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| 1 year | 2 years | 3 years | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Wireless | $900 | $1,800 | $2,700 |
| Alternative | $300 | $600 | $900 |
| You save | $600 | $1,200 | $1,800 |
A tight budget can make it important to find the cheapest MVNO plans that are suitable for your needs as well as your costs.
If you've not heard of MVNOs, you're not alone. Mobile Virtual Network Operators are powered by the same main US networks; Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T but have a range of phone plans available starting at around $10 per month.
We can help you find the cheapest MVNO plans, and we've broken down the best deals with all low-cost carriers, keep scrolling to find out more.
My list of recommended low-cost MVNO plans for 2025
Tello is the best mvno 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
Looking for an easy way to cut your phone bill without losing reliable service? Tello offers one of the best low-cost options on T-Mobile's network.
You get unlimited talk and text, plus free international calls to 60+ countries (including Canada and Mexico). Tello's flexible approach allows you to build your own plan, selecting just the right amount of data, talk, and text to match your needs.
Get mobile hotspot use with every plan, but the unlimited plan is capped at 5GB. There are no discounts for multiple lines, but at these prices, bundling isn't necessary.
Getting started is seamless with eSIM. The activation takes just a few taps. Or you can order a physical SIM if preferred.
I also looked into other options. Ultra Mobile is a great choice for international calls but costs more for similar data. Metro by T-Mobile requires in-store activation and is more expensive. Boost Mobile has attractive pricing, but hidden fees and inconsistent service take away its appeal.
For an affordable, flexible, and commitment-free phone plan, Tello remains the top pick.
- Custom plans – Only pay for what you need, with no forced extras.
- Simple, transparent pricing – No contracts, no hidden fees.
- Easy setup – eSIM activation in minutes or a shipped SIM card.
Visible is the best mvno with unlimited data plans
Visible unlimited plan for $25/mo
- Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
Tired of complicated wireless plans? Visible keeps it simple with just two unlimited options, both with no contracts, no extra fees, and no hassle.
For $25/month, you get unlimited talk, text, and data, plus mobile hotspot access with speeds of 5–10 Mbps. If you need faster speeds and premium data, the Visible+ plan gives you 50GB of priority data and Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband access.
International perks make Visible+ even better. It includes free international calling to 30+ countries and texting to over 200 destinations. Plus, eSIM activation lets you start service in just minutes.
Although multi-line discounts aren't available, Visible's low individual pricing ensures great value for single users. Just keep in mind that customer support is online-only.
Compared to Tracfone, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile, Visible stands out. Tracfone is cheaper but restricts data speeds. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile have good pricing, but you must be an internet customer to sign up.
For no-fuss unlimited service with clear pricing, Visible is the best pick.
- Unlimited plans, no surprises – Simple, all-in pricing with no hidden fees.
- Built-in extras – Mobile hotspot included, plus free international calling & texting with Visible+.
- Instant activation – eSIM lets you switch in minutes, or order a SIM card.
Total Wireless has the best mvno plans with Verizon coverage
Total Wireless unlimited plan for $50/mo
- Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
Total Wireless keeps wireless service simple and affordable, offering no-contract plans with Verizon's coverage.
With unlimited talk and text, generous high-speed data allowances, and hotspot access up to 15GB, you get everything you need at a lower cost.
International features are built in with select plans include free calling to 85+ destinations and roaming in Canada and Mexico.
You can manage your plan easily online, with no activation fees, no contracts, and no hassle.
I compared other budget-friendly carriers on Verizon's network. Tracfone's pay-as-you-go plans limit high-speed data. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile provide solid deals, but require home internet service.
For a cost-effective plan with Verizon's coverage and useful extras, Total Wireless is a smart choice.
- Verizon's coverage, lower price – Reliable service without the premium cost.
- Great extras included – Hotspot access up to 15GB on certain plans, plus free international calling & roaming.
- No long-term commitments – Manage your plan online with total flexibility.
Tello has the best mvno plans with T-Mobile coverage
Tello unlimited plan for $25/mo
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk, text and data
- Instant online activation
Tello is all about giving you affordable wireless service without the headaches of big carrier contracts.
Every plan includes free international calling to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, along with flexible data options tailored to your needs.
With Tello, you build your own plan-picking just the right amount of data, talk, and text. That means no paying for features you don't use. Every plan includes mobile hotspot access, with a 5GB limit on unlimited plans, and while multi-line discounts aren't available, individual pricing is so competitive that bundling isn't necessary.
