Verizon recently announced that the company is now offering unlimited data to its customers. It is reported that over the past several years unlimited is but a byword confined to only four carriers. Apparently, none of them actually means unlimited.

Verizon's plan, according to Business Insider, means getting unlimited smartphone data with 10GB up to 22GB of LTE tethering. At 22GB, Verizon uses a tactic known as deprioritization. This apparently means that when a device connected to a crowded tower hits 22GB, the device is placed lower in the list, while devices that have not yet reached the limit will get priority listing.

T-Mobile, however, has placed their threshold at 28GB and is accordingly, the only carrier to continue to update the threshold depending on the top 3 percent of users. T-Mobile also offers 10GB of LTE tethering and otherwise has no limits on their plan.

According to the post of Cnet, Verizon and T-Mobile both offer high-definition video streaming included in their plans. If using a phone as a mobile hotspot, it is important to bear in mind that each carrier has its own limits. And apparently just how much data can be used is one of the biggest differentiators between unlimited plans. Verizon and T-Mobile both offer 10GB per month of mobile hotspot data.

Reportedly, Verizon and T-Mobile charges on a single line are $80 and $70 per month, respectively. Both carrier also offers a $5 per month AutoPay discount. Apparently, Verizon's plan does not include taxes, surcharges or additional fees.

It is truly great to have options from all four major US carriers for unlimited data plans. However, the comparison of costs and features is just part of the picture and it is important also bear in mind also cost of the phone, extended warranties, taxes, surcharges and activation fees. Reportedly T-Mobile has factored into its pricing the last three. It is also worth considering the network coverage and its quality.

Tags: verizon t mobile unlimited data mobile plan