Unlimited phone data is great – you can stay connected while streaming video, gaming or just getting work done. But there are still restrictions on that data, such as how much you get at the highest speeds before being throttled. These are our recommendations for postpaid plans from three major carriers: AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon.
Our Picks
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- Straightforward pricing
- Unlimited 5G/5GUW high-speed data
- Can get perks such as the streaming bundles as paid add-ons
- Includes hotspot data
- Only Verizon plan to offer satellite texting
- $30 price requires bringing a phone line from another provider
- No per-line discount pricing for multiple lines
- If you switch one line to Simplicity, all lines on the account must also be switched to Simplicty
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- T-Mobile's 5G network is generally robust
- Plan includes 50GB of high-speed data in the US
- Phone can be used as a hotspot
- Unlimited calls, texts and data in Canada and Mexico
- Data in Canada and Mexico limited to very slow 2G speeds
- Hotspot is limited to 3G speeds
- No five-year price guarantee
- Everyone must be on the same plan
- Taxes and fees aren't included in monthly cost
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- T-Mobile's 5G network is generally robust
- Plan includes 50GB of high-speed data in the US
- Phone can be used as a hotspot
- Unlimited calls, texts and data in Canada and Mexico
- Can have up to six lines on an account
- Third line free is a better deal than Essentials Saver
- Data in Canada and Mexico limited to very slow 2G speeds
- Hotspot is limited to 3G speeds
- No five-year price guarantee
- Everyone must be on the same plan
- Taxes and fees aren't included in monthly cost
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- Verizon's 4G LTE network is a strong backbone
- Can still get perks
- Can mix and match plans
- Three-year price guarantee
- No access to Verizon's fastest 5G networks
- No hotspot data included
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- Can still get perks
- Can mix and match plans
- 3-year price guarantee
- No access to Verizon's fastest 5G networks
- No set amount of high-speed data
- No hotspot data
Bottom Line
Pros & Cons
- T-Mobile has a strong 5G network
- 5-year price guarantee
- Solid perks like Netflix, Apple TV Plus and international data
- T-Satellite not included in the plan
- Apple TV, previously included, is now an optional $3 add-on
- Taxes and fees not included in monthly cost
What is the best unlimited phone plan overall?
We’d love to point to one plan and say, “Get this one,” truly. But phone plans are designed to appeal to all kinds of people by offering all kinds of options. You might value price over perks if you just need a plan that will keep you connected at all times. Or maybe you’re a frequent traveler and you want endless high-speed data and higher-resolution video streaming and are willing to pay for those features.
Assuming network coverage is good-to-great – which isn’t a given, but for the sake of argument – then cost becomes a major factor, in which case T-Mobile’s Essentials plan delivers the basics at a good value. At the other end, T-Mobile’s Experience More or Verizon’s Unlimited Plus give you plenty of features without paying the full prices of their top plans. However, there’s one thing to note about the most expensive plans: They often get the best trade-in or included device offers to entice customers to sign up for the most lucrative plans.
Best unlimited data plans for a single line
James Martin/CNET
Best for value for a single line
Verizon Simplicity
Pros & Cons
- Straightforward pricing
- Unlimited 5G/5GUW high-speed data
- Can get perks such as the streaming bundles as paid add-ons
- Includes hotspot data
- Only Verizon plan to offer satellite texting
- $30 price requires bringing a phone line from another provider
- No per-line discount pricing for multiple lines
- If you switch one line to Simplicity, all lines on the account must also be switched to Simplicty
Get it now
Expert Take
Verizon introduced the Simplicity plan to appeal to customers who want unlimited phone service at a more attractive price. At $30 per month (if you bring your number to Verizon; otherwise, it’s $45 per month), it undercuts the company’s own Unlimited Welcome cost for a single line and includes features not found on the previous bargain plan.
Simplicity includes 5G Ultra Wideband data speeds, 10GB of high-speed hotspot data, and up to 50% off the price of a line for a cellular-connected watch, tablet, or other device. It’s also the only Verizon plan to include satellite texting. All Verizon plans now include Verizon Dollars and the company’s Verizon Shine loyalty program.
You get international roaming, unlimited calling from the US to Canada and Mexico and 2GB of high-speed data when you’re traveling in those countries (which drops to unlimited data at 3G speeds after). And like all of Verizon’s plans, perks such as streaming services are available as add-ons.
