any of us are still on our parents phone plan, but when it’s time to switch to have more control (more data, better flexibility with travel, and even perks like free Max or Netflix) - this is your definitive guide to the best phone plans 2025.
Every one of these services listed allows you to bring your own device, keep your phone number and offers “unlimited data” plans that throttle at a certain GB usage. (this is what you should truly be looking at - that and customer ratings / reviews)
I’m not going to mention “the Big 3” here (Verizon, ATT and T Mobile) because they are frankly over priced, come with hidden fees and are only OK if you want to “device finance” the newest device (which you can avoid by device financing on Ebay or Best Buy).
So here they are, in order of Rankings! (p.s. no affiliate links here - this is just an objective rankings based on research, reviews meant for my fellow readers that are trying to maximize their adulting.)
#1 REALLY: A privacy-first phone network that promises better coverage
📍 Headquartered: Austin, TX
Yes, Really. A new phone service that runs off of T-mobile’s towers along with their own DeWi (decentralized wireless network) that hosts put up nationwide. They even own the domain name really.com and have a cool website. It’s also the only phone carrier out there that seems to care about privacy, especially when 1 in 4 americans have been scammed on their phone.
Pros 👍
- Price: It’s $49/month for life if you sign up for their “early adopter” discount with no hidden fees. We went through checkout and the total with tax was $50 bucks a month with no hidden fees, just tax of around a buck $1
- Data: Unlimited and throttles at 50GB/month but speeds after that are still negligible.
- Hotspot: Data seems to throttle at 20GB/month.
- Customer service: Live chat, phone support, and direct messaging (DMs).
- Privacy and Convenience: Puts your privacy first with encrypted calls and browsing, microphone protection, and smart tools to block spam texts and calls. Get set up in minutes with eSIM for a hassle-free start
- Trustpilot Rating: 4.8 stars
Cons 👎
- Privacy Features: Not all privacy features are live yet, which explains the early adopter discount.
- Coverage Map: No real-time coverage map is vailable; users must enter a zip code for an emailed analysis.
- Customer Support: Does not offer texting as a support option.
- Physical SIM Cards: Does not support pSIMs, limiting device compatibility.
Really is normally $129/mo but founding members get it for $49/mo.
#2 Patriot Mobile: The Christian Conservative Option
📍 Headquarters: Grapevine, TX
Marketed as a faith-based, conservative wireless provider, Patriot Mobile blends politics and connectivity. While its niche focus appeals to some, its plans stand up for general use as well.
Pros 👍
- Price: Priced $78/month and includes unlimited talk and text, and mobile hotspot access within the data limit. Taxes may vary, and a portion of every bill supports conservative causes
- Data: Throttles after 40GB, with reduced speeds suitable for basic tasks.
- Hotspot: Allows up to 10GB/month of tethering.
- Customer Service: U.S.-based support is available via phone and online chat.
- Family Discounts: Offers competitive pricing for multiple lines.
- Support for Causes: Actively donates to conservative and faith-based initiatives.
- Trustpilot Rating: 4.6 stars
Cons 👎
- Limited Phone Selection: Offers a narrow range of devices, which may not cater to all preferences.
- Deprioritization During Network Congestion: As an MVNO, users might experience slower speeds during peak times compared to major carrier customers.
- Political Alignment: The company's overt support for conservative causes may not resonate with all potential customers.
#3 Tello: Affordable Plans Without the Frills
📍 Headquartered: Atlanta, GA
Tello is a budget-friendly carrier running on T-Mobile’s network. It offers flexible, contract-free plans, making it ideal for light data users. While it lacks flashy perks, its straightforward pricing and reliability are perfect for those looking to save without sacrificing quality.
Pros 👍
- Price: It's $29/month with no hidden fees and includes high-speed 4G LTE/5G data. The plan features 5GB of hotspot data, unlimited talk and text, and free calls to over 60 countries based on your available minute balance. With no contracts, activation fees, or hidden charges, Tello offers transparent pricing and taxes may vary depending on your location.
- Data: Throttles at 25GB/month, with speeds dropping to 2G (128 Kbps) afterwards.
- Hotspot: Includes up to 5GB for hotspot use, matching the high-speed data limit.
- Customer Service: Responsive and highly rated, with support available via phone and online chat.
- Flexibility: No contracts, no fees, and the ability to switch plans anytime.
