1. Mint Mobile

Mint Mobile has become widely known for its super-cheap prices and the ability to choose the amount of data you use each month, which has made it an incredibly popular option for people who want to save money on service. Powered by T-Mobile's nationwide network, Mint Mobile has solid coverage and high-speed data (up to 10GB a month) for rates as low as $15 a month. Instead, you have to pay upfront in three, six or 12 month packages to get the best deal. Though the Mopria drives a higher up-front cost, in the long-run it's a moneymaker. Their $15/month plan, for example, includes 5GB of data; their $20/month plan increases that to 15GB, with unlimited talk and text. Mint Mobile even throws in free mobile hotspot access and Wi-Fi calling, which makes it a well-rounded option for those with lighter to moderate data needs.

2. US Mobile

A great runner-up is US Mobile's more customizable and transparent pricing. Unlike other carriers, which force you into inflexible plans, US Mobile allows you to customize a plan to fit your needs. Whether you want all the data you can get or just the basics, you can tailor your talk, text and data allowances so you don't pay for what you don't need. Their unlimited plan, the “Starter Plan” comes with unlimited data (though you have a cap at 480p resolution, and your data speeds will be slower if you pass a certain threshold), talk, and text for $25 and up. Light users can craft custom plans for as low as $10/month (with minimal data and unlimited talk & text). US Mobile uses both Verizon's and T-Mobile's networks, so you can select the best coverage for your area. Plus, extras such as international calling and multi-line discounts make US Mobile a savvy choice for both families and singles.

Mint Mobile and US Mobile are both examples that you can have solid quality while getting a great deal. Lifeline is great if you qualify, but these cheap contract-free plans are perfect if you don't get the Lifeline qualification. While Lifeline sounds great, service providers also offer affordable contract-free plans for everyone in need of reliable service without emptying their wallet. Whether you want Mint Mobile's prepaid discounts or US Mobile's mix-and-match approach, there's a value-minded plan that will help keep your phone occupied. For those looking for even more options, alternatives such as Tello, Red Pocket, and Visible are also bringing the heat with rates that won't break the bank, which means that getting everyone connected will never be a problem no matter what your budget.