The best 5G phone plans in 2025: Fast data without the high price

If you want the fastest data speeds, 5G is the way to go, but that doesn't mean you need a big wireless plan with a big price tag.

The truth is, low-cost carriers now offer full 5G access on the same networks the big 3 use, giving you the same speeds at half the price. Whether you need a cheap plan with a little data or unlimited 5G data without the premium cost, there's a plan that fits your needs.

To spare you the exhaustive research, I've thoroughly reviewed 30 alternative carriers and over 100 prepaid phone plans.

Tello offers the best 5G plan for low data users

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

Tello makes it easy to ditch overpriced phone plans without sacrificing coverage or features.

With free international calling to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, and a variety of data plans from small to unlimited, there's an option for every type of user.

One of Tello's biggest strengths is customization. You build your own plan, by choosing how much data, talk, and text you need. This means you're never stuck paying for services you won't use. Get mobile hotspot on every plan, with unlimited options capped at 5GB, but there are no multi-line discounts. However, even without them, Tello's pricing remains among the most affordable.

Getting started is quick and easy. With eSIM activation it means you can switch in minutes, or you can opt for a physical SIM card if needed.

When reviewing competitors, Ultra Mobile stood out for international calls but was pricier. Metro by T-Mobile, despite being a T-Mobile brand, has higher costs and requires in-store sign-ups. Boost Mobile had decent rates but lost points due to hidden fees and inconsistent customer support.

For those who want budget-friendly, commitment-free service with full control over their plan, Tello is the best choice.

• Fully customizable plans – Pay only for what you need.
• No contracts, no hidden costs – Affordable pricing with full transparency.
• Instant activation – Get started in minutes with eSIM or choose to have a SIM card mailed to you.

Visible offers the best 5G unlimited data plan

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

Visible gives you unlimited data on Verizon's network at a fraction of the cost, with no contracts, no hidden fees, and no unexpected charges.

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

One major perk? The Visible+ plan includes free international calling to 30+ countries and texting to over 200 destinations. You can also activate instantly with eSIM, meaning no waiting around for a SIM card.

While Visible doesn't offer multi-line discounts, the low monthly price makes it one of the best deals for single-line users. However, customer support is only available online.

I compared Visible to Tracfone, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile. Tracfone is a cheaper alternative, but it limits data speeds. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile have good rates, but you need their internet service to qualify.

For unlimited data at a budget-friendly price, Visible is the best choice.

• Unlimited data, simple pricing – No contracts, no hidden fees, no surprises.
• Extra perks included – Every plan has mobile hotspot access, and Visible+ includes free international calling & texting.
• Seamless activation – Get started instantly with eSIM, or request a SIM card.

Total Wireless offers the best 5G plan 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 offers affordable prepaid plans that provide Verizon's coverage without the hefty price tag.

Every plan includes unlimited talk and text, along with high-speed data options and mobile hotspot access.

Need to stay connected abroad? Total Wireless includes free international calling to 85+ destinations and roaming in Canada and Mexico on select plans.

With no long-term commitments or surprise fees, you can manage your plan online and switch at any time.

I also explored other low-cost Verizon carriers. Tracfone offers cheaper pay-as-you-go plans but limits high-speed data. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile have competitive pricing, but require home internet service.

For affordable coverage, great features, and contract-free flexibility, Total Wireless is an excellent option.

• Big savings on Verizon's network – Stay connected for less with budget-friendly plans.
• Extra perks included – Hotspot data up to 15GB on certain plans, plus international calling & roaming.
• No contracts, no stress – Easily adjust or switch plans online whenever needed.

Tello offers the best 5G plan with T-Mobile coverage

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 makes switching to a low-cost, no-contract phone plan easy, keeping things simple while offering great value.

Every plan includes free international calls to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, and a range of data options for light to heavy users.

Instead of overpaying for features you don't use, Tello lets you customize your own plan, ensuring you get the exact amount of talk, text, and data that fits your needs. Mobile hotspot is available on all plans, with a 5GB cap for unlimited data users, though there are no discounts for multiple lines. However, with pricing this low, family plan savings aren't needed.

Getting started is simple-eSIM activation means you can switch instantly, or you can request a SIM card if you prefer.

I tested Ultra Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, and Boost Mobile. Ultra Mobile is excellent for international calling but is more expensive for the same data. Metro by T-Mobile requires in-store sign-ups and costs more overall. Boost Mobile has a small range of plans and inconsistent customer service.

For transparent pricing, easy activation, and a plan that fits your budget, Tello is the way to go.

