15 Best Cheap Phone Companies: Affordable and Reliable (July 2024)

Review the top companies producing the best affordable phones.

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In today’s economy, it’s more important than ever to find ways to save money. And when it comes to your monthly expenses, your cell phone bill can be a big one. But don’t worry, you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. There are plenty of great cheap phone companies out there that offer reliable service at a fraction of the cost of the big carriers.

But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for you? That’s where this article comes in. We’ve compiled a list of the 15 best cheap phone companies, taking into account factors like coverage, speed, customer service, and overall value. Whether you’re looking for a plan with unlimited data or just need something basic to stay connected, we’ve got you covered.

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Our list includes a mix of well-known carriers like Mint Mobile and Visible, as well as some lesser-known gems that might surprise you. We’ve also taken the time to highlight the pros and cons of each company, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

So, ditch the expensive carrier and start saving money on your cell phone bill today! Read on to discover the best cheap phone companies and find the perfect plan for your needs.

QUICKLIST
Item	Image	Where to buy	Rating	Read More
Mint Mobile		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Visible		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Google Fi		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Spectrum Mobile		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Tello		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
US Mobile		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Boost Mobile		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Cricket Wireless		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Republic Wireless		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Xfinity Mobile		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Consumer Cellular		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Ting		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Ultra Mobile		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Lycamobile		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Tracfone		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Load More

Mint Mobile

N/A at Amazon

A popular MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) that runs on T-Mobile's network. Known for its extremely affordable plans.

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Specifications :

• Network: T-Mobile
• Plans: Starting at $15/month for 4GB of data
• Features: Unlimited talk and text, mobile hotspot, international calling options

Reasons to buy :

• Very affordable: Mint Mobile offers some of the cheapest plans on the market.
• Good network coverage: Uses T-Mobile's network, which has excellent coverage in most areas.
• Simple plans: Easy to understand and choose the plan that best fits your needs.

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited customer service: You can only contact them via chat or email.
• No physical stores: You have to order online and may have to wait for your SIM card to arrive.
• Data throttling after usage: Your speed may slow down after you use up your data allowance.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You're looking for a very cheap plan.
• You don't need a lot of data.
• You're comfortable with online-only customer service.

Don't buy it if:

• You need excellent customer service.
• You need fast data speeds even after using up your data allowance.
• You prefer to have the option of visiting a physical store.

Bottom Line:

Mint Mobile is a great option if you're looking for an extremely cheap phone plan. Their plans are affordable and offer a decent amount of data. However, you should be aware of their limited customer service and data throttling policies. If you're okay with those drawbacks, Mint Mobile is a solid choice.

Visible

N/A at Amazon

A subsidiary of Verizon, Visible offers a single, simple plan.

Specifications :

• Network: Verizon
• Plans: $45/month for unlimited talk, text, and data.
• Features: Unlimited data, mobile hotspot, unlimited international texting to over 200 countries.

Reasons to buy :

• Simple plan: No need to choose between different data tiers or add-ons.
• Excellent network coverage: Uses Verizon's network, known for its wide and reliable coverage.
• No contracts: You can cancel your service at any time.

Reasons to avoid :

• Higher price than some other MVNOs: $45/month is more expensive than some other plans with similar features.
• Limited customer service: You can only contact them via chat or email.
• Data throttling after a certain amount of usage: Your speed may slow down after you use up a certain amount of data.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You want a simple and straightforward plan.
• You don't mind paying a slightly higher price for the convenience of a single plan.
• You need excellent network coverage.

Don't buy it if:

• You're on a tight budget.
• You need fast data speeds even after using up your data allowance.
• You prefer to have the option of visiting a physical store.

Bottom Line:

Visible is a good option for people who want a simple, straightforward plan with excellent network coverage. However, their single plan option comes at a slightly higher price than some other MVNOs. If you're looking for the absolute cheapest plan, Visible may not be the best choice.

