The best pay as you go SIM cards: Same coverage 3x cheaper!

The best pay as you go SIM cards: Same coverage 3x cheaper!

By Rob Webber • Founder & Editor
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Tello offers the best SIM card for low data users

Image of cell phone with Tello

Tello 2GB SIM card for $10/mo

  • T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
  • Unlimited talk and text with 2GB data
  • Instant online activation

5

Info

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Tello makes wireless affordable and flexible, so you’re never locked into contracts or overpaying for services you don’t need.

All plans include free international calls to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico. You also get flexible data options, whether you need just a little or unlimited access.

Unlike traditional carriers, Tello lets you customize your own plan, so you’re only paying for the talk, text, and data you actually use. All Tello plans support mobile hotspot, with unlimited plans limited to 5GB, though family plan discounts aren’t available. Each line is billed separately, but with Tello’s pricing, multi-line savings aren’t a necessity.

Switching is quick and seamless-eSIM activation lets you get started in minutes, or you can order a SIM card if needed.

I compared Tello to Boost Mobile, Ultra Mobile, and Metro by T-Mobile. Boost Mobile offers low prices but is known for hidden fees and inconsistent customer support. Ultra Mobile is a strong pick for international calls but is pricier for the same data. Metro by T-Mobile charges more and often requires an in-store visit.

If you want low-cost, flexible service with no commitments, Tello is a standout choice.

  • Plans tailored to you – Choose exactly what you need.
  • No contracts, no hidden fees – Transparent pricing with no surprises.
  • Fast, simple setup – Activate instantly with eSIM or get a SIM card shipped to you.

Visible offers the best value unlimited SIM card

Image of cell phone with Visible

Visible unlimited SIM card for $25/mo

  • Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
  • Unlimited talk, text and data
  • Instant online activation

3.4

Info

Read our Visible review

See at Visible

Tired of complicated phone plans? Visible makes unlimited data simple and affordable with just two straightforward options, both with no contracts, no hidden fees, and no surprises.

For $25/month, you get unlimited talk, text, and data, plus mobile hotspot access at speeds of 5–10 Mbps. Upgrade to Visible+, and you’ll get 50GB of premium data and access to Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network for even faster speeds.

Switching is easy. With eSIM activation, you can start using your plan in minutes, no waiting for a SIM card. The Visible+ plan also comes with free international calling to 30+ countries and texting to over 200 destinations, making it ideal for those who stay connected globally.

Although Visible doesn’t offer multi-line discounts, its low-cost pricing makes it a great deal for single-line users. Just keep in mind that customer service is online-only.

I compared Visible to Tracfone, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile. Tracfone is cheap but limits data speeds, making it less ideal for heavy users. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile have good rates, but require their respective internet services to sign up.

For unlimited data without contracts or hidden fees, Visible is a top choice.

  • Simple, unlimited plans – No contracts, no unexpected costs-just clear, predictable pricing.
  • Built-in perks – Mobile hotspot access included, plus free international calling & texting on Visible+.
  • Instant activation – Switch in minutes with eSIM, or request a physical SIM card.

Total Wireless offers the best SIM card with Verizon coverage

Image of cell phone with Total Wireless

Total Wireless unlimited SIM card for $50/mo

  • Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
  • Unlimited talk, text and data
  • Instant online activation

4

Info

Read our Total Wireless review

See at Total Wireless

Total Wireless provides affordable, contract-free plans that let you access Verizon’s network without the premium cost.

Each plan includes unlimited talk and text, high-speed data options, and mobile hotspot usage up to 15GB on select plans.

For those who need international calling, Total Wireless offers free calls to 85+ countries and roaming in Canada and Mexico, making it ideal for frequent travelers.

With no long-term contracts or hidden fees, you can easily switch or adjust your plan online whenever needed.

I reviewed Tracfone, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile and found limitations. Tracfone is cheaper but limits data speeds. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile offer good rates, but require home internet service.

For flexible, affordable coverage with premium network access, Total Wireless is a top pick.

  • Same Verizon coverage, lower price – No need to overpay for great service.
  • Hotspot and international calling included – Up to 15GB of hotspot data on some plans, plus free roaming & calls to 85+ countries.
  • Contract-free convenience – Adjust or switch your plan anytime with easy online management.

Tello offers the best SIM card with T-Mobile coverage

Image of cell phone with Tello

Tello unlimited SIM card for $25/mo

  • T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
  • Unlimited talk, text and data
  • Instant online activation

5

Info

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Tello offers a budget-friendly alternative to expensive wireless carriers, giving you the flexibility to pay only for what you need.

