The Best Cell Phone Plans in the USA: 2024 Edition

1. Verizon: Best for Coverage

Verizon is widely regarded as the best carrier for network coverage in the USA. Its extensive 4G LTE and growing 5G network provide reliable service across the country, making it an ideal choice for people living in rural areas or those who travel frequently.

• Unlimited Plans: Verizon offers several unlimited data plans, starting with the basic Welcome Unlimited and moving up to the feature-rich Unlimited Plus. The Unlimited Plus plan includes extras like 30GB of premium 5G data, mobile hotspot, and access to Verizon’s Ultra-Wideband (UWB) 5G network, which delivers blazing fast speeds in select urban areas.
• Perks: Some Verizon plans come bundled with subscriptions to streaming services like Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu, making it a great choice for entertainment lovers.

While Verizon’s plans are on the pricier side, its premium network coverage and added benefits can justify the cost for those prioritizing quality and reliability.

2. T-Mobile: Best for 5G and Family Plans

T-Mobile has made significant strides in recent years, particularly with its industry-leading 5G network. Known for being fast, affordable, and customer-friendly, T-Mobile offers some of the best value, especially for those looking for family plans.

• Magenta Plan: T-Mobile’s flagship Magenta plan is one of the best choices for families, offering perks like unlimited 5G data, Netflix for two or more lines, and 100GB of premium data before throttling. Its Magenta MAX plan, an upgrade, offers truly unlimited premium data with no slowdowns.
• 5G Leadership: T-Mobile’s 5G network is the largest and fastest in the U.S., making it a smart choice for people who want to future-proof their phones with the latest technology.
• Perks: T-Mobile includes features like international texting and data in over 210 countries, which is perfect for globetrotters. It also offers military, senior, and first responder discounts.

T-Mobile shines for its blend of high-speed 5G coverage, flexible family plans, and international travel benefits at reasonable rates.

3. AT&T: Best for Bundling

AT&T remains a strong contender in the cell phone plan arena, balancing between robust network coverage and competitive plan pricing. It shines for those who already use AT&T services like internet and TV, thanks to its bundling discounts.

• Unlimited Plans: AT&T offers a range of unlimited plans, from the affordable Unlimited Starter to the more comprehensive Unlimited Premium, which includes 50GB of hotspot data and HBO Max access.
• Strong 5G and LTE Coverage: While AT&T's 5G network isn’t as extensive as T-Mobile’s, its 4G LTE coverage is solid across the country, and its 5G footprint continues to expand rapidly.
• Bundles: AT&T offers excellent deals for customers who combine their wireless service with other AT&T services, like DIRECTV STREAM or home internet, making it an attractive option for households already invested in AT&T products.

For those who want to bundle and save, AT&T is a reliable and well-rounded choice.

4. Visible by Verizon: Best for Budget Unlimited

Visible, a prepaid carrier owned by Verizon, stands out for offering unlimited data at budget-friendly prices. It operates on Verizon’s extensive network, giving customers access to strong 4G LTE and 5G coverage without the hefty price tag.

• One Plan, One Price: Visible keeps things simple with a single plan offering unlimited talk, text, and data for $30/month. There’s also the option to upgrade to the Visible+ plan for $45/month, which includes access to Verizon’s faster 5G Ultra-Wideband network and 50GB of premium data.
• No Contracts: Since Visible operates as a prepaid carrier, there are no long-term contracts, making it easy to switch or cancel at any time.

For those who want access to Verizon’s reliable network without paying Verizon’s premium prices, Visible is one of the best deals on the market.

5. Mint Mobile: Best for Prepaid and Flexibility

Mint Mobile has become a popular choice for budget-conscious customers who prefer prepaid plans. It offers some of the most affordable pricing while operating on T-Mobile’s network, providing access to a fast and extensive 5G and 4G LTE network.

• Flexible Prepaid Options: Mint Mobile’s plans start as low as $15/month for 5GB of data when purchased in bulk (3-, 6-, or 12-month increments). This makes it ideal for customers who prefer paying upfront to secure a lower monthly rate.
• Unlimited Plan: Mint also offers an unlimited plan for just $30/month, undercutting most major carriers. Despite its low cost, the plan includes unlimited talk, text, and data, with 35GB of premium data before potential throttling.

Mint Mobile is perfect for those looking for flexibility and affordability without sacrificing network quality, especially if you're comfortable paying for several months in advance.

Conclusion

The best cell phone plan for you depends on your specific needs—whether it’s network reliability, pricing, or data features. Verizon leads for coverage and premium services, while T-Mobile offers the best family and 5G plans. AT&T is great for bundling with other services, and carriers like Visible and Mint Mobile provide budget-friendly options without sacrificing too much on coverage or features. Carefully considering your priorities—be it network strength, price, or added perks—will help you make the best decision for your mobile needs in 2024.