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Compare prepaid phone carriers

We've put together a comparison of some featured prepaid carrier plans. For more information, choose the links at the bottom of the chart.

Lively Total Wireless Tracfone Mint Mobile Boost Mobile Verizon Prepaid AT&T Prepaid Simple Mobile Ultra Mobile Cricket Wireless
Featured smartphone plan pricing
$14.99/mo.
$25/mo. with 50% promotion" See disclaimers"
$20/mo.
$15/mo." See disclaimers"
$15/mo.
$40/mo.
$30/mo. + tax
$25/mo.
$19/mo.
$30/mo.
High-speed data
100MB" See disclaimers"
Unlimited
4GB
5GB
5GB
5GB
5GB
3GB
3GB
5GB" See disclaimers"
Talk & text
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited" See disclaimers"
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Hotspot capability
No
Yes (15GB)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
International calling
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Additional features
Urgent Response service available. Get help in emergencies big or small, 24/7.
Unlimited Carry-Over Data with active service. Using one of America's top networks.
Sold in 3, 6 or 12-mo. service bundles.
Special deals and exclusive perks with the Boost Mobile Perks Rewards Program.
Loyalty discounts available after 4th month of service.
Low price, powerful network.
Truly Unlimited plans with no high-speed limits. Uses one of America's top networks.
Low monthly price.
No annual contract, no overage charges, monthly taxes included.

Disclosures

Lively high-speed data:
Required with Jitterbug Smart3. Data plans start at $2.49/mo.

Total Wireless pricing:
Pay as low as $25/mo for the Total 5G Unlimited Plan when you bring your own phone with Auto Pay. Guaranteed for 5 years.

Mint Mobile pricing:
Upfront payment of $45 for 3-month plan ($15/mo. equiv.) required. New customer offer first 3 months only; then full-price plan options available. Taxes & fees extra.

AT&T Prepaid talk & text:
Unlimited Talk and Text: Includes unlimited talk and text within the U.S., and unlimited text from the U.S. to over 230 countries. For the list of over 230 countries available for texting from the U.S., go to att.com/prepaidintltext. By going to this site, you are entering a site hosted and operated by AT&T. Please review their Privacy Policy. All personal information you provide is subject to that Privacy Policy. Different terms and conditions may apply.

Cricket Wireless high-speed data:
Speeds reduced to 128 Kbps after data allowance is used.

Comparing prepaid phone carriers

Why compare prepaid phone plans?

Comparing prepaid wireless phone plans helps you get the best value for your money. With so many options available, each offering different pricing, data allowances and features, taking the time to compare prepaid phones and plans helps you avoid overpaying for services you don’t need or ending up with a plan that doesn’t meet your usage habits.

Another reason to compare prepaid cell phone plans is to ensure you’re getting reliable coverage. Not all providers use the same networks, and coverage quality can vary depending on your location. By researching different carriers and checking coverage maps, you can choose a prepaid plan that delivers strong signal strength and consistent performance where you need it most.

Beyond price and coverage, prepaid plans also come with a variety of perks that can improve your overall experience. Some offer mobile hotspot data, international calling or rollover data, while others prioritize affordability with basic talk and text plans. Comparing prepaid phone services allows you to choose one that aligns with your priorities, whether that means maximizing features or keeping costs as low as possible.

Finding the best prepaid wireless plan for you

The best prepaid wireless plan for you depends on your personal usage habits and budget. If you rely heavily on data for streaming, gaming or social media, an unlimited data plan might be the best option. However, if you primarily use Wi-Fi and only need occasional mobile data, searching for the cheapest prepaid phone plan with a limited data allowance could save you money.

Another factor to consider is the network provider and coverage in your area. Checking customer reviews and coverage maps can help determine which carrier offers the best reliability in your location. If you travel often, you might also want a plan with nationwide or international coverage, or consider choosing an international SIM card for extended trips abroad.

Finally, look for additional benefits that may enhance your plan. Some prepaid providers offer perks like multi-line discounts, free international texting or no extra fees for mobile hotspot usage. Others may include entertainment subscriptions or discounts on new prepaid phones. Finding the best prepaid wireless plan means balancing affordability, network performance and extra features to ensure you get the most out of your mobile service.