The best switch carrier deals in 2025

Are you fed up with high phone bills? You're not alone.

Why? Because customers are increasingly unhappy with their cell phone service and high prices, alternative carriers are moving to the forefront as a way to save up to 50% for the same great coverage.

We've reviewed the best plans from the cheapest cell phone providers so you can find the best deal and save your money.

Tello has the best switch carrier deals 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

5

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Tello makes it easy to ditch overpriced phone plans without sacrificing coverage or features.

With free international calling to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, and a variety of data plans from small to unlimited, there's an option for every type of user.

One of Tello's biggest strengths is customization. You build your own plan, by choosing how much data, talk, and text you need. This means you're never stuck paying for services you won't use. Get mobile hotspot on every plan, with unlimited options capped at 5GB, but there are no multi-line discounts. However, even without them, Tello's pricing remains among the most affordable.

Getting started is quick and easy. With eSIM activation it means you can switch in minutes, or you can opt for a physical SIM card if needed.

When reviewing competitors, Ultra Mobile stood out for international calls but was pricier. Metro by T-Mobile, despite being a T-Mobile brand, has higher costs and requires in-store sign-ups. Boost Mobile had decent rates but lost points due to hidden fees and inconsistent customer support.

For those who want budget-friendly, commitment-free service with full control over their plan, Tello is the best choice.

• Fully customizable plans – Pay only for what you need.
• No contracts, no hidden costs – Affordable pricing with full transparency.
• Instant activation – Get started in minutes with eSIM or choose to have a SIM card mailed to you.

Visible has the best switch carrier deals for unlimited data

Visible unlimited plan for $25/mo

• Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

3.4

Read our Visible review

See at Visible

Visible gives you unlimited data on Verizon's network at a fraction of the cost, with no contracts, no hidden fees, and no unexpected charges.

For $25/month, you get unlimited talk, text, and data, plus mobile hotspot access at speeds of 5–10 Mbps. If you need faster speeds and premium data, the Visible+ plan delivers 50GB of priority data and access to Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband network.

One major perk? The Visible+ plan includes free international calling to 30+ countries and texting to over 200 destinations. You can also activate instantly with eSIM, meaning no waiting around for a SIM card.

While Visible doesn't offer multi-line discounts, the low monthly price makes it one of the best deals for single-line users. However, customer support is only available online.

I compared Visible to Tracfone, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile. Tracfone is a cheaper alternative, but it limits data speeds. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile have good rates, but you need their internet service to qualify.

For unlimited data at a budget-friendly price, Visible is the best choice.

• Unlimited data, simple pricing – No contracts, no hidden fees, no surprises.
• Extra perks included – Every plan has mobile hotspot access, and Visible+ includes free international calling & texting.
• Seamless activation – Get started instantly with eSIM, or request a SIM card.

Total Wireless has the best switch carrier deals with Verizon coverage

Total Wireless unlimited plan for $50/mo

• Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

4

Read our Total Wireless review

See at Total Wireless

Total Wireless offers affordable prepaid plans that provide Verizon's coverage without the hefty price tag.

Every plan includes unlimited talk and text, along with high-speed data options and mobile hotspot access.

Need to stay connected abroad? Total Wireless includes free international calling to 85+ destinations and roaming in Canada and Mexico on select plans.

With no long-term commitments or surprise fees, you can manage your plan online and switch at any time.

I also explored other low-cost Verizon carriers. Tracfone offers cheaper pay-as-you-go plans but limits high-speed data. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile have competitive pricing, but require home internet service.

For affordable coverage, great features, and contract-free flexibility, Total Wireless is an excellent option.

• Big savings on Verizon's network – Stay connected for less with budget-friendly plans.
• Extra perks included – Hotspot data up to 15GB on certain plans, plus international calling & roaming.
• No contracts, no stress – Easily adjust or switch plans online whenever needed.

Tello has the best switch carrier deals with T-Mobile coverage

Tello unlimited plan for $25/mo

• T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

5

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Tello makes switching to a low-cost, no-contract phone plan easy, keeping things simple while offering great value.

Every plan includes free international calls to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, and a range of data options for light to heavy users.

Instead of overpaying for features you don't use, Tello lets you customize your own plan, ensuring you get the exact amount of talk, text, and data that fits your needs. Mobile hotspot is available on all plans, with a 5GB cap for unlimited data users, though there are no discounts for multiple lines. However, with pricing this low, family plan savings aren't needed.

Getting started is simple-eSIM activation means you can switch instantly, or you can request a SIM card if you prefer.

I tested Ultra Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, and Boost Mobile. Ultra Mobile is excellent for international calling but is more expensive for the same data. Metro by T-Mobile requires in-store sign-ups and costs more overall. Boost Mobile has a small range of plans and inconsistent customer service.

For transparent pricing, easy activation, and a plan that fits your budget, Tello is the way to go.

• No overpaying for extras – Build your own plan with just the talk, text, and data you need. No unnecessary add-ons.
• Zero contracts or surprise fees – No activation charges, no price increases, and no commitment.
• Instant activation – Use eSIM for immediate setup, or get a physical SIM card shipped directly to you.

Red Pocket has the best switch carrier deals 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

4

Read our Red Pocket review

See at Red Pocket

For families seeking affordable unlimited data on AT&T's network, Red Pocket Mobile stands out with its $20 discount per additional line.

