The Best Cell Phone Plans of 2025

Finding the best cell phone plan in 2025 is more important than ever. With new technologies and evolving plan structures, choosing the right plan can save you time, stress, and money. Whether you're looking for unlimited data, international roaming, or just a budget-friendly option, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

What to Look for in a Cell Phone Plan

When choosing a cell phone plan, there are several key factors to consider:

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1. Data Needs

• Assess Usage: Determine how much data you or your family uses each month.
• High-Data Activities: Streaming, gaming, and remote work typically require higher data allowances.
• Low-Data Activities: If you primarily use Wi-Fi, you may only need a minimal data plan for occasional browsing and app usage.

2. Coverage

• Check Coverage Maps: Confirm network reliability in your area. Use Goji Mobile's coverage map to check coverage in your frequent locations instantly. Here is a quick snapshot of each of the major carriers’ 5G coverage in the U.S.:

AT&T Coverage Map

• AT&T provides strong network performance across the U.S., balancing 5G speeds and reliable LTE in less populated areas.

T-Mobile Coverage Map

• T-Mobile’s coverage is notable for its 5G dominance in metropolitan areas, with ongoing improvements in rural regions.

Verizon Coverage Map

• Verizon offers extensive nationwide coverage, excelling in rural and urban areas alike. Their map demonstrates robust 5G availability.

3. Budget

• Set a Spending Limit: Decide how much you’re willing to pay monthly.
• Compare Features: Balance cost with perks and features you actually need.
• Avoid Hidden Fees: Look for plans with transparent pricing.

4. Contract vs. No-Contract Plans

• Flexibility: No-contract plans allow you to switch carriers anytime.
• Stability: Contract plans may offer better deals on devices but lock you in for longer terms.
• Prepaid Options: Great for users who prefer paying upfront without long-term commitments.

5. Perks and Extras

• Streaming Services: Some plans include free subscriptions to Netflix or Disney+.
• Hotspot Data: Useful for tethering devices to your phone’s internet.
• International Features: Look for free or affordable international calling and roaming options.

Our Top Picks for Top Cell Phone Plans of 2025

Here’s a quick look at our recommendations before we dive into the details:

• Best Overall Phone Plan: Mint Mobile Unlimited Plan
• Best Value Phone Plan: US Mobile Unlimited Starter Plan
• Best Unlimited Plan: Visible's Unlimited Plan
• Best Family Plan: AT&T Unlimited Starter SL
• Best Plan for International Travel & Roaming: Verizon Unlimited Ultimate Plan
• Best Plan for Light Users: Tello Mobile Prepaid 1 GB 
• Best Budget Phone Plan: Mint Mobile’s 5GB Plan
• Best Plan for Coverage: T-Mobile Essentials Saver

Best Overall Phone Plan: Mint Mobile Unlimited Plan

Mint Mobile Unlimited provides all the data you need at a fraction of the cost of other carriers, making it a standout choice for overall value and performance. Priced at $30 per month for a 12-month plan, $35 per month for a 6-month plan, or $40 per month for a 3-month plan. Plus, since Mint Mobile uses T-Mobile’s towers, you’ll benefit from solid nationwide coverage.

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What we love:

• Affordable pricing at $30/month for 12 months.
• Access to T-Mobile's expansive 5G network.
• Includes 10GB of mobile hotspot data.

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What could be better:

• Data speeds may slow after 40GB of usage.
• Video streaming limited to 480p quality.

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Best Value Phone Plan: US Mobile Unlimited Starter Plan

US Mobile's Unlimited Starter Plan offers unlimited talk, text, and data for $25 per month, providing exceptional value for users seeking comprehensive service without a premium price tag. The plan includes 35GB of high-speed priority data, ensuring consistent performance even during peak times, and 10GB of mobile hotspot data for on-the-go connectivity. Operating on major networks, US Mobile delivers extensive coverage and reliable service across the United States.

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What we love:

• Affordable pricing at $25/month.
• Generous 35GB of high-speed priority data.
• 10GB of mobile hotspot data included.
• Access to nationwide coverage on major networks.

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What could be better:

• Data speeds reduce to 1Mbps after 35GB of usage.
• Video streaming may be limited to 480p quality.

