A SIM-only plan is a mobile service plan where you pay for just the SIM card and the network services (such as data, calls, and texts) without purchasing a new phone from the carrier. Since you already have your own phone, you’re only paying for the mobile service itself, making these plans typically more affordable and flexible than plans bundled with a new device.
SIM-only plans typically offer lower monthly costs since they don’t come bundled with a device. Here’s an overview of SIM-only plans in the USA:
1. Tello (T-Mobile’s Network)
Tello Mobile offers affordable, flexible plans with the ability to customize your plan based on your specific needs. It operates on T-Mobile’s nationwide network, so you get access to a solid 4G LTE and 5G network (where available).
| Data | Minutes | Texts | Price |
| 1GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $9/ month |
| 2GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $10/ month |
| 5GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $14/ month |
| 10GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $19/ month |
| 15GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $24/ month |
| Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | $25/ month |
Why Choose Tello Mobile Sim Card?
T-Mobile Network: Tello operates on T-Mobile’s network, which offers extensive 4G LTE and growing 5G coverage across the U.S. Check the coverage map to ensure service quality in your area.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Tello allows you to bring your own phone, provided it is unlocked and compatible with T-Mobile’s GSM network. They also have a tool to check if your device is compatible.
5G Ready: All Tello plans come with 5G access where available, at no additional cost, as long as you have a 5G-capable device.
Build Your Own Plan: Tello allows users to customize their plans by selecting how much data and how many minutes they need. You can build a plan starting as low as $5/month.
No Contract: Tello is a prepaid service, meaning there are no contracts, hidden fees, or cancellation fees.
Free Mobile Hotspot: You can use your phone as a mobile hotspot at no additional cost.
Free International Calls: Tello includes free international calls to over 60 countries, including popular destinations like Canada, Mexico, China, the UK, and many European countries. This feature is part of all plans and does not require any additional fees.
Wi-Fi Calling: If you’re in an area with weak cellular coverage but have Wi-Fi access, Tello supports Wi-Fi calling.
Plan Flexibility: You can change your plan anytime without penalties or fees.
2. Mint Mobile (T-Mobile’s Network)
Mint Mobile is a popular MVNO that offers affordable, prepaid SIM-only plans with great flexibility. It operates on T-Mobile’s network, providing reliable coverage and access to 5G. Mint Mobile is known for its affordable plans, especially when purchased in bulk (3, 6, or 12 months at a time).
| Data | 3 Months | 6 Months | 12 Months | |
| 5GB | $15/mo. | $20/mo. | $15/mo. | View Plans » |
| 15GB | $20/mo. | $25/mo. | $20/mo. | View Plans » |
| 20GB | $25/mo. | $35/mo. | $25/mo. | View Plans » |
| Unlimited (40GB) | $30/mo. | $35/mo. | $30/mo. | View Plans » |
Why Choose Mint Mobile Sim Only Card?
Affordable Plans： Mint Mobile’s key selling point is its low-cost plans, particularly when purchased in bulk (3, 6, or 12 months upfront). The more months you buy upfront, the cheaper the plan gets. After the first three months, you can lock in these low prices for 12 months.
5G and 4G LTE Access： Mint Mobile gives you access to T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G network at no additional cost, provided you have a 5G-capable device. If 5G is unavailable in your area, Mint also offers reliable 4G LTE speeds, ensuring consistent performance in most locations.
Free Mobile Hotspot：All Mint Mobile plans include the ability to use your phone as a mobile hotspot at no extra charge. The data you use for tethering is drawn from your plan’s data allotment. For Unlimited Plan, You can use up to 10 GB of mobile hotspot data at high speed.
Wi-Fi Calling and Texting： Mint Mobile supports Wi-Fi calling and texting, which allows you to make calls and send texts over a Wi-Fi connection. This is particularly helpful if you are in an area with poor cellular signal but have access to Wi-Fi.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)：Mint Mobile allows you to bring your own phone, provided it’s unlocked and compatible with T-Mobile’s GSM network. Mint provides an online tool to check if your device is compatible. If your phone is compatible, you’ll just need to order a Mint SIM card (which often comes free with the purchase of a plan) and insert it into your device.