- Trustpilot Rating: 4.2 stars.
Cons 👎
- No In-Person Support: Tello operates exclusively online, with customer service available via chat or email. This lack of physical stores can be inconvenient for those who prefer face-to-face support.
- Limited Appeal for Heavy Data Users: While Tello’s unlimited plan includes 35GB of high-speed data, speeds drop to 2G levels after this limit, making it unsuitable for data-intensive tasks.
- No Multi-Line Discounts: Unlike many competitors, Tello does not offer discounted rates for families or multi-line accounts, which may make it less appealing to larger households.
#4 Consumer Cellular: The Simple, Senior-Friendly Option
📍 Headquartered: Portland, OR
Marketed as a senior-focused wireless provider, Consumer Cellular emphasizes simplicity and reliability. While it’s designed with seniors in mind, its flexible plans and reliable coverage make it suitable for users of all ages seeking a no-frills experience.
Pros 👍
- Price: At $55 for an unlimited plan, you can browse, send emails, and text, but you’ll need WiFi for gaming or streaming videos. Adjust or cancel plans anytime without penalties.
- Data: Throttles at 50GB/month but speeds drop after 50GB. Data beyond this threshold slows to 2G, which may affect streaming and downloads.
- Hotspot Access: Unlimited mobile hotspot usage is included, drawing from your plan’s data.
- Customer Service: Primarily handles support online, with a few physical stores available.
- AARP Discounts: AARP members get a 5% discount on monthly service and usage charges.
- Trustpilot Rating: 4.2 stars.
Cons 👎
- Limited High-Data Options: While Consumer Cellular offers plans with up to 50GB of high-speed data, it lacks a true unlimited data option, which may not meet the needs of heavy data users.
- Network Congestion: As an MVNO using AT&T and T-Mobile’s networks, customers may experience slower speeds during peak usage times compared to primary carrier users.
- Mixed Customer Service Experiences: Despite its strong reputation, some users have reported issues such as poor reception in certain areas and occasional challenges with activation.
#5 Mint Mobile: Affordable Plans with a Catch
📍 Headquartered: Costa Mesa, CA
Mint Mobile stands out with budget-friendly plans and witty marketing, boosted by Ryan Reynolds’ ownership. Using T-Mobile's network, it offers prepaid plans with upfront payments for 3, 6, or 12 months, delivering savings for the right users.
Pros 👍
- Price: At $30/month unlimited plan, enjoy unlimited talk and text, reliable 5G and 4G LTE coverage, and free calls to Mexico and Canada. Offers plans starting as low as $15/month for 5GB of data when you commit to a 12-month plan.
- Data: Unlimited plan provides 35GB of high-speed data before throttling.
- Hotspot: 10GB of mobile hotspot data.
- Customer Service: Mint Mobile handles all customer service online or via phone.
- Free Trial: Provides a 7-day free trial to test the service before committing.
- Trustpilot Rating: 3.3 stars.
Cons 👎
- Upfront Payment: Requires full payment for 3, 6, or 12 months of service in advance, which may be a financial strain for some.
- Data Throttling: Unlimited plan throttles data speeds after 35GB of usage, which may affect heavy data users.
- Limited Customer Support: Primarily offers online support, with no physical stores for in-person assistance.
#6 Ting Mobile: Customizable Plans with Nationwide Coverage
📍 Headquartered: Toronto, Canada
Ting Mobile, an MVNO on Verizon’s network, offers flexible, no-contract plans ranging from low-data to unlimited, tailored to individual needs.
Pros 👍
- Price: At $55/month, this plan is perfect for heavy data users, offering the best value for price per GB.
- Data: 35GB of high-speed data before throttling to 2G speeds.
- Hotspot: Includes 18GB of hotspot data, which cuts off once you hit the limit.
- Customer Service: Provides 24/7 support via phone and online chat, ensuring assistance is always available.
- No Contracts: Allows users to switch plans monthly based on their data needs without any penalties.
- Trustpilot Rating: 2.3 stars.
Cons 👎
- Data Deprioritization: As an MVNO, Ting Mobile customers may experience slower data speeds during network congestion compared to users on the primary Verizon or T-Mobile networks.
- No In-Person Support: Ting Mobile offers customer service exclusively online or via phone, which may not suit users who prefer face-to-face assistance.
- Limited International Data Options: While Ting provides international calling, it lacks comprehensive international data plans, making it less ideal for frequent travelers.
