If you need 500GB or more, you're either a heavy data user or you want the peace of mind of never hitting a limit. This tier includes high-capacity plans and unlimited options.
Who Needs 500GB+?
Primary internet users. Some people use mobile data as their main internet connection, replacing home broadband entirely.
Heavy hotspot users. If your phone provides internet for multiple devices regularly, data consumption adds up fast.
Video call workers. Remote workers on video calls for hours daily can burn through 5-10GB per day easily.
Streamers and downloaders. 4K streaming uses about 7GB per hour. Gaming downloads can be 50-100GB each.
Families on shared plans. Multiple users on one plan can collectively hit high usage.
500GB Plans vs Unlimited Plans
At this data level, you're close to unlimited plan pricing. Here's how to decide:
Choose 500GB-800GB plans ($15-22) if:
- You want a specific cap to stay disciplined
- You don't need unlimited roaming
- You want to save a few dollars versus unlimited
Choose unlimited plans ($25-40) if:
- You consistently exceed 400GB
- You want unlimited roaming too
- You use hotspot heavily and don't want to monitor usage
What "Unlimited" Actually Means
Most unlimited plans have fair usage policies. Common restrictions:
- Speed throttling after 50-100GB of daily use
- Roaming caps even on "unlimited roaming" plans
- Hotspot/tethering limits
- Video streaming capped at 480p or 720p on some networks
Read the fine print. "Unlimited" rarely means unrestricted.
Pricing
500GB+ plans range from $15-25 for capped plans and $25-40 for unlimited. At this tier, expect:
- 5G standard on all plans
- 20-50GB roaming or unlimited roaming on premium plans
- Unlimited calls and SMS
- No contract
FAQ
Can anyone actually use 1TB of mobile data? Yes, but it takes effort. You'd need to stream video constantly, use heavy hotspot, or download large files regularly. Most people with 1TB plans use 200-400GB and just enjoy not worrying.
Is unlimited worth the extra cost over 500GB? If you're using 400GB+ monthly, yes. The stress-free aspect is worth $5-10 extra. If you're using 200-300GB, you're overpaying for unlimited.
What's the cheapest way to get 500GB+? Look at SIMBA, Eight, or promotional MVNO plans. You can find 500GB for $15-18 during promotions. Main telco plans at this level cost $20-30+.