Switching is fast and hassle-free-if your phone supports eSIM, you can activate your plan in just a few taps. If not, Tello will send you a physical SIM card for easy installation.
I looked at other options, including Metro by T-Mobile, Ultra Mobile, and Boost Mobile. Metro by T-Mobile requires in-store activation and charges more for similar plans. Ultra Mobile offers good international calling perks but costs more. Boost Mobile has attractive pricing but taxes and fees can vary and customer support is inconsistent.
For low-cost, no-commitment service with full flexibility, Tello is a standout choice.
- Personalized plans – Create a plan with just the right amount of talk, text, and data-no wasted money on extras.
- No hidden fees, no contracts – Pay month to month with transparent pricing and no surprise charges.
- Seamless activation – eSIM allows for instant setup, or you can get a SIM card shipped and activate at your convenience.
Red Pocket has the best mvno plans 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
If you're looking for an unlimited plan for the whole family, Red Pocket Mobile offers major savings on AT&T's network.
You'll get a $20 discount per extra line, helping families cut costs while still enjoying premium network coverage. Although there's a small setup fee, the overall savings make it worth the switch.
Plans come with unlimited talk and text, no hidden fees, and up to 30GB of high-speed data, plus hotspot access for added flexibility.
For international users, Red Pocket Mobile includes free calls to 80+ countries and free roaming in Mexico and Canada, all at no extra cost. eSIM users also get a 7-day money-back guarantee, allowing them to try the service risk-free.
I reviewed other AT&T-powered budget carriers, including Cricket Wireless, which costs more despite being AT&T's own prepaid brand, H2O Wireless, which has international perks but isn't as competitively priced, and Good2Go Mobile, which offers lower prices but limited plan choices.
For an affordable unlimited plan with premium features and great family savings, Red Pocket Mobile is a top choice.
- Multi-line savings – Save $20 per extra line and lower your family's phone bill.
- Built-in global perks – Free calls to 80+ countries and free roaming in Mexico & Canada.
- No contracts, no surprises – Clear pricing with a 7-day eSIM refund policy.
Best T-Mobile MVNO plans
- T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
- Unlimited talk and text
- 15GB data
T-Mobile vs Mint Mobile comparison
Keep your T-Mobile phone, number & coverage: Save $660 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Mint Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | 15GB | $20/mo | $240/yr |
| Savings | $55/mo | $660/yr | ||
Check out our comparison of the best T-Mobile MVNO plans
Best Verizon MVNO plans
Check out our comparison of the best Verizon MVNO plans
Best AT&T MVNO plans
Check out our comparison of the best AT&T MVNO plans
Network coverage comparison
| NETWORK | OVERALL | RELIABILITY | SPEED | DATA | CALL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon Coverage | 95 | 96 | 94 | 96 | 94 |
| AT&T Coverage | 94 | 94 | 95 | 96 | 92 |
| T-Mobile Coverage | 86 | 88 | 82 | 89 | 82 |
Source: RootMetrics RootScore 2022 report
When it comes to 5G network coverage T-Mobile scores the highest according to the J.D. Power 2023 wireless network study.
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MVNO customer service comparison
Concerned that low-cost carriers won't have good customer service? Don't be, on average MVNOs score much higher customer ratings than the big networks as you'll see in the comparison chart below:
| CARRIER | TRUSTPILOT USER RATING |
|---|---|
| Reach Mobile TrustPilot score | 4.9 |
| Tello TrustPilot score | 4.6 |
| US Mobile TrustPilot score | 4.6 |
| T-Mobile TrustPilot score | 1.5 |
| Verizon TrustPilot score | 1.3 |
| AT&T TrustPilot score | 1.2 |
MVNO plan features
- 4G LTE & 5G data speeds: MVNOs operate on big cellular networks, so you pay less without sacrificing speed. As the big networks roll out 5G, smaller carriers are able to offer 5G coverage too. So you can expect the same high-speed data.
- Unlimited talk and text messaging: It's never been easier to find a new unlimited plan. Pretty much all no-contract carriers include unlimited text and calling as standard with plans. Compare unlimited talk and text plans with or without data.
- International calls to Canada and Mexico: Keeping in touch with loved ones around the world has never felt more important, making international calling a must-have feature. Luckily MVNOs offer some of the best international phone plans, including free calling to countries like Canada and Mexico, plus discounted rates or affordable add-ons for other countries.
