Best Cell Phone Plans of 2023: Compare Carriers & Prices
In the market, we thoroughly evaluate and analyze the top cell phone plans. Our comprehensive review includes recommendations for optimal performance, value, coverage, deals, and affordable pricing.
Tello Mobile
Tello Mobile offers customizable, affordable phone plans with no contracts or fees and operates on a reliable T-Mobile network.
Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile offers prepaid plans designed to fit any budget, with unlimited talk and text options and varying data allotments.
XFINITY Mobile
XFINITY Mobile provides customers with the convenience of a reliable 4G LTE network and access to millions of XFINITY Wi-Fi hotspots.
Visible Wireless
Visible provides an unlimited data plan on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network with no annual contracts.
US Mobile
US Mobile offers affordable, customizable plans that enable customers to choose their own talk, text, and data needs.
Tello Mobile phone plans starting at $5/mo – View Plans
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Best Cell Phone Plans of (2023)
- By bestplans
- Last updated:
The best cell phone plans aren’t necessarily the most expensive.
When searching for the optimal cell phone plans, considerations of coverage and price take precedence. The abundance of options available each week makes it challenging to determine which plan best aligns with one’s needs and budget.
Most of the companies listed offer the flexibility to personalize your plan according to your preferences. Whether you require ample data or frequent texting, you can tailor it accordingly. By doing so, not only will you have exactly what you need in terms of talk, text, and data, but also save a significant amount annually—a potential saving of hundreds of dollars.
One should not hesitate to make adjustments to their service in order to discover an affordable plan that maintains high quality without compromise.
Below, you will discover the best cell phone plans across various categories. Additionally, we have included comparisons to alternative options, allowing you to secure the most advantageous deal for your cell phone coverage.
Our Top Picks for Best Cell Phone Plans
- Tello Mobile — Best for Affordable Plans
- Visible Wireless — Best for Unlimited Data Plans
- Mint Mobile — Best for Prepaid Plans
- US Mobile — Best for Line Options
- XFINITY Mobile — Best for Family Cell Phone Plans
Tello Mobile
- No extra fees
- Upgrade your plan at any time
- Free international calling to 60+ countries
- Tethering included
- No multi-line discounts
- Tello doesn’t sell the latest devices
Tello offers budget-friendly cell phone plans starting at just $10, making them the top choice for affordable options. Their plans outshine the competition, providing reliable data access to almost anyone.
Tello utilizes T-Mobile’s network and offers highly affordable rates in the market. For just $29 per month, you can enjoy unlimited data, talk, and text on one line – a significantly lower cost compared to other providers we have reviewed. However, it is important to note that after using 25 GBs of data each month, speeds may slow down due to the unlimited options available.
The plan includes free international calling to over 60 countries. Moreover, if you’re someone who doesn’t need a lot of data, the Tello Economy plan is available for as low as $10
While plans renew automatically every 30 days, individuals have the freedom to cancel at any time without incurring any charges. Moreover, if one realizes they require more or less data, they can effortlessly switch to a different plan at any given moment without facing additional fees. Furthermore, the remaining balance carries over to the following 30 days. It is noteworthy that phone plans providing such remarkable flexibility with minimal obligations are typically associated with higher costs.
When signing up with Tello, customers are given the choice to either keep their current phone or purchase a new one. If they opt to keep their existing phone, it is important for them to check if it meets the eligibility requirements before making the switch. In case any issues arise with their service, assistance from a 24/7 available Tello representative is readily accessible.
Visible Wireless
- Unlimited high-speed data on Verizon LTE and 5G
- Taxes and fees are included in the plan price
- International features are available with Visible+
- Works with both iOS and Android devices
- No multi-line or multi-month discounts
- May be slow during periods of high internet traffic
- Limited choice of devices
Visible offers a simple, cost-effective solution for those seeking convenience. By utilizing Verizon’s network, Visible provides reliable coverage without the usual high expenses associated with such services.
