Best mobile hotspot data plans and providers 2025
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Mobile hotspots are small, portable devices that let you connect to the internet anywhere you can get a decent cell signal. Think of them as your WiFi network, which allows you to connect multiple devices like laptops, tablets, or other cells while on the go.
Now, while you can use your smartphone as a mobile hotspot, it has some limitations. Most smartphones have a limited amount of hotspot data each month, often just a few gigabytes, which might not be enough for heavy usage. If you're constantly connecting to a hotspot or need to use it for work or streaming, your phone’s data could quickly run out, leading to slow speeds or overage fees. That’s where a dedicated mobile hotspot device comes in. These devices are built specifically to provide strong, reliable internet access and typically come with more generous data plans, giving you greater flexibility and speed.
In this guide, we’ve teamed up with the Cybernews research team to break down the 5 best mobile hotspot plans and providers available in 2025. Whether you're looking for monthly, prepaid, or international roaming options – we’ve got you covered.
Best mobile hotspot data plans – our pick
Get an Ultimate T-Mobile Hotspot and Data Plan Experience!
Shop 5G Verizon Mobile Hotspot Plans!
Check Out AT&T Prepaid Data-Only Internet Plans!
Get the Best Unlimited Mobile Hotspot Data With Visible!
Grab the Limited US Mobile Prepaid Hotspot Data Deals!
What are some things to look for in a hotspot data plan?
The top mobile hotspot plans maximize the amount of WiFi data you get for your money. Those plans balance cost-efficiency, strong network coverage, and compatibility with your hotspot device. Whatever you’d need the data for, it’s important to match your plan to your specific needs. Here are the things I found important to consider:
- Data usage. Start by thinking about how much data you’ll need. If you're just browsing or checking emails, a plan with a smaller cap (like 10 GB/month) might be enough. But if you're streaming, gaming, or sharing the connection with others, you'll need a plan with higher data caps, or better yet, unlimited data. When I used to work remotely, I’d often go through as much as 100 GB per month with heavy video calls, file uploads, and streaming. That kind of usage really puts things into perspective when choosing a plan. Some providers offer prepaid plans, which are perfect for intermittent users, allowing you to pay for just the data you need without long-term commitments. Also, pay attention to those providers that offer cheap top-ups, so you can get more data on demand.
- Mobile hotspots vs. standalone devices. If you’re planning to use your phone as a hotspot, keep in mind its limits. From personal experience, mobile phone plans often cap hotspot data at a few gigabytes, and excessive use can drain your battery and slow down your device quite a lot. For consistent, heavy use, a standalone hotspot device is a better option. These devices are specifically made to handle multiple connections and typically come with more generous data plans, so it’s good for families, group travel, or remote work setups.
- 4G vs 5G mobile hotspot. Technology plays a big role in your hotspot’s performance. While 4G hotspots are more affordable and widely supported, 5G is the future of mobile internet. It offers lightning-fast speeds, lower latency, and the ability to handle more devices at a time. Pair a 5G-capable hotspot with a plan that includes 5G access to future-proof your setup. Look for WiFi 6 compatibility in newer devices for even better performance. For light use, prepaid plans like T-Mobile’s Data Pass are great. For unlimited data, Verizon or AT&T may be your best bet.
The best hotspot data plan providers – our complete list
I analyzed many providers to break down the 5 best hotspot data plans and providers based on speed, data limits, price, and flexibility. Here’s everything you need to find the right plan for your needs:
1. T-Mobile – most reliable hotspot data provider in 2025

Price range: | $10-$30/month |
Mobile hotspot data: | 5-50 GB |
Standalone hotspot data: | 2-100 GB |
Contract: | No |
T-Mobile allows you to connect to America’s largest and fastest 5G network from your existing device or choose from a wide array of cutting-edge hotspot devices. I was impressed by how widely T-Mobile's network reaches, which is especially useful for travelers. Their hotspot plans are affordable, with no long-term contracts, and with top-ups available.
T-Mobile has cheap hotspot plans. Standalone hotspot plans include data caps between 2GB and 100GB and monthly pricing starting at only $10. You’ll have enough data whether you’re getting a hotspot for yourself or for more devices at a time.
I compared these plans to Verizon and AT&T ones, and T-Mobile offers more budget-friendly options with similar coverage but can be slightly slower after data throttling.
T-Mobile is a great pick for you if you want reliable hotspot data with flexible, no-commitment plans. It’s a top pick if you need consistent coverage and a variety of pricing options, both domestically and internationally.
2. Verizon – best mobile hotspot provider for 5G connectivity