There are actually two other varieties of the plan: Simplicity Plus and Simplicity Pro, which include the same features but also bundle in the cost of a new phone that can be upgraded every year. You can also upgrade yearly on the base Simplicity plan, but for an additional monthly charge.
A couple of caveats are worth mentioning, though. Verizon offers no discount for adding more lines, unlike its other plans. For example, four Simplicity lines would cost $120 per month, whereas four Unlimited Welcome lines would cost $110 per month (with fewer features). But the biggest issue is that if you switch one line to Simplicity, all other lines on an account must also convert to Simplicity. One of Verizon’s big selling points over the years has been the ability to mix and match its plans, so this seems out of character for the carrier.
Why we like it
The Simplicity plan includes high-speed 5GUW data, plus hotspot data, at a lower cost than the entry-level Unlimited Welcome plan. It’s also the only plan with satellite texting. Verizon recently removed activation and upgrade fees on its plans as well.
Who it’s best for
New Verizon customers who bring their number from another carrier.
Customer service options
- Online: Verizon
- Phone: 800-922-0204
- Store: Store locator
- App: My Verizons
Specs & Configurations
- High-speed data
- Unlimited 5G/5GUW
- Hotspot data
- 10GB then unlimited at 1Mbps
- Max number of lines
- 12
- Streaming resolution
- 480p (SD)
Viva Tung / James Martin, CNET
Runner-up for value for a single line
T-Mobile Essentials Saver 2.0
Pros & Cons
- T-Mobile's 5G network is generally robust
- Plan includes 50GB of high-speed data in the US
- Phone can be used as a hotspot
- Unlimited calls, texts and data in Canada and Mexico
- Data in Canada and Mexico limited to very slow 2G speeds
- Hotspot is limited to 3G speeds
- No five-year price guarantee
- Everyone must be on the same plan
- Taxes and fees aren't included in monthly cost
Get it now
Expert Take
The T-Mobile Essentials Saver 2.0 plan offers unlimited data use and includes 50GB of “Premium” data, which is the fastest-capable 5G rate available in your area. After 50GB, speeds are reduced to 3G levels for the remainder of the month. However, that Premium may not always be so premium: T-Mobile notes in the fine print that “Essentials customers may notice speeds lower than other customers and further reduction if using >50GB/month, due to data prioritization.”
You can use your phone as a mobile hotspot, also with unlimited data, but at 3G speeds. High-speed hotspot access is available as an add-on. Internationally, calls, texts, and data are unlimited, while in Canada and Mexico, data is restricted to 2G speeds. Elsewhere, calls cost 25 cents per minute, and texts are unlimited at no extra charge when you’re in roughly 215 countries.
As for other T-Mobile features, you’ll have to look further up the plan menu. Essentials Saver 2.0 and Essentials 2.0 don’t include the five-year price guarantee found in the Experience plans, nor do they include T-Satellite texting access. Still, you can add the Starlink-based service as an optional add-on. Perks are also reserved for the costlier plans, which means no included Netflix, Apple TV, or Hulu streaming.
The Essentials Saver 2.0 plan costs $50 a month for a single line, $80 for two lines and $100 for three lines, the maximum number allowed on this plan. If you need three or more lines, the Essentials 2.0 plan is a better value.
Why we like it
Providers want to push you toward their more expensive offerings, but they also know there’s a place for cost-conscious people who want just the basics. Essentials Saver 2.0 includes 50GB of fast data before the data rate slows down. And even though the hotspot feature is especially pokey at 3G speeds, it’s still there in a pinch.
Who it’s best for
The Essentials Saver 2.0 plan is great for individuals or pairs who don’t want to spend much on a cellular plan and aren’t looking for perks or fast data speeds.
Who shouldn’t get it?
The plan isn’t for people seeking features such as larger amounts of premium data, regular hotspot access or included perks, or folks who need to set up a family or group with three or more lines.
