereabouts. These capabilities are accessible either through subscription plans or can be adjusted in the settings of your mobile device.

Compare the cheapest cell phone plans to ensure you find the best deal.


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Compare the best phone plans under $30 per month

CarrierNetworkDataPrice
Twigby Mobile 2GB planVerizon 5G/4G Coverage2GB$5/mo$15/mo
Twigby Mobile unlimited talk & text planVerizon 5G/4G Coverage0GB$5/mo$10/mo
Tello unlimited talk & text planT-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage0GB$8/mo
Tello 1GB planT-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage1GB$9/mo
Twigby Mobile 10GB planVerizon 5G/4G Coverage10GB$10/mo$25/mo

$30 phone plan FAQs

With an AT&T MVNO, such as Boost Mobile, you can get a cell phone plan for $30 per month on the nationwide AT&T wireless network.

With a Verizon MVNO, such as US Mobile, you can get a cell phone plan for $30 per month on the nationwide Verizon wireless network.

With a T-Mobile MVNO, such as Tello, you can get a cell phone plan for $30 per month on the nationwide T-Mobile wireless network.


Recap: What is the best $30 cell phone plan?

Plans direct from Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T are expensive, but with low-cost carriers that are powered by the same network, you could save up to $600 a year on your cell phone bill.

With a range of plans at $30 or under, there's something for all needs and budgets.

MVNOs offer prepaid plans, so there are no more long-term commitments, and you can change your plan or cancel and switch if your needs and finances change.

Cheap phone plan guides

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"Switching from AT&T to Mint Mobile cut my bill by $50 a month! MoneySavingPro helped me find this deal, and the coverage is perfect."
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Jan 2025
"I saved $600 a year with Visible, thanks to MoneySavingPro. The service from Visible is just as good as my Verizon, but with no more confusing bills or hidden fees"
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Dec 2024
"MoneySavingPro helped me discover Twigby, and now I save $40 monthly with the same Verizon coverage. I should've switched sooner!"
Levi from NY
Dec 2024
"Tello's $10 a month plan fits me perfectly as I don’t use a lot of data. MoneySavingPro helped me see that prepaid helps me stay in control of my phone bill with no more unexpected charges"
Stan from ME
Nov 2024
"Red Pocket Mobile cut my phone bill in half, plus I got to choose from all major networks. Thanks, MoneySavingPro, for making it so easy!"
Jonathan from NY
Oct 2024
"I was skeptical at first, but MoneySavingPro recommended US Mobile's 30-day free trial, and now I save $50 per month. And the overall service is better than my experience with AT&T."
Twila from HI
Sep 2024
"MoneySavingPro recommended Tello's $25 unlimited plan because of the price and their high customer ratings We switched multiple lines, and my family now saves over $1,000 a year."
Jude from TN
Aug 2024
"I thought I'd lose service quality, but MoneySavingPro guided me to US Mobile. I save $50 a month, and it's been a great decision."
Tristan from NV
Jul 2024
"Mint Mobile's simple plans and big savings of $720 a year were recommended by MoneySavingPro. Switching was quick and easy."
Ronny from AR
Jun 2024
"Boost Mobile gives me the same service at a fraction of the price, saving me $45 a month with no regrets. Thanks MoneySavingPro."
Courtney from TX
May 2024
FAQs

A low-cost carrier uses the same towers and coverage as major networks like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T. The difference is that low-cost carriers offer more affordable plans with fewer hidden fees because they don’t have the same overhead costs as the big guys.

Low-cost carriers can keep prices lower because they don’t own the network infrastructure. They pay the major carriers for network access, which allows them to pass the savings on to you.

Yes. Most low-cost carriers offer flexible plans that allow you to adjust your data, talk, or text limits to suit your needs, as you are not tied into a contract. You can change your plan or cancel anytime.

You can bring your own unlocked phone to most low-cost carriers or purchase one directly from the carrier. Many low-cost carriers offer popular models, and their network compatibility is usually no issue.

Yes, switching to a low-cost carrier is simple. You can sign up online, bring your own phone, and port your number easily. The process is quick and straightforward, and customer support is available to assist with any issues.

30 carriers reviewed & rated
See all
Tello logo on phone
5
8 min read
Jan 23, 2025
Twigby Mobile logo on phone
4.4
8 min read
Jan 29, 2025
Total Wireless logo on phone
4
8 min read
Jan 21, 2025
Red Pocket logo on phone
4
8 min read
Jan 11, 2025
Visible logo on phone
3.4
8 min read
Jan 24, 2025
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