The Best $50 Phone Plans: Affordable, Flexible, and Feature-Packed

Finding a phone plan that strikes the right balance between cost and features can be tricky. Luckily, $50 phone plans offer a sweet spot—affordable without sacrificing essentials like data, calls, and texts. Whether you’re streaming on the go, catching up with friends, or tackling work tasks, these plans keep you connected without overcomplicating things.

Here’s a clear look at the best options to help you decide.

1. T-Mobile Simply Prepaid Unlimited

Price: $50 per month

Coverage and network reliability: T-Mobile’s Ultra Capacity delivers fast, reliable speeds averaging 400 Mbps. With solid performance in both urban and rural areas, it’s a dependable choice for staying connected. Check their coverage map to see how it performs in your area.

Customer service: T-Mobile keeps things simple with 24/7 support from its "Team of Experts," available by phone, chat, or through the T-Mobile app. Need in-person help? Drop by one of their stores, or handle basics yourself with easy online tools.

Key Features

The T-Mobile Prepaid Unlimited Plan delivers unlimited talk, text, and data with access to T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G network for reliable streaming, browsing, and everyday connectivity. It includes 3GB of high-speed hotspot data for sharing your connection, with speeds reduced after the limit is reached for the rest of the billing cycle.

Why It Stands Out

• Change or cancel your plan anytime with no long-term commitments.
• The $50 price is all-inclusive, with no hidden fees.
• Customize your plan with add-ons like international calling or extra data to match your needs.

What to Watch Out For

• The plan includes 3GB of high-speed hotspot data, which might fall short for heavy hotspot users.
• Data speeds can slow down in crowded areas once usage exceeds priority thresholds.

What People Are Saying

The plan’s reliable 5G coverage is a standout feature, ensuring smooth and consistent connectivity for everyday use. Many users appreciate its simplicity and no-frills approach, though some feel the 3GB hotspot limit could be more accommodating. Overall, it’s seen as a dependable option for those seeking straightforward, reliable service.

If you're exploring other flexible options, T-Mobile also offers prepaid plans that cater to a variety of budgets and needs.

2. Cricket Wireless Unlimited

Price: $55 per month, with taxes and fees included.

Coverage and network reliability: Cricket Wireless operates on AT&T’s network, offering reliable coverage in both urban and rural areas. With 5G available in many locations, users can count on consistent connectivity across much of the U.S. For specific details about coverage in your area, check Cricket’s coverage map.

Customer service: Cricket Wireless provides support via phone, chat, and in-store assistance, making it easy to get help when you need it. Their user-friendly app also lets you manage your plan effortlessly. However, some users report that phone support wait times can occasionally be inconsistent.

Key Features

This plan offers unlimited data that isn’t slowed down after reaching a cap, even during network congestion. While it doesn’t include hotspot access by default, users can add 10GB of hotspot data for $10. It’s a solid choice for both heavy and average data users who prioritize uninterrupted connectivity.

Why It Stands Out

• Includes an ad-supported Max subscription (formerly HBO Max) and 150GB of cloud storage, perfect for streaming and file storage needs.
• Offers talk, text, and data in Mexico and Canada, plus international texting to select countries, making it a great option for travelers.
• Comes with Cricket Call Defense to block spam calls and enhance your security.

What to Watch Out For

• Hotspot access is not included but can be added for $10 per 10GB, which might not be ideal for frequent tethering.
• Unlimited data is available, but speeds may slow during network congestion due to deprioritization.

What People Are Saying

The Cricket Wireless Unlimited plan is praised for its dependable AT&T-backed coverage, 15GB of hotspot data, and the added value of an included Max subscription for streaming. While some users report occasional slowdowns during network congestion, it remains a strong option for those who want a balance of value and entertainment.

Looking for more flexibility? Cricket Wireless plans offer a range of options to fit different budgets and data needs—worth exploring if you’re after more tailored options.

3. Boost Mobile Unlimited + 

Price: $50 per month covering taxes and fees

Coverage and network reliability: Boost Mobile leverages AT&T, Dish, and T-Mobile networks to provide wide coverage across the U.S. This multi-network setup ensures reliable connectivity in most areas. For detailed coverage in your area, check out Boost Mobile’s coverage map.

Customer service: Boost Mobile offers support via phone, online chat, and in-store assistance. Their online resource center is a convenient tool for resolving common questions. While most users find the service reliable, some have reported slower response times during peak hours.

Key Features

This plan offers unlimited talk, text, and data, including 40GB of high-speed data before speeds are reduced to 512kbps. Hotspot access is part of the plan, with usage counting toward the 40GB limit. Priced at $50 per month, taxes and fees are included, keeping billing straightforward. With global talk and text to over 200 destinations, it’s a reliable choice for users seeking flexibility, international features, and dependable data.

