Metro subscribers can access T-Mobile's 5G with an eligible phone, as can Mint Mobile customers. Just be aware that MVNOs can see their traffic slowed if a carrier’s network gets too crowded.ĥG coverage is now a part of what many MVNOs offer. (Some MVNOs turn to multiple carriers.) So if Verizon’s network is particularly strong where you are, for example, MVNOs that use Verizon’s network for coverage will perform well, too. Other wireless services - known as mobile virtual network operators, or MVNOs - use the cellular networks of AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon for their coverage. That’s true even if you look beyond the Big Three carriers for service. Metro by T-Mobile has been known to increase discounts for each line of data you add, too.īesides price, one of the most important things to consider is what carrier offers the best coverage around your home and workplace. Often, larger carriers like AT&T and Verizon will adjust the size of their autopay discount, which can make a pricier plan more attractive. You'll also want to pay attention to discounts and special offers. That said, some carriers - such as Metro By T-Mobile and Boost - do work in a few perks, so be aware of those when picking your plans. That’s because prepaid plans don’t often come with the kind of benefits postpaid cell phone plans offer. When shopping for a prepaid phone plan, price is paramount. View Deal How to pick the best prepaid phone plans Still, plans that offer hotspot data or international calling are worth considering.

In addition, we consider the perks that come with the best prepaid plans, though be aware that extra benefits are one thing you may have to sacrifice for prepaid plans' lower rates. (AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon obviously use their own networks for prepaid coverage, but mobile virtual network operators - or MVNOs - like Mint, Tello and Visible use other carriers' networks.) We note when a prepaid carrier might slow down your service and what happens to your coverage when you use up all your data.

We look at the network a prepaid service uses. We're not just considering price, though.

During our research into the best cell phone plans overall, we take note of the best prepaid options from carriers big and small. To find the best prepaid plans, we look for low-cost plans that offer enough data to meet the needs of a typical smartphone user.

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