Visible Unlimited offers a straightforward phone plan without any unnecessary extras that other carriers might include. It focuses on providing unlimited data, talk, text, and hotspots. There are two available plans: Visible and Visible+. The former costs $30 per month, which includes taxes and fees.
The latter option is priced at $45, offering unlimited talk, text, and data roaming in Mexico and Canada. Additionally, it provides international calling to over 30 countries and international texting to over 200 countries.
Accessible on Visible’s network are both 4G and 5G data options, covering a staggering 99% of the U.S. As indicated by Visible’s coverage map, while slightly less comprehensive along the west coast compared to the east, it still offers reliable service. The affordability of their plan stems from Visible’s absence of storefronts, allowing them to pass on savings from reduced operational expenses directly to customers.
Verizon’s control over Visible poses a major drawback: they have the authority to prioritize Verizon customers’ speeds over those of Visible. This means that while Verizon users experience fast internet connections, Visible customers might encounter reduced speeds. It’s important to note that this occurs when there is congestion in heavily populated areas, especially relevant for individuals residing in large cities.
Mint Mobile
- Simple multi-month discounts
- Free calls to Mexico and Canada
- No contracts, overages or hidden fees
- Unlimited plan slows at 40GB of usage
- Videos are limited to SD on unlimited
- Must buy in bulk
Mint Mobile stands out as one of the top prepaid providers. A remarkable feature of their service is the option to test drive it for three months at incredibly low prices before committing to a plan. This flexibility grants users ample time to evaluate if Mint Mobile aligns with their needs and preferences, making it an excellent choice for individuals seeking extra deliberation.
Mint Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s network just like Visible. As a result, it faces the same data de-prioritization concerns as Visible. Nevertheless, Mint Mobile stands out among prepaid cell phone plans available in the market.
Mint offers plans starting at just $15 per month, providing unlimited talk and text along with four gigabytes (GBs) of data. Although the data is labeled as unlimited, it actually offers up to 35 GBs per month, which should suffice for most users except those with exceptionally high data usage. All Mint plans are prepaid, requiring upfront payment for the chosen service.
Mint Mobile offers highly competitive cell phone plans tailored for single lines. With a prepaid and cost-effective approach, it presents an exceptional choice for individuals seeking their own personalized plan. Opting for a longer-term contract enables significant savings. However, those considering a 12-month commitment should note the necessity of paying the full amount upfront, which may pose a barrier to some customers.
US Mobile
- Plans are very customizable
- Uses T-Mobile and Verizon for coverage
- Premium data with C-band access on unlimited
- Bring your own device
- Can't switch between networks
- No discount for family plans
- Poor phone selection
US Mobile is an MVNO prepaid cell phone company that offers complete plan customization. You have the freedom to select your desired combination of minutes, texts, and data. They even provide an unlimited plan option priced at $40 per month.
US Mobile offers a wide range of customizable plans that cater to your specific preferences. You have the freedom to mix and match these options until you find the perfect fit for your needs. The pricing structure is incredibly flexible, starting as low as $2.50 for 40 minutes, $1.50 for 40 texts, and $2 for 100MB of data. This allows you to see right away how affordable and adaptable US Mobile truly is. On the other hand, if you require more extensive usage, prices can reach up to $9 for 4,000 minutes and $20 for 3GB of LTE data, utilizing T-Mobile’s reliable network.
US Mobile has introduced an enhanced unlimited plan, now featuring 4G LTE support for only $40 per month. This plan guarantees a minimum of 50GB high-speed data every month, with download speeds reaching up to 5Mbps. In the event that you exceed the allocated 50GB before your monthly billing period ends, you may experience reduced speeds temporarily.
Customers have the flexibility to adjust their base plan, either upgrading or downgrading, on a monthly basis. Additionally, they can conveniently top up their talk, text, and data allowances throughout the month without any additional charges. Moreover, customers have the choice to bring their existing phone or purchase a new one from the US Mobile shop. It’s worth noting that US Mobile does not impose any activation fees.
To make things easier, US Mobile offers a risk-free trial lasting 30 days. This allows you to ensure that you have selected the right plan and provider, with the added benefit of a full refund if you are not completely satisfied.
