A recent survey found that 40% of Americans now opt for prepaid phone plans. These cell phone plans help you avoid hidden fees and unpredictable bills often associated with postpaid contracts. Combine full control of your spending with unlimited data options, and you'll never have to worry about overage fees again.
As a telecom specialist with 10+ years of experience, I guided our team in compiling a list of the top prepaid mobile plans. These options will help you save money and come packed with robust features and comprehensive coverage. Explore our expert picks below.
» Find out how to choose between prepaid and postpaid plans.
Our 10 Best Prepaid Phone Plans in 2024:
- Tello - Best prepaid phone plan overall
- Visible - Best for international roaming
- Mint Mobile - Best for senior citizen support
- Boost Mobile - Best for deployed military personnel
- Verizon - Best for long-term loyalty discounts
- Twigby - Best for 30-day customer satisfaction guarantee
- Google Fi Wireless - Best for robust security features
- Metro by T-Mobile - Best for transparent billing
- Xfinity - Best for 5G Ultra Wideband connection coverage
- AT&T - Best for data rollovers
How We Reviewed the Best Prepaid Phone Plans
Evaluation Process
Our expert team evaluated prepaid phone plans through hands-on testing and comprehensive research. We analyzed user feedback, industry reports, and academic studies to gain well-rounded insights. Our approach combined real-world usage data with market trends and plan comparisons, allowing us to provide unbiased, data-driven recommendations for consumers seeking the best-prepaid options.
Evaluation Criteria
- Cost: We evaluated the monthly fees, setup costs, and any hidden charges to determine affordability.
- Data allowance: We compared high-speed data limits to ensure they accommodate daily internet usage without throttling.
- Network coverage: We examined the extent and reliability of network coverage in essential areas.
- Speed: We tested the download and upload speeds to verify they support streaming and data-intensive applications efficiently.
- International features: We checked for international calling options and roaming fees to see if they cater to global communication needs.
- Plan flexibility: We reviewed the terms to confirm there are no stringent commitments or penalties for plan changes.
- Additional benefits: We explored any extra perks, such as hotspot capabilities, unlimited texts and calls, or bundled services, that may enhance value.
- Customer service and support: We tested customer support effectiveness, contact methods, satisfaction ratings, and the company's reputation for resolving issues.
- User reviews and community feedback: We analyzed user reviews on Trustpilot and BBB to evaluate network reliability, customer service quality, and overall value. This helped us identify recurring praise and common complaints for each prepaid carrier.
A Closer Look at Our Best Prepaid Phone Plans in {year}: Our Quick Reviews
1. Tello
Offers affordable plans with staggered family billing.20210331083136.png){kind=icon}
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- Best for - Flexible plans
- Pricing - From $5/month
- Network - T-Mobile
- Data limit - Unlimited
Tello's prepaid phone plans stand out for their customization and affordability. You can start with a basic $5/month plan offering 100 minutes and unlimited texts.
Or, opt for the $9/month plan with unlimited talk and text plus 1GB of high-speed data. What sets Tello apart is the ability to mix and match minutes, texts, and data to create a plan that fits your exact needs.
All Tello prepaid plans include free hotspot usage (limited to your plan's data allowance), with the Unlimited plan offering 5GB of high-speed hotspot data. For compatible devices, Tello's eSIM support allows you to have two different lines and plans on a single device, which is ideal for separating work and personal use without needing two phones.
Why we chose Tello: Tello's prepaid family plans stand out with no contracts or per-line setup costs, allowing for easy customization. Each line is billed separately on its activation date, spreading out payments for better budgeting. Plus, its high Trustpilot rating (4.6/5 stars) for prepaid service indicates strong customer satisfaction.
Our experience: We were impressed by how easily we could adjust our Tello prepaid plans month-to-month without penalties. The ability to choose exact amounts of minutes, texts, and data meant we never overpaid for unused services. Over time, we fine-tuned our plans to match our actual usage patterns, resulting in noticeable savings compared to previous providers.
Pros
- Receive a $10 award with the Refer a Friend program
- Fixed-rate pay as you go international roaming with no extra fees
- Upgrade or downgrade anytime with no penalty costs
Cons
- Free international calls limited to landlines
- Taxes aren't included in plan prices
2. Visible
Allows free calls to loved ones living abroad
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- Best for - Visible Global Pass
- Pricing - From $25/month
- Network - Verizon
- Data limit - Unlimited
Visible, owned by Verizon, taps into its parent company's extensive network to cover 99% of the US population. Its entry-level prepaid plan starts at only $25. However, if you're looking for advanced features, we recommend the Visitble+ plan at $45/month.