All plans include free international calls to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, plus a variety of data options that work for both light users and those who need more high-speed access.

Tello’s build-your-own plan approach means you decide how much talk, text, and data you get-so you’re never stuck overpaying for services you don’t use. All plans includes mobile hotspot access, with a 5GB limit on unlimited plans, but there are no multi-line discounts. However, with pricing this low, even individual plans remain highly affordable.

Switching is quick and effortless. With eSIM activation you can start using your new plan immediately, or you can order a physical SIM if needed.

I compared Boost Mobile, Ultra Mobile, and Metro by T-Mobile. Boost Mobile offers low-cost plans but sneaks in hidden fees. Ultra Mobile is great for international calling but is pricier. Metro by T-Mobile has higher costs and requires an in-store visit for activation.

For a truly flexible, affordable, and commitment-free wireless plan, Tello is an unbeatable choice.

  • No wasted money on unnecessary features – Create a plan that fits your needs, with adjustable talk, text, and data options.
  • No contracts, no surprises – Tello’s transparent pricing means no hidden fees or long-term commitments.
  • Fast and easy activation – eSIM-compatible devices can start service in minutes, or you can receive a SIM card in the mail for traditional setup.

Red Pocket offers the best SIM card with AT&T coverage

Image of cell phone with Red Pocket

Red Pocket unlimited SIM card for $30/mo

  • AT&T 5G & 4G LTE network
  • Unlimited talk, text and data
  • Instant online activation

4

Info

Read our Red Pocket review

See at Red Pocket

Red Pocket Mobile delivers affordable unlimited plans on the AT&T network, offering multi-line savings and international perks at no extra charge.

Families can save big with a $20 discount per extra line, reducing overall costs significantly. While there’s a setup fee, the total savings make it a budget-friendly alternative.

With unlimited talk and text, up to 30GB of high-speed data, and hotspot access included, Red Pocket ensures transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

For international users, free calling to 80+ countries and roaming in Mexico and Canada make Red Pocket an excellent choice for travelers. eSIM users can also try the service with a 7-day money-back guarantee.

I compared other AT&T-based budget carriers, including Cricket Wireless, which costs more despite being AT&T’s prepaid brand, H2O Wireless, which includes international calling but lacks overall value, and Good2Go Mobile, which has affordable pricing but limited plan options.

For families looking for an affordable, flexible, and feature-rich unlimited plan, Red Pocket Mobile is a top recommendation.

  • Big savings for families – $20 off per extra line, making it one of the cheapest multi-line plans.
  • International perks included – Free calls to 80+ countries and free roaming in Mexico & Canada.
  • No hidden fees & easy sign-up – Transparent pricing and a 7-day eSIM money-back guarantee.

Which network do you prefer?

Low-cost carriers are powered by the same 5G and 4G LTE networks as the big 3. According to a 5G Experience Report (2023) by Opensignal, T-Mobile has the most extensive 5G coverage in the United States. If you have a preference for a specific network, you can find an MVNO that operates on that network. To discover the best cell phone service in your area, make sure to use our coverage checker.

How much data do you need?

Do you really need a prepaid SIM card for unlimited data? The big 3 wireless companies want you to believe so, but in reality, the average monthly cellular data consumption is around 10GB. Because if you spend most of your time at home or work on Wi-Fi, it’s likely your cellular data usage will be much lower. You can pick a plan with enough data to fit your needs with cheap cell phone providers, meaning if you use less, you can pay less. But if you do choose an unlimited data SIM card, be aware that high-speed data is normally capped.

Is mobile hotspot data included?

Many MVNOs permit the usage of hotspot data. However, they impose restrictions on the quantity of data that can be used through tethering. The specific limit varies depending on the carrier and plan that you select. Additionally, some low-cost carriers provide exclusive data only SIM cards designed specifically for iPads, tablets, and mobile hotspots.

What’s the monthly cost?

While an unlimited data SIM card with the big 3 wireless costs around $75-90 per month, the best MVNOs offer budget-friendly SIM cards, ranging from $5-35 per month without compromising coverage or data speeds. Watch out for hidden fees & taxes; some providers include these in the price, and others, such as Verizon and AT&T, don’t.

How many lines do you need?

With big wireless, you only get the low advertised price if you buy four lines. With low-cost carriers, the price you see is what you pay, even for one line. Some MVNOs also offer further discounts for multi-line plans.

Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?

