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Ready for a change from the big three's rigid options, cryptic charges, and budget-draining fees?
As these telecom giants revel in their windfall profits and plot yet another round of price increases, they've overlooked one crucial detail: today's consumer is informed and in control.
Leveraging over a decade of industry expertise, I've navigated the vast landscape of wireless plans, analyzing 30 alternative carriers and over 100 prepaid plans, saving you the legwork.
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
The revelation? A wealth of carriers are still in the fray, offering competitive services on those very networks you trust without the premium price tag. Finding the right plan boils down to your personal usage and network preference.
I've curated a list of the best value plans for 1 line across all data usage profiles for each major network. Moreover, I've identified what I believe to be the top value plan out there - but the power to choose is yours alone!
Best plans for 1 Line on T-Mobile
These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers with T-Mobile coverage to consider.
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.
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
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.
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
Tello unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
The table below demonstrates that choosing the Tello unlimited data plan would save you $630 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile directly.
| T-Mobile | T-Mobile coverage at a fraction of the cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  *$60 for 3 Months | *$10 off for 3 Mths |
| 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 | $20/mo* | $15/mo* |
| $900/yr | $120/yr | $240/yr | $270/yr |
| 1.4 on Trustpilot | 4.6 on Trustpilot | 3.3 on Trustpilot | 4.6 on Trustpilot |
| Annual savings | $780/yr | $660/yr | $630/yr |
Best plans for 1 Line on Verizon
These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers with Verizon coverage to consider.
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.
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
Red Pocket 10GB plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Red Pocket Mobile phone plans are powered by the AT&T wireless network. 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.
Pros
- AT&T 5G & 4G LTE 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
Visible unlimited data plan
- Verizon coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Visible keeps things easy with two affordable unlimited plans on Verizon's network. There are no contracts and no hidden fees.
With unlimited talk, text, and data starting at just $25/month, plus mobile hotspot included, you get great value without surprises. The Visible+ plan offers 50GB of premium data and access to Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband for even faster speeds.
Pros
- Low-cost unlimited plans
- Unlimited talk & text to Mexico & Canada
- Mobile hotspot use included
- 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 $600 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from Verizon directly.
| Verizon | Verizon coverage at a fraction of the cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 |  *$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths |  |  |
| Verizon 4G & 5G | AT&T 4G & 5G | Verizon 4G & 5G | |
| Unlimited data *not unlimited | 2GB data | 10GB data | Unlimited data |
| $75/mo | $5/mo* | $20/mo | $25/mo |
| $900/yr | $150/yr | $240/yr | $300/yr |
| 1.2 on Trustpilot | 4.7 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot | 1.4 on Trustpilot |
| Annual savings | $750/yr | $660/yr | $600/yr |
Best plans for 1 Line on AT&T
These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers with AT&T coverage to consider.
Red Pocket 1GB plan
- AT&T coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Red Pocket 10GB plan
- AT&T coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
Red Pocket unlimited data plan
- AT&T coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
The table below demonstrates that choosing the Red Pocket unlimited data plan would save you $540 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from AT&T directly.
| AT&T | AT&T coverage at a fraction of the cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | | | |
| AT&T 4G & 5G | AT&T 4G & 5G | AT&T 4G & 5G | |
| Unlimited data *not unlimited | 1GB data | 10GB data | Unlimited data |
| $75/mo | $10/mo | $20/mo | $30/mo |
| $900/yr | $120/yr | $240/yr | $360/yr |
| 1.3 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot | 4.4 on Trustpilot |
| Annual savings | $780/yr | $660/yr | $540/yr |
Tello unlimited data plan
- T-Mobile coverage
- Unlimited talk and text
- Instant eSIM activation
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, 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 cell phone plans for 1 line
| Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tello | 2GB | $10/mo | $120/yr | $780/yr | See at Tello |
| Mint Mobile | 15GB | $20/mo* | $240/yr | $660/yr | See at Mint Mobile *$60 for 3 Months |
| Tello | Unlimited | $15/mo* | $270/yr | $630/yr | See at Tello *$10 off for 3 Mths |
| 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 | $20/mo | $240/yr | $660/yr | See at Red Pocket |
| Visible | Unlimited | $25/mo | $300/yr | $600/yr | See at Visible |
| Carrier | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Pocket | 1GB | $10/mo | $120/yr | $780/yr | See at Red Pocket |
| Red Pocket | 10GB | $20/mo | $240/yr | $660/yr | See at Red Pocket |
| Red Pocket | Unlimited | $30/mo | $360/yr | $540/yr | See at Red Pocket |
Check out our 1-line phone plan comparison to find the best deal.
