Are you a budget-savvy customer looking for cheap talk and text only plans in the USA? Well, in that case, you have come to the right place. Here you will find several cheap no data phone plans in America.
You will be surprised to know that the average American’s annual cellphone subscription costs around $1000, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
So, if you are one of those individuals looking to save a few bucks on phone plans, then you are absolutely in luck. There are plenty of telecom providers and MVNOs who offer cheap and affordable phone plans to fit your budget. You can opt for any of them and save your hard-earned cash.
However, choosing the best network provider offering cheap plans isn’t as simple as it may sound. While all MVNOs and lesser-known phone carriers promise affordable deals, not all of them actually live up to their words. Therefore, it is essential to compare their plans and make a wiser choice.
Sounds time-consuming? Don’t worry as we are here to assist. Our experts have done in-depth research and come up with the 5 best phone carriers that are worth giving a thought to. So, without further ado, let’s get into it.
Cheap talk and text only phone plans comparison
| Carriers | Minutes | Texts | Network | Price | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tello | Starts at 100 minutes | Unlimited | T-Mobile | Starts at $5/mo. | >>View Plan |
| US Mobile | Unlimited | Unlimited | Verizon & T-Mobile | $8/mo. | >View Plan |
| Gen Mobile | Unlimited | Unlimited | T-Mobile | $9/mo. | >View Plan |
| Twigby | Unlimited | Unlimited | Verizon | Starts at $5/mo. | >>View Plan |
| Boost Mobile | Unlimited | Unlimited | T-Mobile & AT&T | $25/mo. | >>View Plan |
Cheapest USA talk and text only plans
Most Americans are signed up with one of the three major carriers, but there are a lot of options beyond them to choose from. So, if you are looking to save money, these lesser-known low-cost talk and text only plans might be the best bet.
1. Tello – Best cheap build-your-own options
Headquartered in Atlanta and launched in 2002, Tello is one of the leading names for those looking for budget-friendly plans. It is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), that operates on T-Mobile wireless network.
Pros
- No contract
- Runs on T-Mobile
- Free unlimited text with all plans
- Free hotspot tethering
- Wi-Fi calling is allowed
- Free calls to 60+ countries
- You can bring your phone and number
- eSim is supported
Cons
- May not be good for family plan
Tello Mobile Deals
Get 10% off any phone plan on your first order with Tello.com for any plan above $10/month. When check out, input the coupon code 10OFFAFF to get the discount. Click the link to get this discount.
With no long-term contracts and free international calling, Tello is an ideal choice for all. If you are looking for a flexible and affordable cell phone plan, Tello’s Economy might be a great fit. It comes with 1GB of data, unlimited minutes, and unlimited texts, for $9 per month.
This ultra-affordable plan is a great pick for customers looking for a simple, cell phone plan with basic features. It renews on a month-to-month basis, so they can easily upgrade, downgrade, or cancel the plan whenever they need to.
If you are looking for the cheapest talk and text plan USA, then opt for custom options and create the deal that suits you the best. You can choose different data and minutes:
- Data: No data, 1GB, 2GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, Unlimited data
- Minutes: No minutes, 100 minutes, 300 minutes, 500 minutes, unlimited minutes.
Here’re mentioned cheap customized options to choose from.
| Data | Minutes | Text | Cost |
| No Data | 100 Minutes | Free Text | $5/month |
| No Data | 300 Minutes | Free Text | $6/month |
| No Data | 500 Minutes | Free Text | $7/month |
| No Data | Unlimited Minutes | Free Text | $8/month |
All plans come with free hotspot tethering, so you can share your data with others at no extra charge. In addition to this, unlimited minutes can be used for calls to over 60 countries. These international calls are available for every customer, whether new or old, and come with every Tello Plan.
Plans renew automatically after 30 days and you can upgrade or downgrade the plan. The change is quick, and your remaining balance will add to the next 30 days. Tello offers excellent customer service, available round-the-clock. Connect with them in your hour of need, and they will be readily available to help you.
Tello has a 4.4-star rating on famous review site Trustpilot, with 80% of users rating it “5 star”. This compares favorably to the three big operators who hover around the 1.3-1.5-star. So it is hard to say no to Tello’s affordable and customizable plans with excellent customer service.
Fore more details about Tello Mobile, see Tello Mobile Review.
2. US Mobile – Best talk coverage
Counted among the leading network providers in the country, US Mobile is specialized in offering flexible and highly customizable plans. The best thing about this phone carrier is its excellent coverage. It has super-cheap no-data plans for those who need to make occasional calls and don’t require data.
Pros
- Super cheap talk and text plans
- No contract
- Verizon and T-Mobile network
- Extra savings when you add lines
- Fast speed
- Reliable coverage
- Customizable plans are available
- Tax and fees included
Cons
- Data deprioritization
It is an MVNO, operating on the bandwidth of T-Mobile and Verizon, to give services to their customers. When you sign up for the US mobile, you will get the Starter Kit, including two separate SIM cards – one for its GSM LTE Network (T-Mobile) and the other for Super LTE Network (Verizon).
