How to choose the best prepaid unlimited data plan
What network coverage do you prefer?
MVNOs are powered by the same 5G & 4G LTE networks as the big three wireless networks. Among the various carriers, T-Mobile obtained the top position in this J.D. Power 2023 wireless network study in terms of 5G coverage. If you have a preference for a particular network, choose an MVNO that operates on that network. Or, to identify the best cell phone service in your area, you can use our coverage checker tool.
How much data do you need?
Do you really need an unlimited data plan? The big 3 may try to persuade you otherwise, but the reality is that the majority of people only consume approximately 10GB of cellular data each month. Furthermore, if you primarily use Wi-Fi at home or work, your consumption of cellular data will probably be even lower. With cheap cell phone providers, you can choose a data plan that fits your requirements and pay a reduced amount if your data usage is lower.
Is hotspot data included?
Most carriers allow the usage of hotspot data; however, there are limitations on the quantity of data that can be used via tethering. The actual limit depends on the prepaid plan you choose and the carrier. Moreover, certain carriers offer prepaid mobile hotspot plans specifically tailored for use on mobile hotspot devices, iPads, and tablets.
What's the monthly cost?
While the big wireless usually charge between $75-90 per month for unlimited plans, the best MVNOs offer inexpensive plans that range from $5-35 per month. Despite their affordability, these options still offer dependable wireless coverage and fast data speeds. It's crucial to be mindful of extra fees and taxes, as some carriers include them in their pricing while others, such as AT&T and Verizon, do not.
What if I need multiple lines?
When it comes to the big wireless networks, the price advertised is only valid if you buy four lines. While with MVNOs, the price displayed is the price you pay, even if you only have one line. Furthermore, plenty of affordable carriers currently offer further reductions for additional lines with prepaid family plans.
Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
Despite the big 3's love of keeping their customers locked into a constant cycle of phone upgrades, MVNOs advocate the choice of bringing your own phone. This gives you the power to stay in control and only switch phones when it suits you. If you do choose to purchase a new phone, many MVNOs offer the opportunity of 0% financing for 1-2 years.
What promotions do they offer?
The big wireless promotions may appear appealing at first, but with further scrutiny of the fine print, you'll find they frequently include unnecessary items and the commitment to a lengthy 3-year phone contract. On the other hand, many Mobile Virtual Network Operators provide special discounts to new customers and offer no contract phone plans and clearer pricing structures.
Are there any additional perks?
A lot of the plans from the major networks include "free" TV subscriptions, but these eventually turn into paid subscriptions and are automatically added to your bill if you forget to cancel them after a few months. However, there are some prepaid carriers, like US Mobile, that offer free subscription services. But in our opinion, it's better to keep these subscriptions separate so that you have better control over them.
What international features are available?
If you travel often, it's recommended that you check whether your prepaid carrier offers these services. International calling and roaming are distinct features, and several MVNOs provide free international calls; however, the countries available may vary depending on the carrier. Roaming is typically offered as an optional feature, with the cost differing depending on the country you are traveling to.
Do they have parental controls?
Many MVNOs offer parental control features that enable parents to supervise their children's phone usage and data consumption. With these controls, you can set data limits, restrict access to particular apps or websites, and even track your child's location. These capabilities are available either as part of plans or can be configured in your cell phone's settings.
Check out our prepaid cell phone comparison to help find the best deal.
Find the best prepaid service in your area
Cheapest prepaid unlimited data plans
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Mobile unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $15/mo |
| Visible unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $20/mo |
| Tello unlimited data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $25/mo |
| Total Wireless unlimited data plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $40/mo |
| Red Pocket unlimited data plan | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | Unltd | $15/mo |
Prepaid unlimited plans FAQs
Prepaid plans do offer unlimited data. However, it's not unlimited high-speed data. All unlimited plans have a high-speed data cap, where speeds are slowed once reached until your next billing cycle. But the good news is you'll never have overage charges.
Yes, you can. As long as the device is paid off from your previous carrier and unlocked, it should be compatible with your prepaid plan.
With a prepaid plan, there are no credit checks and no contracts. So you can switch at any time. Plus MVNOs also offer much more affordable prepaid unlimited plans.
Mint Mobile offers one of the most affordable unlimited data plans, and they're powered by T-Mobile, so you get access to the same coverage at a fraction of the price.
The best will depend on your personal preferences, but low-cost carriers like Mint Mobile, Tello, and Boost Mobile offer the best value unlimited plans for between $25-30 per month.
Recap: What are the best prepaid unlimited data plans?
If you really need unlimited data, a prepaid unlimited data plan with a low-cost carrier like Mint Mobile, Tello, or Ting can save you up to $600 per year.
Make sure to check the small print, as unlimited never really means unlimited, and once you reach your data cap, your speeds will be slowed significantly.
You can estimate your average data usage with our data usage calculator to see if you can save money with a set data plan.
Prepaid plan guides
- Best Prepaid Phone Plans
- Best Prepaid Unlimited Data Plans
- Best Prepaid Family Phone Plans
- Best No Contract Phone Plans
- The Cheapest Prepaid Phone Plans
- Best Prepaid Phone Plans on Verizon
- Best Prepaid Phone Plans on AT&T
- Best Prepaid Phone Plans on T-Mobile
- Best Prepaid Data Plans for Tablets
- Best Prepaid Data Plans for iPad
- Best Prepaid Hotspot Plans
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.