#7 Helium Mobile: Affordable Service with a Decentralized Twist
📍 Headquartered: Los Angeles, CA
Helium Mobile is reshaping the wireless industry by combining traditional cellular coverage with a decentralized network of user-operated hotspots. Running on T-Mobile’s reliable network, it offers low-cost plans enhanced by community-powered infrastructure, appealing to budget-conscious users and tech enthusiasts alike.
Pros 👍
- Price: For $20/month: Get unlimited talk, text, and data with no contracts, all on a reliable nationwide network.
- Data: Unlimited high-speed data.
- Hotspot: Offers up to 5GB of hotspot data for tethering.
- Customer Service: Provides support through the Helium Mobile app chat, email at support@hellohelium.com, or phone support.
- Innovative Rewards System: Subscribers can earn MOBILE tokens by participating in network mapping, which can offset service costs.
- Trustpilot Rating: 2.2 stars.
Cons 👎
- Coverage Variability: Helium Mobile relies on T-Mobile’s network and its decentralized Helium Network. In areas with limited Helium hotspot availability, coverage quality may be inconsistent.
- Data Throttling: The unlimited plan includes 30GB of high-speed data per month. After reaching this cap, speeds are throttled to 1Mbps, which may not support data-intensive activities like streaming or online gaming.
- Limited Hotspot Data: Hotspot usage is capped at 5GB per month, which may not be sufficient for users who need to tether multiple devices.
#8 Cricket Wireless: Reliable Coverage with Simple Plans
📍 Headquarters: Atlanta, GA
Cricket Wireless, owned by AT&T, delivers straightforward prepaid plans with dependable coverage through AT&T’s network. With no annual contracts and transparent pricing, it’s a great choice for those seeking affordable, hassle-free service.
Pros 👍
- Price: For $60/month (or $55 with Autopay), enjoy unlimited premium data that never slows down.
- Data: Unlimited high-speed data.
- Hotspot: Offers up to 15GB of hotspot data for tethering, with reduced speeds after the limit.
- Customer Service: Assistance is available in stores, online, or over the phone, giving you multiple ways to get the help you need.
- Perks: The $60/month unlimited plan includes an ad-supported Max subscription and 150GB of cloud storage.
- Trustpilot Rating: 1.6 stars.
Cons 👎
- Limited International Calling: International calling is not included in standard plans and requires additional fees, which may not suit frequent global callers.
- Data Deprioritization: During peak times, data speeds may slow compared to those on primary carrier networks.
- Mixed Customer Service Feedback: While support is available 24/7, some users report inconsistent responsiveness and issue resolution.
#9 Visible: Unlimited Data with Verizon Reliability
📍 Headquarters: Denver, CO
Visible, owned by Verizon, keeps things simple with unlimited data plans and no annual contracts. Running on Verizon’s expansive 5G and 4G LTE networks, Visible offers two plans—Visible and Visible+—designed to meet the needs of everyday users and those seeking extra features like premium data and international coverage.
Pros 👍
- Price: For $45/month you get premium data at just $0.90 per GB.
- Data: 50GB of Premium Data, after hitting the cap, your data remains full-speed but may be deprioritized during network congestion.
- Hotspot: Offers unlimited hotspot data for tethering.
- Customer Service: All Visible customer service takes place online.
- International Features: Visible+ includes international calling to over 30 countries, texting to 200+ countries, and roaming in Canada and Mexico.
- Trustpilot Rating: 1.5 stars.
Cons 👎
- Data Deprioritization: Standard plan users may experience slower speeds during network congestion.
- Customer Support: Support is primarily online, with no physical stores for in-person assistance.
- Device Compatibility: Not all devices are supported, so users should check compatibility before switching.
#10 Boost Infinite: Unlimited Data Across Multiple Networks
📍 Headquarters: Englewood, CO
Boost Infinite combines coverage from AT&T, T-Mobile, and DISH Wireless to offer reliable, nationwide service. With simple, unlimited data plans and no annual contracts, it’s an appealing choice for users looking for affordability and flexibility.
Pros 👍
- Price: For $50/month you get premium data which includes solid international connection capabilities.
- Data: 30GB of full speed data before slowing to 3G speeds.
- Hotspot: Hotspot access isn’t included—it requires an extra add-on.
- Customer Service: Customer service is handled entirely online or over the phone.
