Welcome to my comprehensive guide on how to find the best unlimited talk, text and data plans to meet both your connectivity needs AND your budget!
Choosing a carrier and cell phone plan these days can be downright overwhelming given how many options exist across major providers, smaller discount carriers, and flexible new monthly plans.
When an unlimited plan is right for your data usage amounts, though, it can provide incredible freedom and convenience by lifting monthly data caps. Streaming video, uploading giant photos, listening to playlists for hours and never seeing “you’ve used 80% of your data” warnings is pretty great!
However, not every “unlimited” plan delivers the same experience and value. You have to look closely at the nitty gritty details like:
- How much high-speed data you actually get before potential throttling
- If mobile hotspot for other devices is included and how much
- Whether video/music streaming eat into your data allotment
- If discounts for family plans or bundles could save you cash
This guide will break things down to help you make sense of it all! I’ve compared 5 top options for cheap unlimited talk, text and data plan bargains across major carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile as well as upstart “MVNO” carriers you may not know much about.
I’ll summarize need-to-know plan details, pros and cons, who each carrier best suits, plus plenty more wireless wisdom so you can feel 100% confident you’ve selected the perfect budget-friendly unlimited data plan for your needs.
Let’s get to it!
Overview: Today’s Top Unlimited Data Plans
Before we dive into specifics, let’s briefly define unlimited data plans and look at why they’ve surged in popularity over recent years…
An unlimited data plan gives you endless full-speed 4G LTE data, calls and texts without having to micromanage monthly usage or face overages. For today’s video streaming-obsessed, notification-pinging digital lifestyles, unlimited plans deliver incredible flexibility.
Unlimited offerings first gained traction several years back as a premium perk included only on high-end expensive plans. But over the past 2-3 years they’ve gone mainstream as all major carriers now offer unlimited data packages alongside the classic “5GB per month” type plans.
We have streaming entertainment and social media addiction to thank for this unlimited data revolution!
| % of Mobile Data From: | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Audio & Video Streaming | 67% | 73% |
| Social Media | 12% | 15% |
| Web Browsing | 9% | 5% |
| Gaming | 9% | 5% |
| Other | 3% | 2% |
Source: Sandvine 2022 Mobile Internet Phenomena Report
As you can see in the table above, the bulk (73%!) of all mobile internet traffic comes from audio and video streaming platforms like YouTube, Netflix, Spotify and TikTok. Social media accounts for another hefty chunk.
The takeaway? We’re using more mobile data than ever thanks largely to streaming and social platforms…and monthly data caps just don’t cut it anymore for most users.
Unlimited data plans to the rescue!
Now, let’s examine 5 top options for unlimited talk, text and high speed data, starting with the cheapest available!
The 5 Most Affordable Unlimited Mobile Plans
| Carrier | Monthly Price | Network | Hotspot | Streaming | Int‘l Roaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Mobile | $30 | T-Mobile | ❌ | 480p | ❌ |
| Visible | $40 | Verizon | ☑️ | Uncapped | ❌ |
| T-Mobile Essentials | $60 | T-Mobile | 5GB | 480p | Text, 2G |
| Cricket Wireless | $55 | AT&T | 15GB | 480p | ❌ |
| Boost Mobile | $50 | T-Mobile | 30GB | 480p | ❌ |
Below I’ll provide an overview detailing what you need to know about each low-cost unlimited carrier option:
1. Mint Mobile
Starting Price: $30/month for 3 months ($40/month after)
Highlights:
- Unlimited talk, text, 5G/LTE data
- Mobile hotspot not included
- 480p video streaming
- Runs on T-Mobile‘s reliable network
- Free calls to Mexico & Canada
Who it‘s good for:
Mint Mobile is ideal for individuals looking for a very basic but reliable unlimited talk, text and 5G data for around $40 monthly. You get T-Mobile‘s coverage at reduced MVNO pricing. Those who stream lots of HD video or need mobile hotspot may need to upgrade though.