With Visible+, you get access to Verizon's faster Ultra Wideband 5G network, unlimited hotspot data, and 50GB of high-speed data before any slowdowns. Plus, you can make free calls to over 30 countries.
Planning to travel? The included Global Pass gives you a full day of text, talk, and data in over 140 countries each month. There's no annual contract to tie you down, and you'll benefit from spam protection, Wi-Fi calling, and easy eSIM activation.
Why we chose Visible: Visible+ offers great value, balancing cost and features in the prepaid market. The Global Pass is a standout, saving you money on international connectivity without separate travel plans. You can try it risk-free with a 15-day trial, making it an excellent option for flexibility and comprehensive coverage.
Our experience: After trying numerous carriers, we found Visible's prepaid plans struck the perfect balance between cost, features, and reliability. The affordable monthly payments, fast unlimited data, and the unlimited mobile hotspot made the service stand out among the rest.
Pros
- Blocks high-risk spam and robocalls
- Unlimited talk, text, and data with no overage or hidden fees
- 24/7 support from actual people
Cons
- No multi-line savings available
- 5G Ultra Wideband limited to the Visible+ plus plan
3. Mint Mobile
Helps you set up your family plan with ease
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- Best for - Seniors and self-service options
- Pricing - From $15/month
- Network - T-Mobile
- Data limit - Unlimited
Mint Mobile operates entirely online, eliminating retail stores and salespeople, which helps significantly reduce your prepaid plan's costs. All plans—5GB, 10GB, 20GB, and unlimited—include unlimited talk and text, nationwide coverage, free mobile hotspots, and Wi-Fi calling.
Mint lets you buy prepaid months in bulk for extra savings. New customers even get a three-month unlimited prepaid plan for $15/month and a $45 down payment.
Why we chose Mint Mobile: Mint is great for families because it offers a flexible prepaid plan that allows each family member to choose the data amount they need. We also liked that you can manage your data usage and line-specific add-ons through the mobile app. Plus, Mint Mobile makes switching easy by helping households transfer their numbers for free, whether they're new or existing ones.
Our experience: Mint Mobile's customer care really stood out to us. When we called, we rarely waited more than a few minutes before speaking to a real person. The representatives were friendly and helpful every time. We also appreciated the variety of self-service options. Whether we needed to watch a how-to video, find answers in the FAQs, or use the 24/7 chat feature.
Pros
- No early termination fees
- No extra charges for data use beyond your plan limit
- Seven-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Requires minimum three-month plan purchase for prepaid
- All plans require a $45 upfront payment
» Running low on data? Here's how to get the most out of your family mobile plan.
4. Boost Mobile
Offers exclusive deals and promotions on the BoostOne app.20210331103031.png){kind=icon}
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- Best for - Refer-a-friend discounts
- Pricing - From $25/month
- Network - DISH, T-Mobile, and AT&T
- Data limit - Unlimited
Boost Mobile is an affordable provider with unlimited prepaid plans, 5G access, and unique perks. The $25/month Forever prepaid plan gives you 30GB of high-speed data and promises no changes to your bill or hidden fees. And, if you're unhappy with its 99% nationwide coverage, the Forever prepaid plan has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why we chose Boost Mobile: Boost distinguishes itself by offering premium features typically associated with postpaid plans. These include data hotspots, emergy high-speed data, and advanced voicemail options. The service also has a unique Deployed Military Program that allows service members to pause their accounts while overseas.
Our experience: We appreciated the BoostOne app's simplicity and functionality. It streamlined the management of our account, from making payments to buying add-ons and tracking data usage. The app also offers exclusive deals from national and international retailers, which allowed us to snag quite a few goodies.
Pros
- Let's you switch between three networks for optimal coverage
- Doesn't require annual contracts
- Unlimited talk and text included with all plans
Cons
- No refunds for mid-cycle cancellations
- You may lose remaining minutes and data when changing plans
5. Verizon
Protects customers with antivirus, antimalware, and safe browsing
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- Best for - Loyalty discounts and multi-line savings
- Pricing - From $35/month
- Network - Verizon
- Data limit - Unlimited
Verizon's prepaid plans leverage the company's extensive network, offering 5G access to over 230 million people. You can choose from four options: simple talk and text, 15 GB, Unlimited, and Unlimited Plus. Each plan includes unlimited talk and text, international texting, and a call filter spam blocker.
