The Best Single-Line Phone Plans in 2025

Choosing the right cell phone plan for yourself can be tricky. You want a plan that gives you all the data you need without forcing you to pay for extra lines or perks you'll never use. With so many options available, it can feel like a lot.

This guide is designed to simplify the process. We'll show you exactly what to look for and highlight the best single-line phone plans this year, helping you find one that matches for your lifestyle and your wallet.

Why Choose a Single-Line Plan?

While family plans often get the spotlight for their multi-line discounts, single-line plans offer a number of unique advantages:

• Cost and Simplicity: A single-line plan is usually more affordable and easier to manage than a family plan. There's no need to split a bill or track down payments from other people. You're in complete control of your expenses.
• Freedom and Control: You have the freedom to choose a plan that is perfectly tailored to your individual needs. You don't have to compromise on data limits, hotspot allowances, or other features to accommodate other people.
• No Credit Checks: Many prepaid and budget-friendly single-line plans don't require a credit check, making them a great option for students, young professionals, or anyone looking to avoid a long-term contract.
• Privacy: Having your own account means you are the only person who can view your usage data, billing history, and other sensitive information.

What Makes a Great Single-Line Plan?

The best single-line plans offer a balance of:

• Price: For a single user, every dollar matters. The best plans provide a low monthly price with clear, all-inclusive pricing (including taxes and fees) to avoid surprises on your bill.
• Data Allowance: Your data usage is a key factor. A great plan offers a data bucket that aligns with your habits—whether you're a heavy streamer who needs unlimited premium data or a light user who can save money with a limited data plan.
• Performance: A great plan is useless if the network doesn't work. The best single-line plans offer reliable network coverage, fast speeds, and dependable performance where you live, work, and travel.
• Flexibility: The ability to easily switch plans or carriers, and to customize your plan with add-ons (if needed), is a major advantage for single-line users.

Top Single-Line Phone Plans of 2025

Here are some of the best plans for a single user, broken down by what they do best, including their key pros and cons.

Best for Performance and Reliability: Verizon Unlimited Plus

Verizon’s Unlimited Plus plan is a top choice for individuals who want an uncompromising experience on the nation's most reliable network. It provides unlimited premium data on Verizon's Ultra Wideband 5G network, giving you the fastest speeds available without worrying about deprioritization.

• Pros:
  • Unrivaled Network Reliability: Verizon’s network is consistently rated for its excellent coverage, especially in rural areas, making it a dependable choice for travelers and those outside major cities.
  • Unlimited Premium Data: You get unlimited premium data that won't be slowed down, even during peak network times.
  • Generous Mobile Hotspot: The plan includes 30GB of high-speed mobile hotspot data, a great perk for working on the go.
• Cons:
  • High Cost: At around $80 a month, it is one of the more expensive single-line plans on the market.
  • Perks are Extra: You can add on perks like streaming services for an additional fee, but they are not included in the base price.

Best for a Balance of Price and Perks: T-Mobile Experience More

T-Mobile’s Experience More plan offers an excellent blend of strong 5G coverage, a wealth of included perks, and a guaranteed price lock. It's a great option for individuals who want a premium experience with the added value of entertainment subscriptions.

• Pros:
  • Extensive 5G Network: T-Mobile's 5G network is known for being the largest and fastest in the country.
  • Included Perks: The plan comes with valuable freebies like Netflix and Apple TV+ subscriptions.
  • Five-Year Price Lock: Your monthly rate is guaranteed not to increase for five years, providing peace of mind.
• Cons:
  • Rural Coverage: T-Mobile's 4G coverage can be less consistent in some rural areas compared to Verizon.
  • Still a Premium Price: At around $85 a month, this plan is still on the higher end of the pricing spectrum.

Best for Low Cost (Prepaid): Mint Mobile

Mint Mobile is the top choice for budget-conscious individuals who want a reliable experience without a high monthly bill. By paying for service in bulk, you can get a phenomenal deal on a plan that runs on T-Mobile's network.

• Pros:
  • Incredibly Low Price: Plans start at just $15 per month when you pay for a full year upfront, making it one of the cheapest options available.
  • Flexible Data Tiers: You can choose from various data plans (e.g., 5GB, 15GB, Unlimited), so you only pay for what you need.
  • Good Coverage: Mint Mobile uses the T-Mobile network, giving you access to a large 5G footprint.
• Cons:
  • Requires Upfront Payment: You must pay for 3, 6, or 12 months of service in advance to get the best rates, which can be a significant upfront cost.
  • Data Deprioritization: As a budget carrier, your data speeds may be slowed down behind T-Mobile's direct customers during network congestion.