2. Visible
Starting Price: $40/month
Highlights:
- Straightforward unlimited plan
- Uses Verizon‘s coast-to-coast LTE network
- Includes unlimited full-speed mobile hotspot
- Uncapped resolution for streaming
- No annual contracts
Who it‘s good for:
Visible stands out for bundling unlimited high-definition video streaming AND unlimited full-speed hotspot for only $40 a month. So it‘s fantastic for heavy media streamers and anyone who uses their phone‘s data service to connect other devices like laptops or gaming equipment.
3. T-Mobile Essentials
Starting Price: $60/month for one line
Highlights:
- Low-cost T-Mobile unlimited plan
- 5G and LTE data speeds
- 5GB smartphone mobile hotspot
- Video streaming at 480p quality
- Unlimited talk & text to Mexico and Canada
Who it‘s good for:
T-Mobile Essentials appeals to users wanting unlimited everything on T-Mobile‘s fast 5G network starting at just $60 monthly. You don‘t get premium perks like HD streaming or oodles of hotspot data, but the basics are very affordable.
4. Cricket Wireless
Starting Price: $55/month
Highlights:
- Powered by AT&T LTE coverage
- 22GB before potential throttling
- 15GB monthly mobile hotspot
- Video streams capped at 480p
- Group save discounts available
Who it‘s good for:
Cricket rides on AT&T‘s reliable service with lots of high-speed data for $55 each month. There are nice discounts available if you bundle multiple lines too. Downsides are mediocre 480p standard definition video and limited hotspot amounts for heavy media streamers.
5. Boost Mobile
Starting Price: $50/month
Highlights:
- Runs on T-Mobile‘s nationwide 5G
- 30GB monthly mobile hotspot allowance
- Video streaming at 480p quality
- 35GB high-speed threshold before throttling potential
- Multi-line savings available
Who it‘s good for:
If you‘re looking for the cheapest unlimited 5G plan that includes plenty of hotspot data for other devices, Boost Mobile delivers. They provide reliable T-Mobile coverage with generous high-speed data starting at just $50. Definitely consider Boost if you have multiple line needs too.
Key Things to Evaluate Before Choosing Your Plan
Hopefully the previous section gave you a helpful starting point of a few top options worth considering for affordable unlimited monthly rate plans!
Next, let‘s explore a few KEY considerations and decision factors that I always recommend keeping in mind while evaluating unlimited data providers…
Data Thresholds Before Potential Throttling
One reality of unlimited data plans is that the major carriers ALL implement some sort of “priority data thresholds” before they may temporarily slow (throttle) your speeds during busy network times.
This threshold ensures that ridiculously heavy unlimited data users don’t overload towers and impact connectivity speeds for everyone in their area during peak congestion periods. I know, I know…it stinks that every plan isn‘t truly 100% unlimited ALL the time.
But honestly, chances are you‘ll never feel impacted unless you use a TON of data each month. We‘re talking like over 50+GB per line. Even then throttling usually only occurs in dense urban areas during weeknights or other peak times when everyone is streaming Netflix and clogging up the bandwidth.
It‘s also temporary until your next billing cycle resets. Unlimited data DOES still mean unlimited data…your access never completely cuts off.
When comparing plans, here are typical monthly full-speed data thresholds before any potential throttling MAY happen:
| Carrier | Full-Speed Data Threshold |
|---|---|
| Verizon/Visible | 50GB |
| T-Mobile Magenta | 100GB |
| AT&T Unlimited | 100GB |
| Mint Mobile | 35GB |
| Boost Mobile | 35GB |
I always recommend choosing an unlimited data provider with the highest data thresholds, just for extra peace of mind in case you do gobble a ton of gigabytes randomly one month.
Mobile Hotspot for Other Devices
One benefit of unlimited data rate plans is that you can often use your phone’s data connectivity to get other WiFi-only devices online.
Maybe you want to use your phone as a mobile hotspot to let a laptop or tablet get internet access while commuting. Or perhaps you’d like to wirelessly connect a gaming console or smart speaker in your home rather than paying for a separate home internet plan.
Some carriers include generous amounts of full-speed hotspot data with their unlimited plans, while others charge extra or limit slower-speed allotments.