Though a setup fee applies, switching to a multi-line plan could save you hundreds of dollars a year compared to other providers.

With unlimited talk and text, no hidden fees, and up to 30GB of high-speed data, Red Pocket ensures affordable, reliable service with hotspot access included.

International perks come standard, with free calling to 80+ countries and roaming in Mexico and Canada. If you opt for an eSIM, you can try the service risk-free with a 7-day money-back guarantee.

Among AT&T-based low-cost carriers, Cricket Wireless costs more despite being AT&T's prepaid brand, H2O Wireless is good for international calling but lacks overall value, and Good2Go Mobile has affordable pricing but fewer plan options.

For budget-conscious families who need flexibility, affordability, and global perks, Red Pocket Mobile is a top choice.

• Family-friendly pricing – Save $20 per extra line, making multi-line plans more affordable.
• International benefits included – Free calls to 80+ countries and free roaming in Mexico & Canada.
• Risk-free sign-up – No hidden fees, plus a 7-day eSIM refund policy.

How to find the best deals when switching carriers

What network coverage do you prefer?

Network access is a key consideration wherever you live, but especially in rural areas. Luckily, low-cost carriers operate on the same 5G & 4G LTE networks as major carriers. T-Mobile scores the highest for 5G coverage, according to an Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023). If there is a particular network you prefer, choose an MVNO that operates on that network. Use our coverage checker to find the best cell phone service in your area.

How much data do you need?

Do you really need an unlimited data plan? The big wireless companies want you to believe so, but in reality, the average monthly cellular data consumption is around 10GB. However, if you spend most of your time at home or work on Wi-Fi, it's likely your cellular data usage will be much lower. You can choose a data plan tailored to your needs with cheap cell phone providers, meaning you can pay less if you use less. But if you do choose an unlimited data plan, be aware that high-speed data is normally capped.

Is hotspot data included?

Most carriers allow hotspot data usage but limit the amount of data that can be used via tethering. The limit depends on the carrier and plan you choose. Some carriers also offer data only plans so you can access the internet on mobile devices like iPads, tablets, and mobile hotspots when Wi-Fi's not available.

What's the monthly price?

While big wireless unlimited plans cost around $75-90 per month, the best MVNOs offer budget-friendly plans, ranging from $5-35 per month without sacrificing wireless coverage and data speeds. Watch out for hidden fees & taxes; some carriers include these in the price, and others, such as Verizon and AT&T, don't.

How many lines do you need?

With big wireless, you only get the advertised price if you buy four lines. With MVNOs, the price you see is the price you pay, even for one line. Many low-cost carriers now offer further discounts for multi-line plans.

Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?

While the big three love keeping their customers locked into a constant phone upgrade cycle, MVNOs encourage you to bring your own phone. This means you take back control and only change your phone when it suits you. If you do want to purchase a new phone, many MVNOs offer an affordable and easy way with 0% financing over 1-2 years.

Are there any deals or promotions?

Big wireless promotions can seem good at a glance. But once you read the small print, it often leads to buying things you don't need and committing to 3-year phone contracts. Many MVNOs offer short-term introductory promotional pricing for new customers, and their pricing is much more transparent.

What perks or add ons can I expect?

Most big wireless plans include "free" TV subscriptions. Initially, these seem like a great deal. However, these usually turn into a paid subscription that is automatically added to your bill a few months down the line. A few low-cost carriers, such as US Mobile, do offer plan options with free subscription services, but we generally recommend keeping these subscriptions separate so you don't end up paying for things you don't need.

Is international calling included?

Most MVNOs offer free international calls to many countries. If this is important to you, make sure to choose a carrier that includes this.

Are there parental controls?

Some Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) provide parental controls that allow parents to monitor their children's cell phone usage and data consumption. By using these features, you have the ability to establish limits on data usage, limit access to specific apps or websites, and even keep track of your child's whereabouts. These capabilities are accessible either through subscription plans or can be adjusted in the settings of your mobile device.

Check out our cell phone plan comparison to ensure you find the best deal.

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How to switch cell phone carriers

Here's a quick overview of the steps involved in changing mobile service providers:

1. Compare cell phone plans and choose a new carrier with features and plans that match your usage.
2. Check out the coverage map to be sure they have 4G LTE service in your home location and anywhere to which you travel frequently.
3. Check phone compatibility using an IMEI checker.
4. Make sure your old bills are paid and your phone is unlocked.
5. Back up your phone so you don't lose photos, contacts, and other important info if you're changing devices.
6. Wait to cancel your old account until your phone number is ported over.

Switching carriers FAQs

Recap: What are the best deals when switching carriers?

With a wide variety of carriers and plans now available, it's really all about finding the plan that fits your usage so that you're not paying for more than you actually use.

Once you're finished with the above steps, all that's left to do is enjoy your lower cell phone bill!

Carrier guides

• The 5 Best Cell Phone Carriers
• The best eSIM carriers in 2025
• The 5 Best Cheap Cell Phone Providers
• The 5 Best Cheap Prepaid Phone Providers
• The 5 Best Prepaid Cell Phone Service
• The 5 Best Wireless Phone Companies
• Best Switch Carrier Deals

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:

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