Best for Ultimate Flexibility: Google Fi Wireless Unlimited Standard

Google Fi is a great option for the single-line user who values flexibility and international features. The Unlimited Standard plan offers a great data allotment with high-speed hotspot and is a fantastic choice for those who travel frequently.

• Pros:
  • International Travel: The plan includes data, talk, and text in Canada and Mexico and high-speed data in over 200 other countries at no extra cost.
  • Seamless Switching: Google Fi seamlessly switches between T-Mobile and U.S. Cellular networks to provide the best possible coverage.
  • Strong Hotspot: The Unlimited Standard plan comes with a generous 25GB of high-speed hotspot data.
• Cons:
  • Higher Price for Single Line: The per-line price for a single user is more expensive than for a multi-line plan, at $50 a month for the Unlimited Standard plan.
  • Taxes and Fees Not Included: The advertised prices do not include taxes and government fees, which can vary.

Current Deals for Single-Line Plans

Deals and promotions are constantly changing. Here are some of the best deals currently available in 2025:

• Visible by Verizon: Visible, a Verizon-owned budget carrier, often runs promotions on its popular single-line plans. Its Visible+ plan provides unlimited premium data on Verizon's 5G network, and you can find a deal that brings the price down to around $35 per month for the first year.
• Metro by T-Mobile: Metro frequently offers free phones when you switch and activate on a new unlimited plan. This can be a great option for those who need a new device and want an affordable plan with unlimited data.
• Mint Mobile: Mint Mobile’s most consistent deal is its introductory pricing. New customers can get a 3-month plan for a discounted rate, which lets you try out their service for a lower cost before committing to a longer-term plan.
• Verizon and T-Mobile: Both major carriers often offer incentives like device trade-in credits or gift cards when you switch and bring your own number. These deals can significantly reduce the cost of a new device or your monthly bill over time.

Best Phones for Single-Line Plans

Choosing a phone that fits your plan is a smart move. Here are some of the best phones to consider, whether you're looking for a flagship or a budget-friendly option.

Best for the Premium Experience: Samsung Galaxy S25 & iPhone 16

If you're a single user who demands the best performance, these flagship phones are for you. They come with top-of-the-line cameras, blazing-fast processors, and access to all the latest 5G bands. While they are expensive, major carriers often offer significant trade-in deals that can make them more affordable.

Best for Great Value: Google Pixel 9a

The Google Pixel 'a' series consistently delivers a high-end experience at a mid-range price. The Pixel 9a offers a fantastic camera, the latest version of Android, and a powerful chip, all without the flagship price tag. It's an excellent choice for a single-line user who wants a great phone without breaking the bank.

Best for the Budget-Conscious: Motorola Moto G Stylus - 2025

For those who are focused on a low monthly bill and want an affordable device to match, the Motorola Moto G Stylus is a great option. It offers a large display, a long-lasting battery, and even a built-in stylus for a very low price. Many carriers offer this phone for free or heavily discounted with a new line activation.

How to Switch to a New Single-Line Plan

Switching carriers can seem complicated, but it's a straightforward process.

1. Assess Your Needs: Review your monthly phone usage and decide how much data, hotspot data, and other features you truly need.
2. Check Coverage and Phone Compatibility: Use the new carrier's coverage map to see if you'll have a good signal. Use their online tool to verify that your current phone is compatible with their network.
3. Get Your Account Information: To keep your phone number, you'll need your old carrier's account number and a Number Transfer PIN. Do not cancel your service yourself! The new carrier will handle the transfer for you.
4. Initiate the Transfer: Sign up for your new plan online or in a store, providing your old account information.
5. Activate New Service: Activate your new SIM or eSIM. Your old service will be automatically canceled once the transfer is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need to buy a new phone to switch carriers?

A: Not necessarily. Most modern, unlocked smartphones are compatible with all major networks. You can check your phone's compatibility with a new carrier on their website using its IMEI number. If your phone is still locked to your old carrier, you may need to pay it off and ask them to unlock it.

Q: Will I lose my phone number if I switch?

A: No. As long as you don't cancel your old service and you provide the new carrier with your account number and Number Transfer PIN, your new carrier will "port" or transfer your number over for you. This process is quick and seamless.

Q: Are there any hidden fees with these plans?

A: It depends on the carrier. With providers like Mint Mobile, the price often includes taxes and fees, while with major carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile, taxes and fees are typically added on top of the advertised price. Always check the fine print or use an online bill calculator to get a more accurate estimate.

Q: Is prepaid or postpaid better for a single line?

A: Prepaid plans are often cheaper and more flexible, as you pay in advance and are not tied to a contract. Postpaid plans may offer more premium features, better data prioritization, and financing options for new devices, but they come with a higher monthly cost and a potential credit check.