Verizon goes beyond basic connectivity by prioritizing data security. All prepaid plans come with Digital Secure, which provides antivirus, antimalware, and safe browsing features. For international travelers, the TravelPass feature lets you use your domestic plan abroad for $10 per line daily.
Why we chose Verizon: Verizon rewards loyalty and families with significant savings. Your prepaid plan gets cheaper over time, with $5 off after three months and $10 off after nine. Adding Unlimited lines brings even more value, saving you $20 monthly per line. These discounts make Verizon a standout prepaid option for long-term customers and families.
Our experience: We were pleasantly surprised by Verizon's Global Choice feature. It gave us 180 minutes every month to call our selected country. When we needed to contact relatives in another country, we simply added a second choice for an extra $10 monthly. This flexibility made international calling much more affordable and convenient than we expected.
Pros
- Offers 4K UHD streaming on 5G Ultra Wideband connections
- Call filter feature blocks incoming spam calls
- Unlimited international texting from the US to 200+ countries
Cons
- Unlimited calls to other countries come at additional monthly costs
- Potential double taxation when switching from prepaid to postpaid
» Going on an overseas trip? Check out our best international phone plans.
6. Twigby
Provides full data usage control through an online dashboard
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- Best for - Business mobile plan solutions
- Pricing - From $5/month
- Network - Verizon
- Data limit - Unlimited
Twigby's prepaid plans all come with nationwide 5G coverage, free Wi-Fi calling, texting, and mobile hotspot access. Plus, there are no contracts or activation fees, regardless of whether you opt for the $5, $10, $15, or $25 prepaid plans. Twigby is especially valuable for businesses, offering customizable plans for up to 500 lines.
Why we chose Twigby: Twigby's 30-day satisfaction guarantee is a game-changer. The company offers a full refund, including plan costs, taxes, and fees, providing a risk-free opportunity for new users to try the network. The 24/7 online dashboard also lets you easily manage your plan with adjustment and overage protection.
Our experience: We found the live chat support quick and helpful whenever we had questions. We also loved the Twigby Deals feature. It was great to browse through hundreds of exclusive discounts on everything from travel to dining. These free perks added extra value to our plan and helped us save money on everyday purchases.
Pros
- Unlimited nationwide talk and text and global text
- Supports six-way conference calling
- Includes free essential features like caller ID, call waiting, and forwarding
Cons
- Data speeds reduce to 2G after high-speed allowance is used
- Several plan prices increase after the first 3 months
7. Google Fi Wireless
Maintains high-speed data usage during peak usage times
- Best for - Safety and security features
- Pricing - From $50/month
- Network - T-Mobile with additional carriers available
- Data limit - Unlimited
Google Fi offers flexible prepaid plans tailored to your preferred data usage, allowing you to choose between unlimited or pay-as-you-go options. All prepaid plans have hotspot tethering and unlimited data, calls, and texts within the US, Canada, and Mexico. You also get free texts and affordable calls from the US to over 200 destinations.
Why we chose Google Fi Wireless: The Fi app offers complimentary family safety features, including spam blocking, location sharing, contact controls, and content filters. You can also switch prepaid plans at any time according to your family’s changing needs.
Our experience: Throughout our testing, we noticed our internet speeds remained consistently fast, even during peak hours. Unlike other carriers, we didn't experience any slowdowns when networks were busy. This meant we could rely on stable, speedy connections no matter when or where we used our phones.
Pros
- Free seven-day trial that works alongside your current service
- 24/7 customer support
- Unlimited high-speed data while traveling abroad
Cons
- Multi-carrier access restricted to Google Fi-compatible phones
- Taxes and government fees not included in plan prices
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8. Metro by T-Mobile
Includes free 5G phones with Metro Flex plans
- Best for - Free entertainment add-ons and subscriptions
- Pricing - From $50/month
- Network - T-Mobile
- Data limit - Unlimited
Metro by T-Mobile offers Flex prepaid plans from $50 to $70/month, packed with free subscriptions, devices, and perks. All prepaid plans include hotspot capability and unlimited talk, text, and high-speed 5G data. You also get some unconventional features, like a 100GB Google One membership and Metro's Scam Shield.
