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Ready to upgrade to 5G coverage but don't want to pay T-Mobile prices? No problem!
T-Mobile MVNOs are doing a great job of keeping up with the newest wireless technology. That means the fastest 5G speeds available but at cheaper prices.
MVNOs are low-cost carriers that rent space on big networks like T-Mobile. Then, they pass the cost-savings onto you, the consumer.
Smaller carriers offer the best 5G phone plans for less because they don't have huge advertising costs like the large wireless companies. They also tend to operate solely online, so they don't have the overhead expenses of brick-and-mortar locations.
Best 5G plans on T-Mobile
Top 3 most affordable plans with T-Mobile coverage to consider.
Cheap T-Mobile plan
Tello 2GB plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 best cell 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
- 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 family plan on T-Mobile
Mint Mobile 15GB plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 family plans on T-Mobile.
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 unlimited plan on T-Mobile
Tello unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 best unlimited data 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
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 | ||
---|---|---|---|
See at Tello |
See at Mint Mobile
*$45 for 3 Months
|
See at Tello | |
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 | 4.5 on Trustpilot | 3.1 on Trustpilot | 4.5 on Trustpilot |
Annual savings | $780/yr | $675/yr | $600/yr |
T-Mobile vs Verizon 5G plans
Top 3 most affordable plans with Verizon coverage to consider.
Cheap Verizon plan
Twigby Mobile 2GB plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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. Check out our review about best 5g plans on Verizon.
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.
Best unlimited plan on Verizon
US Mobile unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 best unlimited data plans on Verizon.
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.
The table below demonstrates that choosing the US Mobile unlimited data plan would save you $630 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile directly.
T-Mobile | How do T-Mobile plans compare? | |
---|---|---|
See at Twigby Mobile
*$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths
|
See at US Mobile
*$45 for 3 Mths
|
|
Verizon 4G & 5G | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | |
Unlimited data *not unlimited | 2GB data | Unlimited data |
$75/mo | $5/mo* | $15/mo* |
$900/yr | $150/yr | $270/yr |
1.4 on Trustpilot | 4.6 on Trustpilot | 4.6 on Trustpilot |
Annual savings | $750/yr | $630/yr |
T-Mobile vs AT&T 5G plans
Top 3 most affordable plans 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 phone plans are powered by the Verizon and AT&T wireless networks. 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. Check out our review about best 5g 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
- 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.
Best unlimited plan on AT&T
Boost Mobile unlimited data plan
- AT&T coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Boost Mobile phone plans are powered by the AT&T and T-Mobile 5G & 4G networks, giving you the same wireless coverage at a fraction of the price.
With a range of data allowances from 2GB up to unlimited, there's something for the light to heavy data users. Check out our review about best unlimited data plans on AT&T.
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 of Boost Mobile's prepaid plans come with unlimited calling and text.
- If you use a lot of data, 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, so you can save on a plan for the whole family.
- When it comes to devices, they provide a wide range of phones to choose from. Including the latest models from popular brands like Apple and Samsung, with financing options of 0% financing over 1-2 years. Helping to make it affordable to purchase a new phone.
- Boost Mobile's international features are not as strong. Their international roaming options are limited compared to other carriers, and international calls are an extra add-on, which means you'll have to pay extra if you want to make calls to friends and family overseas.
The table below demonstrates that choosing the Boost Mobile unlimited data plan would save you $600 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile directly.
T-Mobile | How do T-Mobile plans compare? | |
---|---|---|
See at Red Pocket |
See at Boost Mobile
*$25/mo forever!
|
|
Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | |
Unlimited data *not unlimited | 1GB data | Unlimited data |
$75/mo | $10/mo | $25/mo* |
$900/yr | $120/yr | $300/yr |
1.4 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot | 1.3 on Trustpilot |
Annual savings | $780/yr | $600/yr |
Best overall 5G plan
Tello unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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 best 5g cell 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
Compare T-Mobile 5G unlimited plans
Plan | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Cost |
---|---|---|---|
T-Mobile Essentials | Unlimited | $65 | $780 |
T-Mobile Magenta | Unlimited | $75 | $900 |
T-Mobile Go5G | Unlimited | $80 | $960 |
T-Mobile Magenta MAX | Unlimited | $90 | $1,080 |
T-Mobile Go5G Plus | Unlimited | $95 | $1,140 |
T-Mobile vs Boost Mobile 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 |
Boost Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $25/mo | $300/yr |
Savings | $50/mo | $600/yr |
How to pick the best 5G plan on T-Mobile
Does T-Mobile offer coverage where you live?
Low-cost carriers operate on the same 5G & 4G LTE networks as major carriers. For example, Mint Mobile uses the T-Mobile network. In an Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023), T-Mobile scores the highest for 5G coverage. So, if you prefer the T-Mobile network, opt for one of the many T-Mobile MVNOs. Use our coverage map to find the best cell phone service in your area.