Best Unlimited Phone Plan: Visible's Unlimited Plan

Visible’s unlimited plans start at $20 per month, utilizing Verizon's robust 5G and 4G LTE networks. This plan includes unlimited talk, text, and data, along with unlimited mobile hotspot usage, making it a standout choice for users seeking unlimited services at a budget-friendly price.

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What we love:

• Competitive pricing at $20/month.
• Unlimited mobile hotspot usage.
• Access to Verizon's extensive network.

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What could be better:

• Hotspot speeds capped at 5Mbps.
• Potential deprioritization during network congestion.

Best Family Plan: AT&T Unlimited Starter SL

​​AT&T's Unlimited Your Way plans allow families to customize each line according to individual needs, offering a mix of Unlimited Starter, Extra, and Premium plans. With multi-line discounts, families can save up to $20 per line per month. Each family member gets their own plan and data, making it a flexible and cost-effective choice.

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What we love:

• Customizable plans for each line.
• Significant multi-line discounts.
• Unlimited talk, text, and data.
• Access to AT&T's 5G network.

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What could be better:

• Pricing structure can be confusing.
• Data may slow during congestion on some plans.

Best Plan for International Travel & Roaming: Verizon Unlimited Ultimate Plan

​​Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate Plan provides unlimited talk, text, and data, along with extensive international roaming options, making it ideal for frequent travelers. Priced at $90 per month, it includes unlimited talk and text in Mexico and Canada, as well as in over 210 countries, ensuring you're connected wherever you go. While premium-priced, it offers comprehensive coverage and high-speed data both domestically and internationally.

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What we love:

• Extensive international roaming capabilities.
• Unlimited talk and text in 210+ countries, plus Mexico and Canada.
• High-speed data without throttling.
• Access to Verizon's reliable network.

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What could be better:

• Higher price point compared to other plans.
• May not be necessary for users who don’t travel frequently.

Best Plan for Light Users: Tello Mobile Prepaid 1 GB 

Tello Mobile Prepaid 1 GB offers 1GB of data with unlimited talk and text for $5 a month, making it perfect for light users or those primarily using Wi-Fi. Operating on T-Mobile's network, it ensures reliable coverage at an affordable price.

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What we love:

• Very affordable pricing.
• A budget-friendly option for those primarily using Wi-Fi.
• No contracts or hidden fees.

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What could be better:

• Limited data allowance may not suffice for moderate users.
• No international roaming options included.

Best Plan for Those on a Budget: Mint Mobile’s 5GB Plan

Mint Mobile's 5GB plan provides unlimited talk and text with 5GB of high-speed data for just $15 per month (for a 12-month plan). Utilizing T-Mobile's network, it offers excellent value for budget-conscious users who have moderate data needs.

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What we love:

• Extremely affordable at $15/month.
• Access to T-Mobile's 5G and 4G LTE networks.
• Option to bring your own device.

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What could be better:

• 5GB data cap may be limiting for some users.
• Upfront payment required for multi-month plans.

Plan With the Best Coverage: T-Mobile Essentials Saver

The T-Mobile Essentials Saver plan provides solid coverage with 50GB of premium data and unlimited talk and text, all for just $50 per month. This plan includes unlimited hotspot usage, making it a great choice for users who need reliable connectivity. Plus, it offers roaming benefits in two countries, ensuring you stay connected even when traveling abroad.

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What we love:

• Affordable at $50/month.
• 50GB of prioritized premium data.
• Unlimited talk, text, and hotspot usage.
• Roaming in two countries included.

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What could be better:

• Fewer perks compared to higher-tier plans.
• Limited international roaming options.

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FYI: We chose T-Mobile for best coverage because we evaluated cell coverage in 20 major metro areas across different states in the U.S., and the carrier with the highest percentage of good coverage in these metro areas was T-Mobile! Check out our article here for the detailed data and analysis.

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Want to check coverage in your area? Try out our coverage map to see which carrier offers the best service near you!

How We Ranked Each Cell Phone Plan

We analyzed dozens of cell phone plans to bring you the best options for 2025. Each plan was evaluated based on:

• Pricing and value
• Coverage and reliability
• Data speeds and limits
• Extra features and perks
• Customer reviews and satisfaction scores

We focused on plans that deliver real value and flexibility to meet a variety of needs.