XFINITY Mobile
- Cheap, flexible data plans with free 5G
- Access to millions of Wi-Fi hotspots
- Runs on the powerful Verizon Wireless network
- Only for Xfinity internet customers
- Throttling for users that exceed data cap
Xfinity Mobile, an MVNO, offers cell phone plans exclusively to Comcast Xfinity internet customers. If you reside in a location where Comcast already provides internet and cable TV services, you may also have access to their wireless phone service. This carrier operates on Verizon’s 4G LTE network, ensuring excellent coverage for its customers.
Xfinity Mobile combines the extensive Verizon Wireless network with over 18 million Wi-Fi hotspots provided by Comcast. This powerful combination offers affordable cellular service to its users. Notably, Xfinity Mobile includes a mobile hotspot at no extra cost, enabling you to effortlessly connect to the internet using your mobile data.
Customers have the option to select between two Xfinity plans: the “By the Gig” plan and the unlimited data plan. The unlimited plan comes with a base price of $45 per line per month, limited to 20GB. On the other hand, the By the Gig plan offers different pricing tiers with varying data allotments. Additional data can also be added to any package for an additional $12 per GB.
Adding extra lines to your account is hassle-free. No additional activation or maintenance fees are required, making it convenient for you. You have the flexibility to include up to four friends or family members on your account.
The Xfinity Mobile app, available on Android and iPhone devices, provides users with a convenient way to monitor their monthly data usage. This ensures that they can easily manage and control their data consumption.
Other Companies We Considered
Boost Mobile offers several different unlimited plans. For $25 per month, customers can enjoy unlimited talk, text, and data without mobile hotspot capabilities. If they opt for the $40 per month plan, they will receive 12GB of mobile hotspot data. For those in need of more hotspot usage, there is a $60 per month plan that provides 30GB of mobile hotspot data. This premium plan also includes unlimited talk and text, along with 35GB of high-speed data before experiencing reduced speeds. Customers have the option to add an additional line for only $40 a month and can bring their own phone to save even more money.
Cricket Wireless, a provider utilizing an alternate network, offers discounted rates for cellular service. By leveraging the AT&T network, Cricket ensures nationwide coverage; however, speeds may not match those of other networks. An enticing benefit is the inclusion of HBO Max add-on without any additional cost on select plans—an added value worth $10 per month.
Google Fi, When it comes to traveling abroad, Clark asserts that Google Fi Wireless (formerly known as Google Fi) offers exceptional international features. For a single line, the monthly charge starts at $20, providing unlimited calls and texts. Additionally, this plan includes data for $10 per GB, with no extra cost after reaching 6GB thanks to the Bill Protection feature. If you decide to switch to this plan, you can bring your own phone and save some money in the process. For a single line seeking unlimited international data plans, the rates start at $50 per month.
Consumer Cellular, which utilizes AT&T and T-Mobile’s networks, offers a 5% discount to AARP members. Although its prices aren’t the lowest, the carrier makes our list for its high customer satisfaction scores and Consumer Reports ratings. For one line, Consumer Cellular offers plans beginning at $20 per month for 1GB of data, but for $25 per month, you can get 5GB of data. The same plan is available for two lines at $40 per month or three lines for $55 per month. The unlimited plan costs $50 per month for a single line. If you do switch to Consumer Cellular, you may be able to bring your own phone to save even more money.
Summary of Best Cell Phone Plans
- Tello Mobile — Best for Affordable Plans
- Visible Wireless — Best for Unlimited Data Plans
- Mint Mobile — Best for Prepaid Plans
- US Mobile — Best for Line Options
- XFINITY Mobile — Best for Family Cell Phone Plans
Almost all prices are susceptible to change so please check the service plan website for current information details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you save on a cell phone plan?
There are multiple ways to cut down on cell phone plan expenses. For those without unlimited data, utilizing Wi-Fi whenever possible provides a means to save money. The less data consumed, the lower the monthly bill will be. Additionally, certain carriers offer discounts for enrolling in auto-pay or paperless billing, albeit these savings might not be substantial; they can still contribute to reducing costs month by month.
