Best Phone SIM Cards of 2025

Jerry Franklin Avatar
Jerry Franklin
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Phone SIM cards are small chips that are inserted into a mobile phone to connect to a cellular network. They store information such as the user's phone number, contacts, and text messages. SIM cards are essential for making calls, sending texts, and accessing the internet on a mobile device. They come in various sizes, including standard, micro, and nano, and can be purchased from mobile carriers or retailers. SIM cards are often used for prepaid mobile plans, allowing users to pay for their phone usage in advance. They are also used for international travel, as users can purchase a local SIM card to avoid roaming charges.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Tello Mobile SIM Card Kit Cover #TOP 1
Tello Mobile SIM Card Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Tello Mobile 5GB Plan Cover #TOP 2
Tello Mobile 5GB Plan
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Verizon Wireless 4G LTE SIM Card - 3 Sizes Cover #TOP 3
Verizon Wireless 4G LTE SIM Card - 3 Sizes
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Phone SIM Cards

#TOP 1

Tello Mobile SIM Card Kit

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Tello Mobile SIM Card Kit Cover
Tello Mobile - US Prepaid SIM Card (3 in 1) | Bring Your Own Phone Kit | Phone Plans Starting at $5/mo up to $25/mo | Nation-Wide 4G LTE/5G Coverage

Get affordable phone plans with Tello Mobile SIM Card Kit. The kit includes a universal SIM card compatible with unlocked GSM devices, which can activate the Tello network with 4G LTE/5G US coverage. All plans come with free hotspot and international calls to 60+ countries.

What We Like
Affordable monthly plans
Easy activation process
Reliable carrier coverage
Flexible plan changes
Good service for basic needs
What We Don't Like
Data throttling after normal use
Activation issues for multiple cards
#TOP 2

Tello Mobile 5GB Plan

Tello Mobile 5GB Plan Cover
$14/Month - 5GB Data + Unlimited Minutes & Texts | Tello Mobile Prepaid Phone Plan | Bring Your Own Phone Kit | 3 in 1 SIM Card Included | US Nation-Wide 4G LTE/5G Coverage

The Tello 5GB Plan offers an affordable mobile solution for users looking to save on their phone bills. For just $14 a month, you receive 5GB of data along with unlimited calls and texts, allowing you to stay connected without worrying about overage charges. You have the flexibility to bring your existing phone or choose a new one from Tello, making it convenient to switch services. With a universal SIM card included, you can easily activate your service and start using it right away. Additionally, this plan features free hotspot capabilities and international calling to over 60 countries, adding even more value.

What We Like
Smooth ordering process
Good explanation for compatibility
Affordable pricing
Easy setup and activation
Reliable coverage
What We Don't Like
Activation process can be confusing
Customer service may be hard to reach

Verizon Wireless 4G LTE SIM Card - 3 Sizes

Verizon Postpaid
3-in-1 SIM card
Black
1 SIM Card
Verizon Wireless 4G LTE SIM Card - 3 Sizes Cover
Verizon Wireless 4G LTE SIM Card - All 3 Sizes (3-in-1), Nano/Micro/Standard Sizes (4FF / 3FF / 2FF)

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE SIM Card is a 3-in-1, single SIM card that fits any compatible Verizon phone. It can be "punched out" to fit standard, micro, and nano-sized SIM slots. The card is compatible with both prepaid and postpaid Verizon accounts, but is not compatible with MVNO's. Please note that this SIM card does not support NFC.

What We Like
Great value for the price
Includes SIM card
Easy installation and connection
Works for unlocking phones
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
No instructions included
Limited payment options
#TOP 4

Ultra Mobile Prepaid Phone Plan with Unlimited International Talk, Text and 2GB Data

Orange
Ultra Mobile Prepaid Phone Plan with Unlimited International Talk, Text and 2GB Data Cover
$19/mo. Ultra Mobile Prepaid Phone Plan with Unlimited Talk, Text and 3GB of 5G • 4G LTE Data (SIM Card Kit)

The Ultra Mobile Prepaid Phone Plan provides unlimited talk and text, 2GB high-speed 5G 4G LTE data, and free international calling to 80+ destinations including India, China, Mexico, and Canada. You can keep your phone number and bring your own phone with the 3-in-1 GSM SIM card. Additionally, you get mobile hotspot capability, WiFi calling and text, and international calling and roaming credits.

