In the golden age of streaming, where movies, TV shows, music, and games are available at your fingertips, having a wireless plan that can keep up is critical. Major carriers aren’t the only option—Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) have emerged as powerful contenders, offering competitive prices and reliable data without the bloated cost of big-name providers.
But for streaming enthusiasts, not all MVNOs are created equal. Data speed, video resolution caps, and hotspot support can make or break your binge-watching or Spotify marathon experience. This guide breaks down the best MVNOs for streaming lovers—based on data allowances, streaming capabilities, and overall value.
What Makes an MVNO Ideal for Streaming?
Before we dive into the top picks, here’s what you should look for in an MVNO if streaming is your priority:
- High or unlimited data allotments: Streaming video and audio can consume a lot of bandwidth. A single hour of HD Netflix can use up to 3GB of data.
- High-speed throttling thresholds: Some plans offer unlimited data but drastically reduce your speed after a certain amount is used.
- Uncapped video resolution: Many MVNOs cap video streaming at 480p (SD), which may not cut it for HD content lovers.
- Hotspot support: If you stream on other devices like tablets or laptops, a mobile hotspot is essential.
- Network priority: Some MVNOs offer higher-priority data, especially during congestion.
1. Visible by Verizon
Best for: Unlimited high-speed data with solid streaming support
Visible offers one of the best streaming-friendly MVNO plans. Owned by Verizon, it provides truly unlimited data with no speed throttling (though video is capped at 480p). For $25/month on the Visible Basic plan and $45/month for Visible+ (which includes premium network access during congestion), it’s a fantastic deal.
- Network: Verizon
- Price: $25–$45/month
- Data: Unlimited high-speed
- Hotspot: Unlimited (capped at 5 Mbps)
- Streaming Quality: 480p (SD)
✅ Pros: Affordable unlimited plan, great network, hotspot included
❌ Cons: No HD video streaming, basic deprioritization on the lower-tier plan
Check out our review of Visible by Verizon
2. Tello Mobile
Best for: Budget streamers with flexible plans
Tello uses T-Mobile’s network and offers highly customizable plans. While it doesn’t offer an unlimited plan, you can create a plan with up to 35GB of high-speed data for just $29/month. Streaming is smooth thanks to T-Mobile’s solid 4G and 5G coverage.
- Network: T-Mobile
- Price: Varies; $29/month for 35GB
- Data: Up to 35GB high-speed
- Hotspot: Included
- Streaming Quality: Typically 480p–720p
✅ Pros: Build-your-own-plan, affordable, hotspot access
❌ Cons: No true unlimited plan
Check out our review of Tello Mobile
3. Mint Mobile
Best for: HD streaming with premium data access
Mint Mobile’s plans are a favorite among budget-conscious users, and their 35GB high-speed data plan ($30/month if you prepay for 3 months or more) is great for streaming. Unlike some MVNOs, Mint allows video streaming in up to 720p on phones and full HD when tethering.
- Network: T-Mobile
- Price: $30/month for 35GB
- Data: 35GB high-speed, then unlimited at reduced speeds
- Hotspot: Included (5GB cap)
- Streaming Quality: Up to 720p
✅ Pros: Fast data, reasonable pricing, good HD support
❌ Cons: Must prepay in multi-month increments
Check out our review of Mint Mobile
4. US Mobile
Best for: Premium streaming experience with 5G
US Mobile stands out for its custom plans and premium data options. On the Unlimited Premium plan ($50/month), you get 100GB of high-speed data, access to the fastest 5G networks (Verizon or T-Mobile), and even perks like free Disney+, Netflix, or Spotify (depending on the plan).
- Network: Verizon or T-Mobile
- Price: $50/month (Unlimited Premium)
- Data: 100GB high-speed + unlimited after throttling
- Hotspot: 50GB
- Streaming Quality: Up to 4K depending on the network
✅ Pros: Fastest 5G available, included streaming subscriptions, high data limits
❌ Cons: Pricier than other MVNOs
Check out our review of US Mobile
5. Boost Mobile
Best for: Streaming on a fixed budget
Boost Mobile is a newer unlimited postpaid plan offered for $25/month. While video is capped at 480p, the plan gives you unlimited data and nationwide 5G access using AT&T and T-Mobile networks. It’s a great choice for users who stream primarily in SD or want background music streaming.
- Network: AT&T, T-Mobile
- Price: $25/month
- Data: Unlimited
- Hotspot: Limited
- Streaming Quality: 480p
✅ Pros: Consistent pricing, nationwide access
❌ Cons: SD video cap, limited hotspot
Check out our view of Boost Mobile
6. Cricket Wireless (Unlimited + 15GB Mobile Hotspot Plan)
Best for: Families or users who tether for streaming
Cricket’s $60/month Unlimited + 15GB Mobile Hotspot plan is powered by AT&T and comes with streaming-friendly features, including HBO Max (with ads) on select plans. Although video is capped at SD, the generous hotspot allowance makes it ideal for streaming on laptops or tablets.
- Network: AT&T
- Price: $60/month
- Data: Unlimited
- Hotspot: 15GB
- Streaming Quality: 480p
✅ Pros: Reliable coverage, hotspot data, streaming perks
❌ Cons: Pricier than other MVNOs
Check out our review of Cricket Wireless
Final Thoughts: Which MVNO is Right for You?
If you’re a hardcore streamer, especially on mobile devices, you’ll want to prioritize plans with ample high-speed data, good hotspot support, and uncapped video resolution when possible. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Want the most streaming for your money? Try Visible or Mint Mobile.
- Prefer customization and savings? Go with Tello.
- Looking for a premium experience with streaming perks? Choose US Mobile.
- Need a solid family plan or tethering option? Cricket Wireless is a strong contender.
Whatever your streaming habits, there’s an MVNO plan that can match your needs—and likely save you money in the process.