How to choose a cheap talk & text phone plan
What network coverage do you prefer?
MVNOs are powered by the same 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks as the major carriers. The J.D. Power 2023 wireless network study reveals that T-Mobile has the most extensive 5G coverage. If you have a preference for a specific network, you can choose a low-cost carrier that operates on that network. If you're not sure, you can find the best cell phone service in your area with our coverage checker.
How much data do you need?
Do you really need unlimited data? Contrary to what the big 3 networks would have you believe, the average monthly usage of cellular data is approximately 10GB. However, if you primarily use Wi-Fi at home or work, it's probable that your cellular data usage will be significantly lower. By selecting a data plan that suits your requirements from cheap cell phone providers, you can save money by paying less for the amount of data you actually use.
Is hotspot data included?
The majority of low-cost carriers permit the usage of hotspot data but impose restrictions on the amount of data that can be used via tethering. The specific limit depends on the plan and carrier that you choose. In addition, certain MVNOs provide exclusive cheap data plans for tablets, iPads, and mobile hotspots.
What's the monthly price?
Although big wireless unlimited plans can be quite expensive, typically costing between $75-$90 per month, there are cheaper options available from MVNOs that offer cheap prepaid plans ranging from $5-35 per month. These budget-friendly plans still provide reliable wireless coverage and fast data speeds. It is important to be cautious of hidden fees and taxes, as some carriers include these costs in their prices while others, like AT&T and Verizon, don't.
How many lines do you need?
If you opt for a major wireless provider, the price mentioned in their advertisements is only if you buy four lines. On the other hand, MVNOs show the exact price you will pay, regardless of whether you have just one line. Furthermore, some budget-friendly carriers now offer extra discounts for cheap prepaid family plans.
Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
The big 3 wireless networks prefer to keep their customers bound to a never-ending cycle of phone upgrades, but MVNOs promote the idea of bringing your own phone. This allows you to regain control and only switch phones when it's convenient for you. In the event that you do decide to buy a new phone, numerous MVNOs provide the option of 0% financing spread over 1-2 years.
What promotions do they offer?
At first glance, promotions from the big three may appear enticing. However, upon closer look at the fine print, they often result in purchasing unnecessary items and agreeing to lengthy 3-year phone contracts. In contrast, most low-cost carriers provide introductory discounts for new customers with cheap no contract plans and provide more transparent pricing.
Do they offer any additional perks?
Many of the major carrier plans come with a complimentary TV subscription, but be aware that this can often transition into a paid subscription that's automatically included in your bill after a few months. While there are some budget-friendly carriers like US Mobile that do offer cheap plan options with free subscription services, it's generally advisable to keep these subscriptions separate to avoid paying for unnecessary items.
What international features are available?
If you're a regular traveler, it's worth making sure your carrier offers these. Calling and roaming are two separate features, and many MVNOs offer free international calling, but the countries will vary by carrier. When it comes to roaming, you'll find this as an add-on option, and the price will depend on the country you're visiting.
Do they have parental controls?
Many MVNO carriers offer parental control features that enable parents to monitor their children's phone usage and data consumption. With parental controls, you can set data limits, restrict access to certain apps or websites, and even track your child's location. Some MVNOs offer these features as part of their standard plans, or you'll find this feature on your cell phone.
Check out our cheap cell phone plan comparison to ensure you find the best deal.
Find the best cell phone service in your area
Compare the cheapest unlimited talk & text plans
| Carrier | Network | Data | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tello 2GB plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 2GB | $10/mo |
| Red Pocket 1GB plan | Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 1GB | $10/mo |
| Twigby Mobile 2GB plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | 2GB | $5/mo |
| Twigby Mobile unlimited talk & text plan | Verizon 5G/4G Coverage | 0GB | $5/mo |
| Tello unlimited talk & text plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | 0GB | $8/mo |
To ensure you get the best phone deal, compare unlimited talk and text plans from multiple low-cost carriers side by side.
Unlimited talk & text plans FAQs
Low-cost carriers such as Twigby Mobile and Tello provide the cheapest plans with unlimited talk and text starting at $5 per month.
The best talk and text plans are available from low-cost carriers like US Mobile or Twigby Mobile.
Recap: What is the cheapest unlimited talk & text plan?
You don't need to worry about forfeiting network coverage with these low-cost carriers. Running on the three main networks gives you the same nationwide coverage but with more affordable plans.
Offering a variety of customizable plans, you'll be sure to find one that fits your personal needs while saving yourself hundreds of dollars a year.
Low-cost carriers provide prepaid phone plans and allow you to bring your own phone, so if your needs change, you can amend your plan or cancel without any early termination fees.
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:
- 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.
