Best Cell Phone Plans of 2025
Expert reviews of the best wireless plans. Compare unlimited data, prepaid options, and MVNO carriers to save money without sacrificing coverage.
Quick Comparison
Top cell phone plans at a glance
| Carrier | Starting Price | Unlimited | Network | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Mobile | $10/mo | $25/mo (unlimited) | Verizon | 4.9 | |
| Mint Mobile | $15/mo | $30/mo (unlimited) | T-Mobile | 4.7 | |
| Visible | $25/mo | $25/mo (unlimited) | Verizon | 4.6 | |
| Google Fi | $20/mo | $65/mo (unlimited) | T-Mobile | 4.5 | |
| Cricket Wireless | $30/mo | $55/mo (unlimited) | AT&T | 4.4 |
US Mobile
$10 credit when you sign upBest Overall Value
Key Features
Network
Verizon & T-Mobile (your choice)
Data Options
Custom (1GB-unlimited) or unlimited $25/mo
Unlimited
$25/mo (unlimited)
Pros
- ✓Most flexible pricing
- ✓Choose your network
- ✓Great perks
- ✓No hidden fees
- ✓Excellent value
Cons
- ✗Requires self-service setup
- ✗Not in retail stores
Value seekers, customizable plans, families, international travelers
Mint Mobile
3 months for $15/mo promotional pricingBest Prepaid Value
Key Features
Network
T-Mobile
Data Options
5GB, 15GB, 20GB, or unlimited
Unlimited
$30/mo (unlimited)
Pros
- ✓Extremely affordable
- ✓T-Mobile 5G
- ✓Long-term savings
- ✓Simple plans
Cons
- ✗Prepay for multiple months
- ✗Deprioritized data
- ✗T-Mobile network only
Budget shoppers, T-Mobile coverage areas, long-term commitment
Visible
$20 off first month (promo)Best Simple Unlimited
Key Features
Network
Verizon
Data Options
Unlimited only
Unlimited
$25/mo (unlimited)
Pros
- ✓Simple flat rate
- ✓Verizon network
- ✓Unlimited hotspot
- ✓No surprises
Cons
- ✗Deprioritized during congestion
- ✗Single plan option
- ✗Verizon coverage only
Heavy data users, Verizon coverage, simple billing
Google Fi
$20 Fi credit per referralBest for International Travel
Key Features
Network
T-Mobile + US Cellular
Data Options
Pay-per-GB ($10/GB) or unlimited $65/mo
Unlimited
$65/mo (unlimited)
Pros
- ✓Best for international use
- ✓Network switching
- ✓Built-in VPN
- ✓Flexible pricing
Cons
- ✗More expensive domestically
- ✗Requires Google account
- ✗Limited network choices
International travelers, Google ecosystem users, multi-device users
Cricket Wireless
Varies by promotionBest AT&T Alternative
Key Features
Network
AT&T
Data Options
2GB, 10GB, or unlimited
Unlimited
$55/mo (unlimited)
Pros
- ✓AT&T network
- ✓Retail store support
- ✓Good multi-line discounts
- ✓Reliable coverage
Cons
- ✗Data speeds capped at 8Mbps (on some plans)
- ✗More expensive than MVNOs
- ✗Autopay required for best price
AT&T coverage areas, retail support, families
How to Choose a Cell Phone Plan
Essential factors for finding the best wireless plan
Check Coverage in Your Area
Before switching, verify that your chosen carrier has strong coverage where you live, work, and travel. MVNOs use the same towers as major carriers (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T) but may be deprioritized during congestion.
Estimate Your Data Usage
Check your current data usage to avoid overpaying for unlimited when you only use 5-10 GB/month. Many carriers offer flexible plans where you pay for what you use, like US Mobile's custom plans.
Compare Total Costs
Look beyond advertised prices. Some carriers require autopay, charge taxes separately, or have hidden fees. Others (like Visible) include all taxes and fees in the advertised price. Multi-line discounts can save families 30-50%.
Consider 5G Access
Most carriers now include 5G access, but speeds vary. Premium plans often get faster 5G and higher priority during network congestion. Budget MVNOs may have data speed caps (like 8Mbps on some Cricket plans).
International Features
If you travel internationally, look for plans with included roaming (Google Fi, US Mobile) or affordable international add-ons. Some plans include Mexico and Canada, while others charge extra.
Contract vs. Prepaid
Prepaid plans (Mint Mobile, US Mobile) offer flexibility with no contracts or credit checks. Some require upfront payment for 3-12 months but offer better pricing. Postpaid plans offer device financing but require credit checks.
Calculate Your Savings
See how much you can save by switching carriers
Disclaimer: Cell phone plan pricing, features, and availability subject to change. Coverage varies by location. Always check coverage maps before switching. We may receive compensation when you sign up through our referral links. Prices shown are promotional and may increase after initial period.
Last updated: October 2025