Best bring your own phone plans in 2024

Written by

Rob Webber

+2 others

Edited by

Amanda Webber

Reviewed by

Brian Webber

Updated October 14, 2024

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

Are you fed up with the big three's limited options, confusing bills, and ridiculous prices? You're not alone.

As big wireless boast about their soaring profits and simultaneously roll out new price increases, it's clear they've overlooked a significant trend: today's consumers are more informed and empowered than ever before.

With over a decade of experience in the wireless industry, I've seen the disparity between high costs and actual consumer value grow wider. Yet, the move to a cheaper cell phone plan has become more straightforward.

To ease your transition, I've analyzed 30 alternative carriers and over 100 prepaid phone plans.

What might come as a surprise is the amount of cheap cell phone plans available, offering the same 5G & 4G LTE wireless network at a fraction of the cost.

This is particularly relevant for those looking to bring their own phone (BYOP) to a new plan, bypassing the need for costly new devices and contracts.

The best value bring your own phone plan will depend on your network preference and cell phone usage. So, I've compared carriers across all three major networks, tailored to suit varying levels of data consumption so you can find the best plan for you.

Best BYOP 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

2GB

data

$10/mo

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/mo*

$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/mo

See at Tello

5

Read our Tello review

$600 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How T-Mobile compares

Best BYOP 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

2GB

data

$5/mo*

$15/mo

View Plans

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

$10/mo*

$20/mo

See at Red Pocket

*50% off 1st Mth

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$670 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

$20/mo*

$25/mo

See at Visible

*$5 Off for 25 Mths

3.4

Read our Visible review

$660 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How Verizon compares

Best BYOP 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

1GB

data

$10/mo

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

$10/mo*

$20/mo

See at Red Pocket

*50% off 1st Mth

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$670 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

$15/mo*

$30/mo

See at Red Pocket

*50% off 1st Mth

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$555 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How AT&T compares

Best overall value BYOP plan

Tello unlimited data plan

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

Unlimited

data

$25/mo

See at Tello

5

Read our Tello review

$600 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Big wireless: Big prices, big profits, little value

The average phone bill is $155 per month, and while 38 million Americans live in poverty, the government cut funding to the Affordable Connectivity Program, which was assisting 22 million low-income families with subsidized internet and cell phone service.

At the same time, the big three spent January celebrating record profits and multi-billion dollar shareholder dividend payouts while simultaneously announcing yet more price hikes.

So, big wireless continues to raise prices, and the government drops assistance to those in need. However, you do have 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.

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?

With big wireless, you are paying for multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople - all these expenses get passed onto you to maximize profits and dividend payouts.

With this next generation of MVNOs, you switch online and just pay for phone service.

Cut your phone bill, not your coverage

These low-cost carriers offer a great alternative with transparent pricing, a range of data plans to customize to your needs, and more highly 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.

So, now is the time to re-evaluate your options, take back control of your phone bill, and free yourself from price hikes forever!

Compare the cheapest BYOP cell phone plans

Check out our bring your own phone plan comparison to help find the best deal.

How to choose the best value carrier for BYOP

What network coverage do you prefer?

If you're looking to bring your own phone to a new plan, network coverage is a crucial factor. Low-cost carriers offer access to the same 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks, ensuring you don't compromise on connectivity. Selecting an MVNO that utilizes your preferred network can keep you connected seamlessly.

How much data do you need?

Before locking into an unlimited data plan, consider your actual usage. Many find their data consumption significantly lower than expected. In fact, the average monthly cellular data use is around 10GB, especially with frequent Wi-Fi access. Low-cost carriers provide a variety of set data plans, allowing you to save money by selecting a plan that aligns with your actual needs.

Is hotspot data included?

While most plans include hotspot capabilities, the data allowance can vary. Some carriers also offer dedicated data-only plans, ensuring you can stay connected even without Wi-Fi.

What's the monthly price?

Ditch the notion that quality service comes with a hefty price tag. MVNOs challenge this with plans ranging from $5-35 per month, all without sacrificing coverage or features. Make sure to keep an eye on hidden fees and taxes to ensure the advertised savings are genuine.

How many lines do you need?

Unlike the big three, which often promote low prices that are only for multiple lines, MVNOs offer transparent, competitive pricing for individual lines. This offers affordability without the need for multiple lines, though discounts for adding lines may be available.

Are there any deals or promotions?

While big carrier promotions may initially seem attractive, they often entail long-term commitments and hidden costs. In contrast, many MVNOs offer straightforward, transparent promotional pricing for new customers, making it easier to understand your savings and avoid unexpected expenses.

What perks or add ons can I expect?

Be cautious of "free" perks included in some plans, as they may lead to unexpected charges down the line. Some MVNOs offer these perks, but it's wise to evaluate whether these extras are really what you need or just an additional cost.

Is international calling included?

Many MVNOs offer international calling to a variety of countries, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family abroad without incurring extra charges.

Are there parental controls?

If you're looking for a plan for the whole family, some MVNOs offer parental tools. These tools enable you to set data usage limits, restrict access to certain apps or websites, and track the device's location, providing peace of mind and control over your mobile experience.

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

Find the best phone service in your area

BYOP plans FAQs

Recap: What is the best BYOP plan?

Big wireless continues to signal their intention to hike prices, a strategy that seems more focused on boosting their profits in a competitive market than on responding to any real economic necessity.

Amid rising living costs, with seemingly no end in sight for the increase in expenses like fuel or groceries, there's a glimmer of hope for savvy consumers. You now have the opportunity to access the same quality cell phone service at a significantly lower cost by choosing a bring-your-own phone (BYOP) plan, potentially saving you up to $600 annually per line.

Before you commit to your next cell phone plan, I recommend exploring our cell phone plan comparison to make sure you find the best deal for your needs.

Phone plan guides

• Best Cell Phone Plans
• Best Prepaid Phone Plans
• Best Unlimited Data Plans
• The 10 Best MVNOs
• Best Phone Plans for One
• Best Cell Phone Plans for Two
• Best Cell Phone Plans for Kids
• Best Cell Phone Plans for Seniors
• Best Cell Phone Plans for Students
• Best Bring Your Own Phone Plans
• Best 5G Cell Phone Plans
• Best Talk & Text 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:

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.