Google Fi

N/A at Amazon

A unique mobile service from Google that offers flexible plans and uses multiple networks.

Specifications :

• Network: T-Mobile, US Cellular, and Sprint (now T-Mobile)
• Plans: Flexible plans with per-GB data pricing or a $20/month unlimited data option.
• Features: International calling and texting, data roaming in 200+ countries, Google One cloud storage.

Reasons to buy :

• Flexible plans: You only pay for the data you use.
• Excellent network coverage: Uses T-Mobile, US Cellular, and Sprint's networks, giving you good coverage in most areas.
• International roaming: You can use your phone in over 200 countries without paying extra roaming fees.

Reasons to avoid :

• Can be expensive: If you use a lot of data, the per-GB pricing can add up quickly.
• Limited phone selection: Google Fi only works with a specific selection of phones.
• Not the cheapest option: Their unlimited data plan is more expensive than some other MVNOs.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You want a flexible plan that adapts to your data usage.
• You travel internationally and need reliable data coverage.
• You use a lot of Google products and services.

Don't buy it if:

• You're on a very tight budget.
• You need the absolute cheapest unlimited data plan.
• You want to use a specific phone that isn't supported by Google Fi.

Bottom Line:

Google Fi is a great option for people who want a flexible plan and value international roaming. Their unique pricing structure allows you to pay only for the data you use. However, if you're on a very tight budget or need the absolute cheapest unlimited data plan, Google Fi may not be the best choice.

Spectrum Mobile

N/A at Amazon

A mobile service offered by Spectrum, which uses Verizon's network.

Specifications :

• Network: Verizon
• Plans: Starting at $44.99/month for unlimited talk, text, and 1GB of data
• Features: Unlimited talk and text, mobile hotspot, international calling options

Reasons to buy :

• Good network coverage: Uses Verizon's network, known for its wide and reliable coverage.
• Competitive pricing: Offers affordable plans with good data allowances.
• Bundled discounts: Get a discount on your mobile plan if you also have Spectrum internet or cable TV.

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited customer service: Customer service can be difficult to reach and may have long wait times.
• Limited phone selection: You can only buy phones through Spectrum.
• No family plans: You can't combine multiple lines into a family plan.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You want a plan with good network coverage.
• You're already a Spectrum internet or cable TV customer.
• You're looking for a reasonably priced plan.

Don't buy it if:

• You need excellent customer service.
• You want to use a phone from a different carrier.
• You want to take advantage of family plan discounts.

Bottom Line:

Spectrum Mobile is a decent option if you're already a Spectrum customer and want to save some money by bundling your services. They offer a good network with Verizon, but their customer service can be lacking. If you're looking for a cheaper plan and don't mind a more limited phone selection, Spectrum Mobile is worth considering.

Tello

N/A at Amazon

An MVNO that operates on T-Mobile's network. Tello offers customizable plans.

Specifications :

• Network: T-Mobile
• Plans: Customizable plans with different data allowances and prices.
• Features: Unlimited talk and text, mobile hotspot, international calling options.

Reasons to buy :

• Highly customizable plans: You can create a plan that perfectly suits your needs.
• Affordable: Their plans are generally very affordable, especially if you don't need a lot of data.
• Excellent customer service: They have a reputation for helpful and responsive customer service.

Reasons to avoid :

• No physical stores: You have to order online and may have to wait for your SIM card to arrive.
• Limited phone selection: You can only use certain phones with Tello.
• No family plans: You can't combine multiple lines into a family plan.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You want a customizable plan.
• You're on a tight budget.
• You value good customer service.

Don't buy it if:

• You need a large amount of data.
• You prefer to have the option of visiting a physical store.
• You want to take advantage of family plan discounts.

Bottom Line:

Tello is a great choice for people who want a customizable plan and value good customer service. Their plans are affordable, and you can tailor them to fit your individual needs. However, they don't offer family plans, and you're limited in terms of phone selection. If you're looking for a cheap plan with a lot of flexibility, Tello is a solid option.

