* The above table data has been sourced from AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Airalo, and Mint Mobile.

How much data apps use Header Cell - Column 0 Secondly, we've included a quick reference table of estimated data usage of popular apps just below. For example, most phones will have an option to see how much data your phone has used in the settings menu - usually under the internet or network tab. As always, it's no use paying a ton of money for data you don't even use!ĭetermining exact data requirements can be tricky but there are tools you can use to help out. Most plans come with unlimited call and text these days but data allowance is the one metric that really makes the difference between a pricey plan and a much more affordable option. Step one - have a rough ballpark of how much data you'll be using every month. How to get the best cell phone plan for you 1. We base these categories on Google Search data and what we think our readers are looking for, based on user feedback. Overall, there's no one 'best' cell phone plan but we make it easier by splitting out plans into distinct categories - the best plan for families, the best unlimited plan, and so on. TechRadar assesses cell phone plans based on several criteria - price, data allowances, perks, coverage, and how they shape up against the competition. Postpaid: contracted plan paid for in installmentsĬoverage: how good cellular service is near you Prepaid: no-contract plan renewed each month As a rule of thumb, however, more lines equals cheaper rates per line on average.ĥG: the latest, fastest phone network connectionĭata allowance: how much internet you can use We've included pricing for four-line plans just below but note - most of these options will have discounts from 2-lines. That said, discounts for multiple lines on a plan (or account) are still commonplace and remain the best way to save on your cell phone bills.

In recent years we've seen most carriers move away from plans that are specifically branded for families - instead opting for a more flexible approach.

Credit checks to be eligible for some plansįor more unlimited data plan options, check out our guide to the best unlimited data plans in the US.

Lengthy (two year) contract terms with costly buy-outs.

Often twice the cost of prepaid cell phone plans.

Those who want to get discounts on handsets.

Those who love to stream high-definition content.

You can also check out our page on the best phones if you're looking for a handset too. We've made sure to lay out the best cell phone plans as simply as possible on this page but if you need extra guidance then scroll down to the bottom of the page for our handy FAQ section. Prepaid plans are superb if you're looking to save some cash - and they usually don't require lengthy contracts, either. They're contrasted by prepaid cell phone plans, which are usually more stripped down in terms of features but offer much lower prices on average. These often run at a premium and require a contract but offer rock-solid service, a host of useful perks, and heaps of prioritized 5G for super-speedy downloads. First up are the traditional 'postpaid' plans that you usually find at the bigger carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Generally speaking, the best cell phone plans are split into two types. You'll find options for cheap prepaid plans, unlimited plans, family plans, and even cell phone plans for seniors all laid out and compared right here on this page. There is, of course, no set best plan for everyone, which is why we've split out our list into easy-to-navigate sections based on the most searched-for criteria. We've factored in criteria like data allowances, price, coverage, perks, and a host of other metrics to determine the best cell phone plans for most readers. TechRadar is here to help, however, with an extensively researched list of plans that you should absolutely check out if you're looking to switch up that old plan with something new for 2024. Finding the absolute best cell phone plans on the market can be tricky with the dizzying amount of options currently available.

T mobile 4 lines for 120