CNET has updated its recommendations for family phone plans, focusing on options from T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon that balance cost, data, and perks for groups of three or more. Key picks include T-Mobile's Essentials for value and Verizon's Unlimited Welcome for flexibility. Recent changes, such as T-Mobile's new plans and Verizon's price cuts, influence these choices.
In its latest guide for 2026, CNET evaluates family phone plans suitable for three or more lines, emphasizing unlimited data, 5G access, and international features from major U.S. carriers.
T-Mobile's Essentials plan stands out for value, offering 50GB of Premium 5G data per line before speeds drop to 3G for unlimited use. It supports up to six lines, with the third line free, making three lines $90 monthly plus taxes and fees. Hotspot data is available at 3G speeds, and the plan includes unlimited calls, texts, and 2G data in Canada and Mexico. However, it lacks perks like streaming services and has no five-year price guarantee.
For those seeking perks, Verizon's Unlimited Welcome provides a modular approach, allowing each account member to select different plans. It accesses low-band 5G but not the fastest Ultra Wideband, and excludes hotspot data unless added for $10 monthly. A three-year price guarantee adds stability, following recent price reductions on Verizon's unlimited plans.
T-Mobile's Experience More serves as a runner-up for perks, delivering unlimited high-speed 5G data and 60GB of hotspot at premium speeds, then 3G unlimited. It features a five-year price guarantee and includes Netflix Standard with ads, plus international benefits like 15GB high-speed data in Canada and Mexico. Apple TV is now a $3 add-on after its removal from standard perks.
Recent updates shape these recommendations: T-Mobile replaced its Go5G Plus and Next plans with Experience More and Experience Beyond in early 2025, and launched the Better Value plan in 2026, though with eligibility limits. T-Mobile's Starlink-based T-Satellite is a $10 monthly add-on. CNET notes that coverage varies by location, advising users to check maps and trial options like T-Mobile's three-month Network Pass.
Discounts for military, teachers, and seniors can lower costs further, with carriers like T-Mobile offering 15% off via its Work perk.