US Mobile

N/A at Amazon

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An MVNO that offers a variety of plans and networks.

Specifications :

• Network: T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T
• Plans: Various plans with different data allowances and prices.
• Features: Unlimited talk and text, mobile hotspot, international calling options.

Reasons to buy :

• Multiple network choices: You can choose the network that works best for you.
• Flexible plans: You can customize your plan to fit your needs.
• Good customer service: They are known for their responsive and helpful customer service.

Reasons to avoid :

• Can be complex: Their website and plan options can be confusing to navigate.
• Not the cheapest option: Their plans are generally more expensive than other MVNOs.
• Limited phone selection: You can only use certain phones with US Mobile.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You need excellent network coverage.
• You want a plan that you can customize.
• You value good customer service.

Don't buy it if:

• You're on a very tight budget.
• You find complex plans confusing.
• You prefer to have a simple, straightforward plan.

Bottom Line:

US Mobile is a good choice if you need excellent network coverage and want a plan that you can customize. They offer a variety of plans and networks, giving you a lot of options. However, their plans can be complex and their website can be confusing. If you're looking for the absolute cheapest plan, US Mobile may not be the best choice.

Boost Mobile

N/A at Amazon

A popular MVNO that uses Sprint's (now T-Mobile's) network.

Specifications :

• Network: T-Mobile
• Plans: Various plans with different data allowances and prices.
• Features: Unlimited talk and text, mobile hotspot, international calling options.

Reasons to buy :

• Affordable: Offers some of the cheapest unlimited data plans on the market.
• Good network coverage: Uses T-Mobile's network, which has excellent coverage in most areas.
• Large phone selection: Offers a wide range of phones to choose from.

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited customer service: Customer service can be difficult to reach and may have long wait times.
• Data throttling after a certain amount of usage: Your speed may slow down after you use up a certain amount of data.
• No family plans: You can't combine multiple lines into a family plan.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You're looking for an affordable unlimited data plan.
• You want a good selection of phones to choose from.
• You need good network coverage.

Don't buy it if:

• You need excellent customer service.
• You need fast data speeds even after using up your data allowance.
• You want to take advantage of family plan discounts.

Bottom Line:

Boost Mobile is a good option for people who are looking for a cheap unlimited data plan with a wide selection of phones. They use T-Mobile's network, so you can expect good coverage. However, their customer service can be lacking, and their data speeds may slow down after you use up your data allowance. If you're okay with those drawbacks, Boost Mobile is a decent choice.

Cricket Wireless

N/A at Amazon

A subsidiary of AT&T, Cricket offers affordable plans with limited data.

Specifications :

• Network: AT&T
• Plans: Various plans with different data allowances and prices.
• Features: Unlimited talk and text, mobile hotspot, international calling options.

Reasons to buy :

• Affordable: Offers cheap plans with limited data.
• Good network coverage: Uses AT&T's network, which has good coverage in most areas.
• Family plans: Offers discounts for multiple lines.

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited data allowances: Their plans often have limited data allowances.
• Data throttling after a certain amount of usage: Your speed may slow down after you use up a certain amount of data.
• Limited phone selection: You can only buy phones through Cricket.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You're looking for an affordable plan with a limited data allowance.
• You need good network coverage.
• You want to take advantage of family plan discounts.

Don't buy it if:

• You need a lot of data.
• You need fast data speeds even after using up your data allowance.
• You want to use a phone from a different carrier.

Bottom Line:

Cricket Wireless is a decent option for people who need good network coverage and are looking for an affordable plan with a limited data allowance. They offer family plans and have good coverage, but their data allowances can be small. If you're a light data user and don't mind data throttling, Cricket Wireless is worth considering.

Republic Wireless

N/A at Amazon

A mobile service that uses Wi-Fi calling and data whenever possible.