The company is rapidly upgrading its network, adding Ultra Capacity 5G to over 1,000 cell sites monthly. This aims to match Wi-Fi speeds and extend 5G to 99% of Americans. Customers benefit from no contracts, credit checks, or surprise fees, ensuring a transparent experience.
Why we chose Metro by T-Mobile: The Metro Flex prepaid plan caught our attention for its inclusive approach. It offers a free 5G phone from top brands like Apple, Samsung, and Motorola. Plus, it treats existing customers just as well as new ones, always offering the same great deals. Additionally, you can trade in your phone every 12 months, keeping your tech up-to-date.
Our experience: We were thrilled with the extras bundled into Metro's higher-tier prepaid plans. The Amazon Prime perks gave us access to Prime Video, Gaming, and Music. We found ourselves streaming shows and discovering new games more often than before.
Pros
- Prepaid users get regular promotions on food, gas, and entertainment
- Free ScamShield app for scam ID, blocking, and caller ID
- Taxes and regulatory fees included in the price
Cons
- Video streams are limited to standard definition
- Using more than 35GB/month may result in slower internet speeds
9. Xfinity
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- Best for - Multi-line plans
- Pricing - From $25/month
- Network - Verizon
- Data limit - Unlimited
Xfinity boasts a robust $25/month prepaid plan that comes packed with all the essentials you need. You get unlimited talk, text, and data with nationwide 5G coverage. Plus, you don't have to commit to contracts, credit checks, or additional taxes and fees. Plus, you have the flexibility to cancel and resume whenever you need to.
It comes with an impressive 14-day risk-free money-back guarantee. This allows you to cancel or return any devices that are part of your plan and receive a full refund. Additionally, it offers significant savings for existing internet customers, making it an attractive option for those already in the Xfinity ecosystem.
Why we chose Xfinity: Xfinity excels at multi-line plans, allowing full flexibility with options like By the Gig (pay as you go) and Unlimited for each line. You can switch any line's plan as needed. Plus, charges only apply based on your chosen options at the end of the billing cycle. Xfinity also boosts its multi-line appeal by offering a free Unlimited line for a year.
Our experience: We were impressed with Xfinity's 5G Ultra Wideband network, which includes over 20 million secure WiFi hotspots nationwide. This feature automatically connected us and saved data, making it a breeze to download and stream movies and shows at fantastic speeds while on the move.
Pros
- Unlimited personal hotspot data at 3G speeds
- Adding a second line is only an additional $20
- Includes unlimited 3G data in Canada and Mexico
Cons
- Mobile service is restricted to Xfinity internet users only
- All new lines have a $25 setup fee
Read full Xfinity Mobile review
10. AT&T
Blocks over 10 million fraud calls a day 
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- Best for - Autopay discounts
- Pricing - From $25/month
- Network - AT&T
- Data limit - Unlimited
AT&T's prepaid plans offer reliability with no annual contracts, credit checks, and easy activation. You can choose from three main options: Unlimited ($40/month), Unlimited + 5GB hotspot ($50/month), and Unlimited MAX + 25GB hotspot data ($55/month).
All plans include unlimited talk and text, with data from the US to over 230 countries. The basic Unlimited plan provides 30GB of high-speed data before slowing, while the other two offer truly unlimited high-speed data with potential slowdowns during network congestion.
Why we chose AT&T: Its prepaid plans offer a compelling mix of features, from basic unlimited data to premium options with extensive hotspot capabilities and HD streaming. Plus, the 5G access and ActiveArmor mobile security across all plans provide excellent value for many users.
Our experience: We appreciated AT&T's flexibility with its prepaid plans, especially the data rollover feature. If you choose not to go with an unlimited plan, it's great knowing you won’t lose unused data at the end of the month.
Pros
- 100GB cloud storage on Unlimited Max plan
- 20% veterans discount through WeSalute
- 10% student discount
Cons
- 5G access not included in all plans
- Entry-level plan requires a $300 prepayment
Compare the Best Prepaid Phone Plans:
How to Pick the Best Prepaid Cell Phone Plan
Choosing the best prepaid cell phone plan involves several key considerations to ensure you get the best value and service for your needs. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Determine Your Usage Needs: Assess how much data, talk time, and texts you typically use each month. Some plans offer unlimited talk and text but limited data, while others provide more data at a higher cost.
- Network Coverage: Check the network coverage in your area. The major networks in the U.S. are AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint. Make sure the provider you choose has good coverage where you live and work.