Customer service options
• Online: T-Mobile
• Phone: 1-855-315-6244
• Store: Store locator
• App: T-Life app
Specs & Configurations
- High-speed data
- 50GB
- Hotspot data
- Unlimited 3G
- Max number of lines
- 3
- Streaming resolution
- 480p (SD)
Best unlimited data plans for multiple lines and families
James Martin/CNET
Best for value with multiple lines
T-Mobile Essentials 2.0
Pros & Cons
- T-Mobile's 5G network is generally robust
- Plan includes 50GB of high-speed data in the US
- Phone can be used as a hotspot
- Unlimited calls, texts and data in Canada and Mexico
- Can have up to six lines on an account
- Third line free is a better deal than Essentials Saver
- Data in Canada and Mexico limited to very slow 2G speeds
- Hotspot is limited to 3G speeds
- No five-year price guarantee
- Everyone must be on the same plan
- Taxes and fees aren't included in monthly cost
Get it now
Expert Take
If you compare the specifics of T-Mobile’s Essentials 2.0 and Essentials Saver 2.0 plans, you might think the company forgot to update one or the other – they’re Essential-ly the same. With both, you get 50GB of fast Premium 5G data (depending on the network capabilities in your area), which drops to 3G speeds of still-unlimited data after that allotment is used up. You can use your phone as a mobile hotspot with unlimited data, but only at 3G speeds and restricted to paltry 2G speeds when you’re in Canada or Mexico. In those two countries, calls, text and data are unlimited, while calls made from around 215 other countries are charged at 25 cents a minute.
The Essentials 2.0 plan also doesn’t include perks such as streaming video from Netflix, nor the five-year price guarantee found on the Experience More and Experience Beyond plans. T-Satellite service is also not included, though it can be added for $10 per month.
Where Essentials 2.0 comes out ahead of Essentials Saver 2.0 is the number of lines you can have on your account. Essentials Saver 2.0 is limited to just three, but Essentials 2.0 can accommodate six lines. In fact, a trio of people will save money going with Essentials 2.0 due to a free third-line deal, paying $90 a month (plus taxes and fees) for a $10 savings over Essentials Saver 2.0. If your household needs four lines, an Essentials 2.0 4-Line Offer plan takes advantage of the third-line deal for $100 per month.
However, if you need just one or two lines, Essentials Saver 2.0 is still the better deal. A single line on Saver is still the better offer at $50 a month compared with $60 for the same features on Essentials, and two lines on Saver costs $80 a month compared with $90 for Essentials.
Why we like it
You get a solid level of basic phone service, with unlimited calls, texts and data, 50GB of premium higher-speed data and better pricing than the Essentials Saver 2.0 plan for three or more lines (up to six).
Who it’s best for
Essentials 2.0 is great for a cost-conscious family of three or more that wants unlimited everything, even at some slower speeds.
Who shouldn’t get it
This plan isn’t for people who want features such as larger amounts of premium data, regular hotspot access or included perks, or folks who need to set up a family or group with three or more lines.
Customer service options
• Online: T-Mobile
• Phone: 1-855-315-6244
• Store: Store locator
• App: T-Life app
Specs & Configurations
- High-speed data
- 50GB
- Hotspot data
- Unlimited 3G
- Max number of lines
- 6
- Streaming resolution
- 480p (SD)
James Martin/CNET
Runner-up for value with multiple lines
Verizon Unlimited Welcome
Pros & Cons
- Verizon's 4G LTE network is a strong backbone
- Can still get perks
- Can mix and match plans
- Three-year price guarantee
- No access to Verizon's fastest 5G networks
- No hotspot data included
Get it now
Expert Take
Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome sounds like the happiest greeter in your favorite store or restaurant.
If you’re looking for a bare-bones plan with just the basics, it has some compelling aspects. At the top of that list is how modular Verizon’s plans are. Each person on an account can pick a different plan that suits them. And whereas other providers reserve perks such as streaming services for the higher-tier plans, you can add them piecemeal to customize what you need — typically for $10 a month for each, depending on the service.
That applies to mobile hotspot data: By itself, the plan offers no way to wirelessly share your cellular connection from your phone, but for an additional $10 you can add 100GB of data.
International options include unlimited talk and text in Canada and Mexico and 2GB of high-speed data before ratcheting down to unlimited data at 3G speeds.
However, the Unlimited Welcome plan isn’t as welcome when it comes to 5G data speeds. It can only tap into regular low-band 5G. Even if you had a capable device and were within range of a midband or millimeter wave 5G signal, you wouldn’t be able to take advantage of Verizon’s fastest 5G Ultra Wideband (“5G UW” or “5G UWB”) speeds.
