How to choose a cheap unlimited data plan
What network coverage do you prefer?
MVNOs are powered by the same 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks as the major carriers. The J.D. Power 2023 wireless network study reveals that T-Mobile has the most extensive 5G coverage. If you have a preference for a specific network, you can choose a low-cost carrier that operates on that network. If you're not sure, you can find the best cell phone service in your area with our coverage checker.
How much data do you need?
Do you really need unlimited data? Contrary to what the big 3 networks would have you believe, the average monthly usage of cellular data is approximately 10GB. However, if you primarily use Wi-Fi at home or work, it's probable that your cellular data usage will be significantly lower. By selecting a data plan that suits your requirements from cheap cell phone providers, you can save money by paying less for the amount of data you actually use.
Is hotspot data included?
The majority of low-cost carriers permit the usage of hotspot data but impose restrictions on the amount of data that can be used via tethering. The specific limit depends on the plan and carrier that you choose. In addition, certain MVNOs provide exclusive cheap data plans for tablets, iPads, and mobile hotspots.
What's the monthly price?
Although big wireless unlimited plans can be quite expensive, typically costing between $75-$90 per month, there are cheaper options available from MVNOs that offer cheap prepaid plans ranging from $5-35 per month. These budget-friendly plans still provide reliable wireless coverage and fast data speeds. It is important to be cautious of hidden fees and taxes, as some carriers include these costs in their prices while others, like AT&T and Verizon, don't.
How many lines do you need?
If you opt for a major wireless provider, the price mentioned in their advertisements is only if you buy four lines. On the other hand, MVNOs show the exact price you will pay, regardless of whether you have just one line. Furthermore, some budget-friendly carriers now offer extra discounts for cheap prepaid family plans.
Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
The big 3 wireless networks prefer to keep their customers bound to a never-ending cycle of phone upgrades, but MVNOs promote the idea of bringing your own phone. This allows you to regain control and only switch phones when it's convenient for you. In the event that you do decide to buy a new phone, numerous MVNOs provide the option of 0% financing spread over 1-2 years.
What promotions do they offer?
At first glance, promotions from the big three may appear enticing. However, upon closer look at the fine print, they often result in purchasing unnecessary items and agreeing to lengthy 3-year phone contracts. In contrast, most low-cost carriers provide introductory discounts for new customers with cheap no contract plans and provide more transparent pricing.
Do they offer any additional perks?
Many of the major carrier plans come with a complimentary TV subscription, but be aware that this can often transition into a paid subscription that's automatically included in your bill after a few months. While there are some budget-friendly carriers like US Mobile that do offer cheap plan options with free subscription services, it's generally advisable to keep these subscriptions separate to avoid paying for unnecessary items.
What international features are available?
If you're a regular traveler, it's worth making sure your carrier offers these. Calling and roaming are two separate features, and many MVNOs offer free international calling, but the countries will vary by carrier. When it comes to roaming, you'll find this as an add-on option, and the price will depend on the country you're visiting.
Do they have 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 MVNOs offer these features as part of their standard plans, or you'll find this feature on your cell phone.
Check out our cheap cell phone plan comparison to ensure you find the best deal.
Find the best cell phone service in your area
Compare the cheapest unlimited phone plans
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tello unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $25/mo |
| Mint Mobile unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $15/mo |
| Visible unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $20/mo |
| Red Pocket unlimited data plan | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $30/mo |
| Total Wireless unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $40/mo |
Do you need unlimited data?
Have you monitored your phone data usage to see how much you actually need? You can typically see this information in your device settings or in your account through your wireless carrier.
The truth is that most people don't need unlimited high-speed data. For true high data users, unlimited may be a good choice. This is likely only the case if you spend a lot of time doing HD video streaming or gaming away from your home Wi-Fi.
Is unlimited data really unlimited?
The term is misleading in a way. Yes, you get a much larger allowance at 4G LTE speeds - but (sorry, there's always a but!) - most carriers reserve the right to throttle service to 2G speeds after a certain amount of use. T-Mobile has the highest deprioritization threshold at 50 GB, while others may be as low as 22 GB.
That doesn't mean you definitely will be throttled. If you've reached your high-speed limit, most carriers will throttle in times of cellular traffic congestion (peak times). Of course, the reality is that only a very small fraction of smartphone users even reach this threshold in the first place.
It's always a good idea to read the terms and conditions in the fine print.
Cheap unlimited data plans FAQs
You'll find the best value unlimited data plan with low-cost carriers like Boost Mobile, Mint Mobile, and Tello.
MVNOs such as Tello and Boost Mobile operate on the same network as the three big networks and offer the cheapest unlimited data plans starting from $25-30 per month.
Recap: What is the cheapest unlimited phone plan?
The surge of MVNOs means more competition, and finding the best unlimited data plan is much easier.
We make comparing the cheapest unlimited data plans and cutting your phone bill super simple
Don't be afraid to break away from the old (expensive) way of buying phone service. Your wallet will thank you!
Unlimited plan guides
- Best Unlimited Data Plans
- Best Prepaid Unlimited Data Plans
- Best Unlimited Data Plans for 1 Line
- Best Unlimited Data Plans for 2 Lines
- The Cheapest Unlimited Data Plans
- Best Unlimited Data Plans on Verizon
- Best Unlimited Data Plans on AT&T
- Best Unlimited Data Plans on T-Mobile
- Boost Mobile Unlimited Data Plans
- Mint Mobile Unlimited Data Plans
- US Mobile Unlimited Data Plans
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.
