Looking to cut your phone bill without losing quality service? Mint Mobile and PureTalk both offer budget-friendly prepaid plans, but they focus on different advantages.
Mint Mobile rewards you with lower prices when you prepay for multiple months, making it one of the best options for saving money long-term. PureTalk, on the other hand, operates on AT&T's network and is known for its veteran-owned background, prioritizing reliable coverage and customer service.
So, should you lock in Mint's ultra-low rates or go with PureTalk's veteran backed carrier?
Mint Mobile vs PureTalk plans
Winner: Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile helps you save big by offering some of the lowest prepaid rates on the market, if you prepay for three, six, or twelve months. Their unlimited plan costs just $30 per month when paid annually, making it one of the most affordable options for unlimited data.
PureTalk provides monthly plans with no contracts, making it a good option if you don't want to commit upfront. However, PureTalk's plans are noticeably more expensive for the same amount of data. Their unlimited plans start at $55 per month, nearly double Mint Mobile's best rate.
If you want the cheapest unlimited plan and don't mind prepaying, Mint Mobile is the better deal. If you prefer a month-to-month plan on AT&T's network, PureTalk is worth considering.
Mint Mobile plans
Mint Mobile unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Mobile 5GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $15/mo |
| Mint Mobile 15GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 15GB | $20/mo |
| Mint Mobile 20GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 20GB | $25/mo |
| Mint Mobile unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $30/mo |
PureTalk plans
PureTalk unlimited data plan
- AT&T 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| PureTalk 3GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 3GB | $20/mo |
| PureTalk 5GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $25/mo |
| PureTalk 10GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 10GB | $30/mo |
| PureTalk 15GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 15GB | $35/mo |
| PureTalk 25GB plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | 25GB | $45/mo |
| PureTalk unlimited data plan | AT&T 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $55/mo |
Mint Mobile vs PureTalk coverage
Winner: Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile runs on T-Mobile's network, which is ranked number 1 for 5G availability and speeds, according to the OpenSignal Mobile Network Experience 2025. However, T-Mobile's rural coverage is still weaker than AT&T or Verizon.
PureTalk operates on AT&T's network, giving it stronger rural coverage. If you live in a less populated area, AT&T's network often performs better than T-Mobile, based on RootMetrics' 2024 report.
If you spend most of your time in a city or suburban area, Mint Mobile's access to T-Mobile's fast 5G network is a great deal. If you need better rural coverage or prefer AT&T's network, PureTalk has the edge.
Mint Mobile coverage
Mint Mobile is powered by T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
PureTalk coverage
PureTalk is powered by AT&T 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks.
Data speeds: Which carrier delivers better performance?
Winner: Mint Mobile
Both carriers offer 5G and 4G LTE, but their high-speed data caps and costs vary significantly.
Mint Mobile's unlimited plan includes high-speed data up to 35GB per month, making it one of the best budget-friendly unlimited options.
PureTalk's unlimited plans include up to 60GB of high-speed data, which is a higher cap than Mint's, but prices start at $55 per month. That's $25 more than Mint Mobile's.
If you use under 35GB per month, Mint Mobile is the better deal at a lower price. If you need more than 35GB of high-speed data and prefer AT&T's network, PureTalk offers a higher cap but at a premium cost.
Features and perks: Which provider gives you more?
Winner: PureTalk
Mint Mobile includes free international calling to Mexico and Canada, making it great for staying in touch abroad. However, it doesn't offer family discounts or additional perks.
PureTalk is veteran-owned and focused on customer service, which may appeal to users who prefer a U.S.-based support team. They also offer family plan discounts, allowing additional lines to be added for as low as $20 per line.
If you want the lowest-priced plan with international calling, Mint Mobile is a great choice. But if you want family plan savings and customer service backed by a veteran-led company, PureTalk is a great alternative.
Mint Mobile vs PureTalk plan features
| Carrier Features | Mint Mobile | PureTalk |
|---|---|---|
| Networks | T-Mobile | AT&T |
| Data Speed | 5G & 4G LTE | 5G & 4G LTE |
| 3G Network | GSM | GSM |
| Mobile Hotspot | Yes | Yes |
| Bring Your Phone | Yes | Yes |
| Keep Your Number | Yes | Yes |
| Contract | Prepaid | Prepaid |
| Credit Check | No | No |
| Customer Service | 24/7 | Mon-Sun 7am to 12am |
| Money Back Guarantee | Yes - 7 days | No |
| 5G | Yes | Yes |
| Taxes included | Varies by Location | Varies by Location |
| VoLTE | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi Calling | Yes | No |
| Visual Voicemail | Yes | No |
| Multi-line Discounts | No | Yes |
| Multi-month Discounts | Yes | No |
| International Calls | Yes - Includes Mexico & Canada | Yes - As add-on |
| International Roaming | Yes | No |
Final verdict: Which carrier is the better deal?
- Best for the cheapest unlimited plan → Mint Mobile
- Best for rural coverage → PureTalk
- Best for military discounts → PureTalk
- Best for international calling → Mint Mobile
If you're looking for the cheapest unlimited plan and don't mind prepaying, Mint Mobile is the better choice. If you want AT&T's network, family discounts, and veteran-backed service, PureTalk may be a better fit.
Find out more with our Mint Mobile review.
Read our PureTalk review for more.
Mint Mobile vs PureTalk FAQs
The main difference between Mint Mobile and PureTalk are plan prices and features. Both offer cheap cell phone plans powered by the major networks.
Mint Mobile is powered by T-Mobile and PureTalk runs on AT&T.
Most newer handsets are compatible if they're unlocked, but if you're not sure you can check phone compatibility with our IMEI checker.
If your Mint Mobile phone is unlocked it should work with PureTalk. Most of the latest handsets are compatible but you can check your phone's compatibility with the carrier before purchasing.
Why you can trust me
I've spent years researching ways to save on phone bills by breaking down hidden fees, plan structures, and network performance. At MoneySavingPro, we focus on real savings-not marketing gimmicks.
I've personally tested Mint Mobile, PureTalk, and other low-cost carriers, comparing their coverage, pricing, and customer experiences. If there's a smarter way to save, I'll find it.
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