Best Pay-As-You-Go Cell Phone Plans in 2027
Direct Answer
How We Ranked These
We evaluated pay-as-you-go (PAYG) cell phone plans available in the U.S. for 2027 based on five core criteria. Price was the primary factor, focusing on the lowest entry cost and the best value per gigabyte of data. Flexibility measured how easily a user can change plans, add data, or pause service without penalties. Network coverage considered the reach and reliability of the underlying carrier (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, or regional networks). Data speed and priority looked at whether a plan includes 5G, throttling thresholds, and whether data is deprioritized after a certain limit. Finally, add-on options such as international calling, hotspot tethering, and multi-month discounts were factored in. All plans listed are available to new customers in 2027 and are prepaid, meaning no credit checks or long-term contracts are required.
1. Tello Mobile 🏆 BEST OVERALL
Tello Mobile is the top pick for pay-as-you-go plans in 2027 because it offers the most granular customization of any major prepaid carrier. You can build a plan from scratch by choosing 0 to unlimited talk minutes, 0 to unlimited text messages, and 0GB to 50GB of 4G/5G data. The minimum plan costs just $5/month for 100 minutes, unlimited texts, and no data. For a more practical setup, $10/month gets you unlimited talk and text with 1GB of data. Tello runs on T-Mobile's network, so you get access to 5G speeds and nationwide coverage. A key advantage is that you can change your plan at any time without fees, and unused data rolls over if you manually renew before the end of your cycle. International calling to over 60 countries is included on plans with unlimited minutes. Tello also offers hotspot tethering at full speed on data plans. The only downside is that customer support is primarily via chat and email, with no physical stores.
2. T-Mobile Connect 💎 BEST VALUE
T-Mobile Connect is the runner-up and best value pick for users who want a straightforward, low-cost plan with reliable nationwide coverage. Starting at $10/month, you get 1,000 talk minutes, unlimited text, and 1GB of high-speed data (including 5G). The plan also includes Scam Shield protection and Wi-Fi calling. For $15/month, the plan jumps to 5GB of data with unlimited talk and text. T-Mobile Connect data is not deprioritized until you exceed your plan's high-speed cap, unlike some other prepaid carriers. You can also add Data Stash to roll over unused data for up to 12 months. T-Mobile's network covers over 99% of Americans, and its 5G network is one of the largest in the country. The main limitation is that you cannot customize talk minutes or text—the plans are fixed. However, for simplicity and value, it is hard to beat.
3. Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile is a popular pay-as-you-go option that uses T-Mobile's network and offers deep discounts when you buy multiple months upfront. Plans start at $15/month for 5GB of data (unlimited talk and text) when you pay for 12 months. For $20/month, you get 15GB; for $25/month, you get 20GB; and for $30/month, you get unlimited data (throttled after 40GB). Mint includes 5G access, mobile hotspot (up to 5GB on most plans), and free international calling to Mexico and Canada. The catch is that you must pay for 3, 6, or 12 months at a time to get the low rate—month-to-month pricing is higher. Mint also offers a 7-day trial with a free SIM kit to test coverage. It is best for users who can commit to a longer prepaid period to save money.
4. Visible (by Verizon)
Visible is a prepaid carrier owned by Verizon, offering two simple plans: Visible at $25/month and Visible+ at $35/month (with autopay). Both include unlimited talk, text, and data on Verizon's network, including 5G. The base Visible plan deprioritizes data in congested areas, but Visible+ offers 50GB of premium data and UWB (Ultra Wideband) 5G access. A major perk is unlimited hotspot at 5Mbps on the base plan and 10Mbps on Visible+. Visible also includes unlimited talk and text to Mexico and Canada. There are no annual contracts, and you can bring your own phone or buy one from Visible. The downside is that customer support is entirely digital (chat only), and data speeds can be slow during peak times on the base plan. It is best for heavy data users who want Verizon's coverage at a low price.
5. US Mobile
US Mobile offers highly customizable plans on either Verizon's (Warp) or T-Mobile's (GSM) networks. You can build your own plan with custom talk, text, and data starting at $5/month for 500 minutes, 500 texts, and 500MB of data. For unlimited data, plans start at $25/month on the Warp network. US Mobile includes 5G on both networks, mobile hotspot, and international calling credits. A standout feature is "Perk" discounts—if you have multiple lines, you can get free subscriptions to services like Netflix or Spotify. The network switching is a major advantage, letting you choose the best coverage for your area. Customer support is responsive via chat and phone. The main drawback is that the interface can be slightly complex for new users.
6. Boost Mobile
Boost Mobile runs on T-Mobile's network (and AT&T in some areas) and offers a range of pay-as-you-go plans. The cheapest plan is $10/month for 1GB of data with unlimited talk and text. For $25/month, you get 10GB of data, and for $50/month, you get 40GB of premium data with 5G access. Boost also offers unlimited data plans starting at $25/month with autopay, though video streaming is capped at 480p. A unique feature is BoostCoin rewards, which let you earn discounts on future payments. Boost has a large retail presence with physical stores for in-person support. The network can be deprioritized compared to T-Mobile's own prepaid plans, but the pricing is competitive.
7. Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless is an AT&T-owned prepaid carrier that offers straightforward plans with no surprises. The base plan is $30/month for 5GB of data (unlimited talk and text). For $40/month, you get 10GB; for $50/month, you get 20GB; and for $60/month, you get unlimited data (throttled after 50GB). All plans include 5G access on AT&T's network, Wi-Fi calling, and unlimited text and picture messaging. Cricket also offers multi-line discounts (up to 5 lines) that can bring the cost down significantly. A key advantage is that data is not deprioritized until you exceed your plan's cap, unlike some other prepaid carriers. Cricket has a large network of physical stores for support. The downside is that plans are less flexible than Tello or US Mobile.
8. Consumer Cellular
Consumer Cellular is a prepaid carrier that uses both AT&T and T-Mobile networks, automatically switching to the best signal. Plans start at $20/month for 1GB of data (unlimited talk and text). For $25/month, you get 5GB; for $35/month, you get 10GB; and for $50/month, you get 20GB. Consumer Cellular is known for its excellent customer service (rated #1 by J.D. Power for years) and is popular among seniors. It offers 5G access, mobile hotspot, and international calling options. There are no contracts, and you can bring your own phone. The main trade-off is that data is more expensive per gigabyte compared to other carriers, but the network flexibility and support are worth it for many.
9. Red Pocket Mobile
Red Pocket Mobile is a versatile prepaid carrier that lets you choose from all three major networks (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile). Plans start at $5/month for 200 minutes, 1000 texts, and 200MB of data. For $10/month, you get 1GB of data with unlimited talk and text. Red Pocket also offers annual plans that can be even cheaper—for example, $99/year for 1GB/month (works out to $8.25/month). All plans include 5G where available, and you can switch networks at any time by contacting support. Red Pocket is best for users who want the flexibility to choose their network and are comfortable with a slightly more DIY setup.
10. Ultra Mobile
Ultra Mobile is a T-Mobile-based prepaid carrier that focuses on international calling. Plans start at $15/month for 1GB of data (unlimited talk and text) with free calling to 80+ countries. For $20/month, you get 5GB; for $30/month, you get 15GB; and for $40/month, you get unlimited data (throttled after 35GB). Ultra Mobile includes 5G, mobile hotspot, and Wi-Fi calling. It is ideal for users who frequently call family abroad, as the international calling credit is generous. The network is the same as T-Mobile, so coverage is solid. The main limitation is that data is slightly more expensive than Tello or Mint for domestic-only users.
FAQ
Is pay-as-you-go cheaper than a postpaid plan? Yes, for light to moderate data users (under 10GB/month), pay-as-you-go plans are almost always cheaper. Postpaid plans often include perks like streaming subscriptions or device financing, but the base cost is higher.
Can I keep my current phone number? Yes, all major prepaid carriers allow you to port your existing number. You will need your account number and transfer PIN from your current carrier. The process usually takes a few minutes to a few hours.
Do these plans include 5G? Most do. Tello, T-Mobile Connect, Mint Mobile, Visible, US Mobile, Boost Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Consumer Cellular, Red Pocket Mobile, and Ultra Mobile all include 5G on compatible devices. Some may require a plan with data to access 5G.
What happens if I run out of data mid-month? You can usually top up with an add-on data pack. Tello allows you to manually renew early to roll over unused data. T-Mobile Connect offers Data Stash to roll over unused data. Other carriers may throttle your speed to 2G or 3G until the next billing cycle.
Are there any hidden fees? Most prepaid plans include taxes and fees in the advertised price, but some carriers (like T-Mobile Connect and Mint Mobile) add taxes and regulatory fees at checkout. Always check the final price before paying.
Can I use these plans for a hotspot? Yes, most plans include mobile hotspot tethering. Tello, T-Mobile Connect, Mint Mobile, Visible, US Mobile, Boost Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Consumer Cellular, Red Pocket Mobile, and Ultra Mobile all allow hotspot use, though some may cap the hotspot speed or data amount.
Sources
- Tello Mobile official plans page
- T-Mobile Connect prepaid plans
- Mint Mobile plans and pricing
- Visible by Verizon plans
- US Mobile custom plans
- Boost Mobile prepaid plans
- Cricket Wireless plans
- Consumer Cellular plans
- Red Pocket Mobile plans
- Ultra Mobile plans
Bottom Line
For 2027, Tello Mobile is the best pay-as-you-go cell phone plan because it offers unmatched customization at the lowest starting price. T-Mobile Connect is the best value for users who want a simple, reliable plan with nationwide coverage and 5G. If you need Verizon's network, Visible is the best choice. For annual savings, Mint Mobile is hard to beat. Always check the carrier's coverage map for your specific location before committing.
*Best pay-as-you-go cell phone plans 2027, cheapest prepaid plans with 5G, Tello Mobile review, T-Mobile Connect value, Visible vs Mint Mobile comparison*
People also search for: best pay-as-you-go cell phone plans 2027 · top pay-as-you-go cell phone plans 2027 · top rated pay-as-you-go cell phone plans 2027 · top ranked pay-as-you-go cell phone plans 2027 · highest rated pay-as-you-go cell phone plans 2027 · pay-as-you-go cell phone plans reviews 2027