Unlike other network operators, US Mobile offers plans based on the lines. More unlimited talk and text lines mean more savings. Check the cheapest talk and text plan here.
| Plan | Minutes | Texts | Cost |
| Light Plan | Unlimited | Unlimited | $8/line |
You have to pay $8, total $96 for annual plan. Get this plan and enjoy nationwide coverage, cutting-edge 5G speeds, and more for free. You can also first opt for a trial to check whether the plan is worth spending on or not.
If you add on more minutes, texts, or a little bit of data, then US Mobile has covered you with over a dozen other plan options. US Mobile allows you to share data for only $2 per GB. All these plans come with Wi-Fi calling at no extra cost so you can stay connected with your family and friends when traveling abroad. Fore more details about US Mobile, see US Mobile Review.
3. Gen Mobile – Best talk & text value
Gen Mobile is US prepaid wireless service provider offering fast and strong coverage. It is powered by T-Mobile Network and is dedicated to keeping affordable services without compromising network, speed, or quality.
Pros
- Super affordable plans
- Free sim card
- Excellent coverage
- No annual contract
- 7 day Money-back guarantee
Cons
- Below-average network coverage
- Customer service need to improve
Their plans are designed to fit all budgets and cost with the cheapest plan as low as $9/mo. It offers nationwide 4G LTE/ 5G coverage so you can stay connected with your near and dear ones.
Another best thing is that they don’t lock in any contracts and you are free to cancel the plan and move on without giving any specific reason. It provides the two cheapest unlimited talk and text plans. Scroll down the page to know more about them.
While you can select the one-month unlimited plan for $10, you can save 10% each month by opting for 3 months option. Both of them come with a money-back guarantee, nationwide coverage, and unlimited global texting. And with the 3 months plans, you will have the $39 activation fee waived.
Gen Mobile’s prices are mostly in Line with their prepaid competitors. However, there are certain things that you should be mindful of before opting for their services. They are best for light data users only as their mobile plans with more datas are relatively expensive compared with other providers.
For all plans, after your plan expires, you will still get a 15-day text freebie and the ability to add on minutes, data, and international credit.
Getting activated on the network is quick and easy. Like most providers, this phone carrier also supports a port-in process that allows users to keep their existing numbers.
The network provider comes with a 7-Day money-back guarantee, which means that if you are not satisfied with their services for any reason, they will give you a refund within 7 days from the date you receive your phone or plan. Fore more details about Gen Mobile, see Gen Mobile Review
4. Twigby
Still, looking for the best talk and text only plans? Turn your heads to Twigby and enjoy unlimited calling and texting without spending a fortune. An affordable option for senior, this MVNO runs on Verizon’s network. It includes international talk and text, hotspot access and reliable network coverage to facilitate the customers.
Pros
- Cheap and affordable plans
- Customizable plans
- No activation fees or contracts
- Strong coverage on Verizon
- Free mobile hotspot
- Free international calling
- Free unlimited talk to 80+ INTL countries
- Free unlimited global text
- Free voice call
- Free sim card
Cons
- No Unlimited data plan
Twigby Deals
$30 OFF FOR FIRST MONTHS
Save up to $10/month for 3-months on a new Twigby plan, then get the regular low price after 3 months.
- 2GB + Unlimited Talk & Text = $5/mo. instead of $15/mo. for first three months.
- 5GB + Unlimited Talk & Text = $10/mo. instead of $20/mo. for first three months.
- 10GB + Unlimited Talk & Text = $15/mo. instead of $25/mo. for first three months.
- 20GB + Unlimited Talk & Text = $25/mo. instead of $35/mo. for first three months.
Twigby might be a new name, but it has proven its credibility and value by offering nationwide coverage and most flexible, low-cost cell phone plans. Furthermore, this network provider prefer customizing their plans, which means that you can choose amount of data, implying that you are not forced to pay for data you won’t use.
With Twigby, customers can get to use Verizon, the country’s largest network for talk and text, which means that they never run out of coverage area, no matter wherever they go.
The cheapest talk and text plan offered by Twigby is available at $5 per month for the first three months, then $10/month.
| Data | Minutes | Texts | Cost |
| No | Unlimited | Unlimited | $5/month |
This plan comes with unlimited talk and text without data. The best thing about Twigby is that it allows you to create your own plan, based on your requirements and budget.
You have six options for data – No Data, 2GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB and Unlimited Data. The cheapest customized talk and text plan is available at $5 (for the first 3 months) then $15/month, if you choose unlimited minutes and 2GB no data.
Furthermore, you can also limit the amount of data and by setting your custom limits. They send you text update when you are 50% and 100% use of your plans. Fore more details about Twigby plans, see Twigby Mobile Review
5. Boost Mobile
Boost Mobile is one of the prominent MVNOs, offering plenty of unlimited plans catering to customers. It gets you on T-Mobile and AT&T’s powerful 4G/5G network, so you can never face any coverage trouble. Its excellent network coverage makes it ideal for all, whether you are living in major metropolitan or suburban areas.
