Best phone plans for 5 lines in 2024

Written by

Rob Webber

+2 others

Edited by

Amanda Webber

Reviewed by

Brian Webber

Updated October 12, 2024

MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.

Sick of the big three's web of sky-high charges and intricate invoices?

As they toast to their surging profits and plan for new price boosts, they've forgotten one key element: your power as a savvy consumer has only grown.

Harnessing my decade-long journey through the telecom industry, I've explored and evaluated 30 alternative carriers and over 100 prepaid plans to make your life easier.

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's more, these low-cost alternatives use the same reputable networks you trust without the big corporations you don't. From occasional surfers to heavy data users, I've identified the best of the best value plans for 5 lines for low, medium, and heavy data users across each network, with a special focus on the one that offers exceptional value.

The reins of choice are back in your hands!

Best plans for 5 lines 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

2GB

data

$10/line

See at Tello

5

Read our Tello review

$780 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Plan details

Best family plan on T-Mobile

Mint Mobile 15GB plan

• T-Mobile coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

15GB

data

$15/line*

$20/mo

See at Mint Mobile

*$45 for 3 Months

4.2

Read our Mint Mobile review

$675 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Plan details

Best unlimited plan on T-Mobile

Tello unlimited data plan

• T-Mobile coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

Unlimited

data

$25/line

See at Tello

5

Read our Tello review

$600 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How T-Mobile compares

Best plans for 5 lines 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

2GB

data

$5/line*

$15/mo

See at Twigby Mobile

*$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths

4.4

Read our Twigby Mobile review

$750 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Plan details

Best family plan on Verizon

Red Pocket 10GB plan

• Verizon coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

10GB

data

$20/line

See at Red Pocket

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$660 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Plan details

Best unlimited plan on Verizon

Visible unlimited data plan

• Verizon coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

Unlimited

data

$25/line

See at Visible

3.4

Read our Visible review

$600 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How Verizon compares

Best plans for 5 lines 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

1GB

data

$10/line

See at Red Pocket

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$780 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Best family plan on AT&T

Red Pocket 10GB plan

• AT&T coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

10GB

data

$20/line

See at Red Pocket

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$660 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Best unlimited plan on AT&T

Red Pocket unlimited data plan

• AT&T coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

Unlimited

data

$30/line

See at Red Pocket

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$540 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How AT&T compares

Best overall value plan for 5 lines

Tello unlimited data plan

• T-Mobile coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

Unlimited

data

$25/line

See at Tello

5

Read our Tello review

$600 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Big wireless: Big prices, big profits, little value

With 38 million Americans living in poverty and the average phone bill hovering around $155 per month, the digital divide continues to widen. Despite pending price hikes from big wireless companies across the board, the government has cut funding to the Affordable Connectivity Program. ACP is currently aiding 22 million low-income families in obtaining affordable internet and cell phone service.

Simultaneously, the big three spent January celebrating record profits and multi-billion dollar shareholder payouts.

It just confirms big telecom corporations' commitment to continue raising prices and reaping the rewards. All while the government drops assistance to those most in need.

Reclaim your power by using alternative carriers that are powered by the same networks at a fraction of the cost.

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.

A big wireless unlimited data plan 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 cost only $900.

So, buying 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?

Telecom giants use your overpayments for the same service to fund multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople. They pass along these extra expenses to you to maximize their profits and increase dividend payouts.

However, the next generation of MVNOs allows you to switch instantly online and simply pay for phone service without the extra costs.

Cut your phone bill, not your coverage

These low-cost carriers offer an unbeatable alternative with transparent pricing, a range of customizable data plans to fit your needs, and higher-rated customer service.

You can keep your phone, number, coverage, and most importantly, your money!

Even better, 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 raise awareness and reevaluate your options. Take back control of your phone bill and free yourself from price hikes forever!

Compare the cheapest 5-line cell phone plans

Check out our 5-person cell phone comparison to find the best deal.

How to choose the best 5-line cell phone plan

Which network anchors your multi-line plan? Across bustling suburbs or serene rural retreats, unwavering signal strength is a must-have. Thankfully, budget-friendly carriers tap into the same broad 5G & 4G LTE networks as the industry leaders. The most recent Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023) highlights T-Mobile for its 5G coverage, yet choosing an MVNO for your preferred network ensures no drop in quality.

Wondering about your collective data usage? Despite the push for unlimited data, you may discover your group's actual use is much lower, thanks to home Wi-Fi and public access points. Typically, users average about 10GB of data usage, leaving room for savings. Value carriers craft plans that truly match your consumption.

Searching for hotspot functionality? Tethering is indispensable for on-the-move assignments or entertainment during trips. Hotspot features are fairly standard, though details can vary across plans and providers, keeping you connected when it matters.

Worried about costs? Traditional plans for your crew can quickly escalate, costing $75-90 per line. However, savvy groups can uncover MVNO offers ranging from $5-35 per line, ensuring significant savings without compromising on service.

Contemplating the number of lines? MVNOs excel in offering adaptable and flexible pricing per line. Unlike big wireless, which will hike your price if you reduce your number of lines, you won't lose your cost-effective pricing if you switch your group size.

Considering your device strategy? Understandably, maximizing savings is key. MVNOs support bringing your own device, avoiding the cycle of constant upgrades. If a new gadget is on the horizon, affordable options with 0% financing are available.

Looking for deals or promotions? Avoid the intricate and sometimes misleading offers from the big players. MVNOs opt for straightforward promotions, ensuring clarity about what you're signing up for - no hidden fees.

Wanting perks or extras? The temptation of "complimentary" subscriptions or trial services from the big names can be alluring. However, it's wise to evaluate whether these benefits truly enhance your group's lifestyle or merely add to the bill. Select perks that genuinely fit, avoiding unnecessary costs.

Is international communication a priority? Staying connected with overseas relatives is a necessity, not a privilege. Numerous MVNOs offer free international calls to a variety of countries, an essential feature for groups with international ties.

Keeping tabs on younger users? Many MVNOs provide parental control options that allow parents to monitor and manage phone usage and data consumption. You can establish data allowances, limit access to specific apps or websites, and even monitor location. Some MVNOs include these features as part of their plans, or you set up controls in your cell phone's settings.

Find the best phone service in your area

5-line cell phone plans FAQs

Recap: What are the best 5-line phone plans?

The trio of leading network providers persist in their relentless drive towards higher prices. This move appears more driven by a desire to boost their bottom lines than by meeting consumer demands. As groups everywhere grapple with the soaring costs of essentials, from food to household bills, the value of each dollar has never been more critical.

However, there's a beacon of light in managing your family's mobile phone costs. By choosing the best cheap phone plans for 5, your crew can continue enjoying the reliable service you're used to, but at significantly reduced prices. Picture the potential of cutting down your annual expenses by up to $600 for every line on your plan.

For families or friends contemplating a financially smarter option, making an informed choice is essential. Our specialized cell phone plan comparison tool has been meticulously designed with your needs in mind. Navigate through the extensive array of choices, ensuring you clinch not just any offer but the ideal plan for your group.

Family plan guides

• Best Family Cell Phone Plans
• Best Phone Plans for 2 Lines
• Best Phone Plans for 3 Lines
• Best Phone Plans for 4 Lines
• Best Phone Plans for 5 Lines
• Best Multi Line Phone Plans
• Best Shared Data Plans
• The Cheapest Prepaid Family Phone Plans
• Best Family Plans on Verizon
• Best Family Plans on AT&T
• Best Family Plans on T-Mobile

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.