Often, a significant portion of individuals’ cell phone bills stems from leasing the device itself rather than data charges. The cumulative monthly costs for phones within long-term service contracts can quickly accumulate. As an alternative approach, one can consider purchasing a pre-owned phone and utilizing it with their chosen carrier upon sign-up.
To make it easier for you to save, consider requesting an itemized receipt of your cell phone bill. This way, you can identify additional opportunities for savings. As a last resort, feel free to ask your carrier to lower the bill. While negotiation doesn’t always guarantee success, being a long-term customer might occasionally result in securing a fantastic deal.
How do I switch cell phone plans?
If your phone is fully paid off, switching carriers is a breeze. Just make sure to check if your phone is locked to your current network for any reason. If you’re still in the process of paying for your phone, your carrier will have it locked to their network, preventing you from making a switch until the phone is completely paid off.
What is the best cell phone plan for kids?
Prepaid cell phone plans can be a great option for children, particularly if they don’t require much data. Some providers even offer the possibility of adding a talk-and-text line to your plan at an affordable monthly cost.
Which cell phone carrier has the best deals?
Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T typically offer better deals on new phones compared to their MVNO counterparts. However, among these three major providers, there is no definitive winner. They frequently change their offers to showcase the latest phones and promotions.
What’s the best cheap cell phone plan?
Tello Mobile, Visible Wireless, and US Mobile offer excellent choices for affordable cell phone plans. Each of these discount carriers caters to specific customer needs, ensuring a wide range of options.
Who has the best family cell phone plans?
US Mobile currently offers the best family plan deal. If you can rally at least four individuals to join you, each person can enjoy an unlimited talk, text, and data plan for only $20 per line.
Who has the best cell phone plan for seniors?
Consumer Cellular provides an exceptional range of cell phone plans tailored for the 55+ community. One highly recommended option is the Unlimited Talk & Text + 10GB Data Plan priced at just $35 per month.
Which wireless carrier is best 2023?
Prepaid carriers offer the best value for unlimited cell phone plans in 2023. Mint Mobile and Visible’s plans cost significantly less than those offered by T-Mobile and Verizon, while still providing comparable coverage. However, if you prioritize additional perks such as a free iPhone or Android device, or a complimentary streaming subscription, exploring the premium plans from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon would be beneficial.
Who has the best cell phone coverage 2023?
In the United States, there are three prominent networks: Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T. Verizon excels in providing nationwide coverage, particularly in rural areas. On the other hand, T-Mobile boasts the largest and fastest 5G network. Although not claiming the top spot, AT&T offers commendable coverage in most metropolitan and suburban areas.
Determining the most suitable network can be easily accomplished by referring to coverage maps. By perusing the maps provided by the three primary carriers and thoroughly reviewing their respective performance, one can gather comprehensive insights.
Major carriers are offering a variety of perks such as unlimited data plans and access to Apple Music, providing an affordable solution to expensive plans. T-Mobile’s network offers wireless service, a Visible plan with competitive monthly costs, and the ability to unlock current phones for additional lines. Mint Mobile also provides an affordable option with competitive prices.
Are you looking for a long-term cell phone plan but don’t want to break the bank? We can help you find the best options in terms of price range, monthly rates, and download speeds. Choose from prepaid services, wireless plans, Apple TV Plus, streaming services and unlimited calls with family cell phone plans. Discover the cheapest plan that fits your needs and enjoy months of service for a low price.
What Is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator?
A mobile virtual network operator, also known as an MVNO, is a smaller wireless provider that operates on the infrastructure of a larger network. Take AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile as examples of these large networks or mobile network operators. These major players lease their networks to companies such as Mint Mobile, Visible, and Tello. Consequently, these smaller providers utilize the cell towers provided by the larger networks to transmit phone signals for their customers.