7-Day Risk-Free Trial： Mint offers a 7-day trial with a 100% money-back guarantee. You can try out their service with 250MB • 250 Texts • 250 Mins, and if you’re not satisfied, you can return it for a full refund.
3. Visible by Verizon (Verizon’s Network)
Visible by Verizon offers simple, affordable, and flexible prepaid plans with unlimited data, talk, and text. It operates on Verizon’s network, one of the most reliable networks in the U.S., and provides access to 5G where available.
Visible offers simple unlimited plans with no contracts and a focus on simplicity.
| Visible | Visible+ |
|---|---|
| $25/mo (Taxes and fees included) | $45/mo (Taxes and fees included) |
| Unlimited Talk, Text, & Data 5G Nationwide & 4G LTE | Unlimited Talk, Text & data 50 GB/mo of premium data 5G Nationwide & 4G LTE 5G Ultra Wideband Save $10/mo on Verizon Home Internet Smartwatch service included. Save $10/mo. |
| Unlimited Mobile Hotspot | Unlimited Mobile Hotspot at twice the speed as Visible plan |
| Unlimited Talk & Text to Mexico & Canada | Unlimited Talk & Text to Mexico/Canada Unlimited Talk, Text & Data Roaming in Mexico/Canada (2GB of data per day) International Calling from US to 30+ Countries International Texting from US to 200+ Countries One Global Pass day per month included |
| View the plan> | View the plan> |
Why Choose Visible Mobile Sim Only Plans?
Simple Plan Options: Visible has two main plan options, both offering unlimited data, talk, and text with no contracts.
Unlimited Data: Both plans offer truly unlimited data without any overage charges. However, the Visible+ plan provides better performance during peak times thanks to premium network access. For the basic Visible plan, data speeds may be deprioritized during network congestion.
Unlimited Mobile Hotspot: Both plans come with unlimited mobile hotspot usage, but speeds are limited to 5 Mbps for Visible and 10Mpbs for Visible+ which is fast enough for light usage like web browsing, social media, and streaming low-resolution video. There’s no cap on the amount of data you can use with the hotspot, but speeds remain limited.
5G Access: Both plans offer access to Verizon’s 5G Nationwide network. With the Visible+ plan, you get access to Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network, which is much faster than the standard 5G network and can reach speeds over 1 Gbps in some areas.
No Contracts and Fees: All of Visible’s plans are prepaid, so you’re not locked into any long-term contracts. The price you see is what you pay, with no hidden fees or overage charges. Taxes and fees are included in the monthly cost.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Visible allows you to bring your own phone, provided it’s compatible with Verizon’s network. You can check compatibility on their website. For eSIM-compatible devices, you can activate your plan digitally without needing a physical SIM card.
Unlimited Calling and Texting: Both plans offer unlimited talk and text within the U.S., so you don’t have to worry about minute restrictions. With the Visible+ plan, you get unlimited international texting to over 200 countries and international calling to 30 countries.
International Calling and Roaming: Both plans includes unlimited talk, text to Canada and Mexico. While Visible + plan provides roaming in both countries. For users who frequently call outside the U.S., the Visible+ plan also includes unlimited international texting and calling features.
Wi-Fi Calling: Both plans support Wi-Fi calling, allowing you to make calls over Wi-Fi when cellular service is unavailable or weak.
4. Google Fi (T-Mobile and US Cellular’s Networks)
Google Fi, formerly known as Project Fi, is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) operated by Google. It offers flexible and competitive plans with unique features, especially for international travelers. Google Fi runs on a combination of networks, including T-Mobile, US Cellular, and Wi-Fi hotspots to provide coverage.
Google Fi offers flexible pricing and international features, making it popular among travelers.
| Plans | Data | Minutes/Texts | Price(One Line) |
| Flexible | 0 | Unlimited | $20/mo. |
| Simply Unlimited | Unlimited (Data slower after 35GB) | Unlimited | $50/mo. |
| Unlimited Plus | Unlimited (Data slower after 50GB) | Unlimited | $65/mo. |
Why Choose Google Fi Sim Only plans?
International Travelers: Google Fi works in over 200 countries without additional costs for data. You pay the same rate for data abroad as you do at home. All Fi plans include unlimited texting to and from international destinations. Calls from abroad to the U.S. cost $0.20 per minute. Wi-Fi calls are free.
