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Fed up with the big three's limited selections, baffling charges, and relentless assault on your finances?
As these telecom titans revel in their latest profit surges and tee up even more price hikes, it's clear they've overlooked the power of today's discerning consumer.
Using almost 15 years of experience in the telecom arena, I've witnessed the disparity in pricing grow ever more stark, yet the pathway to a smarter choice has never been clearer.
I've sifted through and reviewed 30 alternative carriers and explored over 100 pay-as-you-go plans, all to spare you the hassle.
To save you time, I have excluded carriers that:
- Only offer unlimited data plans
- Only advertise multi-line prices
- Have confusing phone bills with unexpected fees
- Lure customers with "free" phones
- Constantly try to upsell additional lines
- Bundle plans with unnecessary subscriptions
- Need loads of small print to explain their offers
- Want you to go to a store
- Need a commission-based salesperson
- Reward customer loyalty with increased prices
What may surprise you is the robust lineup of carriers in play. While you may not recognize them by name, they provide service over the same reliable networks you're accustomed to but without the hefty price tag.
Choosing the right plan comes down to understanding your network preferences and data usage.
I've cultivated a selection of the best value pay as you go plans across all user types and networks. I've also pinpointed one plan that offers the greatest value, yet the ultimate decision is in your hands!
Best pay as you go plans on T-Mobile
These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers 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 pay as you go 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  *$45 for 3 Months | |
| 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 | 3.3 on Trustpilot | 4.5 on Trustpilot |
| Annual savings | $780/yr | $675/yr | $600/yr |
Best pay as you go plans on Verizon
These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers 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 pay as you go 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 family plan on Verizon
Red Pocket 10GB plan
- Verizon 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 family plans on Verizon.
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 Verizon
Visible unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Check out our review about best unlimited data plans on Verizon.
Pros
- Great pricing
- Unlimited talk, text, and data
- Taxes & fees included in price
- User-friendly website
Cons
- Only 2 plan choices
- Data speed is capped at 5 Mbps
- Limited phone compatibility
- App-based service
The table below demonstrates that choosing the Visible unlimited data plan would save you $725 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from Verizon directly.
| Verizon | Verizon coverage at a fraction of the cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  *50% off 1st Mth |  *$5 Off for 25 Mths |
| Verizon 4G & 5G | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Verizon 4G & 5G | |
| Unlimited data *not unlimited | 2GB data | 10GB data | Unlimited data |
| $75/mo | $5/mo* | $10/mo* | $20/mo* |
| $900/yr | $150/yr | $230/yr | $240/yr |
| 1.2 on Trustpilot | 4.6 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot | 1.5 on Trustpilot |
| Annual savings | $750/yr | $670/yr | $725/yr |
Best pay as you go plans on AT&T
These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers 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 pay as you go 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
Best family plan on AT&T
Red Pocket 10GB 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 family 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
Best unlimited plan on AT&T
Red Pocket unlimited data 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 unlimited data 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
The table below demonstrates that choosing the Red Pocket unlimited data plan would save you $555 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from AT&T directly.
| AT&T | AT&T coverage at a fraction of the cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | | *50% off 1st Mth | *50% off 1st Mth |
| Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 4G & 5G | |
| Unlimited data *not unlimited | 1GB data | 10GB data | Unlimited data |
| $75/mo | $10/mo | $10/mo* | $15/mo* |
| $900/yr | $120/yr | $230/yr | $345/yr |
| 1.3 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot |
| Annual savings | $780/yr | $670/yr | $555/yr |
Best overall pay as you go 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 the cheapest pay as you go 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
Big wireless: Big prices, big profits, little value
With the average phone bill of $155 per month and the prices of other basic needs rising, it's no wonder nearly 38 million Americans are living in poverty. The government's recent response? To cut funding to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which helps 22 million low-income families access affordable internet and cell phone service.
At the same time, the big three spent January celebrating record profits and multi-billion dollar shareholder dividend payouts. To add insult to injury, they are simultaneously announcing yet more price hikes. With consumers outnumbering shareholders, the math doesn't add up.
Awareness is power - there are other options outside of the big three, so the power is in your hands!
Take back control of your phone bill
A big wireless unlimited plan will cost you $1,600 extra over the next 3 years compared to getting the same service from an MVNO.
An unlimited data plan with a major provider will cost you $2,700 over the next 3 years for just 1 line. In comparison, unlimited plans from a low-cost carrier over the same period would only cost you $900.
So, buying plans directly from Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T is now 3 times more expensive for the same coverage. This does not include fees and taxes or future price hikes.