How to choose the best value single line carrier
- Network: Dependable coverage is a must, whether you're navigating city streets or finding peace in rural hideaways. Luckily, cost-conscious carriers provide access to the same wide-reaching 5G and 4G LTE networks as the industry giants. According to the latest Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023), T-Mobile shines in terms of 5G coverage. Opting for an MVNO on your chosen network means you won't have to compromise on connection quality.
- Data needs: Despite the deluge of unlimited data plans, you might be surprised to learn your actual usage is quite modest. Due to Wi-Fi availability both at home and on public networks, the average monthly cellular data usage is 10GB. Budget-friendly carriers offer plans tailored to your real requirements.
- Hotspot: Tethering is crucial for some people because it allows them to stay connected on the go. Fortunately, hotspot capability is typically standard, although the details can vary across plans and providers. You're never more than a few taps away from the web.
- Price: While traditional plans direct from big networks run you anywhere from $75 to $90, savvy individuals can find MVNO deals from $5 to $35, providing significant savings without cutting corners on quality.
- Lines: Reject the major carriers' push for multi-line bundles. MVNOs excel with straightforward, single-line pricing. They offer great value and simplicity for anyone looking to keep life and their mobile plan uncomplicated.
- Phones: MVNOs encourage using your existing phone, freeing you from the endless cycle of upgrades. But if you're in the market for a new device, there are affordable choices with 0% financing available.
- Promos: Avoid the complex and often misleading "deals" from the big names. MVNOs favor clear, simple promotions, ensuring you understand precisely what you're signing up for without any hidden fees.
- Perks: "Free" or trial subscriptions from big brands may be initially appealing. However, it's important to evaluate whether these bonuses genuinely enhance your lifestyle or will merely end up as another expense. Select benefits that truly meet your needs, avoiding unnecessary costs.
- International features: Staying connected with friends or family abroad is essential. Many MVNOs offer complimentary international calling to several countries, a vital feature for those with international connections. Stay in touch without breaking the bank.
Find the best phone service in your area
Single line phone plan FAQs
MVNOs, operating on the big three wireless networks, provide the best value cell phone plans, with plans ranging from $5 to $30 per month.
The best value unlimited data plan can be found with low-cost carriers such as Boost Mobile. With plans starting as low as $25 per line, however, unlimited never really means unlimited.
MVNOs offer the cheapest cell phone plans while still offering access to the main wireless networks. Carriers like Boost Mobile, Tello, and US Mobile have plans starting from around $5 per line.
Recap: What is the best single line phone plan?
The relentless surge in prices by the big three carriers isn't about meeting consumer demands; it's about boosting their profit margins at the expense of individuals like you. In these times, where every aspect of living from groceries to utilities is becoming more expensive, understanding the value of every penny is crucial.
However, there's a ray of hope for reducing your cell phone bills. By choosing the best cheap cell phone plan for 1 with the right carrier, you can enjoy the quality service you're used to at a significantly lower cost. Imagine the potential of saving up to $600 per year on your single line plan.
For anyone considering a smart move to a more cost-effective plan, the choice is vital. That's why we've developed our comprehensive cell phone plan comparison tool specifically for you. It's designed to sift through a wide range of options, ensuring you find the perfect single line plan to fit your needs and budget precisely.
How I choose the best carriers and plans
To select the best carriers and plans, I evaluated over 30 different carriers.
I rate carriers in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. I then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:
- Value for money: I 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: I look at network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US. I use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
- Customer experience: I 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: I assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. I 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: I 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.
I regularly update the content so that we're always recommending the latest and best value plans and do my best to ensure the information is accurate.
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