Why we like it
There’s no set amount of high-speed data before a line is throttled, so you don’t need to keep an eye on your data usage — but at the same time, this plan only supports 5G, not 5G Ultra Wideband. We also like that each person on a Verizon account can have their own plan with different perks. In a family, for example, an adult could add hotspot data (for an extra $10), but it can be left off for a child who doesn’t need it, even if both of them are on Unlimited Welcome.
Who it’s best for
Families who want to keep costs low but still have options for some perks.
Customer service options
- Online: Verizon
- Phone: 800-922-0204
- Store: Store locator
- App: My Verizon
Specs & Configurations
- High-speed data
- Unlimited 5G (but not faster 5G Ultra Wideband)
- Hotspot data
- None included
- Max number of lines
- 8
- Streaming resolution
- 480p (SD)
Best unlimited plans for perks
Joseph Maldonado/CNET
Best for perks
Verizon Unlimited Welcome
Pros & Cons
- Can still get perks
- Can mix and match plans
- 3-year price guarantee
- No access to Verizon's fastest 5G networks
- No set amount of high-speed data
- No hotspot data
Get it now
Expert Take
When it comes to perks like streaming services and other extras, two plans run neck and neck: Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome and T-Mobile’s Experience More 2.0. We give Verizon a slight edge thanks to its modular approach to customizing perks — even if each one comes as a separate paid add-on. When we specced out the two plans with similar offerings, the cost was about the same.
While other providers tend to reserve perks like streaming services for higher-tier plans, Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome lets you add them individually to suit your needs — typically for $10 a month each, depending on the service. That includes a Disney Plus, Hulu and ESPN Plus bundle (with ads); a Netflix and Max bundle (with ads); and a family subscription to Apple One (for $15). Although it feels like annoying upselling, you get to pick and choose which ones you want. You can toggle perks on or off anytime — or skip them altogether. You can even add multiple perks to a single line if you choose.
That add-on approach applies to mobile hotspot data, too. By itself, the plan offers no way to wirelessly share your cellular connection from your phone, but for an additional $10 you can add 100GB of data.
International options include unlimited talk and text in Canada and Mexico and 2GB of high-speed data before ratcheting down to unlimited data at 3G speeds.
Each person on an account can pick a different plan that suits them. From a perks perspective, for example, that means one person who travels frequently could add the 3 TravelPass Days option ($10) to their line. Some perks, such as Apple Music Family, are added to the cost of one line and the benefit is shared by up to five family members. (Each perk has its own restrictions, so be sure to read the details carefully.)
However, the Unlimited Welcome plan isn’t as welcome when it comes to 5G data speeds: It can only tap into regular low-band 5G. That means that even if you had a capable device and were within range of a midband or millimeter wave 5G signal, you wouldn’t be able to take advantage of Verizon’s fastest 5G Ultra Wideband (“5G UW” or “5G UWB”) speeds.
Why we like it
There’s no set amount of high-speed data before a line is throttled, so you don’t need to keep an eye on your data usage — but at the same time, this plan only supports 5G, not 5G Ultra Wideband. We also like that each person on a Verizon account can have their own plan with different perks. In a family, for example, an adult could add hotspot data (for an extra $10), but it can be left off for a child who doesn’t need it, even if both of them are on Unlimited Welcome.
Who it’s best for
Families who want to keep costs low but still have options for some perks.
Who shouldn’t get it
Anyone who wants to connect at higher 5G speeds and take advantage of the capabilities they paid for when buying a phone.
Customer service options
• Online: Verizon
• Phone: 800-922-0204
• Store: Store locator
• App: My Verizon
Specs & Configurations
- High-speed data
- Unlimited 5G (but not faster 5G Ultra Wideband)
- Hotspot data
- None included
- Max number of lines
- 12
- Streaming resolution
- 480p (SD)
James Martin/CNET
Runner-up plan for perks
T-Mobile Experience More 2.0
Pros & Cons
- T-Mobile has a strong 5G network
- 5-year price guarantee
- Solid perks like Netflix, Apple TV Plus and international data
- T-Satellite not included in the plan
- Apple TV, previously included, is now an optional $3 add-on
- Taxes and fees not included in monthly cost
Get it now
Expert Take
T-Mobile’s Experience More 2.0 plan sits in the middle of its unlimited plans, but is actually quite a jump above the more value-focused Essentials 2.0 and Essentials Saver 2.0 plans. It includes unlimited high-speed data over its 5G network, so you don’t need to worry about whether performance will lag after you’ve used up an initial amount (although T-Mobile does reserve the right to slow data when networks are congested). It also includes 60GB of high-speed hotspot data (then unlimited at 3G speeds once that’s used up).
