TextNow unlimited data plans start at just $0.99 now - yes, really

Textnow branded SIM card on purple background with big savings text overlay
(Image credit: Future)

Sick of paying for heaps of data you don't even need? The mobile provider TextNow has recently introduced a flexible array of unlimited data passes that could be a fantastic option.

TextNow's new unlimited data passes include an hourly pass for $0.99, a daily pass for $4.99, and a monthly pass for $39.99. Under the new system, all you need to do is pay for an amount of data upfront via the TextNow app and that's it - you'll immediately unlock your allowance of 5G data.

TextNow is one of the most cost-effective mobile providers on the market right now thanks to its compelling offer of completely free calling and texting nationwide. If you're a thrifty light user, TextNow is a service you can use to your benefit if you know exactly how much data you'll need and when. 

You can sign up for TextNow online or via its app to get started with a completely free calling-over-WiFi setup. Alternatively, you can order a SIM card for just $1.99 to get traditional cellular coverage nationwide. If you're eying up the unlimited data plans outlined above, you need a TextNow SIM to use that one specifically.

Flexible unlimited data options

TextNow Unlimited data passes

TextNow Unlimited data passes
TextNow's new data passes let you pay for exactly the amount of data you need when you need it. Under this setup, you get the choice between an hourly, daily, or monthly pass - with the hourly pass starting at just $0.99. If you rely on WiFi primarily for a data connection then this is a fantastic option right now since TextNow's SIM card costs just $0.99 and includes completely unlimited texts, calls, and a free number.

One hour pass: $0.99
One Day pass: $4.99
Monthly pass: $39.99

Is TextNow good value?

For sure - TextNow is a good overall option for those who really want to rein in their monthly cell phone plan costs. If you're a light user, in particular, paying just $0.99 for an hour of data in a fix is a great option if you mostly rely on WiFi for your connection. 

When looking at the full monthly pass of data there are cheaper prepaid plans out there right now. That said, there's a lot of flexibility baked into TextNow's setup. For example, if you decide you no longer need a full month of data, you can easily switch down to one of the shorter-term plans or revert to the call-and-text-only service for free.

Alex Whitelock
Deals Editor

Alex is TechRadar's deals editor, specializing in getting our readers the bang bang for the buck on the tech that we know and love. He's a dab hand at covering retailer events like Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day having over seven years of e-commerce experience at Future PLC; including bylines at our sister sites T3 and GamesRadar. Alex's expertise touches on most areas of TechRadar but he has a particular love for phones, laptops, and cameras, being an avid photographer. Outside of work, you'll find him indulging his love for street and travel photography, at home working on music, or down at the local climbing gym.