When evaluating options, understand how much hotspot data is in each plan and if you’ll be subject to overage fees or speed reductions if exceeding that amount.
Video & Audio Streaming Quality
To optimize network resources, some carriers implement limits on streaming resolution and bandwidth. For example, video quality may be DVD-style 480p definition instead of crystal clear 4K resolution that eats up more data.
This isn’t extremely common anymore, but it’s useful to know if and how your potential carrier could limit streaming bandwidth. Unlimited data means nothing if you can’t even watch crisp HD Netflix on your phone!
International Roaming & Coverage
Most standard domestic US unlimited plans do NOT include international roaming access if you travel overseas. You‘ll typically need to purchase a separate international data package through your carrier to avoid roaming fees abroad.
However, some premium unlimited plans (like T-Mobile Magenta Plus) provide either 2G speeds or full LTE connectivity when traveling internationally to select partner countries. This can be incredibly convenient if you travel often.
Before choosing any unlimited data plan, verify what (if any) international roaming ability is included and research add-on packages for trips you may take later on.
Reliability & Customer Service Reputation
Here‘s an important reality about wireless carriers: no network or cell phone plan is 100% perfect and trouble-free ALL the time! Even reliable big networks like Verizon or AT&T have occasional outages or issues.
That‘s why a provider‘s customer service quality and channels are so vital. If something goes wrong with your new unlimited data plan, you want reassurance that knowledgeable support reps will be accessible and helpful resolving any problems.
I always investigate carriers‘ ratings for customer service and technical support before signing up. Search reviews on third-party sites like Trustpilot and Better Business Bureau focusing on keywords like “customer service” and “technical support.”
If multiple reviewers describe long hold times, outsourced overseas agents reading from scripts, or failing to resolve device issues…steer clear! Good customer support makes ALL the difference, even with cheaper unlimited providers.
Tips for Saving Money Each Month
Alright, let‘s wrap up with some pro tips to keep your shiny new unlimited data plan affordable month to month!
First and most obvious, leverage any new subscriber deals and discounts you qualify for when first signing up. Carriers want to hook in new customers so take advantage! Just be sure to set a calendar reminder to re-evaluate plan rates and features once your introductory offers expire in 6-12 months.
Speaking of discounts, ALWAYS inquire about extra ways to save each month too! Options like setting up autopay, going paperless with e-bills, or verifying military, senior, teacher or student status could mean saving an extra 5-10% monthly. Every bit counts!
Don‘t just default to major carriers like AT&T and Verizon either… take some time to get quotes from MVNO providers riding on their networks too for the best industry pricing. Companies like Mint, Boost and Cricket leverage that infrastructure at reduced cost.
Oh and whenever you‘re within WiFi range, take 10 seconds to manually connect rather than relying on cellular data in the background. This helps conserve high-speed data for when you really need it out and about. Some phones even offer "WiFi assist" type features to automatically default to connecting trusted WiFi networks you commonly use.
Finally, monitor your usage at least occasionally (maybe each billing cycle) through your carrier’s app or online portal to identify if certain device habits or new apps are unexpectedly gulping data. This helps avoid any ugly billing surprises or overages since you stay aware of consumption trends.
Let‘s Recap – How to Find the Perfect Unlimited Plan
Phew, that was a LOT of intel and consideration points around choosing an unlimited data rate plan!
Let‘s recap the key criteria I recommend keeping top of mind:
- Establish your ideal monthly budget range for cell service
- Confirm which carriers offer solid LTE coverage and speeds in your area
- Understand unlimited data thresholds before any potential throttling
- Evaluate if mobile hotspot for other devices is needed
- Assess video/music streaming quality importance
- Consider discounts for multiple lines/family members
- Research customer service and support reliability
Armed with the knowledge above around top carriers‘ options, pricing, pros and cons…I‘m confident you can select a wireless provider and plan that checks all YOUR boxes for an affordable unlimited data plan.
I‘m happy to answer any other questions that pop up during your research and decision process too! Just shoot me a text or DM.
Let me know how the carrier selection process goes and what unlimited plan you end up with! Curious to hear your experience.
Talk soon,
[Your Name]