MVNOs are popular due to their affordable wireless plans and flexible billing options. These companies eliminate the need for contracts when purchasing a cell phone plan, resulting in both time and cost savings for customers. Additionally, as MVNOs do not have physical buildings or equipment to maintain, they can transfer these cost savings directly to their customers. While they may not provide in-person customer service options, studies indicate that MVNO customers tend to have higher satisfaction rates compared to those of larger carriers. According to David VanAmburg, managing director at ASCI, network quality does not significantly impact customer satisfaction between larger carriers and MVNOs.
Determining the most suitable network can be easily accomplished by referring to coverage maps. By perusing the maps provided by the three primary carriers and thoroughly reviewing their respective performance, one can gather comprehensive insights.
Major carriers are offering a variety of perks such as unlimited data plans and access to Apple Music, providing an affordable solution to expensive plans. T-Mobile’s network offers wireless service, a Visible plan with competitive monthly costs, and the ability to unlock current phones for additional lines. Mint Mobile also provides an affordable option with competitive prices.
Are you looking for a long-term cell phone plan but don’t want to break the bank? We can help you find the best options in terms of price range, monthly rates, and download speeds. Choose from prepaid services, wireless plans, Apple TV Plus, streaming services and unlimited calls with family cell phone plans. Discover the cheapest plan that fits your needs and enjoy months of service for a low price.
How To Choose The Best Cell Phone Plan For You
When searching for the best cell phone plans, price is a crucial factor to consider. This becomes even more significant if you require multiple lines for your family members. Many service providers offer increasing discounts as you add more lines, so it’s important to compare the overall cost of your plan based on the number of lines that need service.
Cell phone plans go beyond the monthly bill amount. It’s essential to consider factors like coverage availability in your area and compatibility with your desired phone. Our comprehensive guide on top phone carriers can address some of these queries. However, it’s also advisable to seek opinions from acquaintances about a specific carrier’s performance at both your residence and workplace, especially if you intend to switch providers.
When it comes to changing carriers, it’s worth noting that the major providers are open to covering a portion of the expenses for your switch. These special offers may change over time, so it’s advisable to keep an eye out for any new deals from carriers when considering a switch. You might uncover additional opportunities to save money.
Wireless carriers have dedicated considerable time to expand their 5G coverage. If you possess a compatible 5G phone, you can enjoy faster speeds in areas where carriers offer 5G service. T-Mobile provides inclusive 5G coverage through its Magenta Plan and customers with unlimited plans from Metro By T-Mobile also have access to T-Mobile’s 5G towers. Initially, AT&T offered 5G exclusively to users enrolled in their priciest unlimited data plans; however, now any unlimited plan qualifies for coverage. Verizon offers comprehensive 5G coverage in three out of its four unlimited plans. Only the least expensive plan, Start Unlimited, lacks access to 5G Ultra Wideband coverage. Both AT&T and Verizon have extended their 5G coverage to prepaid customers with unlimited data plans.
What Kind Of Cell Phone Plan Do I Need?
There is no straightforward answer to this question; determining the best plan for you requires careful consideration of various factors.
If you’re on a tight budget and value flexibility, consider opting for a prepaid cell phone plan. These plans are often more affordable and come with the added advantage of not being tied to any contracts. This is particularly beneficial if you prefer switching carriers frequently.
If you often stream Netflix on the go, enjoy playing phone games, or generally use up your data quickly, opting for an unlimited plan is a great choice. This becomes especially beneficial as 5G technology becomes more prevalent.
Family cell phone plans are a great way for families to save money. Many carriers offer discounts when you add more lines to your plan, making it an attractive option for the average family. Some carriers, like Verizon and AT&T, even allow you to mix and match plans. This means parents can enjoy unlimited lines with extra perks, while saving money on cheaper data lines for their kids.
If your main priority is finding the lowest price available, carriers like Mint Mobile and Tello can provide you with significantly lower costs. However, keep in mind that this may involve accepting smaller data caps.
Realistically, cell phone plans commonly fall into various categories: cheap, prepaid, family, unlimited, kids or seniors. By determining which category suits you best, you can greatly narrow down your search.
Mvnos And Main Carriers: What's The Difference?