- Multiline discounts: If you're used to your multi-line plan, low-cost carriers have got you. They offer the best family phone plans out there. With many, you'll get a multi-line discount for each line added.
- Wi-Fi calling: If you're stuck for a signal, or out of your service area when out and about, you can still make calls using this feature. With this feature, calls are made over the internet instead of your cellular connection.
- Tethering/hotspot data: Many low-cost carriers allow you to turn your phone into a hotspot and get another device online. Pick an MVNO with the best mobile hotspot plans and share your mobile hotspot data with other devices.
- HD video streaming: Just like the big guys, some of these alternative carriers offer HD video streaming and some don't. Our articles cover which features do and don't come with a plan.
MVNO plan types
- Unlimited plans: Looking for unlimited talk text and data? Alternative carriers have got you covered. Data-hungry users looking for unlimited plus plans can save serious money by switching to one of the cheapest unlimited data plans.
- Basic plans: If you (or a loved one) only use a cell phone to make a few calls, send a couple of messages, and rarely go online then you can opt for a simply prepaid plan. You get basic cell phone functions, an allowance for minutes of talk, and usually around 2GB of data at a great price. Once you run out of your data allotment, speeds slow, but it's usually very easy to add on more.
- Family plans: Need four lines or more? Many MVNOs offer group plans. Compare the cheapest family phone plans so you can pick and choose what each family member needs.
- Bring your own phone plans: BYOP plans are the norm with smaller carriers. Compare cell phone prices and get a great deal to go with your cheap cell phone plan!
- Single-line plans: Stop paying a premium rate just because you only need one line. Find the cheapest phone plans for one person.
- Talk and text only plans: Don't need data? No problem - compare the cheapest talk and text plans. Bonus, you'll save a ton of money if you're not paying for data!
- Tablet plans: Find the cheapest data plan for your tablet or iPad.
- Kids plans: MVNOs offer the best phone plans for kids because you can tailor them to exactly what you want your child to have.
- Senior plans: Senior citizens often have different cell phone needs. Compare the best phone plans for seniors for the perfect fit.
Cheapest MVNO plans
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twigby Mobile 2GB plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | 2GB | $5/mo |
| Tello unlimited talk & text plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 0GB | $8/mo |
| Tello 1GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $9/mo |
| Tello 2GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 2GB | $10/mo |
| Tello 5GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 5GB | $14/mo |
How to switch to a cheap MVNO plan
It's never been easier to switch. Let's break it down.
- Customize your plan. Whether you're looking for a truly unlimited plan, or in the market for something more basic, choose a plan to suit your cell phone needs.
- Prepare to make the switch. Make sure your old bills are paid up and your phone is unlocked. If you're getting a new device, transferring data from one to another is simple. Even if you're going from an iPhone to Android, and vice versa.
- Set up your new plan. Keep your current carrier account open until your number has ported over. Once you're sure your new plan is up and running, cancel your old account. If you've got a new device with your Tello plan, it should be ready to use when it arrives. If you're bringing your own phone then you'll need to follow the instructions with the new SIM card kit that Tello will send to you in the post.
MVNO carrier list
| T-Mobile MVNOs | Verizon MVNOs | AT&T MVNOs |
|---|---|---|
| Red Pocket | Red Pocket | Red Pocket |
| Tello | Total Wireless | Consumer Cellular |
| Consumer Cellular | Twigby Mobile | Cricket Wireless |
| FreeUP Mobile | Visible | Freedompop |
| Metro by T-Mobile | Spectrum Mobile | PureTalk |
| Mint Mobile | Straight Talk | US Mobile |
| TextNow | Tracfone | Good2Go Mobile |
| Ultra Mobile | US Mobile | Boost Infinite |
| US Mobile | Xfinity Mobile | |
| Good2Go Mobile | Affinity Cellular | |
| Reach Mobile | Cox Mobile | |
| Lyca Mobile | MobileX | |
| Kroger Wireless | ||
| Optimum Mobile | ||
| Boost Infinite | ||
| WOW! Mobile | ||
| Gotalk Wireless |
MVNO plans FAQs
Most MVNOs offer low-cost plans, but Tello provides some of the cheapest prices starting from around $10 a month.
MVNOs like Tello, Mint Mobile, and US Mobile currently offer the best value cell phone plans ranging from just $10-30 per month.
Recap
Plans direct with Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile can cost you anywhere from $70-90 per month, excluding taxes and fees.