While big wireless prioritizes keeping their customers in a perpetual cycle of phone upgrades, MVNOs advocate for bringing your own device. This empowers you to regain control and only switch phones when it’s convenient for you. In the event that you do decide to buy a new phone, most MVNOs provide the option for 0% financing spread across 1-2 years.

Are there any promotions?

Promotions from big wireless can seem great at first. But once you read the fine print, it often leads to buying things you don’t need and committing to 3-year phone contracts. Most MVNOs offer short-term introductory discounts for new customers, and their pricing is much clearer.

Are there any perks?

The big 3 wireless plans normally come with “complimentary” TV subscriptions, but these often become paid subscriptions that are automatically included on your bill after a few months. Although some budget-friendly carriers like US Mobile do provide plan choices with free subscription services, we generally advise keeping these subscriptions separate to avoid paying for unnecessary months of service.

What international travel features are available?

Most MVNOs offer free international calls to many countries. But when you’re traveling abroad, there are different features you’ll need, for example, roaming. If this is important to you, you can find a variety of carriers offering SIM cards for international travel.

Do they have parental controls?

Many MVNO carriers offer parental control features that enable parents to monitor their children’s phone usage and data consumption. With parental controls, you can set data limits, restrict access to certain apps or websites, and even track your child’s location. Some AT&T MVNOs offer these features as part of their standard plans, or you’ll find this feature on your cell phone.

What are the SIM card sizes?

The SIM card you need will depend on your device. Most smart devices now use a nano-SIM or eSIM, but some older devices may need a micro-SIM or a standard SIM.

Check out our comparison of the best prepaid SIM cards to ensure you find the best deal.

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SIM cards for international travelers

In the quest for affordable and flexible communication, especially when traveling, prepaid SIM cards have become a pivotal part of helping to stay connected. For travelers jetting from the USA to Europe and other various countries, the GSM technology underlying most prepaid SIM cards ensures phone compatibility, catering to both iPhone, Android, and other smartphones.

Whether you’re looking to buy a new SIM card on arrival or opt for a travel SIM card, either is a great option. Also, if your phone is compatible, an eSIM can make this process even easier.

However, your current carrier may offer international plans, but they usually come with a hefty price tag. The best option can be getting a local SIM card, which presents a cost-effective option, often providing a substantial GB of data, free mobile hotspot data, and local call minutes, which are invaluable for internet access to navigate via Google Maps or stay connected through WhatsApp and Skype.

A new SIM card can offer an ideal plan tailored for each destination and guarantee the best rates.

SIM cards

How I choose the best carriers and plans

To select the best carriers and plans, I evaluated over 30 different carriers.

I rate carriers in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. I then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:

  1. Value for money: I compare carriers based on price, features, benefits, and promotions. It’s not just about the lowest price but getting the most bang for your buck.
  2. Coverage: I look at network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US. I use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
  3. Customer experience: I take into account items such as current user experience, website and app usability, ease of switching, and customer service in terms of availability, channels, and satisfaction ratings.
  4. Transparency: I assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. I examine the fine print to check for hidden fees, confusing terms or conditions, and misleading offers to ensure upfront, honest prices and advertising.
  5. Range of choice: I evaluate the diversity of plan options to determine if they fit the individual needs of all customers.

Read more about our carrier ratings methodology and our editorial process.