What We Like
Easy activation process
Affordable international options
Good performance in multiple countries
Convenient for temporary use
Responsive customer service (some experiences)
What We Don't Like
Misleading advertising on data limits
Customer service response delays
#TOP 5

Mint Mobile Phone Plan: 3 Months for $15

Mint Mobile
3-Month Plan, 5GB/mo.
Mint Mobile Phone Plan: 3 Months for $15 Cover
$15/mo. Mint Mobile Phone Plan with 5GB of 5G-4G LTE Data + Unlimited Talk & Text for 3 Months (3-in-1 SIM Card)

Get unlimited talk and text with 4GB of 5G/4G LTE data each month for three (3) months on the largest 5G network in the country. The plan includes a 3-in-1 SIM card with standard, micro, and nano sizes. Enjoy mobile hotspot, Wi-Fi calling and texting, and free calls to Mexico and Canada. Mint Mobile also offers a BYOP program for your unlocked GSM device. The plan has recently been updated with increased high-speed data allotments while keeping the same low pricing.

What We Like
Affordable plans
Reliable T-Mobile network
Easy setup process
High data allowance
Good customer service
What We Don't Like
Potential data deprioritization
Long customer service wait times
#TOP 6

Verizon Wireless 5G & 4G LTE SIM Card

BULKSIM5G-SA-A
TRIPLE CUT
Verizon Wireless 5G & 4G LTE SIM Card Cover
Verizon Wireless 5G & 4G LTE SIM Card Triple Cut All 3 Sizes (3-in-1), Nano/Micro/Standard Sizes (4FF / 3FF / 2FF) (BULKSIM5G-SA-A) Complete with SimBros Simkey Bundle. (1)

The Verizon Wireless SIM Card is a versatile option for any Verizon device. It is compatible with both 5G and 4G networks, making it suitable for a wide range of devices. With the SimBros Simkey included, accessing the SIM tray of your device becomes effortless. This triple cut SIM card can be easily broken down into every size, ensuring it will fit any Verizon device. Whether you have a prepaid or postpaid Verizon account, this SIM card works seamlessly. Say goodbye to compatibility issues and enjoy the convenience of this all-in-one SIM card.

What We Like
Easy installation
Good value
Compatible with Verizon
Works with unlocked phones
What We Don't Like
Possible SIM card issues
#TOP 7

SpeedTalk Mobile Prepaid SIM Card

SpeedTalk Mobile Prepaid SIM Card Cover
SpeedTalk Mobile Prepaid SIM Card Kit for Smart Phones & Cellphones | $5 Monthly Plan - 5G 4G LTE Data | 3-in-1 SIM Card Standard Micro Nano Size | USA Coverage Bring Your Own Phone

The SpeedTalk Mobile SIM offers an affordable prepaid plan that caters to your communication needs. For just $5 a month, you can enjoy 100 texts, 100 minutes of talk time, and 100 MB of 5G 4G LTE data, ensuring you stay connected without overspending. Activation is a breeze, requiring only a valid credit card, and you can cancel anytime without contracts. You can also use any compatible unlocked phone, making it easy to switch to this plan while keeping your existing number or getting a new one. Enjoy top-tier coverage across the nation and connect without interruptions.

