By
Kevin Kearney Sr. Staff Writer
Updated

Tello, the affordable MVNO operating on the nationwide T-Mobile network, recently announced a back-to-school plan that offers unlimited talk and text plus 5GB of data starting at just $10/month. The carrier also marked down the prices of several smartphones, including the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G, Google Pixel 7 Pro, and the iPhone 12 Pro.

The carrier has extended those low prices until August 15. That means students have one last opportunity to grab cheap 5G coverage and affordable cell phones before classes start. Let’s look at what Tello’s back-to-school deals offer so you can take advantage while they’re still available.

Tello's back-to-school deals


Tello’s back-to-school promotion offers new customers a low introductory price for its Unlimited Text, Talk, and 5GB plan. You’ll pay $10 for the first month of service and then $14/month after that. There’s no contract, giving you the flexibility you want in a phone plan.

While the promotion is aimed at students looking for a cheap cell phone plan, it’s not limited to those enrolled in classes. The plan’s discounted price is available for all new Tello customers—no student ID required.

We're Sorry

This product is no longer available

Tello’s back-to-school promotion also includes hot deals on phones. You can score deep discounts on eight smartphones, including $80 off the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G$50 off the Google Pixel 7 Pro, and $40 off a refurbished iPhone 12 Pro.

The Pixel 7 Pro deal is especially appealing. The phone may not be the latest Google smartphone to hit the market, but we found it to be a solid device, with a large 6.7” display, a long-lasting battery, and a sharp, three-lens camera. Grabbing it at such a low price is a steal.

We also like the deal on the Galaxy A23 5G. Released in September 2022, the Galaxy A23 boasts a 6.6” screen, four rear cameras, and an all-day battery. Tello’s offering the phone at a 27% discount, turning the reliable mid-range phone into an undeniable bargain.

Tello's coverage


Tello coverage map
The Tello coverage map. 
Image: Tello Mobile

Tello operates on the nationwide T-Mobile network, which reaches over 62% of the country. As we noted in our hands-on review of Tello, customers in urban areas can expect seamless coverage.

Tello’s plans, including its cheap back-to-school option, also give you access to the largest 5G network in the country, which covers 53% of the country. That’s bigger than both Verizon and AT&T’s 5G networks combined.

You can check out all of Tello’s 5G options below.

#1
Tello
Tello

Unlimited Text, 300 Minutes, and 2GB Plan

  • 2GB of 4G LTE/5G data
  • 2GB mobile hotspot data
$8.00/mo
#2
Tello
Tello

Unlimited Text, Talk, and 2GB Plan

  • 2GB of 4G LTE/5G data
  • 2GB mobile hotspot data
$10.00/mo
#3
Tello
Tello

Unlimited Text, 300 Minutes, and 10GB Plan

  • 10GB of 4G LTE/5G data
  • 10GB mobile hotspot data
$14.00/mo
#4
Tello
Tello

Unlimited Text, Talk, and 10GB Plan

  • 10GB of 4G LTE/5G data
  • 10GB mobile hotspot data
$15.00/mo
#5
Tello
Tello

Unlimited Text, 300 Minutes, and 20GB Plan

  • 20GB of 4G LTE/5G data
  • 20GB mobile hotspot data
$19.00/mo

About Tello 


Tello stands out in the competitive mobile market as a customer-focused MVNO. Known for its flexible and affordable plans, Tello operates on T-Mobile's nationwide network, ensuring reliable coverage, high-quality service, and access to the country's leading 5G network. What sets Tello apart is its commitment to no hidden fees, no contractual obligations, and full transparency in pricing.

Tello offers affordable plans and great features including:

  • Flexibility—With no contracts, you're never tied down to your Tello plan.
  • No bulk buying—Tello offers the best savings on its single-month plans. Some carriers require you to purchase in monthly bulk packages to get the best savings.
  • Great customer service—Tello's customer service reps are responsive and eager to help.

This page is sponsored by Tello in paid partnership with WhistleOut.

Kevin Kearney

Sr. Staff Writer

Kevin Kearney
Kevin is an experienced journalist and writer whose musings on tech, education, and culture have appeared in Stereogum, InsideHook, The Millions, and elsewhere. As a Senior Staff Writer for WhistleOut, he offers unique expertise on the inner workings of the mobile industry, and has a particular passion for emerging efficiencies within smartphone apps.

Read full bio


Find a Better Phone Plan

Compare carriers, plans, and deals.

Search 39 Carriers

Compare phones and plans from the following carriers...

Latest Cell Phone Deals

Get the iPhone 17 for FREE through AT&T with trade-in and new plan

FREE iPhone 17 with a new line on T-Mobile's Experience Beyond plan

Save up to $1,099.99 on the iPhone 17 Pro Max with trade-in and new line

Save $200 on the Samsung Galaxy S25

Unlimited Data for $25/month

Unlimited data plans starting at just $25/month