The cheapest phone plans for one personStarting at $10

Written by

Rob Webber

+2 others

Edited by

Amanda Webber

Reviewed by

Brian Webber

Updated October 18, 2024

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

Ready to ditch the big three's limited options, indecipherable bills, and sky-high prices?

As these telecom giants revel in their windfall profits and line up yet another set of price increases, it's clear they've miscalculated the resolve of today's solo consumer.

With over a decade of insight into the telecom industry, I've seen the price disparities grow more egregious. The positive news is that making the switch to a more affordable carrier has never been easier.

I've done the legwork, so you don't have to. I researched and reviewed 30 alternative carriers and examined over 100 prepaid plans to save you precious time and money.

What's astonishing is the wealth of options still available outside of the big three. These low-cost carriers utilize the same dependable networks you're accustomed to at a fraction of the cost.

Choosing the right plan depends on your personal usage and network preference.

I've selected the best value phone plans for one person, accounting for low, medium, and heavy data needs across all major networks.

To make it even easier, I've highlighted what I believe to be the best overall value plan for a single line, but the final decision and power to change is in your capable hands.

Cheapest plans for one 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

Cheapest plans for one 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

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/mo

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/mo

See at Visible

3.4

Read our Visible review

$600 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How Verizon compares

Cheapest plans for one 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

$20/mo

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/mo

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 one

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

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 outside of the big three, 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 pad your bill with their extra expenses.

You are essentially footing the bill for their multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople. These costs are passed onto the many to maximize profits and dividend payouts of the few.

With the next generation of MVNOs, you can instantly switch online and simply pay for phone service without 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 individual cell phone plans

Check out our single-line phone plan comparison to find the best deal.

How to choose the best value carrier for one

• Selecting a network? Affordable carriers utilize the same top-notch 5G & 4G LTE networks as the big guys, ensuring you never compromise on connectivity. With the latest insights of an Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023), T-Mobile is leading the 5G charge. This means you can choose an MVNO that keeps you connected without the high price tag.
• Evaluating data needs? Forget the endless push for unlimited plans. Most individual users don't come close to hitting those high caps since the average monthly cellular data usage is around 10GB. My hand-picked plans from low-cost carriers are tailored to match what you truly use, saving you more each month.
• Need the freedom to tether? Whether it's for your tablet or laptop, ensuring you're connected on the move without Wi-Fi can be important, though specifics can vary by plan.
• What is the cost comparison? When it comes to pricing, breathe easy knowing the days of $75-$90 monthly fees are behind you. I have presented a selection of MVNO plans starting as low as $5-$35, offering unparalleled coverage and speed without the premium price tag.
• Bringing your own device? Not only can you bring your own phone, but MVNOs encourage it. Escape the endless upgrade cycle. Or, if it's time for something new, most MVNOs have affordable options with 0% financing.
• And deals or promotions? Skip the big three's complex and confusing offers for clear, straightforward promotions that make sense with an MVNO.
• What about perks or extras? Be sure to really scrutinize any "free" or bundled subscriptions to ensure they aren't just fluff but genuinely enhance your experience. I generally recommend keeping these services separate since the prices creep up over time.
• Is international calling a necessity? For those with hearts or roots in different countries, many of our MVNO picks include free international calling, keeping you connected to loved ones far and wide.

Find the best cell phone service in your area

Cell phone plans for one FAQs

Recap: What is the cheapest cell phone plan for individuals?

You're not the only one feeling the pinch as essential costs skyrocket. But here's the kicker: Your cell phone bill doesn't have to follow suit.

There's a way to keep enjoying reliable service without the financial strain. Picture this: Up to $600 back in your pocket each year, all while keeping your single line connected just the way you like it.

For those flying solo on their cell phone plan, making a savvy choice is more than just a want; it's a must. That's where our cell phone plan comparison comes into play. Crafted with your needs in mind, it's here to cut through the clutter and pinpoint the plan that's just right for you, ensuring your next bill is a pleasant surprise, not a painful one.

The choice to find your perfect match is yours. Switch in minutes and say goodbye to overpaying forever!

Cheap phone plan guides

• The Cheapest Cell Phone Plans
• The Cheapest Prepaid Phone Plans
• The Cheapest Unlimited Data Plans
• The Cheapest Family Phone Plans
• The Cheapest Prepaid Family Phone Plans
• The Cheapest Phone Plans for One Person
• The best MVNO plans
• The Cheapest Phone Plans for Seniors
• The Cheapest No Contract Cell Phone Plans
• The Cheapest Pay As You Go Phone Plans
• The Cheapest 5G Phone Plans
• The Cheapest Talk & Text Plans
• The Cheapest eSIM 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.