MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.
Compare T-Mobile unlimited data plans
Plan | Data | Monthly Price | Annual Cost |
---|---|---|---|
T-Mobile Essentials | Unlimited | $65 | $780 |
T-Mobile Magenta | Unlimited | $75 | $900 |
T-Mobile Go5G | Unlimited | $80 | $960 |
T-Mobile Magenta MAX | Unlimited | $90 | $1,080 |
T-Mobile Go5G Plus | Unlimited | $95 | $1,140 |
Keep your T-Mobile coverage - save your money
T-Mobile vs Tello comparison
Keep your T-Mobile phone, number & coverage: Save $600 per year
Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G/5G Data | Price | Annual Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|
T-Mobile | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $75/mo | $900/yr |
Tello | T-Mobile 4G & 5G | Unlimited | $25/mo | $300/yr |
Savings | $50/mo | $600/yr |
How to pick the best phone plan on T-Mobile
Does T-Mobile offer coverage where you live?
Low-cost carriers operate on the same 5G & 4G LTE networks as major carriers. For example, Mint Mobile uses the T-Mobile network. In an Opensignal 5G Experience Report (2023), T-Mobile scores the highest for 5G coverage.
So, if you prefer the T-Mobile network, opt for one of the many T-Mobile MVNOs. Use our coverage map to find the best cell phone service in your area.
How much data do you need?
Do you truly need a T-Mobile unlimited data plan? T-Mobile will try to convince you that it's necessary, but the truth is most people's average monthly cellular data consumption is around 10GB.
However, if you're usually at home or work like me and on Wi-Fi, your cellular data usage will likely be much lower. With cheap T-Mobile MVNO plans, you have options when it comes to data plans, meaning you can pay less if you use less.
Is mobile hotspot data included?
While most T-Mobile providers allow mobile hotspot use, they can limit the amount of data that can be used via tethering. Every carrier and plan is different, so be sure to check.
Some T-Mobile MNVO carriers also offer T-Mobile data only plans specifically designed for iPads, tablets, and mobile hotspots, ideal for browsing the internet or video streaming.
What's the monthly price?
Instead of spending $60-$100 per month on T-Mobile's unlimited premium data plans, the best way to get a T-Mobile unlimited data plan is with their MVNOs. With plans starting around $15 per month with the same wireless coverage and fast speeds you're used to.
Keep your eyes open for any hidden fees & taxes, but this is an old trick of all the big networks. T-Mobile MVNOs have transparent, straightforward pricing.
How many lines do you need?
Often, with T-Mobile, the advertised discount only applies if you buy three or more lines. With T-Mobile MVNOs, the price you see is the price you pay, even for one line. Many low-cost carriers also now offer further discounts for multi-line plans.
Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?
While T-Mobile loves keeping its customers trapped in a never-ending cycle of phone upgrades ("New in Two"), T-Mobile MVNOs encourage you to bring your own phone to T-Mobile.
This means you take back control and only change your phone when it's convenient for you. If you do want to purchase a new phone, many T-Mobile MVNOs offer great financing options or low-cost refurbished phone alternatives.
Are there any deals or promotions?
At first glance, T-Mobile wireless promotions may appear attractive. However, upon closer examination of the fine print, they often result in purchasing unnecessary items and being tied to long-term phone contracts lasting three years.
In contrast, many T-Mobile MVNOS provide introductory discounts for new customers with no commitments and greater transparency in their pricing.
What perks are included?
Many of T-Mobile's plans come with offers like "free" Netflix basic and Apple TV subscriptions, but these often convert to paid subscriptions that are automatically charged to your bill after a few months.
While some affordable carriers like US Mobile do provide plan options with free subscription services, we advise keeping these subscriptions separate to avoid unnecessary expenses.
What international features are available?
If having free international calls to various countries is a priority for you, it is essential to select a T-Mobile MVNO carrier that provides this service.
If you travel regularly, checking the carrier's data roaming availability is vital to make sure you have the right travel benefits so there are no unexpected costs or inconveniences while you're abroad.
Do they offer parental controls?
Many MVNO carriers provide parental controls that empower parents to oversee their children's phone usage and data consumption. Through parental controls, you can monitor data usage, limit access to specific apps or websites, and even track your child's whereabouts.
Certain T-Mobile MVNOs include these in their plans, or you'll be able to access this in your phone's settings.
T-Mobile coverage map
Use the interactive T-Mobile coverage map below to see if they offer good 5G and 4G LTE coverage in your area.
T-Mobile phone plan guides
- Best Cell Phone Plans on T-Mobile
- Best Prepaid Phone Plans on T-Mobile
- Best Unlimited Data Plans on T-Mobile
- T-Mobile MVNOs: Best Carriers on the T-Mobile Network
- Best Phone Plans for One on T-Mobile
- The Best T-Mobile Switch Deals
- Best Kids Plans on T-Mobile
- Best Plans for Students on T-Mobile
- Best BYOP Plans on T-Mobile
- Best 5G Plans on T-Mobile
- Best Phone Plans on T-Mobile