Specifications :

• Network: T-Mobile, Sprint (now T-Mobile), and Wi-Fi.
• Plans: Flexible plans with different data allowances and prices.
• Features: Unlimited talk and text, mobile hotspot, international calling options.

Reasons to buy :

• Save on data: Uses Wi-Fi whenever possible, saving you money on your data plan.
• Good network coverage: Uses T-Mobile's network, which has excellent coverage in most areas.
• Excellent customer service: They are known for their responsive and helpful customer service.

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited phone selection: You can only use certain phones with Republic Wireless.
• Not as good for heavy data users: You'll need to rely on Wi-Fi more often to avoid high data charges.
• Can be expensive if you use a lot of data: If you're constantly using your phone away from Wi-Fi, you'll have to pay for more data.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You're a light data user who often uses Wi-Fi.
• You want to save money on your data plan.
• You value good customer service.

Don't buy it if:

• You need a lot of data.
• You don't use Wi-Fi frequently.
• You want to use a specific phone that isn't supported by Republic Wireless.

Bottom Line:

Republic Wireless is a great option for people who use Wi-Fi frequently and want to save money on their data plan. They use T-Mobile's network for reliable coverage, and their customer service is excellent. However, their phone selection is limited, and they're not as good for heavy data users. If you're looking for a way to cut down on your data costs, Republic Wireless is worth considering.

Xfinity Mobile

N/A at Amazon

A mobile service offered by Comcast, which uses Verizon's network.

Specifications :

• Network: Verizon
• Plans: Various plans with different data allowances and prices.
• Features: Unlimited talk and text, mobile hotspot, international calling options.

Reasons to buy :

• Good network coverage: Uses Verizon's network, known for its wide and reliable coverage.
• Bundled discounts: Get a discount on your mobile plan if you also have Xfinity internet or cable TV.
• Large phone selection: Offers a wide range of phones to choose from.

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited customer service: Customer service can be difficult to reach and may have long wait times.
• Data throttling after a certain amount of usage: Your speed may slow down after you use up a certain amount of data.
• No family plans: You can't combine multiple lines into a family plan.

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You want a plan with good network coverage.
• You're already an Xfinity internet or cable TV customer.
• You want a good selection of phones to choose from.

Don't buy it if:

• You need excellent customer service.
• You need fast data speeds even after using up your data allowance.
• You want to take advantage of family plan discounts.

Bottom Line:

Xfinity Mobile is a good option if you're already an Xfinity customer and want to save some money by bundling your services. They offer a good network with Verizon, and a wide selection of phones. However, their customer service can be lacking, and their data speeds may slow down after you use up your data allowance. If you're looking for a cheaper plan and don't mind a more limited phone selection, Xfinity Mobile is worth considering.

Consumer Cellular

N/A at Amazon

A great option for seniors and those looking for affordable plans with great customer service.

Specifications:

• Offers a wide variety of plans, including unlimited talk, text, and data.
• Works on both Verizon and AT&T networks.
• Offers discounts for seniors, AARP members, and veterans.

Reasons to buy:

• Affordable plans with great value.
• Excellent customer service.
• Easy to use and navigate.

Reasons to avoid:

• Limited data options for those who use a lot of data.
• Not the best choice for those who need the latest and greatest phones.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You're looking for a budget-friendly plan with great customer service.
• You're a senior or AARP member.
• You don't need a lot of data.

Don't buy it if:

• You're a heavy data user.
• You need the latest and greatest phone features.

Bottom Line: Consumer Cellular is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly plan with excellent customer service. Their plans are easy to understand and their customer support is top-notch. However, their data options are limited, so it's not the best choice for heavy data users.

Ting

N/A at Amazon

A unique carrier that lets you pay for only the data you use.

Specifications:

• Uses T-Mobile's network.
• Offers pay-as-you-go plans that allow you to only pay for the data you use.
• Offers unlimited talk and text plans.

Reasons to buy:

• Affordable plans that are customizable.
• Excellent customer service.
• Easy to use and navigate.