Why is it so much more expensive to buy the same service directly?
Big wireless companies tack on extra expenses. Essentially, you are paying for multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople - all these costs are passed onto the many to maximize profits and dividend payouts of the few.
With the next generation of MVNOs, you instantly switch online and simply pay for phone service - none of the extras.
Cut your phone bill, not your coverage
Low-cost carriers are an unbeatable alternative. They offer transparent pricing, a wide range of customizable data plans to fit your needs, and higher-rated customer service experiences.
The best news? Keep your phone, number, coverage, and most importantly, your money!
It's quick and easy. You can complete the entire switching process online in minutes with an eSIM-compatible phone.
Now is the time to reevaluate your options and take back control of your phone bill. Free yourself from price hikes forever!
Compare the cheapest pay as you go cell 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 |
| Red Pocket | 10GB | $10/mo* | $230/yr | $670/yr | See at Red Pocket *50% off 1st Mth |
| Visible | Unlimited | $20/mo* | $240/yr | $725/yr | See at Visible *$5 Off for 25 Mths |
| Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Pocket | 1GB | $10/mo | $120/yr | $780/yr | See at Red Pocket |
| Red Pocket | 10GB | $10/mo* | $230/yr | $670/yr | See at Red Pocket *50% off 1st Mth |
| Red Pocket | Unlimited | $15/mo* | $345/yr | $555/yr | See at Red Pocket *50% off 1st Mth |
Check out our pay as you go phone plan comparison to find the best deal.
How to choose the best value pay as you go carrier
- Which network powers lifestyle? Whether you're navigating city streets or the quiet corners of rural life, seamless connectivity is a must. Luckily, affordable carriers tap into the same broad 5G & 4G LTE networks as the industry giants. According to the latest Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023), T-Mobile shines in 5G coverage. Choosing any MVNO on your preferred network doesn't mean sacrificing quality.
- Curious about your actual data needs? In the sea of unlimited data plan pushers, you might discover your personal usage is quite modest, thanks to home Wi-Fi and public hotspots. Cost-effective carriers design plans to fit your real needs, considering the average monthly cellular data usage is around 10GB.
- Do you need tethering for work or leisure? Hotspot functionality typically comes standard, although the details can vary depending on provider and plan.
- Are you worried about costs? Traditional network direct plans can be expensive ($75-$90), but there are MVNO deals from $5-35 that offer significant savings without skimping on quality.
- How many lines are you considering? Skip the rigid multi-line packages from major networks. MVNOs offer the flexibility of pay as you go pricing without the burden of unnecessary costs.
- Thinking about your device options? Imagine a company trying to save you money. MVNOs encourage you to bring your own device, freeing you from the endless cycle of upgrades. There are also affordable choices with 0% financing available.
- On the hunt for straightforward deals? Nix complex and confusing big wireless offers. MVNOs stand out with their transparent promotions, letting you know upfront exactly what you're signing up for.
- Considering perks or extras? The draw of "free" subscriptions might be enticing, but it's vital to assess if these benefits truly align with your lifestyle or will end up as just another expense. Opt for perks that genuinely enhance your daily life.
- Is international communication a priority? Staying connected with family and friends is essential. Several low-cost carriers include free international calling to several countries, an invaluable feature for those with global connections.
- And what about parental controls? Parents can track and monitor their kids' data consumption. Put limits in place using plans or your phone's settings.
Find the best phone service in your area
Pay as you go plans FAQ
Purchase your talk, text, and data upfront so there are no surprising bills at the end of the month. When you reach your limit, you top up with what you need.
Powered by T-Mobile, Tello offers one of the cheapest pay as you go SIM cards. Customize the plan to your suit your needs.
Recap: What is the best pay as you go phone plan?
Amidst the relentless price increases from the big three, families are feeling the pinch in every aspect of their finances, from the supermarket to the utility bill. This tactic confirms that big wireless companies seem more focused on profit margins than on meeting actual consumer needs.
However, there's a silver lining when it comes to managing your mobile expenses. Opting for the right carrier can allow your family to enjoy dependable service without the hefty price tag, offering the potential to save significantly on each line with a cheap pay as you go plan.
For families considering a shift to a more cost-effective and flexible mobile solution, the choice is more important than ever.
We've developed our comprehensive cell phone plan comparison tool, designed with your specific needs in mind. It's here to navigate you through the sea of options, ensuring you find not just any plan but the ideal pay as you go plan.
Prepaid plan guides
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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.
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