What We Like
Easy activation and setup
Reasonable rates
Fast service for some users
Responsive customer service
What We Don't Like
Confusing activation process
Service issues for some users
#TOP 8

SpeedTalk Mobile $5 Prepaid Plan

SpeedTalk Mobile $5 Prepaid Plan Cover
SpeedTalk Mobile $5 Prepaid Wireless Pay Go Plan for Smartphones & Cellphones | 5G 4G LTE | 100 Talk, 100 Text, 100 MB Data |Triple Cut (Mini,Micro,Nano) Sim Card | No Contract | 30-Day Service

The SpeedTalk Mobile Plan offers an incredibly affordable prepaid option for just $5. With this plan, you get 100 minutes of talk, 100 texts, and 100MB of data, perfect for light users looking to save money. Enjoy easy activation without contracts or credit checks, allowing you to cancel anytime without any hassle. Plus, you can use any compatible unlocked phone, thanks to the versatile Triple Cut SIM card that fits various devices. You can also keep your existing phone number, making the transition smooth and simple.

What We Like
Easy activation process
Affordable monthly plans
Good coverage and signal
Adjustable SIM card sizes
Reliable service
What We Don't Like
Complex online activation
Previous owner's information attached
#TOP 9

T-mobile USA Prepaid Travel SIM Card

30 days
T-mobile USA Prepaid Travel SIM Card Cover
T-mobile Brand USA Prepaid Travel SIM Card Unlimited Call, Text and 4G LTE Data (for use in USA only) (for Phone use only. NOT for Modem/WiFi Devices) (30 Days)

The T-mobile USA Prepaid Travel SIM Card offers unlimited talk and text, high-speed 4G LTE data, and hotspot/tethering at 3G using a mobile phone. The SIM card only works in unlocked GSM phones and is not for use in modem/WiFi devices. Live support is available 15 hours a day, 7 days a week. Activation may take up to 24 hours.

What We Like
Easy installation
Good internet speed
Affordable compared to direct plans
Reliable connectivity
What We Don't Like
Customer support response delays
Occasional service interruptions
#TOP 10

T-Mobile Prepaid SIM Card

TMUNLD30US
T-Mobile Prepaid SIM Card Cover
T-Mobile Prepaid SIM Card Unlimited Talk, Text, and Data in USA for 30 Days

The T-Mobile Unlimited SIM offers you unlimited talk and text across the USA, allowing you to stay connected without worrying about minutes or messages. You’ll also enjoy unlimited high-speed 4G LTE data, perfect for streaming or browsing on the go. Additionally, the SIM supports hotspot and tethering at 3G speeds, which is great for sharing your connection with other devices. Just remember, after using 50GB, your data speeds may slow down under the Fair Usage Policy. With this SIM, you can stay connected conveniently, but it must be activated within 90 days of purchase.

What We Like
Affordable option
Fast shipping
Works fine after activation
Customer service responsive
Easy setup
What We Don't Like
Activation process may be slow
Service reliability issues reported
Buying Guide Image

All You Need to Know About Buying Phone SIM Cards

Budget

If what worries you most is the price, you should not look at anything other than the cost that the rates will have at the end of the month. Of course, if you are willing only to pay the cheapest contract, which means that you must comply with the conditions that it offers.

We, therefore, recommend taking a look at other characteristics of the offers in question, since what will end up costing you dearly is a rate that, despite being cheap, does not cover all your needs.

It will, therefore, be a waste of money. As a general rule, the more gigs the rate includes the higher its cost. This proportionality also applies to other services, such as the number of calls and free SMS.

Internet usage

Another factor to consider before choosing a contract is the data consumption that each one does on average per month. It is not the same to watch movies every day during the commute from home to work than to only check the mail from time to time.

Low consumption is for those who only need about 2 GB for email, WhatsApp, and spontaneous use of social networks and web browsers. Average consumption is for those who need between 5 and 10 GB for email, WhatsApp, GPS, social networks, web browsers, and spontaneous video playback.

High consumption is for those who need more than 10 GB for email, WhatsApp, GPS, social networks, web browsers, and video playback. Some companies include special benefits designed for those who spend the day on social networks.