How much data do you need?
Do you truly need a T-Mobile unlimited data plan? T-Mobile will try to convince you that it's necessary, but the truth is most people's average monthly cellular data consumption is around 10GB. However, if you're usually at home or work like me and on Wi-Fi, your cellular data usage will likely be much lower. With cheap T-Mobile MVNO plans, you have options when it comes to data plans, meaning you can pay less if you use less.
Is mobile hotspot data included?
While most T-Mobile providers allow mobile hotspot use, they can limit the amount of data that can be used via tethering. Every carrier and plan is different, so be sure to check. Some T-Mobile MNVO carriers also offer T-Mobile data only plans specifically designed for iPads, tablets, and mobile hotspots, ideal for browsing the internet or video streaming.
What's the monthly price?
Instead of spending $60-$100 per month on T-Mobile's unlimited premium data plans, the best way to get a T-Mobile unlimited data plan is with their MVNOs. With plans starting around $15 per month with the same wireless coverage and fast speeds you're used to. Keep your eyes open for any hidden fees & taxes, but this is really an old trick of all the big networks. T-Mobile MVNOs have transparent, straightforward pricing.
How many lines do you need?
Often, with T-Mobile, the advertised discount only applies if you buy three or more lines. With T-Mobile MVNOs, the price you see is the price you pay, even for one line. Many low-cost carriers also now offer further discounts for multi-line plans.
Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
While T-Mobile loves keeping its customers trapped in a never-ending cycle of phone upgrades ("New in Two"), T-Mobile MVNOs encourage you to bring your own phone to T-Mobile. This means you take back control and only change your phone when it's convenient for you. If you do want to purchase a new phone, many T-Mobile MVNOs offer great financing options or low-cost refurbished phone alternatives.
Are there any deals or promotions?
At first glance, T-Mobile wireless promotions may appear attractive. However, upon closer examination of the fine print, they often result in purchasing unnecessary items and being tied to long-term phone contracts lasting three years. In contrast, many T-Mobile MVNOS provide introductory discounts for new customers with no commitments and greater transparency in their pricing.
What perks are included?
Many of T-Mobile's plans come with offers like "free" Netflix basic and Apple TV subscriptions, but these often convert to paid subscriptions that are automatically charged to your bill after a few months. While some affordable carriers like US Mobile do provide plan options with free subscription services, we advise keeping these subscriptions separate to avoid unnecessary expenses.
What international features are available?
If having free international calls to various countries is a priority for you, it is essential to select a T-Mobile MVNO carrier that provides this service. If you travel regularly, checking the carrier's data roaming availability is vital to make sure you have the right travel benefits so there are no unexpected costs or inconveniences while you're abroad.
Do they offer parental controls?
Many MVNO carriers provide parental controls that empower parents to oversee their children's phone usage and data consumption. Through parental controls, you have the ability to monitor data usage, limit access to specific apps or websites, and even track your child's whereabouts. Certain T-Mobile MVNOs include these in their plans, or you'll be able to access this in your phone's settings.
Check out our cheapest T-Mobile MVNO plans to ensure you find the best deal.
Find the best cell phone service in your area
If T-Mobile isn't giving you the best 5G coverage that you're looking for, you still have options. Take a look at some of the best AT&T 5G plans, and Verizon 5G plans to see if they've got the better 5G coverage that you're after.
Compare the cheapest T-Mobile 5G 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 Mobile | 2GB | $5/mo* |
$150/yr | $750/yr | See at Twigby Mobile
*$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths
|
US Mobile | Unlimited | $15/mo* |
$270/yr | $630/yr | See at US Mobile
*$45 for 3 Mths
|
Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Red Pocket | 1GB | $10/mo | $120/yr | $780/yr | See at Red Pocket |
Boost Mobile | Unlimited | $25/mo* | $300/yr | $600/yr | See at Boost Mobile
*$25/mo forever!
|
T-Mobile 5G plans FAQs
You can find great value in T-Mobile 5G plans from low-cost carriers, such as Mint Mobile and Tello, operating on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE wireless networks.
No, neither T-Mobile nor MVNOs that operate on the T-Mobile network charge extra for their 5G coverage.
Recap: What is the best 5G T-Mobile plan?
The best way to save money on your T-Mobile 5G phone plan is to go with an alternative carrier that uses the same 5G network at half the cost. The process really is straightforward.
Compare cell phone plans from low-cost carriers and only pay for the data you use. Bring your own phone and save even more.
If you need a new phone, compare prices to ensure you get the best cell phone deal.
5G plan guides
- Best 5G Cell Phone Plans
- The Cheapest 5G Phone Plans
- Best 5G Plans on AT&T
- Best 5G Plans on Verizon
- Best 5G Plans on T-Mobile
- The 5 Best 5G Phone Companies
- The 5 Best 5G Phone Service
- Best 5G Hotspot Plans on AT&T
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.