Why It Stands Out

• Boost offers the flexibility of month-to-month payments with no annual contracts, allowing users to change or cancel anytime.
• Some plans also feature data rollover, letting you carry unused high-speed data into the next month—perfect for light data users.
• Additionally, affordable add-ons for international calling and roaming provide extra options for staying connected globally

What to Watch Out For

• As an MVNO, Boost Mobile users may experience slower data speeds during network congestion, especially compared to customers on the primary networks.
• While hotspot access is included, it counts toward the 40GB high-speed data limit, which may not be sufficient for heavy hotspot users.

What People Are Saying

The Boost Mobile Unlimited+ plan is praised for its generous data limits and international features, making it a great choice for users looking for a reliable and versatile prepaid option.

Explore more about what Boost Mobile has to offer here.

4. REALLY Limitless Plan

Price: $49/mo

Coverage and network reliability: Really Wireless combines its decentralized wireless (DeWi) infrastructure with T-Mobile’s robust network, ensuring reliable coverage across both urban and rural areas. Check out Really’s coverage map to see how it performs in your area.

Customer service: Really Wireless offers dedicated concierge support for efficient assistance. Support is available through the contact page or via email. A detailed help center and FAQs on the website provide quick solutions for common questions.

Key Features

This plan offers unlimited high-speed data, talk, and text on one of the nation’s most reliable 5G networks. Mobile hotspot access is included at no extra cost, supporting seamless connectivity for multiple devices. This plan is designed for those who value privacy, flexibility, and robust data options.

Why It Stands Out

• Fully encrypted calling ensures secure communication, with a VPN and AI-powered privacy assistant coming soon to boost security further.
• International calling to 175+ countries and roaming in over 200 countries (roaming rates apply) makes it a smart option for staying connected globally.
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees simplifies budgeting and eliminates surprises.

What to Watch Out For

• Customer service may not be available around the clock, which could be inconvenient for resolving urgent issues.
• While international roaming is offered, rates vary and can become costly for frequent travelers.

What People Are Saying

REALLY Wireless is praised for its reliable connectivity, affordable plans, and commitment to privacy. Users appreciate the cost savings compared to traditional carriers and the unique opportunity to support their communities through its decentralized wireless network.

Learn more about REALLY Wireless and its innovative plans here.

5. Metro by T-Mobile Unlimited + 8GB Hotspot Plan

Price: $55 per month at full price, and $50 with the autopay discount

Coverage and network reliability: Metro by T-Mobile leverages T-Mobile’s nationwide network, offering reliable coverage and access to fast 5G speeds across the U.S. Metro provides dependable connectivity for most users, making it a strong option for comprehensive coverage and performance. To see how Metro performs in your area, check out their coverage map.

Customer service: Metro by T-Mobile offers support through phone, online chat, and in-store assistance. The website includes a helpful resource center for resolving common questions. While generally reliable, some users report slower response times during busy periods.

Key Features

This plan offers unlimited deprioritized data, which may slow during network congestion but has no set data cap. It includes 8GB of mobile hotspot access; once this limit is reached, hotspot usage stops for the remainder of the billing cycle. Priced at $55 per month before a $5 autopay discount, it's a solid choice for heavy data users who occasionally need hotspot connectivity.

Why It Stands Out

• Includes access to perks like Amazon Prime (subject to current offers), adding extra value for entertainment enthusiasts.
• The plan is contract-free, allowing for flexible, month-to-month payments without being locked in.
• Enrolling in autopay provides a $5 monthly discount, lowering the cost and making payments hassle-free.

What to Watch Out For

• As an MVNO, Boost Mobile users may experience slower data speeds during network congestion compared to customers on primary networks.
• While the plan includes 30GB of hotspot data, heavy tethering users may find this limit restrictive.

What People Are Saying

The Boost Mobile Unlimited Plus plan receives praise for its affordability and while unlimited data is a highlight, speed reductions after hitting the 30GB threshold have been flagged as a downside for heavy users.

Learn more about Metro by T-Mobile’s offerings here.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect $50 Phone Plan for Your Needs

The best $50 phone plans offer the perfect balance of affordability, flexibility, and key features. Whether you’re looking for a plan that works with your own device, upgrading to a new phone like an iPhone or Galaxy, or switching to an unlocked phone, there’s something for everyone.

Metro by T-Mobile’s family plans and perks like T-Mobile Tuesdays stand out for new customers. Boost Mobile simplifies the process with easy sim card activation, letting you save money and renew seamlessly. For those who value privacy and security, Really Wireless makes it simple to activate a line, manage your account, and ensure compatibility with your smartphone while staying connected worldwide.

These plans cater to different needs, whether you want to pay less, stay connected globally, or find a plan compatible with your lifestyle. Take control of your mobile experience—explore your options, compare reviews, and make the right purchase this week. No matter where you reside, the right plan is waiting for you. Start saving and upgrading today!

Explore detailed comparisons and find the plan that fits your lifestyle best at Really Wireless.