Pros
- Multiple affordable plans are available
- Great value for money
- 5G coverage
- Good network coverage
- No service contracts
- Mobile hotspot
- 99% nationwide coverage
Cons
- Data Deprioritization
- A little bit overpriced than its competitors
Boost Mobile Deals
Bring your own phone and get unlimited wireless from Boost Mobile for just $25/mo. Forever.
Boost Mobile offers a number of prepaid plans with both unlimited data and talk options. Out of all basic phone plans offered by this mobile, the cheapest one is available for $25 per month with 30GB premium data, unlimited call and texts.
Check out more about this plan here.
| Data | Talk | Texts | Cost |
| 30GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $25/mo. |
This plan includes unlimited talk and text and 30GB of data, no contract needed. This new customer offer is available online only and is valid for new customers.
If you need more functions, you can add with extra cost as follows:
- Data hotspot ($10/month)
- 10GB high-speed data ($10/month)
- Global Talk & Text ($10/month)
- North America Connect ($10/month)
- Global Roaming ($20/month)
While Boost Mobile offers plenty of exciting things to ease the customers, there are several things where it requires improvement. First of all, this MVNO is a bit pricier as compared to all other options available on the list. Secondly, it is missing out on fast and consistent data speeds as it is also subject to data deprioritization. Fore more details about Boost Mobile plans, see Boost Mobile Review
Things to consider when choosing talk and text only plans
Since there are plenty of cheap talk and text plans available on the market, not everyone is worthy of consideration. There are a few things you might keep in mind when selecting the best-unlimited text and talk time provider, like price, network coverage, the reputation of the company, and many more.
Here, we have put together some essential factors you should know before locking the deal.
Network Coverage
There’s no point in choosing a plan or provider with poor network coverage. Hence, the first thing you should check before agreeing to the deal is the overall coverage. Check their coverage maps in the location where you reside or where you frequently roam, so you won’t face any trouble later on.
Cell phone network coverage
| Carrier | 4G nationwide coverage | 5G nationwide coverage | Check Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | 70% | 12% | Check Now |
| AT&T | 68% | 29% | Check Now |
| T-Mobile | 62% | 53% | Check Now |
Contract Length
Sometimes, it is easy to get tempted with the attractive deal and additional perks, but all of this comes at a price, not in terms of money but the longer contracts. There are several network providers who offer the cheapest plans with long-term contracts such as Genmobile and Boost Mobile.
Such deals might seem tempting at once, but they may lock you for the course of time, which could span months or even a year. These contracts are attached with harsh penalties, and you may end up feeling helpless and exhausted. Hence, do not forget to check the contract length before finalizing an option.
Company’s Reputation
The reputation of the company is an important factor to consider when choosing the talk and text only plans. Consider the number of years the cell phone service provider has been in the industry and evaluate the results they have garnered over that time. Do not ignore the customer reviews and get an overall idea about the provider before locking yourself with them.
Price
Last but not least factor is the pricing. Since you are searching for cheap and budget-friendly plans to save a few bucks, it is vital to consider the overall amount of money you’ll be going to spend on your cell phone bill.
Always pay attention to the provider’s pricing structure and make sure how much you are going to add to their bank account in the name of a “cheap plan.” Do not make decisions in haste and always compare the plans offered by the leading carriers and MVNOs to make an informed choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Talk and Text only plan refer to the plan offering minutes and messages with taxes and fees. These plans are ideal for those who don’t want data allowance on their phones or looking for cheap calling options.
The cost of talk and text only plans varies from one network provider to another the cheapest plan without data starts from $5/months. However, these are usually cheaper than those with combined data allowance or unlimited data. You can also customize these plans, according to your needs, and save a few bucks.
The cheapest and most affordable voice and text-only plan in the USA is offered by US Mobile. With this, you can enjoy unlimited text and minutes at just $8 per month. You can also lower the price to $7 and $6 by adding 2 or 3 lines respectively. In addition to the US Mobile, Tello also offers the most reasonable customized plans. While Tello’s economy plan is available at $10, you can get their custom plan starting from $5/month.
While there are plenty of providers offering unlimited voice and text plans in the country, Gen Mobile holds the topmost position for many reasons. First of all, they offer the cheapest 3-month unlimited text and talk-only plan at $9 per month. Secondly, their plans come with a 7-day money-back guarantee, which means that you can get refund if you don’t like their services for whatever reason.
Summary
So, that’s all about the cheapest talk and text plans in the USA. We hope our guide would help you make the right choice so you can stay in touch with your family and relatives without putting a burden on your wallet. We have created the list by comparing all the leading carriers and MVNOs available in the country. Talk and text-only plans are great for people who want to save money on their cell phone bills.
Most of the providers mentioned above offer custom plan options, in which you can create a perfect deal for you, catering to your daily needs and budget. It is recommended to carefully analyze the pros and cons of all the plans and cell phone providers and make a choice accordingly.
These plans are good choice for those who just want to save with just call and text without data. Whatever plan you choose, make sure it satisfies your calling requirements while helping you save your hard-earned cash.
Article Updates
- Aug 29, 2024: Update Boost Mobile plans