Searching for a budget-friendly phone plan without sacrificing premium features? We’ve rounded up the top prepaid carriers worth considering.
For years, most people stuck with the big names—Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile—for mobile service. But with prices climbing and perks like free streaming starting to vanish, it might be time to look elsewhere.
The good news? Plenty of smaller carriers use the same reliable networks as the big three. These prepaid providers often deliver significantly lower prices while still including many of the same features.
As the line between prepaid and postpaid gets blurrier, switching has never made more sense. While our full guide covers a wide range of options, here I’m spotlighting four prepaid carriers I often recommend over traditional postpaid plans.
If you’re looking to stay on Verizon’s network and want truly unlimited data, Visible is my top pick among the alternatives. It offers great value, but it does come with a catch — you’ll need to handle a bit more of the setup and troubleshooting on your own. That’s why I typically recommend Visible to those who are at least somewhat tech-savvy, comfortable searching for solutions online, or have someone nearby who can lend a hand if needed.
Why You’ll Love Visible
Get top-tier data with Visible Plus
The base Visible plan comes with deprioritized data, but Visible Plus and Plus Pro plans offer data speeds comparable to Verizon’s postpaid service. While some minor differences may exist, they’re usually not noticeable for the average user.
Save big with annual billing
Visible already offers affordable plans starting at $25/month, but choosing an annual plan can save you up to $90 per year, making it one of the most budget-friendly options available.
Unlimited data and hotspot access
Every plan includes truly unlimited data along with hotspot usage. While hotspot speeds are throttled, they remain functional for basic browsing and streaming.
Smartwatch service at no extra cost (Plus Pro)
Visible Plus Pro members can add a compatible smartwatch for free, with no added fees to their plan.
All-inclusive pricing
There are no hidden taxes or fees — the price you see is the price you pay.
What to Watch Out For
Data deprioritization on the base plan
If you’re on the basic $25/month plan, your data may slow down in congested areas. It’s fine for casual use but may not satisfy heavy users.
No in-store or phone support
Visible is a digital-only carrier, so customer support is handled entirely online — either through the app or website. This could be inconvenient for those who prefer phone or in-person service.
How Does Visible Compare to the Big Three?
Value for money:
Visible stands out for unlimited data at a lower price. Compared to Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, it’s one of the best value options, even among prepaid carriers.
Phones and deals:
The big three carriers have the edge in device selection and promotions, but Visible does offer occasional discounts, especially on Pixel devices.
Financing and protection:
Visible offers financing through Affirm and device protection via Visible Protect, similar to plans from the big carriers, although the latter still have a slight advantage.
Perks and extras:
This is where the big three pull ahead. Visible keeps it simple — no streaming bundles or entertainment perks. However, you do get:
- $5 off Verizon 5G Home Internet with the base plan
- Unlimited calling and texting to Canada and Mexico
- International calling and roaming upgrades on Plus and Plus Pro
- $10 off Verizon 5G Home Internet (Plus and Pro only)
- Unlimited data, talk, and text in Canada and Mexico with Plus Pro
Unlimited, high-priority data for less:
Unlike most competitors, Visible offers truly unlimited data — with the Plus and Pro plans providing unlimited high-priority data, matching the performance of postpaid Verizon for a much lower price.
Customer service:
While support agents are generally helpful, Visible lacks phone or retail store assistance, which gives the big three a clear advantage in hands-on support.
Top T-Mobile Alternative: Google Fi
Google Fi Wireless Overview
- Network Partner: T-Mobile
- Price Range: $20–$65/month, or $17–$40/month with 4+ lines
Google Fi Wireless stands out as one of the top choices for wireless service—especially with its updated plans that make it more competitive than ever. If you want access to T-Mobile’s premium network performance without actually signing up for T-Mobile, Google Fi is your only real alternative. Even T-Mobile’s own prepaid brands like Metro and Mint Mobile don’t offer the same data prioritization.
Beyond domestic coverage, Google Fi shines with international benefits, often beating even the most expensive postpaid plans from the major carriers. And if you’re part of a larger household, you’ll appreciate the significant family discounts—with rates dropping as low as $23 per line for five or more lines on the Unlimited plan.
Why Google Fi Wireless Is Worth Considering
Unmatched International Coverage
- The Unlimited Premium plan includes free data in over 200 countries.
- Even the Flexible plan, which charges $10/GB abroad, is more affordable than most carrier travel add-ons.
- Note: Some plans, like Unlimited Essentials, are U.S.-only, so international travelers should choose wisely.
Lower Costs Than Postpaid Plans
- Unlimited plans start at $35/month, offering excellent value without compromising quality.
- Compared to postpaid services, you get comparable performance—often for less money.
Great Deals on Phones
- Unlike most prepaid services, Google Fi frequently offers promotions and free phone deals, particularly for Google Pixel devices.
Potential Drawbacks
Data Limits
- While performance mirrors postpaid T-Mobile, data caps range from 30–100GB, depending on your plan.
- After reaching your limit, speeds drop to 256Kbps—too slow for anything beyond basic tasks like email.
No iPhones for Sale
- Google Fi supports iPhones, but you’ll have to bring your own, as Apple devices aren’t sold directly.
