Top Budget-Friendly Mobile Plans of 2018
Discover the most affordable and value-packed mobile plans of 2018. This guide highlights top providers for families, heavy data users, individuals, and prepaid options, ensuring you find a plan suited to your needs and budget. Make informed decisions by considering coverage, speed, and additional features before switching your mobile plan.
Selecting the right mobile plan is essential for maximizing your smartphone's performance. The vast array of plan options in the wireless industry can make choosing difficult. The cheapest plans might not meet your data needs, while premium unlimited plans could be outside your budget.
When choosing a plan, consider factors such as speed, coverage, reliability, and affordability. Carrier plans frequently change, complicating decisions further. Personal factors like location, usage habits, the number of lines, and budget should guide your choice.
Based on usage, speed, coverage, and affordability, here are some of the best and most economical smartphone plans:
Top Overall Provider
Verizon is recognized for offering the best overall plans, excelling in coverage, speed, and competitive pricing. Their LTE advanced network ensures fast data speeds. Plans start at $160 for four lines and $75 for single lines. Verizon's early network deployment guarantees reliable nationwide 4G LTE coverage and performance.
Best for Heavy Data Users
T-Mobile’s One plan provides excellent value for high-data users with unlimited features. It begins at $160 for four lines and $40 for individual plans, including international calls, HD streaming at 480p, and in-flight texting on Gogo-enabled flights.
Best Family Plan
With numerous features, T-Mobile’s family plan offers exceptional value, including unlimited talk, text, data, mobile hotspot, and free Netflix for the family, all for $160 for four lines.
Best for Individuals
Sprint’s $60 plan offers great value for solo users, including HD streaming, affordable roaming, and free Hulu access, all on a nationwide network.
Best Prepaid Plan for Individuals
AT&T’s $50 monthly prepaid plan provides 8GB of LTE data, HD streaming, hotspot capability, and unlimited calls to Mexico and Canada, making it the top choice in prepaid options.
Most Affordable Plan
Republic Wireless offers the most budget-friendly plan at under $30, including talk, text, and data limits.
Keep in mind that what seems like the cheapest plan may sometimes be more costly in the long run. Carefully consider your needs before selecting a plan, and always check the carrier’s website for current offers and promotions.