- Device Deals: Eligible customers can get the latest iPhone with annual upgrades on the Infinite Access plan.
- Trustpilot Rating: 1.4 stars.
Cons 👎
- Perks Limited to Multi-Line Plans: Streaming perks like Netflix or Disney+ are only available with family plans of three or more lines, leaving single-line users without these benefits.
- Plan Complexity: While customization is a strength, the variety of options can overwhelm users trying to select the best plan for their needs.
- Hotspot Access: Mobile hotspot usage requires an additional add-on and is not included in the standard plans.
#11 Spectrum Mobile: Affordable Plans for Spectrum Internet Users
📍 Headquarters: Stamford, CT
Spectrum Mobile offers affordable mobile plans exclusively to Spectrum Internet subscribers. Running on Verizon’s reliable 5G and 4G LTE networks, it provides straightforward options like "By the Gig" and Unlimited plans, making it a solid choice for current Spectrum customers.
Pros 👍
- Price: For $40/month you get full speed data.
- Data: 30GB of full data before slowing to 3G speeds.
- Hotspot: Includes 5GB of hotspot access, which slows to 3G speeds once you hit the limit..
- Customer Service: Has nationwide stores, support is also available through chat and over the phone.
- Flexible Plans: Choose between "By the Gig" for low data users or Unlimited plans for heavier usage, allowing customization based on individual needs.
- Trustpilot Rating: 1.3 stars.
Cons 👎
- Limited Streaming Perks: Unlike some competitors, Spectrum Mobile does not offer complimentary subscriptions to streaming services such as Netflix or Disney+.
- International Roaming Costs: While international roaming is available, it often incurs additional charges, which may not be as convenient as competitors offering more inclusive international roaming features.
- Spectrum Internet Requirement: Spectrum Mobile services are exclusively available to Spectrum Internet subscribers, limiting accessibility for non-Spectrum customers
#12 Boost Mobile: Budget-Friendly Plans with Broad Coverage
📍 Headquarters: Englewood, CO
Boost Mobile is a prepaid wireless provider offering affordable plans with no annual contracts. Operating on AT&T, T-Mobile, and DISH Wireless networks, Boost Mobile ensures broad coverage and reliable service. Its range of plans caters to budget-conscious users while maintaining flexibility and value.
Pros 👍
- Price: For $25/month you get high speed data, this plan requires a full year’s worth of data to be purchased upfront.
- Data: 35GB of high-speed data before slowing to 3G speeds.
- Hotspot: Includes 12GB of hotspot data, which cuts off once you reach the limit.
- Customer Service: Customer service is available in-store, online, and over the phone.
- No Contracts: Month-to-month plans allow users to switch or cancel without penalties.
- Trustpilot Rating: 1.3 stars.
Cons 👎
- Streaming Perks for Families Only: Free streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ are only available with family plans of three or more lines.
- Limited International Roaming: Free international roaming is restricted to specific plans; other users must buy add-ons.
- No Physical Stores: Customer support is available only online or by phone, with no in-person assistance.
#13 UScellular: Regional Carrier with Nationwide Ambitions
📍 Headquarters: Chicago, IL
UScellular is the fourth-largest wireless carrier in the U.S., offering a range of plans and devices. Operating its own network infrastructure, UScellular provides services primarily in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest, with roaming agreements extending coverage nationwide.
Pros 👍
- Price: For $55/month, you’ll get UScellular’s largest plan with all the top features.
- Data: Users enjoy unlimited premium data.
- Hotspot: The plan includes 50GB of hotspot data, which ends once you reach the limit.
- Customer Service: Assistance is available online, over the phone, and in stores.
- Regional Expertise: Focuses on underserved areas in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest, providing strong local service where major carriers may falter.
- Trustpilot Rating: 1.3 stars.
Cons 👎
- Limited Coverage Area: Owns a smaller network footprint compared to major carriers, potentially leading to reliance on roaming agreements outside primary service regions.
- Two-Year Contracts: Some plans require two-year commitments, which may not suit users seeking flexibility.
- Network Expansion Challenges: Faces hurdles in expanding its network to compete with larger carriers, impacting service availability in certain areas.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right phone plan in 2025 comes down to your unique needs. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options, reliable coverage, or extra perks, there’s something for everyone.
With so many options to choose from, this guide provides the insights you need to pick a plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.
