#296: You're probably overpaying for cell service, and switching could save you hundreds of dollars a year without sacrificing coverage or features. Chris breaks down what's changed with the big carriers and MVNOs, the math behind "free phone" deals, the few features only AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile still offer, and his shortlist of the best unlimited plans. He also shares the cheapest backup line for two-factor texts, a $20 home internet backup, how to think about cell phone insurance, and the smartest way to buy a new iPhone.
Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/best-cell-phone-plans-2026
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Resources Mentioned
Carriers & Plans
US Mobile (← Get $30 off)
Total Wireless
Mint Mobile
Visible
Backup Lines & Backup Internet
RedPocket
Tello
MobileX
Keepgo (← Get 1GB free)
Roamless
UniFi 5G Max
Tools for Comparing Plans & Coverage
BestPhonePlans
Coverage Map
Cell Phone Insurance
AKKO
Buying a New iPhone
DON'T Buy Your iPhone 18 Pro Max From Your Carrier (Buy From Here Instead)
Apple Shortcut to Change Active SIM Card
Swappa
ATH Podcast
#138: Optimizing Cell Phone Plans: The Best Carriers, Deals, Plans, Insider Pricing, Insurance and More!
#284: 20+ Credit Card Benefits You’re Probably Not Using
Hotel Upgrade Program
Best Cards Page
Gift Cards Page
Newsletter
AMA: Submit Questions
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Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com
Full Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(02:53) The Current State of Cell Phone Plans
(05:40) Why Major Carriers Are So Expensive
(11:55) Features You Can Only Get From Major Carriers
(13:46) How to Pick the Right Network for Where You Live
(14:48) What Is Premium Data and Does It Matter?
(16:22) Understanding Video Streaming Limits
(16:46) How Much High-Speed Data Do You Need?
(16:59) Comparing Hotspot Data
(17:08) International Coverage, Tablets & Smartwatches
(17:18) The Best Alternatives to Major Carriers
(19:40) The Cheapest Unlimited Plan: Mint Mobile
(20:29) US Mobile Starter on AT&T (Dark Star)
(22:06) Total Wireless Max 5G on Verizon
(22:56) How Much More You Get for $25–$32 a Month
(24:42) Why Chris Is Switching to US Mobile Unlimited Premium
(25:21) Visible Plus Pro: A Steal if the Promo Pricing Lasts
(28:41) The Bottom Line on the Best Affordable Plans
(29:43) US Mobile’s Killer Multi-Network Feature
(35:19) Choosing Between Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile on US Mobile
(36:58) The Cheapest Backup Line for Two-Factor Texts
(38:30) Setting Up Cellular Backup Internet at Home
(41:29) Cell Phone Insurance: Credit Cards vs. AppleCare vs. Carrier Plans
(44:44) How to Get the Best Deal on a New iPhone
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