Our team at CNET consistently reviews and rates an extensive range of new products and services each month. With more than 25 years of expertise, we aim to help you navigate the complexities of today's technology. In this review, we focus on the best unlimited data plans for November 2024. This guide will help you decide between the top plans offered by Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T, highlighting the best options for both single users and families. Unlike home internet services that are limited by location, most people in the US can choose from various major carriers when it comes to phone plans.

The abundance of options can be overwhelming, as each carrier boasts a myriad of plans with varying benefits and costs. Through over a decade of covering the wireless industry, we've identified the top unlimited plans that offer the best value and perks. T-Mobile's reshuffling of its unlimited plans last year replaced the Base Essentials plan with the new Essentials Saver. Priced at $50 per month for a single line, this plan includes 50GB of high-speed data, offering more than the previous Base Essentials plan. Although this plan doesn't bundle in extras like Netflix or tax inclusions, it does offer unlimited 3G-speed hotspot and roaming in Mexico and Canada.

For the same price, AT&T's Value Plus VL plan offers unlimited talk and text alongside 5G access, but it doesn’t include perk features like hotspot data. T-Mobile’s plan has the added benefit of hotspot access, making it a valuable option if internet sharing is crucial for you. If you need more than one line, T-Mobile provides a better offering with two lines at $80 a month—considering ongoing promotions, especially for three or more lines, could further reduce costs. AT&T offers an attractive Value Plus VL plan at $51 per month for a single line, which includes unlimited talk, text, data, and 5G access.

Multiple lines can be added to this plan, though you miss perks like streaming service subscriptions or hotspot data. It's slightly cheaper than the comparable Essentials Saver from T-Mobile, making it a viable choice for single-line users who prioritize savings over features. Verizon's package now includes the Unlimited Welcome, replacing its old Welcome Unlimited. Priced at $120 monthly for four lines, this plan excludes high-speed network access and streaming services. Verizon’s pricing often factors in promotional discounts, and those who bring their own phone may save even more.

Additionally, this plan charges more than T-Mobile’s Essentials but less than AT&T’s equivalent, making it a middling choice depending on your needs. T-Mobile offers enticing deals such as a switch offer with Essentials plans and new devices at $100 for four lines, provided certain conditions like device trade-ins are met. This promotional deal requires a 24-month commitment to avoid extra charges. Verizon similarly provides iPhone deals but typically offers earlier models compared to T-Mobile. AT&T currently lacks a bundled phone offer for multiple lines, focusing instead on straightforward unlimited plans.

Verizon once set itself apart with perks like the Disney Bundle, but they’ve now adjusted, allowing customers to opt for add-ons at $10 per month. This new model may suit those who wish to tailor their perks rather than accept a pre-defined package. T-Mobile’s more premium plans like Magenta and Go5G offer the best perks for multiple-line plans, combining streaming services, increased hotspot data, and international use. These plans come with fees included, simplifying total costs. For higher-end plans, T-Mobile’s Go5G Plus offers the widest range of benefits, such as added international data and extensive in-flight Wi-Fi, but the cost is higher.

AT&T’s focus is less on perks, having removed popular service inclusions such as Max, leading to a more straightforward plan offering. When it comes to choosing a carrier, personal needs in terms of coverage, value, and additional services should determine your decision. For consistent coverage and features, Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile all provide strong options, but the right choice depends on individual data usage and location needs. Each carrier has unique deals for different professions and demographics, offering discounts to teachers, students, military personnel, and seniors.

Exploring these options ensures you make the most cost-effective and practical choice for your mobile data needs. Ultimately, selecting an unlimited plan requires an understanding of coverage, price, and personal perks. With these considerations in mind, you can confidently choose the best plan to suit your lifestyle and budget, knowing there is flexibility and competitive offerings available in the market.