Choosing a phone carrier can be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider, such as coverage, speed, cost, plans, and customer service. You also need to think about the type of phone you have and the kind of network you want to use, especially with the advent of 5G. To help you find the best phone carrier for your needs and budget, we have reviewed and ranked seven of the best phone carriers for 2023 based on our analysis of data from Tom’s Guide and PCMag.
1. Mint Mobile: Best for Value
Mint Mobile is a low-cost carrier that uses T-Mobile’s network to provide reliable coverage and fast speeds. Mint Mobile offers unlimited data for $30 per month if you pay for one year up front, which is one of the cheapest options out there. Mint Mobile also has a 30-day money-back guarantee and a referral program that can save you more money. Mint Mobile’s overall satisfaction rating is 9.0 out of 10, according to PCMag, and it is the winner of their Readers’ Choice Award for 2022.
2. Verizon: Best for Coverage and Performance
Verizon is the largest and most popular carrier in the US, and for good reason. Verizon has the best coverage and performance in rural areas and overall network strength, according to Tom’s Guide. Verizon also offers flexible unlimited plans that include perks like Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Apple Music, and cloud storage. Verizon’s overall satisfaction rating is 8.4 out of 10, according to PCMag, and it is the leader in next-gen 5G network speeds and spread.
3. Visible: Best for Simplicity
Visible is a subsidiary of Verizon that offers a simple and affordable plan that includes unlimited data, talk, text, and hotspot for $40 per month. Visible also uses Verizon’s network, so you can expect great coverage and performance. Visible has no contracts, no fees, no stores, and no hassle. You can manage everything online or through their app. Visible’s overall satisfaction rating is 8.7 out of 10, according to PCMag, and it is the winner of Tom’s Guide Award for 2023.
4. Consumer Cellular: Best for Seniors
Consumer Cellular is a carrier that caters to seniors and offers low-cost plans that start from $15 per month. Consumer Cellular also has no contracts, no activation fees, and no cancellation fees. Consumer Cellular uses AT&T or T-Mobile network access, depending on your location and phone compatibility. Consumer Cellular’s overall satisfaction rating is 8.9 out of 10, according to PCMag, and it has won their Readers’ Choice Award for the last eight years.
5. Google Fi: Best for Travelers
Google Fi is a carrier that works with Google Pixel phones and other compatible devices to provide seamless switching between multiple networks, including T-Mobile, Sprint, US Cellular, and international partners. Google Fi also offers unlimited data for $70 per month or flexible data for $20 per month plus $10 per GB used. Google Fi has no contracts, no hidden fees, and no roaming charges in over 200 countries. Google Fi’s overall satisfaction rating is 8.6 out of 10, according to PCMag, and it is the best carrier for Google Pixel users.
6. Spectrum Mobile: Best for Cable Customers
Spectrum Mobile is a carrier that offers discounted plans for Spectrum cable customers who also have Spectrum internet service. Spectrum Mobile uses Verizon’s network to provide reliable coverage and fast speeds. Spectrum Mobile offers unlimited data for $45 per month or by-the-gig data for $14 per GB used. Spectrum Mobile also includes free access to thousands of Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide. Spectrum Mobile’s overall satisfaction rating is 8.8 out of 10, according to PCMag, and it is one of the top-rated carriers in our survey.
7. T-Mobile: Best for Family Plans
T-Mobile is the third-largest carrier in the US and the leader in customer service, according to Tom’s Guide. T-Mobile offers competitive prices and generous benefits for its unlimited plans, such as Netflix, Scam Shield, T-Mobile Tuesdays, and free international texting and data in over 210 countries. T-Mobile also has the cheapest family plans among the major carriers, starting from $120 per month for four lines with unlimited data.
Conclusion
Finding the best phone carrier for you depends on your personal preferences, needs, and budget. You should compare different options and consider factors such as coverage, speed, cost, plans, customer service, phone compatibility, network technology, and extra perks. However, you can’t go wrong with any of the seven carriers we have listed above, as they all offer excellent value and satisfaction for their customers.