Google Fi vs. The Big Three Carriers
| Feature | Google Fi | Verizon/AT&T/T-Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Value | ✅ Often cheaper, with solid perks | ❌ Generally more expensive |
| Phone Deals | ✅ Great for Samsung & Pixel users | ✅ Includes Apple and wider range |
| Payment Plans | ✅ 0% financing and bill credits | ✅ Better insurance and variety |
| Perks | ⚠️ Fewer extras, but includes travel benefits, YouTube Premium (6 months), and Google One storage | ✅ More extensive perks (streaming, cloud, etc.) |
| Data Priority | ✅ Same as T-Mobile postpaid | ✅ High-priority, but costs more |
| Customer Service | ⚠️ Decent, but no retail stores and service quality has dipped | ✅ Better support and in-store help |
A great alternative to AT&T: Cricket Wireless
If you’re looking for top-tier access to AT&T’s network, Cricket Wireless is a solid option. As a wholly owned subsidiary of AT&T, Cricket provides service prioritization equivalent to AT&T’s base postpaid plans. Much like Google Fi, Cricket operates more like a traditional carrier — complete with free phone promotions, multi-line discounts, streaming perks, and more. While I haven’t personally used Cricket as my daily carrier in several years, multiple family members — including my mother — continue to be satisfied customers.
What Makes Cricket Wireless Stand Out?
Traditional Carrier Feel
Cricket offers features you’d typically expect from postpaid plans — discounted (even free) phones on select plans, streaming benefits, and family plan savings.
High Priority Access on AT&T’s Network
Select Cricket plans provide the same priority level as AT&T’s mid-tier and higher postpaid options. Be aware, however, that the most affordable unlimited plan comes with lower priority — similar to AT&T’s budget postpaid tiers.
Physical Store Support
Cricket has brick-and-mortar locations, a great advantage for less tech-savvy users who prefer in-person assistance.
Where Cricket Might Fall Short
Higher Cost for Single Lines
Solo users may find Cricket a bit expensive. Unlimited plans start at $55/month, or $60/month for premium data and 15GB of hotspot access. That said, multi-line discounts can significantly reduce costs — for instance, four lines on the top-tier plan cost just $32.50 each. (Taxes are included in Cricket’s pricing, unlike T-Mobile.)
Comparing Cricket to Major Carriers
Value
Cricket typically offers better value than traditional postpaid — with slightly fewer perks but noticeable savings.
Phone Deals & Selection
Cricket leans toward mid-range phones and often provides free or low-cost options with long-term commitments. Its selection and promos resemble AT&T’s, especially for new customers.
Payment & Protection Plans
You’ll find postpaid-like options here. Device insurance (Cricket Protect) starts at $8/month, includes affordable repairs, and offers 16GB of free cloud storage. For financing, Cricket partners with Affirm.
Extras & Streaming Perks
Cricket’s highest-tier plan includes Max streaming at no extra cost. While T-Mobile gives away streaming services more broadly, and Verizon offers discounted perks, Cricket’s offering is surprisingly competitive.
Data & Network Priority
On higher-end plans, Cricket matches — or exceeds — AT&T’s budget postpaid data quality. Unlike some prepaid options that limit data or throttle speeds, Cricket provides truly unlimited data.
Customer Support
With both in-store and online support, Cricket’s customer service experience is comparable to postpaid carriers, based on both personal and family experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you mean by “the big three” carriers?
“The big three” refers to the three major U.S. wireless carriers: AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. These companies dominate the wireless market in terms of coverage, customer base, and infrastructure.
Why consider alternatives to the big three?
Alternatives often provide lower prices, simplified plans, and comparable coverage, especially when they operate on the same networks as the major carriers.
What are your top 3 alternative carriers?
My top picks are usually Cricket Wireless (uses AT&T’s network), Visible by Verizon, and Mint Mobile (runs on T-Mobile’s network). Each offers strong value in a different way.
Is coverage reliable with these alternatives?
Yes — because they piggyback on the same networks as the big three. You’ll get similar nationwide coverage, especially in urban and suburban areas.
Are these carriers prepaid or postpaid?
Most alternatives are prepaid, which means you pay before using the service. However, many offer features you’d expect from postpaid plans, like phone financing and family discounts.
Can I keep my current phone and number?
Absolutely. Most alternative carriers support number porting and are compatible with unlocked phones, especially newer models.
Do I get the same data speed as major carriers?
It depends. Some plans include high-priority data, while others may be deprioritized during network congestion. Still, the average user often won’t notice a difference in everyday use.
Are there hidden fees or taxes?
One of the perks of these alternatives is simplified pricing. Carriers like Cricket and Mint Mobile include taxes and fees in their advertised prices.
What kind of perks do these carriers offer?
Perks vary. For example, Cricket includes Max streaming with its top-tier plan, while Mint Mobile is known for bulk discounts and Visible includes unlimited hotspot data (with speed limits).
Are there family or multi-line plans available?
Yes. All three of my top picks offer multi-line discounts, making them even more affordable for families or groups.
What if I need in-person support?
Carriers like Cricket have brick-and-mortar locations, which is ideal if you prefer face-to-face help. Others, like Visible and Mint, are fully digital and offer chat or app-based support.
Are these carriers good for international use?
Somewhat. While not as comprehensive as the big three, many plans offer international calling or roaming add-ons. Mint and Visible, for example, have affordable global options for travel.
Conclusion
If you’re ready to break free from the high prices and complex plans of the big three carriers, exploring alternatives like Cricket Wireless, Visible, and Mint Mobile can be a game-changer. These carriers offer reliable coverage, affordable pricing, and surprising perks — all while operating on the same powerful networks as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Whether you’re a budget-conscious solo user, a tech-savvy traveler, or managing a family plan, there’s a solid option out there that fits your needs without the premium price tag. The wireless world has more choices than ever — and these top 3 picks prove you don’t have to sacrifice quality to save money.
