Best prepaid internet providers of 2024

Top prepaid internet providers

Compare prepaid internet services

Prepaid internet can be a great option for those seeking flexibility in their internet plans. Prepaid internet requires no commitments, so you can count on no contracts, credit checks, hidden fees or deposits. You can learn more about each of these prepaid internet service providers in the sections below.

We’ve listed four top ISPs offering prepaid internet services, ranking them as the best overall prepaid provider, cheapest prepaid service and best for prepaid availability. Each provider offers affordable options, so if you’re looking for cheap internet, prepaid internet could be a great option for you. 

*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Last updated 10/06/23.

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Verizon Fios – Best prepaid internet service overall

Why we recommend it: Verizon Fios is one of the best internet providers in the country, so it makes sense that it would have the best prepaid home internet, too. It’s not quite as good of a deal as regular Verizon Fios service, but it’s still the best in the business. Plus, if you purchase your router from Verizon, they’ll pay for your first month of service.

What else to consider with Verizon prepaid internet:

• Expensive equipment: You’ll have to purchase your own router with Verizon prepaid internet, and it’s on the pricey side. That said, Verizon will pay for your first month of internet when you buy your router through them. You also have the option of using your own Verizon-compatible router. 
• Symmetrical speeds: With Verizon Fios, you’ll get the same download and upload speeds. That means your connection will be able to handle activities like online gaming and uploading photos without a problem.

View more Verizon Fios internet plans

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Xfinity – Cheapest prepaid internet service

Why we recommend it: Xfinity has one of the cheapest prepaid internet plans you’ll find anywhere. Like other providers, you won’t have to worry about a credit check or deposit, but Xfinity also cuts out hidden fees. Xfinity is also the only prepaid provider that allows you to pay for less than a month.

What else to consider with Xfinity Prepaid Internet:

• Cheap equipment: Xfinity’s modem is an affordable purchase compared to Verizon. This is a one-time purchase that you can’t avoid. Xfinity doesn’t allow you to use a modem you already have with its prepaid plans. 
• Decent speeds: Xfinity Prepaid Internet download speeds max out at 50 Mbps, which should be plenty for most households. That said, if you have more than a couple people using the internet in your house, or do a lot of gaming or remote working and learning, you may want to look for a faster plan elsewhere.  
• Weekly plan available: If you don’t want to pay for a full 30 days at a time, Xfinity is the only provider that offers one-week cycles. You’ll pay a little more for this flexibility, but it’s a nice option for anyone looking to try out Xfinity.

View more Xfinity internet plans

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Cox – Another cheap prepaid option

Why we recommend it: If Xfinity isn’t available in your area but you still want the cheapest plan, Cox prepaid internet is another solid option. Its StraightUp Internet plan costs $50/mo., but unlike the other providers we’ve listed, equipment, taxes and fees are included. That means you know exactly what you’ll be paying each month.

What else to consider with Cox StraightUp Internet:

• Price guarantee: As long as you pay your bill each month, Cox guarantees that it won’t raise your price for three full years. 
• Equipment is included: Cox’s Wi-Fi modem is yours to keep — even if you cancel your service after one month.

View more Cox internet plans

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AT&T – Best availability

Why we recommend it: AT&T’s prepaid internet option is a little different than the other providers on this list. Instead of a traditional home internet connection with a router and modem, AT&T’s prepaid plans utilize its 5G wireless network. You pay for different amounts of data each month, from 15GB to 100GB, and you’ll need to purchase a mobile hotspot from AT&T separately.

What else to consider with AT&T internet:

• Wide availability: While you have to be in the service areas of broadband internet providers, AT&T Prepaid is available virtually anywhere.
• Save by paying for a year upfront: If you’re happy with your AT&T Prepaid service and want to save some money, you can save $10/mo. and get 5GB of extra data each month by paying for a full year in advance. 
• Expensive equipment: Hotspot devices from AT&T can cost as much as $180, although you may be able to find better deals by visiting an AT&T store in-person.

View more AT&T internet plans

What are the benefits of pre-paid internet plans?

Prepaid internet isn’t for everyone, but if you are looking for flexibility, no credit checks or long-term commitments, prepaid is a great option. There are also no hidden fees, data overage costs or other unknown fees.

With a regular home internet service, you’ll likely have equipment fees and be subject to one or two-year contracts that may cost you if you opt out early. With prepaid internet, you can avoid the usual fees with regular internet service.

But, keep in mind that you don’t have as many prepaid internet options as you do with normal broadband service – prepaid has lower speed ranges and less ISPs offer it. 

Prepaid internet FAQs

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