How to choose the best cell phone plan
Your personal priorities will determine the best cell phone plan for you. That said, there are some universal factors that everyone needs to consider when picking a phone plan.
Network coverage
If coverage isn’t strong in the places you spend the most time—your home, workplace, gym, or even local parks—your phone plan won’t do you much good, no matter how cheap it is. When you compare phone plans, always check coverage maps in your ZIP code, which network the carrier uses, and real-world performance in your area.
Monthly plan cost
We found that Americans waste over $1,500 a year on their phone plans. Most people barely use all of the bells and whistles on their phone plans. Just because a plan is priced affordably doesn't mean you'll necessarily be sacrificing a great experience. Decide first how much you are willing to spend per month, then explore the options within that range that meet the rest of the criteria below.
Premium data
"Premium" is a fancy way of saying high-speed data. While unlimited data is truly unlimited, most plans don't give you unlimited high-speed data—instead, your speeds will either be deprioritized or throttled once you go through your premium data allowance.
How much premium data you need depends on various factors, including what types of things you do on your phone (constant streaming versus just texting) and how often you're connected to Wi-Fi rather than using your cellular data.
Most people use less than 20GB of data per month, so don't get sucked in by astronomical data allowances that don't fit your budget... you likely won't even use it.
Perks and extra features
Some plans subsidize flashy perks to grab your attention. Evaluate whether those perks are worth the added cost to the plan. For example, Verizon offers the Disney Bundle at a discounted price of $10/month. If you already subscribe to Disney, this could be an enticing offer—but you'll also pay a premium for a Verizon unlimited plan. Conversely, you could get that same Verizon coverage via a Visible Wireless plan, which would end up being cheaper per month even when paying for the Disney Bundle at full price.
Ready to compare plans?
If you’re still asking, “What is the best phone plan for me?” the answer depends on your budget, coverage needs, and data usage. Use our tools to compare phone plans side by side and explore our expert picks for the best cell phone plans available right now.
MVNOs: The best way to lower your phone bill
In our testing and interviews, we've found that most people hesitate to switch from a major carrier because of uncertainty about coverage or service. We're here to dispel that myth.
An MVNO carrier, or mobile virtual network operator, offers the exact same coverage as the major network it operates on, but at a fraction of the cost. It rents unused space from one (or more!) of the Big Three and sells that space to its customers at a significant discount. You get the same 4G and 5G service, just like you would through Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile, but your phone bill is typically cut in half.
Popular MVNOs include:
- Mint Mobile, a T-Mobile MVNO
- Visible, a Verizon MVNO
- Cricket, an AT&T MVNO
There are pros and cons to going with an MVNO, but our experts agree that the benefits typically outweigh the downsides.
- You pay significantly less for the same speeds and coverage
- Some MVNOs offer access to more than one network
- Most MVNOs include as much priority data as the major carriers, plus hotspot
- Subsidized perks like streaming are rare (but some do offer them!)
- Phone deals (trade-in, BOGO, financing, etc.) aren't typically as attractive
- Family plan discounts are either limited or don't apply
The bottom line: an MVNO offers you everything you need, rather than asking you to pay for services you likely never or rarely use. Why pay for unlimited premium data (at a premium cost) when most people use less than 20GB/month? Save yourself some coin and switch to an MVNO.
Cellular network coverage
4G LTE, 5G, millimeter wave, C-band... all of these terms can be confusing, but they all boil down to one thing: network coverage. Your phone carrier broadcasts its cellular signal via a network of towers, all of which operate and distribute that signal via different spectrum wavelengths. The more towers and spectrum a carrier has, the stronger its network is—and this strength varies by geographic area. So what does that mean for you?
What's the difference between 4G LTE and 5G networks?
4G and 5G represent the different generations of cellular technology, each of which operates on different cellular spectrums.
- 4G is the most widely available, with Verizon offering the most robust 4G LTE coverage nationwide.
- 4G speeds typically peak around 100Mbps.
- 5G isn't as widely available as 4G LTE as the carriers continue to build their networks. T-Mobile leads the pack with the best 5G coverage in the country.
- 5G speeds can peak as high as 1Gbps thanks to the higher frequency spectrum it operates on.
Population coverage vs. geographic coverage
When carriers claim to offer 99% nationwide coverage, what they really mean is they cover 99% of the population. Populations are concentrated in urban and metropolitan areas, so AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile focus on building out network infrastructure to accommodate where the most people live. Each of the major carriers is pretty even in terms of reliable coverage in populated areas.
When looking at each carrier's geographic coverage map, the story changes. All three carriers have dead zones in more remote areas, where coverage is spotty at best, with T-Mobile trailing the other two in rural coverage.