The Experience More 2.0 plan also carries T-Mobile’s five-year price guarantee. The T-Satellite feature for texting via satellite when you’re away from a cellular network is not included in the plan, but it can be added at a cost of $10 per month.
Internationally, Experience More 2.0 includes unlimited talk and text while traveling in Canada and Mexico, plus 15GB of high-speed data (then unlimited at 256Kbps). In more than 215 other countries outside the US, you get unlimited texting and 5GB of high-speed data (then unlimited at 256Kbps), plus calling charged at 25 cents per minute.
The Experience More 2.0 plan also includes a few attractive perks above the 5G and data speed allotments. Included in the price is Netflix Standard (with ads) at 4K resolution where available. (Unfortunately, T-Mobile removed Apple TV — formerly called Apple TV Plus — which included the MLS Season Pass. It can now be added for $3.)
A one-year AAA membership can also help when you’re traveling. T-Mobile’s Magenta Status adds even more perks, such as 15% discounts on Hilton hotel stays, 25% off tickets to “more than 8,000 shows at over 120 venues nationwide,” and T-Mobile Tuesdays, a series of deals that can include perks like cheap movie tickets and discounts at national restaurants.
Why we like it
Although it’s more expensive, Experience More 2.0 packs a lot of perks into one plan. Unlimited high-speed data means you don’t need to monitor your app and streaming usage.
Who it’s best for
Individuals and families who want to get the most for their monthly cost.
Who shouldn’t get it
People looking to pay less per month who don’t need hotspot data or a multitude of perks.
Customer service options
• Online: T-Mobile
• Phone: 1-855-315-6244
• Store: Store locator
• App: T-Life app
Specs & Configurations
- High-speed data
- Unlimited
- Hotspot data
- 60GB
- Max number of lines
- 12
- Streaming resolution
- Up to 4K
Best unlimited plans compared
| Plan | Cost 1 line (auto pay) | Cost 4 lines (auto pay) | High-speed data | Hotspot data limit | Price guarantee | Max number of lines | Streaming resolution | |
| T-Mobile | Essentials Saver | $50 | n/a | 50GB | Unlimited 3G | n/a | 3 | 480p (SD) |
| T-Mobile | Essentials | $60 | $100 | 50GB | Unlimited 3G | n/a | 6 | 480p (SD) |
| T-Mobile | Experience More | $85 | $170 | Unlimited 5G | 60GB | Five years | 12 | Up to 4K |
| Verizon | Simplicity | $30 | $120 | 5GB | n/a | n/a | 5 | 480p (SD) |
| Verizon | Unlimited Welcome | $55 | $110 | Unlimited 5G/5GUW | 10GB | Three years | 12 | 480p (SD) |
Recent updates
The Verizon Simplicity plan is now our top recommendation for a single phone line, making the T-Mobile Essentials Saver 2.0 the runner-up. We dropped AT&T’s Value 2.0 plan from the single-plan lineup; it’s still a fine plan if you’re already an AT&T customer or its network is strongest in your area, but it no longer compares as well to the other two.
T-Mobile updated its plans with 2.0 versions in August 2026, which have the same prices and features as their “1.0” versions, but now have 36-month financing if you buy a device using the EIP Flex 36 or EIP Standard 36 installment plans. For T-Mobile plans in this guide, they’re now labeled with the 2.0 number.
We also added a new category after the first revamp of this guide — best plans for perks — highlighting a top pick and a runner-up based on the variety of add-ons, like streaming services, designed to attract customers.
Factors to consider
A wireless carrier saying it offers 5G is like me saying I have a car. Good for me — but what make and model is it? Does it run reliably? Can it actually get up to the top speed on the speedometer or will it sputter when I try to merge onto the freeway? And could I have gotten the same performance if I’d paid less for a model without extras like heated seats and a TruCoat sealant?