With MVNOs, there's no need to be stuck in an expensive contract. You can pay for what you need with their customizable plans and with prices starting as low as $10 a month, you could be saving up to $600 a year.
The best MVNO plan will depend on our needs but whatever you decide, it's going to be at least half the price of buying direct.
Cheap phone plan guides
- Cheap prepaid phone plans for 2025
- The Best Cheap Unlimited Data Plans
- Cheap family phone plans for 2025
- Cheap prepaid family plans for 2025
- Cheap phone plans for one person in 2025
- The best MVNO plans
- Cheap phone plans for seniors in 2025
- Cheap no-contract phone plans for 2025
- Cheap pay-as-you-go phone plans for 2025
- Cheap 5G phone plans for 2025
- The Cheapest Talk & Text Plans
- Cheapest eSIM plans for 2025
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.
No! Most low-cost carriers offer prepaid, no-contract plans, meaning you're not tied down to long-term commitments. You can switch whenever you like without paying hefty termination fees.
Most low-cost carriers offer easy payment options, including online billing, autopay, or prepaid options. Many also offer discounts for paying upfront or signing up for autopay.
Yes! Some low-cost carriers offer family plans or multi-line discounts. But just by signing up the whole family to a low-cost carrier without the discount could save you up to $600 a year, per line.
Yes, while the big 3 only offer unlimited data plans, most people actually don’t need these. You can choose a plan with a data limit that suits your usage to save even more money or an unlimited data plan. It's up to you.
Depending on the plan, normally, your speeds will be slowed until your next billing cycle, rarely do any charge for overage use. However, some low-cost carriers provide options for purchasing additional data at a reasonable cost.
No, low-cost carriers use the same towers as the big networks, so you’ll have the same signal strength and coverage as with Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T.
Yes, all low-cost carriers now offer 5G service, as they use the same networks as the big 3. You will need a compatible phone and plan, but 5G is increasingly available across low-cost carriers.
You may experience slower speeds during peak times if your low-cost carrier deprioritizes data. However, outside of busy periods, you should enjoy the same fast speeds as you would with major carriers. Your speeds will depend on the network’s traffic at any given moment.
No, low-cost carriers provide coverage in rural and remote areas, just like major networks. The coverage is essentially the same, as they all use the same towers and infrastructure.
While customer service experiences can vary, many low-cost carriers offer excellent customer support. They tend to focus on customer satisfaction and transparency without the frustration of endless hold times or high-pressure sales tactics often seen with the big carriers.
Yes, most low-cost carriers offer reliable customer support. It varies by carrier but you’ll find they offer online support or phone assistance.
Most low-cost carriers don’t have physical stores, so in-person support may be limited. However, most low-cost carriers offer strong online support or call center assistance to resolve issues remotely.
While low-cost carriers may not offer as many in-store support options as big carriers, they generally provide reliable and helpful customer support through phone and online channels. Their support tends to be more personal and straightforward compared to larger, more corporate carriers.
Customer support can assist with a wide range of issues, including billing inquiries, plan changes, technical issues, device troubleshooting, network connectivity problems, and account management.
Yes, you can keep both your current phone and phone number when switching to a low-cost carrier. The process is easy, and most low-cost carriers offer tools to help you through the transfer.
Yes, it’s quick and easy! Low-cost carriers typically allow you to sign up online, bring your own phone, and transfer your number. The process is simple, and customer support is available to guide you if needed.
In most cases, there should be minimal downtime during the switch. The porting process usually takes a few hours to complete, but you can often continue using your current service until the transfer is finalized. Make sure to complete the switch during business hours for faster processing.
You can check if your phone is compatible by looking up the low-cost carrier’s compatibility list on their website or using your IMEI number.
Many low-cost carriers offer device financing or discounts for purchasing a new phone through them. However, you're also free to bring your own unlocked phone giving you flexibility.
Some low-cost carriers offer international calling and roaming options, but it's important to check with the specific carrier for details. Some carriers may offer affordable add-ons for international calls and data.
Many low-cost carriers offer affordable international calling plans or add-ons to help keep costs down, but the exact rates can vary.
Yes, if your low-cost carrier supports international roaming, you can use your international calling plan while abroad. However, be sure to check roaming rates and coverage before you travel to avoid unexpected costs.
Yes, many low-cost carriers allow you to make international calls over Wi-Fi using apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or other VoIP services. This can be a cost-effective way to call internationally, as it doesn’t count toward your carrier's voice minutes or incur additional charges.