How to find the best coverage near you
The best way to know who offers the best coverage in the places you live and travel is to compare each carrier's coverage map. Our coverage map tool looks at all three national networks—simply check and/or uncheck the carriers you're interested in and zoom in to your area to see what coverage looks like near you. You can also use our search tool to enter your zip code for a full list of plans with strong coverage in your area.
Which carrier is the best and why?
There are many different types of carriers and plans, and the best one is a personal choice. But if you're asking us, we've tested and reviewed dozens of phone carriers, so we know a thing or two about what to look for. Our picks for the best phone carriers are:
Visible
This Verizon MVNO offers two cheap unlimited plans—and that's it. We like that they don't try to confuse you with a bunch of options that aren't really all that different from one another. In our testing, we found them both reliable and fast, offering everything you need to stay connected without any expensive frills that we typically don't use.
Mint Mobile
Operating on T-Mobile's network, Mint provides just four plans catering to a variety of user types. Our testing found that Mint Mobile really does give the best of T-Mobile's 5G service without paying T-Mobile prices—our speeds were consistently fast, never dipping below 200Mbps, and we found no dead zones in metro and urban areas. Mint is also unique because it sells its plans in multi-month packages, with cheaper prices available if you pay ahead for longer.
US Mobile
We were already fans of US Mobile, thanks to the value they add to their phone plans without adding any cost (like a free streaming perk when you create a family plan!). But we were truly sold once they became a 3-network MVNO—meaning they operate on Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T—and then debuted their Teleport feature, allowing you to switch to and from any network you choose whenever you want to.
T-Mobile
If we had to choose a major carrier, we'd go with T-Mobile. Despite its seriously pricey plans, the carrier offers the best multi-line discounts of the three majors, and still includes some free perks like Netflix and Apple TV+ (which neither of its major competitors offer for free anymore). Plus, it has invested the most in its 5G network, offering faster and more reliable 5G speeds nationwide.
From iPhone to Android: How to pick the best phone
Today's smartphones are basically tiny supercomputers that fit in your pocket. With powerful processors, AI integrations, and gorgeous camera hardware, it's hard to differentiate which phone you should choose.
When deciding to purchase a phone, consider these factors:
- Operating system: Are you already integrated into a software ecosystem? If you love Apple's iOS, an iPhone is the obvious choice; if you're already on Google's platform, an Android device is your best bet.
- Device diversity: Apple offers one device, the iPhone, with several different models to choose from. Android devices run the gamut from Samsung Galaxies to Google Pixels to Motorola Razrs and beyond.
- Cost: Today's phones typically cost $1,000 or more for new releases... but you don't always need to upgrade to the latest model to get the latest tech. Decide on a budget first, then find a device that works for your wallet.
You can save significant cash by taking advantage of cell phone deals such as trade-in or switching offers. Trade-in deals let you swap your old phone for a brand-new one and get a certain amount of money off the sticker price; the discount is applied to your phone bill in the form of a monthly credit. Switching offers are exclusive to customers looking to switch from one carrier to another; you can often get a free phone this way.
Do you really need the latest device?
Today's smartphones are basically tiny supercomputers that fit in your pocket, and the benefits of that powerful technology, but do you really need to drop thousands of dollars to get a quality smartphone?
We think it's smarter to make the most of the phone you already have. Most people use a fraction of their smartphone's capabilities; between native operating system features and downloadable apps, your phone can likely do far more for you than you are currently using it for. We have guides to help you unleash the power of the phone in your pocket.
If you ARE in the market for a new device, consider snatching one that's at least one model year old. Because iterations between current smartphone generations are so slight, you'll get 99% of the latest technology but for a much lower cost.
What is WhistleOut's comparison tool?
Our comparison tool helps you sort through hundreds of cell phone plans from over 40 carriers to find the right plan that meets your data and budget needs. Using the tools filters, you can choose the amount of data you need, how much you're willing to spend, what coverage network you're interested in, whether you want to look at a specific carrier, and even whether you want to see discounts you may qualify for (like military or teacher discounts). You can also add phone models to see who offers that particular phone along with the plan you're interested in. Start by choosing the number of lines you want and setting your initial filters—then you're ready to search!
Always up-to-date. WhistleOut is the only site to monitor all the price changes in the market. Our data is always accurate and up-to-date, so you can be confident that the latest and best cell phone plans are at your fingertips.
Flexible. We allow you to search for multiple lines, BYOP and non-BYOP plans, contract and no-contract, and more.
Customizable. Our powerful search filters and sorting allow you to tailor your results according to what's important to you, whether it's specific carriers, the prepaid expiry period, international calling features, and many more.
Best in the market. WhistleOut is the only site to be able to compare hundreds of thousands of different comparison scenarios, from switching a single line with unlimited data to a family plan with line-specific data allotments or finding the cheapest phones available right now.
Our guides cover everything from who has the best 5G coverage, the best phones for kids, and which plan offers the cheapest international calls. WhistleOut has you covered with the best search engine in the market to help you get the perfect plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own phone to a new plan?