As you’re evaluating carriers, keep the following things in mind.
Emergency SOS might be one of the most important features to come out on any phone this year.
Kevin Heinz/CNETKnow your area
Wireless coverage can make or break a plan. If you aren’t getting reliably fast connections, or if calls often drop or aren’t picked up, then you could be paying for more than you’re getting. Fortunately, most areas of the US are blanketed by some type of cellular coverage, so there aren’t as many dead zones as there used to be. (And now satellite service is starting to fill those holes.) The major companies are also putting a lot of money and effort into broadening their coverage.
On the other hand, even in a dense area, one carrier’s network may be stronger than another’s, or signals could be reduced due to interference. So the best approach is to ask friends or family members which services they use and if the quality is acceptable. You can also test-drive services to see how your devices work in your area. (See the FAQ below for more on how reliable coverage maps can be.)
Know your deals and discounts
One other thing to keep in mind: discounts. All the carriers offer additional discounts you could be eligible for, depending on your employer, military status, student status or age.
First responders, military members, veterans, nurses and teachers can get discounts on every major carrier. Verizon has discounts for students, while T-Mobile’s Work perk could knock 15% off the monthly price of an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan, with AT&T offering a similar program for its Premium 2.0 plan. AT&T also has a promotion for teachers that offers 20% off its latest unlimited plans.
If you’re 55 or older, you may also be eligible for a discounted plan: T-Mobile offers discounted plans nationwide for as low as $55 a month for two lines, and Verizon and AT&T offer similar options but only for Florida residents.
It’s also worth noting that on their websites, some carriers sometimes advertise different rates geared toward switchers, for example if you bring your own phone (not trade in and finance a new one on an installment plan). Our recommendations reflect the actual rate outside of these very specific promotions.
How we test
Picking a wireless plan and carrier is a very individualized process. What works for you and your family’s needs may be vastly different from what your friends or neighbors are looking for. Even geographically, some areas have better AT&T coverage while others work best on Verizon or T-Mobile. The picks we make are based on more than a decade of covering and evaluating wireless carriers, their offerings and overall performance.
Specifically, we take into account coverage, price/value and perks.
Getty ImagesCoverage
Since all three major providers cover most of the country with good 4G LTE or 5G, this is largely a toss-up on a macro level. It’s why we recommend a variety of eSIM options for figuring out what works best for you in your particular location, so you can best decide what’s right for you. Looking at coverage maps on each provider’s website will likely show that you get good coverage even if your experience isn’t full bars or the fastest speeds.
Price/value
Value is factoring in the total experience you might get, such as how much high-speed data you get and what’s included in the sticker price. We also take into account whether a plan includes typical taxes and fees, or whether those are charged separately, inching your monthly bill higher.
Perks
Perks are add-ons beyond the core components of wireless service (talk, text and data). This could range from bundling in or discounting on streaming services to extra hotspot data or the ability to use your phone internationally.
The new subtitle option is available, but it isn’t available for every show and movie.
NurPhoto/Getty ImagesUnlimited phone plan FAQ
What to know about 5G
“5G” is an umbrella term that encompasses the current fifth-generation cellular wireless network technologies. All the major carriers and phones support 5G connections, which can offer faster data speeds than older technologies such as 4G LTE or 3G.
Essentially there are three types of 5G: Millimeter-wave (mmWave), which can be fast but has limited range; low-band 5G, which has slower speeds but works on a broader range; and midband, which is a balance between the two that’s faster than low-band but also covers a larger range than millimeter-wave. Midband also incorporates C-band, a batch of spectrum auctioned off by the Federal Communications Commission in 2021.
Your phone’s 5G connection depends on which type blankets the area you’re in, as well as other factors, such as population density and infrastructure. For instance, mmWave is super fast, but its signals can be thwarted by buildings — or glass, or leaves — or whether you’re inside a structure.