Price range: | $10-$60/month |
Mobile hotspot data: | 5 GB to unlimited |
Standalone hotspot data: | 15-150 GB |
Contract: | No |
If you're after internet provider that offer 5G speeds, Verizon is hard to beat. Their mobile hotspot plans offer extensive 5G coverage with flexible options, so both light users and data-hungry households will find it a match.
Verizon offers 4 main mobile hotspot plans: Essential (starts at $10/month with 15 GB premium mobile hotspot data), Plus (starts at $20/month with 50 GB premium mobile hotspot data), Pro (starts at $40/month with 100 GB premium mobile hotspot data), and Premium (starts at $60/month with 150 GB premium mobile hotspot data). This provider has nationwide coverage, so that’s perfect for remote work or streaming on the go.
Compared to providers like T-Mobile, Verizon excels in speed and overall reliability. However, it’s worth noting that their plans can feel expensive if you’re on a tight budget.
For those who value speed and coverage above all else, Verizon’s hotspot plans are a fantastic choice, especially if you frequently rely on 5G for work or travel.
3. AT&T – best prepaid data-only plans for mobile hotspots

Price range: | $25-$90/month |
Mobile hotspot data: | 15-100 GB |
Standalone hotspot data: | Available on selected prepaid devices |
Contract: | No |
When it comes to prepaid plans and reliable data for mobile hotspots, AT&T is one of the best providers. Their prepaid data-only plans are great for having control over the spending without sacrificing network quality. With broad 4G and 5G coverage, AT&T guarantees you're connected wherever you go.
The Built-in Savings prepaid plan gives you 20 GB of data for $25 a month (when you pay for a year at a time). Other plans like the Essential Data give you 15 GB for $35/month. There’s also a Best Value plan, which offers 50 GB for $55/month. Lastly, the Biggest Data plan has 100 GB of prepaid data and costs $90/month.
Comparing AT&T to other providers – if you’re after a hotspot plan that doesn’t lock you in, AT&T’s prepaid options stand out. Unlike T-Mobile’s postpaid plans or Verizon’s higher-priced unlimited tiers, these give you plenty of data without the commitment.
So, if you want a no-commitment hotspot plan that comes with solid coverage, AT&T’s got you covered. Go with it whether you’re a light browser or someone who burns through data like me.
4. Visible – best unlimited hotspot data plans with international coverage

Price range: | $20-30/month |
Mobile hotspot data: | Unlimited (5 Mbps speed) |
Standalone hotspot data: | Not available |
Contract: | No |
Visible is one of the best unlimited (high data caps) hotspot providers – and it even works when you’re traveling internationally. For just $20/month on the Visible plan, you get unlimited mobile hotspot data. Sure, the speeds cap at 5 Mbps, but for casual browsing or staying connected on the go, it’s enough.
That being said, Visible offers only 2 mobile hotspot plans – already mentioned Visible plan for $20/month (unlimited data, talk & text on Verizon’s 5G & 4G LTE networks) and Visible+ plan for $30/month (unlimited premium data on Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network, our fastest 5G and 50 GB/mo of premium data on Verizon’s 5G & 4G LTE networks).
Unlike pricier options like Verizon or AT&T, Visible stands out with its unlimited hotspot data at a flat rate. If you’re a frequent traveler or just want simple, affordable, and reliable connectivity, Visible is a no-brainer.
5. US Mobile – highly customizable mobile hotspot plans