Reasons to avoid:

• Can be more expensive than other carriers if you use a lot of data.
• Limited phone selection.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You're a light data user.
• You want a flexible plan that you can customize.

Don't buy it if:

• You're a heavy data user.
• You want a wide selection of phones.

Bottom Line: Ting is a great option for those looking for a flexible and affordable plan that lets you pay for only the data you use. Their customer service is top-notch and their plans are easy to understand. However, their data plans can be more expensive than other carriers if you use a lot of data, and their phone selection is limited.

Ultra Mobile

N/A at Amazon

A great option for those looking for unlimited data plans at affordable prices.

Specifications:

• Uses T-Mobile's network.
• Offers unlimited talk, text, and data plans.
• Offers a variety of plans to choose from.

Reasons to buy:

• Affordable unlimited data plans.
• Excellent customer service.
• Easy to use and navigate.

Reasons to avoid:

• Can be more expensive than other carriers if you don't need unlimited data.
• Limited phone selection.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You're looking for an affordable unlimited data plan.
• You want excellent customer service.

Don't buy it if:

• You don't need unlimited data.
• You want a wide selection of phones.

Bottom Line: Ultra Mobile is a great option for those looking for affordable unlimited data plans. Their customer service is excellent and their plans are easy to understand. However, their plans can be more expensive than other carriers if you don't need unlimited data, and their phone selection is limited.

Lycamobile

N/A at Amazon

A great option for those looking for international calling plans.

Specifications:

• Offers international calling plans at affordable prices.
• Works on T-Mobile's network.
• Offers a variety of plans to choose from.

Reasons to buy:

• Affordable international calling plans.
• Great for those who need to make international calls.
• Easy to use and navigate.

Reasons to avoid:

• Not the best choice for those who don't need international calling.
• Limited data options.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You need to make international calls.
• You're looking for affordable international calling plans.

Don't buy it if:

• You don't need international calling.
• You need a lot of data.

Bottom Line: Lycamobile is a great option for those who need to make international calls. Their international calling plans are affordable and their customer service is good. However, their data options are limited and they're not the best choice for those who don't need international calling.

Tracfone

N/A at Amazon

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A great option for those looking for prepaid plans.

Specifications:

• Offers prepaid plans with a variety of data options.
• Works on Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile networks.
• Offers a wide selection of phones.

Reasons to buy:

• Affordable prepaid plans.
• Wide selection of phones.
• No contracts.

Reasons to avoid:

• Data can be expensive if you use a lot.
• Customer service can be difficult to reach.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You're looking for a prepaid plan.
• You don't need a lot of data.
• You want a wide selection of phones.

Don't buy it if:

• You're a heavy data user.
• You need excellent customer service.

Bottom Line: Tracfone is a great option for those looking for affordable prepaid plans with a wide selection of phones. Their plans are easy to understand and they offer no contracts. However, their data can be expensive if you use a lot and their customer service can be difficult to reach.

Choosing the right phone company can be a real headache, especially when trying to find a balance between affordability and reliable service. But, as this list shows, it doesn't have to be a struggle. With so many affordable options available, you can find a plan that suits your needs and budget without compromising on quality. Remember, your mobile service should empower you to stay connected without breaking the bank.

Don't just settle for the first deal you come across. Take some time to compare plans, features, and coverage areas. Look for companies that offer transparent pricing, excellent customer support, and a variety of options to suit your unique needs. Whether you're a light user or a heavy data consumer, there's a cheap phone company out there that can provide you with the reliable service you deserve.

While this list offers a great starting point, your individual needs might require further research. Consider factors like coverage in your specific area, international calling requirements, and data usage habits. Take advantage of free trials and introductory offers to test the waters before committing long-term.

Ultimately, finding the best cheap phone company comes down to personal preference. Explore the options, compare plans, and choose the one that best fits your lifestyle and budget. With a little effort, you can find a reliable and affordable phone plan that keeps you connected and happy.