When your device is connected to a 5G network, it can show up as several variations such as 5G, 5G Plus, 5G UW or others, depending on the carrier. Here’s a list of icons you see at the top of your phone for the major services:
AT&T: 5GE (which isn’t actually 5G, but rather a sly marketing name for 4G LTE), 5G (low band), 5G Plus (mmWave, midband)
Verizon: 5G (low band, also called “Nationwide 5G”), 5G UW/5G UWB (midband and mmWave, also called “5G Ultra Wideband”)
T-Mobile: 5G (low band), 5G UC (midband and mmWave, also called “Ultra Capacity 5G”)
There’s also 5G Reduced Capacity (5G RedCap), which is a lower-power, smaller-capacity branch of 5G used by devices such as smartwatches and portable health devices; the Apple Watch Ultra 3, for example, connects via 5G RedCap.
Just around the corner is 5G Advanced, promising much faster speeds due to carrier aggregation, or combining multiple spectrums.
How reliable are coverage maps?
The three major companies in the US — AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon — offer services directly and have robust nationwide networks that offer 4G LTE (fast) and 5G (even faster) data. They all promise coverage that blankets most of the US, and they’re actively trying to build up 5G coverage everywhere they can.
But maps are one thing; experience is another. That’s why it’s impossible to say that one carrier is objectively better than another. For example, T-Mobile’s service in New York may be excellent, but Verizon is more reliable in rural Iowa. Or you may have basic 5G coverage but not faster millimeter wave 5G.
If possible, ask neighbors, friends or family near you about which carriers they use and how fast or reliable the wireless service is. And don’t forget to take into consideration not just where you live, but the places you frequent: Your house might get a clear connection, but your workplace could be in a cellular black hole.
You may also be able to test-drive a network — go to a carrier’s store and ask if there are free ways to try out the company’s service. T-Mobile offers a free three-month Network Pass, Verizon has a 30-day “trial” program, and AT&T has its own 30-day eSIM free trial program.
Why consider an unlimited plan?
Unlimited plans were once rarities, but now nearly all plans — especially postpaid plans — offer unlimited data. If you’re on T-Mobile, all your plans are unlimited, and Verizon no longer lets new users sign up for a shared data plan. Although everyone’s wireless needs are different, we think unlimited plans are the best option for most phone users, especially when choosing a new plan.
Only AT&T still offers a tiered data plan where data flow stops when you reach the limit. For example, the AT&T 4GB plan isn’t great. It has a 4GB-per-line plan that runs $50 a month for one line ($160 for four lines). Each line here gets 4GB of data, but if you go over that threshold in a month, you’re paying $10 for every 2GB. That plan also doesn’t include access to its 5G networks.
The company’s basic unlimited plan, Value 2.0, costs $50 per month for one line or $120 per month for four lines.
If you have one or two lines and don’t use a lot of data, you may be fine with a plan like this, though if you have just one line, we’d recommend switching over to T-Mobile’s Essentials Saver or AT&T’s $50 per month Value 2.0. Two lines of that T-Mobile plan run $80 a month, which is still $10 cheaper than two lines of AT&T’s 4GB plan, and you won’t have to worry about how much data you’re using.
For most people, we really do believe that unlimited is the best choice when choosing a new plan.
Is unlimited data really unlimited?
It is, but the speeds you get may vary depending on your plan and how much data you use in a given month.
To experience data slowdowns on most of the plans mentioned above, you will need to have:
1. Used over 50GB of data in a month.
2. Be in an area that’s experiencing “congestion,” “heavy traffic” or a “busy” network. Examples of this could be at a sporting event or concert where there are tens of thousands of people in the same area uploading and sharing photos and videos.
All carriers say that in these cases your data should be slowed only “temporarily.” If you have an older unlimited plan, your threshold for when your data slows and how long it lasts may be different.
Is hotspot included?
A hotspot, or the ability to share your phone’s connection with other devices, will vary based on the plan you have. Some, like Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome, don’t include it at all, while others — such as AT&T’s Value 2.0 and T-Mobile’s Essentials — offer limited amounts of high-speed access before capping your hotspot performance to “3G” or “2G” speeds.
In short, if hotspot access is important to you, check out a pricier unlimited plan, such as T-Mobile’s Experience More (60GB of high-speed data) or Experience Beyond (unlimited high-speed data); Verizon’s Unlimited Plus (30GB of high-speed data) or Unlimited Ultimate (200GB of high-speed data); or AT&T’s Extra 2.0 (50GB of high-speed data) or Premium 2.0 (100GB of high-speed data) options.