Price range: | $17.50-$44/month |
Mobile hotspot data: | 5-50 GB |
Standalone hotspot data: | Not available |
Contract: | No |
US Mobile is the most customizable mobile hotspot plan provider out there. One of the things I really like about them is the ability to create a custom hotspot plan that suits your exact data needs. US Mobile lets you choose the amount of data that fits your lifestyle, which is awesome if you don’t want to overpay.
What sets US Mobile apart is the ability to build your plan from the ground up. I’ve found this to be especially useful if you’re just browsing or checking emails occasionally – you don’t have to pay for more data than you need. Plans start at $17.50/month for 5 GB hotspot data and goes up to $44/month for 50 GB hotspot data.
Compared to Visible’s flat-rate unlimited data, US Mobile offers more control over your plan, so it’s perfect if you want to adjust your data as your needs change.
That being said, US Mobile’s customizable options are a solid pick. It’s a match for anyone who likes flexibility and doesn’t want to be tied down.
Comparison of the best mobile hotspot plans and providers
To make your search for the best mobile hotspot plan easier, I’ve compiled a comparison table that lays out the key details for the top internet providers side-by-side. Whether you’re focused on affordability, speed, or coverage, this table helps you spot the best option at a glance:
Provider | Starting monthly price | Data cap | Speed | Coverage | Plan type |
T-Mobile | $10/month | Up to 10 GB | 4G LTE/5G (where available) | Nationwide (urban/suburban) | Postpaid/prepaid |
Verizon | $10/month | Up to 150 GB | 5G Ultra Wideband/4G LTE | Nationwide (urban/suburban) | Postpaid/prepaid |
AT&T | $25/month | Up to 100 GB | 4G LTE/5G (where available) | Strong in urban/suburban areas | Postpaid/prepaid |
Visible | $20/month | Unlimited | 4G LTE/5G | Nationwide | Prepaid |
US Mobile | $17.50/month | Up to 50 GB | 4G LTE/5G | Nationwide | Prepaid |
How we tested and ranked these mobile hotspot plans and providers
At Cybernews, we pride ourselves on delivering reliable and thoroughly researched recommendations. For this guide, together with the research team, I analyzed over 15 mobile hotspot providers, digging into key aspects like data caps, pricing, speeds, network coverage, and more. We compare details from official provider websites, customer feedback on platforms like Trustpilot, and independent third-party reports to get the full picture.
Later on, we rank the best mobile hotspot plans and providers based on overall value, prioritizing features like affordable pricing, 5G connectivity, and perks like international roaming, no lock-in contract option, or unlimited data.
Our goal is to make sure this list serves a variety of users, from casual hotspot users to heavy gamers, streamers, remote workers, or those who just need a hotspot connection. While our insights reflect the latest information, always double-check information directly with providers to confirm the most up-to-date offers and terms.
Hotspot data plan capabilities
Hotspot data plans are incredibly multifunctional, as they give you portable internet access wherever your provider’s network reaches. If you’re using a small data plan for everyday browsing or a large plan for work and streaming, these plans can adapt to various purposes. However, they’re not one-size-fits-all, so knowing the differences can save you money and frustration.
Smaller data plans like 5-10 GB per month are great for light users who only need connection for emails or social media. But during my time working remotely, I discovered that heavy data users, especially those who stream, game, or share connections, can easily burn through over 100 GB in a month. That’s where larger or unlimited data plans come in. However, be cautious with the term unlimited. Most plans cap your high-speed data at a certain threshold (like 50 GB), throttling your speeds afterward. Trust me, once you hit that cap, even loading a basic webpage can feel painfully slow.
Prepaid plans are best for flexibility. They’re great for travelers or intermittent users because you only pay for what you need without worrying about any lock-in contracts. Monthly plans, on the other hand, often provide better value for money if you’re a consistent hotspot user.
That said, hotspot plans aren’t a perfect replacement for home internet. They’re limited in speed and data compared to broadband. If you need a more powerful option, satellite providers like Starlink or fiber broadband might be a better match, especially if you live in a rural area.
At the end of the day, the best plan depends on your usage, location, and budget. A little research into your habits and options can go a long way in finding the right provider.
Final word on the best mobile hotspot data plans and providers
For the best mobile hotspot plan, I recommend T-Mobile for its unbeatable reliability and flexible plan choices. With 10 GB of 5G, it suits light internet users who need affordable and fast service. If you're after unlimited data, Verizon and AT&T are solid picks – they offer great coverage and high-speed performance with Ultra Wideband and 5G.
If you're purchasing a standalone hotspot device, look for 5G and WiFi 6 compatibility so you have fast, reliable connections. However, the best plan will depend on you and your habits – whether you're a frequent traveler, a casual user, or need robust, high-speed service. I encourage you to compare providers to find the plan that fits your lifestyle and usage best.
Other internet plans you might be interested in:
FAQ
How long will 100 GB of hotspot last?
With 100 GB of hotspot data, you can stream HD videos for around 50 hours, browse the web for weeks, or join 200 hours of video calls. How long it lasts depends on your internet usage habits.
Who has the best mobile hotspot plan?
T-Mobile is a reliable provider of mobile hotspot and offers great value with its 5G data plans, while Verizon plans excel in coverage. For budget-friendly options, Visible and US Mobile provide affordable prepaid plans with solid data caps or even unlimited data.
Is there a truly unlimited hotspot plan?
No. Most unlimited hotspot plans include a high-speed data limit, after which speeds are throttled (slowed down to a minimum). Providers like Visible offer generous data caps called unlimited data but truly unlimited, unthrottled hotspot data isn’t currently available in the market.
Is it cheaper to get a hotspot or WiFi?
It depends on your usage. A hotspot can be cheaper for occasional use but home WiFi tends to be more cost-efficient for frequent, high-data needs. WiFi also offers faster speeds and better stability for multiple devices.
Can you run out of a hotspot if you have unlimited data?
Yes, with unlimited data, you can still run out of high-speed data. Once you reach the limit, your speeds slow down and it will be so until the next cycle.
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