CNET has released its guide to the best mobile phone plans for 2025, highlighting options from major carriers and prepaid providers amid recent updates to pricing and features. The recommendations cater to various needs, from budget-conscious singles to families and international travelers, emphasizing value over premium perks.
As the new year begins, CNET's latest roundup evaluates postpaid and prepaid plans from AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Mint Mobile, US Mobile, and others, focusing on data allowances, network access, and costs. For a single line seeking value, T-Mobile's Essentials Saver stands out at $50 monthly, offering unlimited talk, text, and data with 50GB of premium 5G before speeds drop to 3G levels. Hotspot use is unlimited but capped at 3G speeds, and it includes unlimited calls and texts in Canada and Mexico, though data there is limited to 2G.
Prepaid options shine for affordability. US Mobile's Unlimited Flex, at $17.50 monthly with an annual commitment, runs on Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile networks, providing 10GB high-speed data then unlimited at 1Mbps, with taxes included. For families, T-Mobile's Essentials plan supports up to six lines, with three lines at $90 monthly after a free third line, mirroring the Saver's features but better for larger groups.
Google Fi Wireless Unlimited Standard is recommended for a family of four at $100 monthly, including 50GB high-speed data and 25GB hotspot, using T-Mobile's network. Mint Mobile's 15GB plan costs $20 monthly prepaid annually, with unlimited talk and text plus free calls to Canada, Mexico, and the UK. Budget users may opt for TextNow's Free Flex Plan, offering free talk and text via app with 350MB data, though ads are present.
For perks, Verizon's Unlimited Welcome allows mix-and-match plans with add-ons like streaming bundles for $10 each, but lacks fastest 5G access. Seniors get T-Mobile's Essentials Choice 55 at $45 for one line, with 50GB high-speed data and Scam Shield. International travelers benefit from Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate at higher cost, providing unlimited data in 210+ countries with 15GB high-speed abroad.
Recent changes include T-Mobile's early 2025 plan overhaul, introducing Experience More and Beyond with a five-year price guarantee and Starlink-based T-Satellite add-on. Verizon added a three-year guarantee and cut unlimited plan prices. Google Fi increased high-speed data to 50GB, while AT&T launched a $40 senior plan in June 2025. These updates aim to enhance value amid expanding 5G coverage.