Yes! Most carriers allow you to bring your own phone (BYOP) when you switch as long as it’s compatible with their network. You’ll typically need to check the IMEI number of your device to confirm compatibility. BYOP options are often more affordable since you don’t need to finance a new phone.
Will I need to unlock my phone before switching?
Usually, yes. If your phone is locked to your current carrier, you’ll need to request an unlock before switching. Most carriers will unlock your phone for free as long as you're up to date on payments and your device is paid off.
Can I keep my phone number when switching?
You can keep your phone number when switching to a new carrier. Just be sure you don't cancel your existing plan before switching to ensure a smooth port process.
Is there a fee to cancel my current plan?
It depends. If you're on a contract or device payment plan, you might have to pay an early termination fee or the remaining balance on your phone. If you're on a month-to-month or prepaid plan, you can usually cancel at any time without penalty.
How long does it take to activate a new phone plan?
Activation is usually quick, especially if you're using an eSIM. Most phone plans are active within a few minutes to a few hours after you sign up. If you're bringing your own phone and number, the process may take a bit longer while your number is being transferred.
What’s the difference between prepaid and postpaid plans?
Prepaid plans require you to pay upfront for service each month — no contracts, credit checks, or surprise charges. They're great for budget-conscious users or anyone who wants flexibility. Postpaid plans bill you at the end of each month and often come with features like phone financing, family plans, and premium perks. They may require a credit check and sometimes a contract or installment agreement for your device.
How do phone payment plans work?
Phone payment plans let you spread out the cost of a new phone over time, usually 12 to 36 months. Instead of paying the full price upfront, you’ll pay a monthly installment added to your phone bill. Keep in mind that if you decide to switch carriers, you'll need to pay off the device in full.
Are there any truly unlimited data plans?
Major carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T offer truly unlimited data plans, meaning there are no data caps, deprioritization, or slowdowns.
Methodology: How we evaluate phone plans and carriers
WhistleOut assesses cell phone plans and mobile carriers based on the following criteria:
- Price & value:
Not all cheap plans are “bad,” and not all expensive plans are worth it. We look at everything a plan includes and compare it both to other plans from the same carrier, as well as similar plans from competitors in the market, to determine whether the value is consistent with the price. - High-speed data:
Also called “premium” data, this is how much data you get at full 4G/5G speeds before they can or will slow down. The more guaranteed high-speed data the plan includes, the better experience you’ll generally have—but there’s also usually a limit to how much you actually need, and we ensure that you’re not overpaying for data that will go unused. - Coverage & network reliability:
The breadth of each carrier’s 4G LTE and 5G networks determines your reception and service. Particularly in the case of 5G, some carriers offer far more robust coverage than others, which affects how their phone plans perform in different parts of the country. - Plan extras and perks:
In addition to the basics—talk, text, and data—some plans throw in freebies like hotspot allowances, cloud storage, entertainment subscriptions, or service discounts.
Our mobile experts leverage hands-on testing, proprietary data, and real-world customer reports to evaluate mobile carriers and cell phone plans. Whenever we compare carriers, we do so by analyzing their coverage, cost, and plan options. We consider plan-specific elements, including perks, premium data allowances, and mobile hotspot allocations. After performing hands-on testing and extensive research, including diving into customer feedback, we pick the best carrier and/or plan we feel meets the needs of most people.
Visit our guide to choosing a phone plan to dive deeper into a cell phone carrier or plan to find the one that best meets your specific needs.
How we choose and rate phone apps
Mobile apps are the best (and most fun) way to personalize and enhance your iPhone or Android device. From games and organization apps to holiday and health and fitness apps, WhistleOut focuses on Android and iPhone apps that are easy to use and affordable. We evaluate mobile apps through hands-on testing and rate them on a five-star scale based on the following criteria:
- User experience: We search for apps that enhance the user experience, improving the power of your phone and making your life less complicated. The apps we recommend are intuitive, allowing users to put them to use as soon as they open them.
- Price and value: We select apps that charge minimal download fees and tend to favor apps that don't charge anything. We do include some apps that charge fees, though we guarantee that they're worth the price tag.
- Efficacy: App developers like to talk a big game; we test their products to see if they deliver on their promises.
- Practicality: Your phone has a limited amount of storage, so you don't want to clog it with single-use apps that don't improve your day-to-day life. We reward apps that are worth their weight in data.
- Privacy & security: We evaluate the permissions an app requests, sussing out the legitimate from the suspect. We also scour user reviews on relevant app stores to see if customers are reporting security concerns and investigate the veracity of those complaints.
.png?w=280&h=280&usm=20&usmrad=0.8&fit=crop "Best Cell Phone Deals for June 2026: Get the New iPhone 17 for Free")