Calls and SMS

Are you one of those who must make many calls a day for work? Or do you just spend hours and hours talking to your friends? If you are one of the first, your solution will be to choose a contract that includes unlimited minutes.

Instead, if you are one of the second and have a smartphone, you should notice if your friends also have one. It will be much easier and cheaper to talk to them on the phone from free applications like WhatsApp.

The same goes for SMS. Considering that with most rates, you have to pay an extra cost per message, it seems more sensible to use free messaging apps and thus save the cost of traditional text messages.

If you are concerned that your data will be consumed quickly, you should consider betting on companies that include features, with which you can use WhatsApp, Instagram, and other apps without spending a single GB.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I buy just a SIM card for my phone?

If your phone is unlocked and compatible with GSM networks, you can purchase a new SIM card. However, if your phone is locked, you will need to unlock it before buying a new SIM card.

2. What does a phone SIM card do?

A phone SIM card is a computer chip provided by your carrier that allows you to connect to their network. It enables you to make calls, send texts, and access the internet. It can also be moved from one phone to another, allowing you to keep the same network, messages, and numbers.

3. What happens if you take out your SIM card and put it in another phone?

When you insert your SIM card into another phone, your phone number remains the same. A SIM card is associated with one phone number at a time, so it doesn't change even when moved to a different phone.

4. Can a phone work without a SIM card?

Yes, most features of modern iPhones and Android phones can be used without a SIM card. As long as you have access to Wi-Fi, you can use apps and services. You can even set up a free virtual phone number for making and receiving calls and texts.

5. Can I buy a SIM card without a plan?

Yes, you can buy a prepaid SIM card without signing a contract. However, you will need to register the SIM card and have an unlocked phone that supports the local frequencies.

6. How much does a new SIM card cost?

The cost of a SIM card itself is usually nominal and can range from $1 to $10.

7. What are the disadvantages of a SIM card?

One disadvantage is that SIM cards are at risk of being hacked. They can store sensitive information like email addresses, bank account details, social media accounts, and online purchases. Hackers with knowledge can access this information and potentially transfer it.

8. Does replacing a SIM card erase data?

No, replacing a SIM card does not erase data stored on your phone. Contacts, messages, apps, and other data unrelated to the SIM card will remain on the phone.

9. What information is stored on a SIM card?

A SIM card contains data such as user identity, location and phone number, network authorization data, personal security keys, contact lists, and stored text messages. This data allows a mobile user to utilize the features and services provided by the SIM card.

Editor's Notes

During our phone sim card research, we found 24 phone sim card products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 141,570 customer reviews through our big data system to write the phone sim cards list. We found that most customers choose phone sim cards with an average price of $10.92.

The phone sim cards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of phone sim cards, including Tello, Verizon Postpaid, Ultra Mobile, Mint Mobile, SIMBROS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 252 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Written by
Jerry Franklin Avatar

Jerry Franklin's persistent curiosity and research inspire a love of writing how technical things work and help him build a wealth of knowledge in computer equipment and other electronic tools. He has always enjoyed great pleasure in taking all things apart and researching how to put them together again since his childhood.

Phone SIM Cards Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Tello Tello Verizon Postpaid Ultra Mobile Mint Mobile SIMBROS SpeedTalk Mobile SpeedTalk Mobile XGAGHB T-Mobile
Service Provider Tello Tello Verizon T Mobile T-Mobile Verizon T-Mobile SpeedTalk Mobile T-Mobile T Mobile
Cellular Technology LTE LTE LTE GSM GSM 4G 5G 5G 4G LTE 5G, 4G LTE LTE GSM
Item Weight 0.634 ounces 1.13 ounces 0.317 ounces 2.08 ounces 0.634 ounces 0.176 ounces 0.634 ounces 2.39 ounces - 0.67 ounces
Other display features Wireless Wireless Wireless Wireless Wireless Wireless Wireless Wireless - Wireless
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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