In 2025, finding the best phone plan for one person means balancing affordability, coverage, and features. Major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile often prioritize family plans, leaving single-line users with fewer discounts and higher costs. However, and prepaid providers now offer competitive, flexible, and budget-friendly options that rival—or even surpass—the value of traditional carriers.
This guide breaks down the top single-line phone plans, highlighting the best overall, budget, unlimited, and premium options. Whether you need unlimited data, a low-cost plan, or flexible customization, there’s a plan tailored to your needs.
Why Choose a Single-Line Plan?
Single-line plans are ideal for individuals who want full control over their wireless service without the complexity of family plans. Benefits include:
- Affordability: No need to pay for extra lines or features you won’t use. MVNOs and prepaid carriers often provide the same coverage as major networks at a fraction of the cost.
- Flexibility: Customize your data, talk, and text allowances to fit your usage. Many providers allow you to adjust your plan monthly or prepay for longer terms to lock in lower rates.
- No Contracts: Most single-line plans are prepaid or month-to-month, so you’re not locked into long-term commitments.
- Perks and Features: Many plans include mobile hotspot, international calling, and Wi-Fi calling at no extra cost.
Top Picks for Single-Line Phone Plans in 2025
1. Best Overall: Mint Mobile 12-Month Unlimited Plan
Network: T-Mobile
Price: \$15/month (promo) | \$180 upfront for the year
Highlights: Unlimited talk, text, and high-speed data, 10GB mobile hotspot, user-friendly app
for its long-term value and reliable coverage on T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G and LTE network. The 12-month unlimited plan is ideal for users who want to lock in a low rate without sacrificing performance. While speeds may slow after 35GB of usage in congested areas, most users report consistent, fast service. Mint also offers a 3-month trial for new customers, making it easy to test before committing.
2. Best Unlimited Premium: Visible Wireless Visible+ Plan
Network: Verizon
Price: \$29/month (promo)
Highlights: Truly unlimited premium data, Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband, unlimited mobile hotspot (10 Mbps cap), optional smartwatch connectivity
, offers one of the best unlimited plans for single-line users. The Visible+ plan provides access to Verizon’s fastest 5G network, including Ultra Wideband, with no data slowdowns. It’s perfect for heavy data users who want premium speeds and features like international calling and mobile hotspot. Customer support is online-only, but the plan’s simplicity and value make it a top choice.
3. Best Budget: Tello Mobile Build Your Own Plan
Network: T-Mobile
Price: Starting at \$5/month
Highlights: Fully customizable minutes and data, free hotspot tethering, month-to-month flexibility
. Its customizable plans let you choose exactly how much talk, text, and data you need, starting at just \$5/month. Tello runs on T-Mobile’s network, ensuring reliable coverage, and includes free mobile hotspot and international calling to 60+ countries. It’s ideal for light data users, seniors, or anyone who wants a no-frills, affordable plan.
4. Best Unlimited Alternative: US Mobile Unlimited Starter Plan
Network: Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile (your choice)
Price: \$19/month (annual plan) | \$25/month (monthly)
Highlights: Up to 70GB high-speed data, 20GB hotspot allowance, choice of network, great customer service
, allowing you to select your preferred network (Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile). The Unlimited Starter plan includes up to 70GB of high-speed data and a generous 20GB hotspot allowance. Even after hitting the data cap, speeds remain usable at 1Mbps. US Mobile’s customer service and user-friendly app make it a strong contender for those who prioritize customization and reliability.
5. Best Major Carrier Plan: T-Mobile Experience More
Network: T-Mobile
Price: \$85/month
Highlights: Unlimited premium data, 60GB mobile hotspot, Netflix and Apple TV+ subscriptions, international perks
For those who prefer a major carrier, offers unlimited premium data, a 60GB mobile hotspot, and streaming subscriptions. It’s ideal for users who want top-tier features and T-Mobile’s extensive 5G network. While pricier than MVNOs, the included perks and reliable coverage justify the cost.
How to Choose the Right Single-Line Plan
Selecting the best plan depends on your usage, budget, and coverage needs. Here’s what to consider:
- Data Needs: Assess your monthly data usage. If you’re mostly on Wi-Fi, a budget plan with 5GB–10GB may suffice. Heavy streamers or remote workers should opt for unlimited or high-data plans.
- Coverage: Check coverage maps for your area. T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T each have strengths in different regions. MVNOs use these networks, so choose based on local reliability.
- Budget: Compare upfront costs and monthly rates. Prepaid plans often require annual payments for the best rates, while month-to-month options offer flexibility.
- Perks: Look for included features like mobile hotspot, international calling, or streaming subscriptions. These can add significant value.
- Customer Service: Read reviews about customer support, especially for online-only providers like Visible or Mint.
Major Carriers vs. MVNOs: The Price Gap
for single-line users. Here’s how the costs compare:
- Major Carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile): Average \$48–\$71/month for prepaid and postpaid plans.
- MVNOs (Mint, Visible, US Mobile, Tello): Average \$22/month for comparable service.
Unless you need specific perks or have 3+ lines, MVNOs provide the same coverage at a significantly lower cost.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, single-line users have more options than ever. Whether you prioritize affordability, unlimited data, or premium features, there’s a plan to fit your lifestyle. MVNOs like Mint Mobile, Visible, and US Mobile offer the best balance of value and flexibility, while major carriers provide robust coverage and perks for those willing to pay a premium.
Before switching, , compare plan features, and consider your data needs. With the right plan, you can enjoy reliable service without overpaying.