- Data Speeds: Look at the data speeds offered by different plans. Some prepaid plans may throttle data speeds after you reach a certain usage limit.
- International Calling and Roaming: If you frequently travel or need to make international calls, consider plans that offer affordable international rates or roaming options.
- Cost and Budget: Prepaid plans typically have no contracts, but prices can vary. Compare the monthly costs, additional fees, and any potential savings if you bring your own device.
- Plan Flexibility: Some prepaid plans allow you to change your plan or add extra data mid-month without penalties. This flexibility can be beneficial if your usage varies.
- Customer Service and Support: Look for reviews on customer service quality. Good support can be crucial if you encounter issues with your plan or service.
How do Prepaid Phone Plans Work?
Prepaid phone plans offer a flexible and straightforward alternative to traditional contract-based cell phone plans. With prepaid plans, you pay for your cell phone service upfront, usually every month, eliminating the need for long-term contracts or credit checks.
Each plan provides a set amount of data, talk time, and texts to use each month. If you exceed these allowances, you can top up your plan with additional funds or purchase extra data as needed.
To start using a prepaid plan, you typically need to purchase a SIM card from the provider, insert it into your phone, and activate it online or through customer service.
Most prepaid plans work with unlocked phones and some providers also offer budget-friendly or discounted phones that can be bundled with the plan. You must renew your plan by making a payment each month, and many providers offer automatic renewal options for convenience.
One key benefit of prepaid plans is that there are no overage fees; once you’ve used up your plan’s allowances, you simply need to top up to continue using the service. This payment structure allows for better cost control and flexibility, making it an attractive option for many users.
What are the Pros and Cons of Prepaid Phone Plans?
Pros:
- No Contracts: Prepaid plans do not require long-term commitments, offering greater flexibility and freedom to change providers if needed.
- Cost Control: You pay in advance, which helps you budget and avoid unexpected charges.
- No Credit Check: These plans are ideal for those with poor or no credit history since they don’t require a credit check.
- Flexibility: Many prepaid plans offer the ability to change your plan, add more data, or switch providers without penalties.
- Simple Activation: Setting up a prepaid plan is usually straightforward and quick, making it easy to get started.
Cons:
- Limited Features: Prepaid plans might not offer all the bells and whistles of contract plans, such as advanced device financing options or access to premium services.
- Data Speeds and Limits: Some plans may throttle data speeds after you reach a certain limit or during peak usage times, which can affect your internet experience.
- Higher Cost Per GB: Prepaid plans can sometimes be more expensive per gigabyte of data than postpaid plans, especially if you need a lot of data.
- Upfront Payment: Paying in advance might be a hassle if you prefer to pay after using the service.
- Customer Service: Customer support for prepaid plans may not always be as comprehensive or responsive as it is for postpaid plans.
Escape the World Of Hidden Fees With Prepaid
Prepaid plans offer flexibility, transparency, and control over your mobile service. Top providers like Tello, Visible, and Mint Mobile stand out with unique perks and affordable options. Whether you need international coverage, family plans, or entertainment add-ons, there's a service that'll fit your needs.
These plans let you set data and cost limits while avoiding hidden fees. Choose prepaid to get exactly what you want from your mobile service without the constraints of long-term contracts.
» Discover how to spot and avoid hidden fees in your mobile plan.
FAQs
Which mobile service provider offers the best coverage?
Verizon offers the best coverage, reaching 99% of the population. It provides 5G coverage in 2700+ cities and is actively expanding. This extensive network ensures reliable service almost everywhere.
What is the downside of a prepaid plan?
The main downside of a prepaid plan is that unused minutes expire. You lose the money if you don't use the minutes you've paid for. Therefore, it's essential to choose a plan that matches your usage.
Can I keep my phone number when switching to a prepaid plan?
Yes, most prepaid carriers allow you to port your existing number. The process is usually simple and can be done online or with customer service assistance. Check with your chosen provider for specific instructions on number porting.
Do prepaid plans offer 5G access?
Many prepaid plans now include 5G access, especially from major carriers like Visible (Verizon's network) and Mint Mobile (T-Mobile's network). However, 5G availability may depend on your location and device compatibility. Check the provider's coverage map for details.
Are prepaid mobile plans worth it?
Prepaid plans are worth considering for their affordability and flexibility. It's ideal if you prefer to use your own phone without a contract, making it a cost-effective choice for managing mobile expenses.