Wi-Fi Calling: Google Fi can automatically switch between Wi-Fi and cellular networks to provide you with the strongest signal, helping to save data and improve call quality. This feature is especially useful if you’re in an area with poor cellular service.
Network Switching: The ability to switch between T-Mobile, US Cellular, and Wi-Fi gives you more consistent coverage.
No Contracts: Google Fi is contract-free, so you can cancel or change your plan at any time.
5G Ready: Nationwide 5G coverage is available to all users with a 5G-compatible phone.
Hotspot and Tethering: All Google Fi plans allow tethering at no extra cost. You can use your mobile data to connect other devices, like laptops or tablets, to the internet. Unlike some carriers, Google Fi includes mobile hotspot functionality without additional charges.
5. US Mobile (Verizon and T-Mobile’s Networks)
US Mobile is known for its highly customizable plans, allowing you to build a plan that suits your exact needs.
| Data | High Speed Data | Minutes & Texts | Price |
| 2GB Light Plan | 2 GB | Unlimited | $10/mo. $8/mo. ( pay annually) |
| By the Big 2GB (Add line $8/line/mo. Share data) | 2 GB | Unlimited | $10/mo. |
| By the Big 10GB (Add line $8/line/mo. Share data) | 10 GB | Unlimited | $20/mo. |
| Unlimited Flex | 10 GB | Unlimited | $17.5/mo. |
| Unlimited Starter | 35 GB | Unlimited | $25/mo. $22.5/mo. ( pay annually) |
| Unlimited Premium | 100 GB | Unlimited | $44/mo. $32.5/mo. ( pay annually) |
Why Choose US Mobile Sim Only plans?
Customizable Plans: US Mobile allows you to build your own plan with a customizable combination of data, talk, and text. This means you can tailor the plan to fit your specific needs.
Data Options: You can choose from various data packages, ranging from a small amount of data to unlimited. They also offer different types of data plans, including standard and high-speed data.
International Roaming: US Mobile offers international roaming options. You can use your phone abroad with their international plans, or add on global data and talk packages.
No Contracts: US Mobile operates on a no-contract basis, so you can change your plan or provider without being locked into a long-term commitment.
MVNO Network: US Mobile uses the networks of major carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile, providing broad coverage across the US.
Family Plans: US Mobile has family plan options where you can manage multiple lines under one account, often with discounted rates.
For more details about US Mobile, please check
6. Red Pocket (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile)
Red Pocket Mobile is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in the US that offers affordable phone plans by using the networks of major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile. They offer flexible monthly plans, pay-as-you-go options, and plans with unlimited data. Red Pocket is known for its no-contract policy, meaning users aren’t locked into long-term agreements and can switch plans or providers easily. The carrier also supports a wide range of unlocked phones, making it a versatile option for many users.
| Data | International Calling | Monthly Plans | Annual Plans | |
| 1GB | Yes | $10/mo | $8/mo | View Plan> |
| 5GB | Yes | $20/mo | $15/mo | View Plan> |
| 20GB | Yes | $30/mo | $25/mo | View Plan> |
| Unlimited | Yes | $40/mo | $30/mo | View Plan> |
Choose Red Pocket Sim Only plans?
Flexible Plans: Red Pocket provides several plan options, including both monthly and pay-as-you-go plans. You can choose plans with different data, talk, and text allowances based on your needs.
Data Options: Their plans include various data allowances, from modest amounts to unlimited data options. Some plans also offer high-speed data with a throttle once the limit is exceeded.
Network Coverage: Red Pocket operates as an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) and uses the networks of major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile. This provides broad coverage across the US.
Talk and Text: Most plans include unlimited talk and text within the US. International calling and texting may be available as add-ons or included in certain plans.
International Roaming: Red Pocket offers international roaming options. You can use your phone abroad with their global plans, or purchase add-ons for international usage.
Hotspot Data: Some of their plans include mobile hotspot data, which allows you to share your phone’s data connection with other devices.
No Contracts: Red Pocket operates on a no-contract basis, so you’re not locked into a long-term commitment. This allows for flexibility in changing plans or providers.