• No overpaying for extras – Build your own plan with just the talk, text, and data you need. No unnecessary add-ons.
• Zero contracts or surprise fees – No activation charges, no price increases, and no commitment.
• Instant activation – Use eSIM for immediate setup, or get a physical SIM card shipped directly to you.

Red Pocket offers the best 5G plan with AT&T coverage

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

For families seeking affordable unlimited data on AT&T's network, Red Pocket Mobile stands out with its $20 discount per additional line.

Though a setup fee applies, switching to a multi-line plan could save you hundreds of dollars a year compared to other providers.

With unlimited talk and text, no hidden fees, and up to 30GB of high-speed data, Red Pocket ensures affordable, reliable service with hotspot access included.

International perks come standard, with free calling to 80+ countries and roaming in Mexico and Canada. If you opt for an eSIM, you can try the service risk-free with a 7-day money-back guarantee.

Among AT&T-based low-cost carriers, Cricket Wireless costs more despite being AT&T's prepaid brand, H2O Wireless is good for international calling but lacks overall value, and Good2Go Mobile has affordable pricing but fewer plan options.

For budget-conscious families who need flexibility, affordability, and global perks, Red Pocket Mobile is a top choice.

• Family-friendly pricing – Save $20 per extra line, making multi-line plans more affordable.
• International benefits included – Free calls to 80+ countries and free roaming in Mexico & Canada.
• Risk-free sign-up – No hidden fees, plus a 7-day eSIM refund policy.

Why switch to a low-cost carrier?

If you want fast 5G speeds without the sky-high prices, there's no reason to stick with big wireless.

The big three love to charge a premium for 5G, bundling it into expensive unlimited plans while making it seem like you need to pay more for the best speeds. But here's the truth. Low-cost carriers now offer full 5G access on the same networks, at half the price.

Still on the fence? Here's what you need to know

• You get the same 5G speeds: Low-cost carriers use the same networks as big wireless, so you get full-speed 5G without the premium price tag.
• You don't need an expensive unlimited plan: Whether you need just a few GB of 5G data or an affordable unlimited plan, there's an option that fits your needs.
• No contracts, no hidden fees: No long-term commitments, no surprise charges. Just straightforward, affordable 5G plans.

Common misconceptions about 5G prepaid plans

There's a lot of marketing noise around 5G, and it's easy to get confused about what's real. Here's what you need to know:

1: Myth: Prepaid plans don't get full 5G speeds

Truth: Low-cost carriers get the same 5G speeds as big wireless as they use the same towers.

2: Myth: You need a premium plan for 5G

Truth: All prepaid plans include 5G access automatically, even on cheaper plans.

3: Myth: Prepaid 5G plans have hidden fees

Truth: Low-cost carriers show upfront pricing, without extra fees for 5G access.

4: Myth: Switching to a low-cost carrier is a hassle

Truth: Switching to a prepaid 5G plan takes about 10 minutes, and you can keep your phone and number.

5: Myth: You need a new phone to access 5G

Truth: As long as your phone supports 5G, you're good to go - you don't need to upgrade just to switch carriers.

Compare 5G cell phone plans

Check out our 5G cell phone comparison to help find the best deal.

Why you can trust me

I've spent over 15 years helping people cut their phone bills in both the UK and US. For the last 8 years, I've run MoneySavingPro, helping over 50,000 people switch to cheaper, better phone plans.

I've personally reviewed over 100 phone plans and tested dozens of low-cost carriers, including Mint Mobile, Tello, Red Pocket, Visible, and Twigby, to compare coverage, pricing, and customer experience.

If there's a way to save money without sacrificing coverage, you'll hear about it here first.

How I picked the winners

Not all 5G plans are created equal-some charge too much, restrict speeds, or require expensive unlimited plans. I evaluated over 30 carriers based on five key factors:

• Value for money: The best 5G plans offer full-speed access without forcing you into an overpriced unlimited plan.
• Coverage: I reviewed 5G and 4G LTE network availability to ensure strong service whether you're in a city or rural area.
• Customer experience: Fast data means nothing if customer service is slow. I factored in real customer reviews, ease of switching, and overall satisfaction.
• Transparency: Some 5G plans claim to be "unlimited" but have hidden slowdowns. The best options offer clear pricing and no speed restrictions.
• Range of choice: Whether you need a small amount of 5G data or an affordable unlimited plan, the best options let you choose what fits your needs.

Final thoughts: Get fast 5G without overpaying

If you're still paying big wireless prices just to access 5G, it's time to stop.

Switching to a low-cost 5G plan is one of the easiest ways to cut your phone bill in half-without giving up speed, coverage, or reliability.

Check out these best 5G phone plans and see how much you could save today.

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