I regularly update the content so that we’re always recommending the latest and best value plans and do my best to ensure the information is accurate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a low-cost carrier?
A low-cost carrier uses the same towers and coverage as major networks like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T. The difference is that low-cost carriers offer more affordable plans with fewer hidden fees because they don’t have the same overhead costs as the big guys.
How do low-cost carriers manage to offer such low prices?
Low-cost carriers can keep prices lower because they don’t own the network infrastructure. They pay the major carriers for network access, which allows them to pass the savings on to you.
Are low-cost carrier plans flexible if my needs change?
Yes. Most low-cost carriers offer flexible plans that allow you to adjust your data, talk, or text limits to suit your needs, as you are not tied into a contract. You can change your plan or cancel anytime.
What types of phones can I use with a low-cost carrier?
You can bring your own unlocked phone to most low-cost carriers or purchase one directly from the carrier. Many low-cost carriers offer popular models, and their network compatibility is usually no issue.
Can I switch to a low-cost carrier easily?
Yes, switching to a low-cost carrier is simple. You can sign up online, bring your own phone, and port your number easily. The process is quick and straightforward, and customer support is available to assist with any issues.
Do I need a contract with a low-cost carrier?
No! Most low-cost carriers offer prepaid, no-contract plans, meaning you're not tied down to long-term commitments. You can switch whenever you like without paying hefty termination fees.
Are there any hidden fees with low-cost carrier plans?
Unlike the big 3, low-cost carriers have transparent pricing. Most fees are included in the monthly cost, and you won’t find unexpected charges like activation or "administrative" fees.
How do I pay for my plan?
Most low-cost carriers offer easy payment options, including online billing, autopay, or prepaid options. Many also offer discounts for paying upfront or signing up for autopay.
Can I add family members to my plan?
Yes! Some low-cost carriers offer family plans or multi-line discounts. But just by signing up the whole family to a low-cost carrier without the discount could save you up to $600 a year, per line.
Do low-cost carriers offer custom data plans?
Yes, while the big 3 only offer unlimited data plans, most people actually don’t need these. You can choose a plan with a data limit that suits your usage to save even more money or an unlimited data plan. It's up to you.
What happens if I go over my data limit?
Depending on the plan, normally, your speeds will be slowed until your next billing cycle, rarely do any charge for overage use. However, some low-cost carriers provide options for purchasing additional data at a reasonable cost.
Do low cost carriers have worse coverage?
No, low-cost carriers use the same towers as the big networks, so you’ll have the same signal strength and coverage as with Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T.
Will I still get access to 5G service with a low-cost carrier?
Yes, all low-cost carriers now offer 5G service, as they use the same networks as the big 3. You will need a compatible phone and plan, but 5G is increasingly available across low-cost carriers.
Will I experience slower data speeds with a low-cost carrier?
You may experience slower speeds during peak times if your low-cost carrier deprioritizes data. However, outside of busy periods, you should enjoy the same fast speeds as you would with major carriers. Your speeds will depend on the network’s traffic at any given moment.
Will I lose service in rural or remote areas?
No, low-cost carriers provide coverage in rural and remote areas, just like major networks. The coverage is essentially the same, as they all use the same towers and infrastructure.
What if I need customer support?
While customer service experiences can vary, many low-cost carriers offer excellent customer support. They tend to focus on customer satisfaction and transparency without the frustration of endless hold times or high-pressure sales tactics often seen with the big carriers.
Are low-cost carriers reliable for customer support?
Yes, most low-cost carriers offer reliable customer support. It varies by carrier but you’ll find they offer online support or phone assistance.
Can I get support in-person at a store with a low-cost carrier?
Most low-cost carriers don’t have physical stores, so in-person support may be limited. However, most low-cost carriers offer strong online support or call center assistance to resolve issues remotely.
Will I get the same level of customer support?
While low-cost carriers may not offer as many in-store support options as big carriers, they generally provide reliable and helpful customer support through phone and online channels. Their support tends to be more personal and straightforward compared to larger, more corporate carriers.
What types of issues can customer support help with?
Customer support can assist with a wide range of issues, including billing inquiries, plan changes, technical issues, device troubleshooting, network connectivity problems, and account management.
Can I keep my current phone and phone number?
Yes, you can keep both your current phone and phone number when switching to a low-cost carrier. The process is easy, and most low-cost carriers offer tools to help you through the transfer.
Is it easy to switch carriers?
Yes, it’s quick and easy! Low-cost carriers typically allow you to sign up online, bring your own phone, and transfer your number. The process is simple, and customer support is available to guide you if needed.
Will there be any downtime during the switch?
In most cases, there should be minimal downtime during the switch. The porting process usually takes a few hours to complete, but you can often continue using your current service until the transfer is finalized. Make sure to complete the switch during business hours for faster processing.
How do I know if my phone is compatible?
You can check if your phone is compatible by looking up the low-cost carrier’s compatibility list on their website or using your IMEI number.
What if I want to upgrade my phone?
Many low-cost carriers offer device financing or discounts for purchasing a new phone through them. However, you're also free to bring your own unlocked phone giving you flexibility.
Will I be able to use my phone internationally?
Some low-cost carriers offer international calling and roaming options, but it's important to check with the specific carrier for details. Some carriers may offer affordable add-ons for international calls and data.
Are international calls more expensive with a low-cost carrier?
Many low-cost carriers offer affordable international calling plans or add-ons to help keep costs down, but the exact rates can vary.
Can I use an international calling plan while traveling abroad?
Yes, if your low-cost carrier supports international roaming, you can use your international calling plan while abroad. However, be sure to check roaming rates and coverage before you travel to avoid unexpected costs.
Can I use my phone to call internationally while using Wi-Fi?
Yes, many low-cost carriers allow you to make international calls over Wi-Fi using apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or other VoIP services. This can be a cost-effective way to call internationally, as it doesn’t count toward your carrier's voice minutes or incur additional charges.

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