Device Compatibility: They support a wide range of devices, including unlocked phones and those from major manufacturers.
Family Plans: Red Pocket offers family plan options where you can manage multiple lines under one account, often with discounts.
Affordable Pricing: Red Pocket is known for its competitive and often lower pricing compared to major carriers, making it a cost-effective choice for many users.
7. Twigby Mobile (Verizon network)
Twigby offers low-cost, no-contract cell phone plans. As an MVNO, Twigby doesn’t own its own network but instead leases coverage from larger carriers—in Twigby’s case, Verizon’s network, which ensures reliable and extensive nationwide coverage.
| Plans | Minutes | Texts | First 3 Months | Then |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $5/month | $15/month |
| 5GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $10/month | $20/month |
| 10GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $15/month | $25/month |
| 20GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | $25/month | $35/month |
Customizable Plans: Twigby offers flexible, no-contract plans where users can choose their preferred amount of talk, text, and data. Plans are often much cheaper than traditional carriers.
Data Rollover: Unused data can be rolled over to the next billing cycle.
Support International Call: Twigby phone plans support free international calls to 80+ countries.
Nationwide Coverage: Twigby uses the Verizon network to provide robust nationwide coverage for talk, text, and data
Mobile Hotspot: Plans allow the use of your device as a mobile hotspot at no additional charge.
Data Speed: Customers can access 5G speeds where available. Once the data limit is exceeded, data slows down but is still available at reduced speeds (usually 2G).
Bring Your Own Phone (BYOP): Twigby supports a wide range of unlocked phones, so users can bring their own device if it’s compatible with the network.
No Contracts: Twigby operates on a prepaid basis with no contracts or long-term commitments, providing flexibility for users to change or cancel plans without penalties.
Wi-Fi Calling: Twigby support wifi calling, so you can still make phone call and send and receive text when no signal but connected with wifi.
Learn more about Twigby mobile, check Twigby Mobile review.
Key Factors to Consider for SIM-only Plans
Choosing a SIM-only plan can be a smart move if you already own a phone and want more flexibility in terms of data, calls, and texts. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a SIM-only plan:
Know Your Usage Needs
Data: Analyze your average data usage. If you stream videos, use social media, or browse the web a lot, you’ll need a plan with higher data limits. If you primarily use Wi-Fi, you can opt for a lower data plan.
Calls and Texts: If you make a lot of calls or send frequent texts, you may want to choose a plan with unlimited calls and texts. Otherwise, consider limited minutes or pay-as-you-go options to save money.
Check Network Coverage
Make sure the provider offers good network coverage in your area. Some carriers may offer cheaper plans but have spotty coverage in certain locations.
Consider 5G access if you have a 5G-enabled phone and live in an area with 5G coverage.
Contract Length
Monthly Plans: These offer the most flexibility. You can change your plan or provider monthly without being locked in.
Longer-term Contracts (12-24 months): These might offer cheaper monthly rates, but you’re locked in for a longer period. Evaluate whether the savings are worth the commitment.
No Contracts: Many SIM-only plans are contract-free, allowing you to cancel anytime.
Cost vs. Features
Budget: Compare plans that fit within your budget. Some providers may offer better deals at certain times of the year (e.g., discounts for new customers, holiday promotions).
Value: Look beyond price and consider what’s included—are roaming, data rollover, international calls, or tethering (mobile hotspot) included? Choose a plan that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Discounts and Perks: Look for family plans, multi-line discounts, or bundling options if you’re signing up multiple users.
Data Rollover and Caps
Rollover: Some carriers allow unused data to roll over to the next month. This is a good option if your usage fluctuates from month to month.
Data Caps and Throttling: Be aware that some plans slow down data after you hit your limit. Choose a plan that meets your needs to avoid slow speeds.
International Roaming and Calls
If you travel frequently, make sure the plan includes affordable international roaming rates or features like free international texting or calling.
SIM Card Compatibility
Ensure the SIM card is compatible with your phone. Most providers offer different SIM card sizes (standard, micro, and nano) to fit your device.
By evaluating these factors, you can choose a SIM-only plan that matches your lifestyle, coverage needs, and budget.
Summery
These are some of the best SIM-only options available in the U.S. based on different usage needs and budget preferences.