US Prepaid Phones Guide

Every time "4G" data is mentioned, keep in mind that this involves slowing download speeds from LTE past that point. You won't have to worry about overages in those cases, but you might have to worry about long buffering times on your YouTube videos. Data buckets have a set expiration, and don't typically carry over month to month, so make sure to use as much of it as possible. Many providers will provide SMS alerts if you're approaching your limits.

Talk and text is generally limited to within the U.S. without extra charges or add-ons, but otherwise there are only occasionally caps on talk time, and rarely limits on texting.

Most of these prepaid networks operate under (or are owned by) larger networks built on traditional postpaid business. That means even if you're paying up to one company, your voice and data is actually going through Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or Sprint networks. Sometimes a prepaid carrier will offer service on one of several networks, which is helpful depending on your coverage situation. Make sure you check the coverage map of a prepaid carrier's network to make sure you'll have service where you are, especially if having high-speed LTE access is a priority.

Prepaid carriers may also have tight restrictions on roaming on other networks, and in most cases do not offer international data roaming. Also keep in mind that many prepaid carriers operate on a tier below postpaid customers on the same network. For example, you may experience slower speeds in congested areas as bandwidth is prioritized to postpaid customers.

Network types may also restrict what kinds of phones you're able to use. Many prepaid carriers use "bring your own device" (or BYOD) as a major selling point, but networks that operate primarily on one type of technology won't be compatible with others (CDMA vs. GSM phones, namely). Even if a carrier is technically compatible with your device, they may still require a prepaid phone purchase from them to get service.

Be sure to do your research ahead of time so you can be sure that the prepaid phone you choose will work properly on the network you're considering.

Keeping your prepaid account topped up is vital to ensuring continual service, so the convenience with which you can reload is paramount. Automatic recurring credit card payments, online top-ups, refill cards with redemptions codes, and recharging by phone are all common options. Many prepaid carriers offer a discount for setting up automatic payments.

Finding the best prepaid phone hinges on finding the carrier that’s right for you. The information above should help you figure out which way to go, and if not, hop into our carrier discussion forums.