Best Unlimited Cell Phone Plans: Compare Top Carriers & Prices

Unlimited plans sound like the dream. Stream nonstop. Scroll endlessly. Hotspot whenever you want. No overage charges. No stress.

But here’s the catch: not all unlimited plans are created equal.

Some slow your speeds after a certain point.
Some cap hotspot data.
Some cost way more than they should.

That’s why we put together this guide — to help you compare the best unlimited cell phone plans, understand what “unlimited” actually means, and find a plan that fits your lifestyle (not just a carrier’s marketing).

By the end, you’ll know:

• Who unlimited plans are best for
  
  
• The key differences between major carriers and budget-friendly MVNOs
  
  
• How to choose the right unlimited plan without overpaying

Let’s break it down.

What Does “Unlimited” Really Mean?

Despite the name, most unlimited plans don’t mean unlimited high-speed data.

What “unlimited” usually means is:

• You won’t be charged extra for going over a data limit
  
  
• But your speeds may slow down after you use a certain amount of data
  
  
• Especially during times of network congestion

This is where terms like premium data, deprioritization, and network management come into play.

Understanding these basics now will make it much easier to compare plans later. If you want a deeper explanation, check out our full guide to unlimited data and how carriers manage it.

Data Caps & Deprioritization

Many unlimited plans include a set amount of premium data. Once you pass that threshold, your data may be deprioritized.

That means:

• You still have data
  
  
• But during busy times, your speeds could be slower than users with higher-priority plans

Premium data users stay at the front of the line.
Deprioritized users may feel congestion in crowded areas.

If you use a lot of data or live in a high-traffic area, this difference can matter more than the advertised “unlimited” label.

Hotspot & Tethering Limits

If you rely on your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot, this part is especially important.

Most unlimited plans:

• Cap hotspot data
  
  
• Throttle hotspot speeds after a certain amount
  
  
• Or reserve usable hotspot data for higher-tier plans

If you work remotely, travel often, or use hotspot as backup internet, hotspot limits can be a major deciding factor when choosing a plan.

Best Unlimited Plans from Major Carriers

If you want priority data, strong coverage, and extra perks, major carriers are usually the best place to start. These plans tend to cost more, but they offer higher data priority and more robust features.

Verizon Unlimited Plus — $80/month (1 line)

Verizon Unlimited Plus includes a generous amount of premium data, strong nationwide coverage, and solid hotspot access. It’s one of Verizon’s best options for people who use a lot of data and want consistent speeds, even during busy times.

Best for: Heavy data users, rural coverage needs, and anyone who wants top-tier reliability.

AT&T Unlimited Extra EL — $76/month (1 line)

AT&T Unlimited Extra EL offers a strong balance of coverage, speed, and value. It includes premium data and hotspot access without pushing into the highest price tier, making it a solid middle-ground option.

Best for: Users who want dependable performance without paying for top-tier extras.

T-Mobile Standard Plan Experience More — $90/month (1 line)

Experience More is T-Mobile’s premium unlimited plan, built for power users. It includes high-priority data, generous hotspot allowances, taxes and fees included, and international perks for travelers.

Best for: Streamers, frequent travelers, and users who want top-tier 5G performance.

Best Unlimited Plans from MVNOs (Prepaid & Value Options)

MVNOs use the same major carrier networks but cut costs by offering prepaid service and fewer bundled perks. They’re a great option if you want unlimited data at a lower price.

Mint Mobile Unlimited — $30–$40/month (with multi-month plan)

Mint Mobile Unlimited runs on T-Mobile’s network and keeps costs low by requiring upfront payment for multiple months. High-speed data is capped, but it’s one of the most affordable unlimited options available.

Best for: Budget-conscious users who don’t need premium data priority.

Visible+ — $29/month

Visible+ offers access to Verizon’s network with simple, flat pricing. While data can be deprioritized during congestion, it’s a popular choice for single-line users who want Verizon coverage without Verizon prices.

Best for: Solo users who want affordable access to Verizon’s network.

US Mobile Unlimited Starter — $23/month

US Mobile Unlimited Starter offers flexibility by letting users choose between Verizon or T-Mobile networks. It’s a low-cost option with nationwide coverage and a strong reputation for customer support.

Best for: Users who want affordable unlimited data with network choice flexibility.

How to Choose the Best Unlimited Plan for You

The best unlimited plan isn’t about brand loyalty. It’s about how you actually use your phone.

Heavy Data & Streaming Users

• Prioritize higher premium data thresholds
  
  
• Check hotspot allowances
  
  
• Watch for video quality limits

Budget-Conscious Users

• MVNOs often offer the best value
  
  
• Avoid paying for perks you won’t use
  
  
• Prepaid plans can significantly lower your bill

Families vs Single Lines

• Multi-line discounts can change the math
  
  
• Compare per-line pricing, not just advertised totals
  
  
• In some cases, MVNOs still offer better value

Unlimited Plans vs Limited Data Plans

Unlimited plans are popular, but they’re not always necessary.

If you:

• Spend most of your time on Wi-Fi
  
  
• Rarely stream video on cellular
  
  
• Don’t rely on hotspot data

You could save money with a limited data plan instead.

For lighter users, capped plans often cost less while still covering everyday needs like messaging, navigation, and browsing. If that sounds like you, check out our guide to the best phone plans for light data users, where we break down affordable options that won’t waste your money on unused data.

Unlimited plans are great — but the right plan is the one that fits your usage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are unlimited plans truly unlimited?

Most unlimited plans don’t charge overage fees, but speeds may slow after a certain amount of data is used.

Do unlimited plans slow down after a certain amount of data?

They can. Speed reductions typically happen during network congestion once you pass a plan’s premium data threshold.

Are prepaid unlimited plans worse than postpaid?

Not necessarily. Prepaid plans are cheaper but may deprioritize data sooner and include fewer extras.

Which unlimited plan has the best coverage?

Coverage depends on your location. Checking coverage maps is more reliable than choosing a plan based on brand name alone.

Is an unlimited plan worth it for one person?

Sometimes. It depends on how much data you use and whether a lower-cost plan could meet your needs.