Let‘s explore some of the top cell phone plan options in the state of Indiana so you can stay connected. With the major advancements in network technology over the last 5-10 years, there’s likely a carrier and plan fit for just about any Hoosier’s needs and budget these days.
A Brief History
It‘s incredible how far mobile networks have come in just a few decades. Back in the 1980s, options were extremely limited – but companies like Ameritech brought some of the earliest cellular coverage to Indiana highways and urban areas.
As technology improved through the 90s and 2000s, more providers like Verizon and T-Mobile entered the state. Cell phones transitioned from bulky expensive business-only devices to indispensable smart accessories for everyday consumers.
Around 2010, 4G LTE ushered in the mobile broadband era with much faster data speeds. And most recently, next generation 5G equipment is lighting up Indiana cities with cutting edge performance. Billions have been invested to make the state one of the most connected.
So today, whether you need a basic voice plan or unlimited 5G data, Indiana carriers have very competitive options that could work for you. Understanding recent developments will help you know what to look for.
Now let’s cover some of those top network providers and plans available…
#1: AT&T
As one of the very first cellular carriers in Indiana, AT&T has built an industry leading network across the state over the past 30+ years. Today they claim to reach 100% of Hoosiers making them a top pick for rural coverage.
In cities, AT&T offers blazing fast 5G connectivity utilizing a robust mid-band spectrum portfolio along with millimeter wave equipment in areas of high traffic. Some customers see max download speeds exceed an incredible 5Gbps on capable devices!
To quantify their edge, AT&T currently holds over 46% of available 3.45GHz mid-band spectrum in the state – more than any other provider – allowing substantial 5G capacity. And their constant infrastructure investments bode well for the future; an AT&T spokesperson commented “We continue to enhance connectivity in Indiana through ongoing upgrades…".
In terms of plan pricing and features, AT&T gives you several options:
AT&T Prepaid – For basic needs
Unlimited Starter – Mid-tier unlimited plan
Unlimited Extra – Enhanced premium plan
Unlimited Premium – Top tier plan + highest priority
Pricing starts as low as $30/month for prepaid service up to $85/month for the premium unlimited individual plan with 30GB hotspot data, HBO Max access and more. Additional lines and family plans see attractive discounts off those prices.
Taxes and fees are included so the monthly cost you see is the consistent bill amount. With perks like 5G access and Canada/Mexico talk & text included free – AT&T plans offer immense value.
The company even sells a wide range of phones from Apple, Samsung and others that support their next generation 5G network. Overall if you want the best overall Indiana coverage with crazy fast 5G speeds, check out AT&T.
#2: Verizon
Verizon wireless joins AT&T boasting an exceptional statewide network spanning 99.98% of Indiana. In fact, recent research named Verizon the top rural performer across multiple Midwest states including Indiana due to their depth of low-band spectrum and tower density outside major markets.
Boasting over 184,000 miles of fiber optic cable infrastructure across Indiana, Verizon manages an enormously capable network. It enables the country’s largest 5G coverage footprint with availability in many smaller towns.
Verizon 5G Max download speeds exceed 3Gbps in areas like Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Southbend and others while coverage reaches 94% of Hoosiers. For residents of suburbs or farms, Verizon remains a go-to for reliable connectivity.
In terms of plans, Verizon gives you three main unlimited choices:
Prepaid – For basic use/light usage
Welcome Unlimited – Basic unlimited plan
Play More/Do More Unlimited – Enhanced plans
Their single line unlimited pricing ranges from just $65/month up to $80/month for prioritized premium data access. Of course taxes and fees are included on those plans.
You’ll also find generous multi-line and family discounts along with perks like Disney+ bundled in free. Don’t let their upfront pricing scare you off…Verizon plans offer immense capabilities most users need with excellent Indiana footprint coverage.
#3: T-Mobile
While trailing AT&T and Verizon historically for statewide signal reach, T-Mobile has invested heavily in Indiana recently with impressive results.
Over the past two years, T-Mobile blanketed Indiana highways and rural areas not previously covered through extended range 5G on lower 600Mhz bands. Partnering with regional providers helped accelerate small town network expansion even further.
The results? 99.05% geographical coverage enabling new customers access in previous dead zones. Their mid-band 5G layer also reaches 95.60% of Hoosiers in more populated areas – allowing Indiana download speeds up to 3.4Gbps!
T-Mobile plans options include:
Essentials – For basic use
Magenta – Standard unlimited w/ 100GB premium data
Magenta Max – Top unlimited plan w/ unlimited premium data
Pricing runs from $50 up to $85 monthly. Taxes and fees are included so the number you see advertised is your locked monthly payment. Plus you’ll enjoy plenty of perks like Netflix, unlimited hotspot data, and more depending on the plan selected.
For Indiana residents frustrated with coverage shortfalls in years past or seeking the very fastest 5G speeds today, T-Mobile is an exciting new contender.
MVNO Alternatives
Major carriers deliver top performance but lower cost mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) alternatives like Tello and Boost Mobile are also available to Indiana customers…
These providers lease access from host networks like T-Mobile and Verizon to offer reduced monthly pricing levels without all the fancy premium features. Plans start around just $10/month!
But MVNO users see lower network priority during congestion periods and have restrictions on data amounts in higher tier plans. Tradeoffs are made for the cost savings as this table shows:
| Attribute | MVNO | Host Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $ | $$ |
| Premium Data | Limited | Unlimited |
| Speeds (5G/LTE) | Same | Same |
| Network Priority | Lower | Higher |
| Int‘l Roaming | Extra cost | Free |
Still, MVNO networks deliver sufficient performance for many. Light data users can enjoy crazy cheap wireless service!
Recommendations
Hopefully the breakdown above gives perspective across top options for Indiana mobile connectivity. Before deciding on a carrier and plan, start by checking coverage in locations you frequent through address lookups on their sites. Most offer this function.
Then examine available monthly plan pricing suited for your individual or family data requirements. Major carriers like Verizon and AT&T give you ultimate performance but often at premium pricing. Fantastic discounts bring down effective costs for multi-line groups however.
I suggest considering new eSIM compatible phones and plans as well if you travel overseas or want multi-carrier flexibility. And those with college affiliation, employer programs or qualifying organizations should check for any special carrier arrangements that could save substantially.
For rural users struggling with cell signal, solutions like in-home boosters from the carriers or third party signal amplifiers are also worth exploring. With tools for improving reception and creative discount hunting, Indiana mobile access can fit nearly any lifestyle.
Stay connected my friend!
