T-Mobile's 2026 Unlimited Plans Lead in 5G Speed and Coverage

T-Mobile's unlimited plans offer the best 5G

T-Mobile has rebranded its unlimited plans for 2026. The carrier maintains its lead in 5G coverage and speed, according to analysis from OpenSignal and Ookla.

Its plans now are Essentials, Experience More, and Experience Beyond. Only the two Experience plans offer truly unlimited 5G data without throttling or deprioritization.

T-Mobile's plan breakdown and best deals

The Experience More plan is a standout for its balance of price and perks. It includes in-flight Wi-Fi, 4K video streaming, 60 GB of high-speed mobile hotspot data, and an ad-supported Netflix subscription.

For new or long-term customers, a limited-time Better Value plan offers a superior package. At the same price as a multi-line Experience More plan, it adds unlimited mobile hotspotting and 30 GB of international data.

• Essentials: Starts at $50/month. Includes 50 GB of premium data before throttling. No-frills option.
• Experience More: Starts at $85/month. Best value with key perks and no data throttling.
• Experience Beyond: Starts at $100/month. Adds unlimited high-speed hotspot and annual phone upgrades.

The budget Essentials Saver plan is identical to Essentials but $10 cheaper for a single line, forfeiting phone financing options.

Verizon focuses on modular, cheaper data

Verizon has held its 2026 prices steady after previous hikes drove customers away. Its strategy is to offer cheaper core data plans, with perks as optional add-ons.

This makes Verizon's Unlimited Plus ($70/month) and Unlimited Ultimate ($80/month) the cheapest paths to unlimited, unthrottled 5G data among the major carriers.

Verizon wins on overall coverage and has the best gaming and 5G video experience, per OpenSignal. Its basic Unlimited Welcome plan is heavily throttled and lacks a mobile hotspot.

AT&T wins on rural 4G LTE coverage

AT&T's strength is its extensive 4G LTE network in sparse areas, particularly in the American West. The carrier rebranded its tiers in 2026.

Its top plan, Unlimited Premium PL ($86/month), offers 60 GB of hotspot data and no throttling, but fewer international and entertainment perks than T-Mobile.

A key feature is the ability to mix and match plans on different lines within a single account. AT&T also offers strong discounts for military and first responders.

• Value Plus VL: $52/month. Budget option with possible throttling at any time.
• Unlimited Starter SL: $66/month. No premium data ceiling; throttling can occur during congestion.
• Unlimited Extra EL: $76/month. Includes 75 GB of premium data before throttling.

How to choose and switch your carrier

Before switching, ensure your phone is compatible and unlocked. Carriers provide online tools to check device compatibility using your IMEI number.

Always use the FCC mobile broadband map to check coverage at your specific address. This is crucial for those in rural or topographically challenging areas.

If your phone is carrier-locked, your provider is obligated to unlock it once the device is paid off, though the process can take up to 60 days.