MVNOs, although they may seem peculiar at first, actually provide a fantastic option for those seeking an affordable cell phone plan. So what exactly are MVNOs and how do they differ from the major carriers?
Firstly, it is important to note the main carriers in the United States: AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. In 2020, Sprint was absorbed by T-Mobile. US Cellular can also be included in this group; however, its coverage remains regional compared to the three major carriers. It is worth mentioning that these brands utilize their own technology and operate their own regional cellular networks.
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), in contrast, are brands that do not own or operate their own technology. Instead, they “piggyback” off the services provided by established carriers. This arrangement allows MVNOs to offer more affordable options compared to the main carriers. However, it does come with limitations during peak usage periods and fewer additional benefits.
What's the best phone plan for two lines?
The optimal phone plan for two lines is Simple Mobile’s 2-line Unlimited Plan priced at $75 per month. This comprehensive package offers unlimited talk, text, and data for both lines along with a dedicated hotspot data allowance of 5GB each. Moreover, this plan operates on the reliable and robust T-Mobile network.
How do cell phone plans work?
When you purchase a cell phone plan, you gain access to the network provided by your chosen mobile carrier. This network is established through cell towers or satellites. Depending on the specific plan, it enables you to make and receive phone calls, exchange text messages, and utilize cellular/mobile data for internet access when Wi-Fi is unavailable.
The phone itself either contains a SIM card or utilizes an eSIM for storing your identifying information. This includes crucial details like your address, plan information, and usage amounts. By doing so, the carrier can easily associate your account with the respective device.
When a call is made, radio waves travel from the device to a cell tower and are then transmitted to the recipient’s phone, enabling a two-way conversation. This process also occurs simultaneously in reverse.
How much does a cell phone plan cost?
The average cost of cell phone plans within the Best Cell Phone Plans of 2023 rating stands at $47 per month. For prepaid plans featured on our list, the average cost is $27 a month, while for the Best Cheap Cell Phone Plans, it’s $20 per month. Prices for all reviewed plans range from $10 to $80 per month for a single line.
Which cell phone plans are available in my area?
Most carriers provide options for checking service availability in your area. You can easily enter your address or ZIP code on their websites to find out. Alternatively, if there is a physical store nearby, you can inquire in person or contact the company’s customer support line to learn more about service locations and availability.
What cell phone plan add-ons are available?
Most rating plans offer a range of options, such as additional high-speed data, mobile hotspot data, and streaming services. While all the plans include unlimited data, most cell phone service providers charge for additional high-speed data based on gigabytes. For instance, Google Fi provides extra data at $10 per GB. This payment model allows you to pay only for the amount of data you use. However, keep in mind that it can increase your monthly expenses.
Some plans include the cost of streaming services, such as T-Mobile’s or AT&T’s top unlimited plans. In contrast, Verizon offers discounts on streaming services like Disney+, Hulu, or ESPN.
If you frequently travel internationally, it may be beneficial for you to extend your service to your destination. Many wireless companies provide this option. For instance, Mint Mobile allows users to purchase credits for usage abroad. This helps prevent unexpected charges for international roaming by enabling payments on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Some additional features can enhance your online and mobile security. T-Mobile provides Scam Shield as a solution to block scam calls. Additionally, Google Fi offers a virtual private network (VPN) for devices operating on Android 8.1 or higher. The VPN helps safeguard your personal information from prying eyes on the internet.
What is the difference between prepaid and postpaid?
Prepaid cell phone plans require upfront payment for service. On the other hand, postpaid plans involve payment at the end of the billing cycle. While postpaid plans used to be associated with long-term contracts, that is no longer the case. Both prepaid and postpaid options are now contract-free.
Postpaid cell phone plans are commonly associated with major carriers and typically require a credit check. On the other hand, prepaid plans are frequently linked to MVNOs (although major carriers also offer them) and do not necessitate credit checks.
Tello Mobile offers customizable, affordable phone plans with no contracts or fees…
Mint Mobile offers prepaid plans designed to fit any budget, with unlimited talk and text…
Visible provides an unlimited data plan on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network…
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