The cheapest mobile communications - Review of all tariffs

Most tariff plans from Russian operators today are designed for active network users. Subscribers who only need calls have much less choice. However, this does not mean that it does not exist at all. Today we’ll look at the best offline plans of 2021 and see which one can offer the cheapest connection.

To avoid confusion, we immediately warn you that we will give prices for Moscow and Moscow Region; in other regions they may differ. Go.

Main line of tariffs

When choosing a tariff plan, it is important to consider which city the calls will be made from most often. For example, if a person buys a prepaid SIM card in St. Petersburg, but plans to use the phone in Moscow, the tariffs in the capital will be higher.

The cost of telephone calls depends on what region a person is in and where he is calling. The tariff for local calls, for example, in Moscow, is standard, but if you need to call from the capital to another city, the cost will increase by the minute. In general, cellular operators have standard tariffs.

To better understand the pricing packages of leading mobile phone companies, below is a comparison table with current packages.

These plans are for smartphones and tablets only. Their use in modems or mobile routers is prohibited. For example, MTS identifies the most commonly used modems and routers by their IMEI number and blocks mobile data usage on such devices.

Tele2 tariffs without monthly fee

Let's move on to the next operator - Tele2. It is known for its low prices, although they have risen noticeably over the past couple of years. Cheap tariffs are a thing of the past; subscribers miss them. Let's see what's left.

"Classical"

In the entire range of tariffs without a mandatory subscription fee from Tele2, only “Classic” remains. Its previous versions were noticeably cheaper, but the modern version turned out to be no cheaper than its competitors:

• Any local calls – 2 rubles/min;
• Calls to all-Russian Tele2 numbers – 3 rubles/min;
• Intercity within Russia – 9 rubles/min.

Mobile Internet tariffing:

• 15 rubles for every 10 MB (one package works for a maximum of 24 hours);
• Within the “1 GB Package” option – 120 rubles/month;
• Within the “3 GB Package” option – 200 rubles/month.

By default, the following scheme applies: first, a 10 MB package is consumed, after which the “1 GB Package” is launched for 5 rubles/day. To return to tariffs by package, dial the USSD command *155*702*0# - it will disable the “1 GB Package” option.

Tariffs for mobile Internet

A tariff plan “Internet for devices” has been prepared for Internet access. Initially, there is no subscription fee, and the cost of traffic is 1.8 rubles/MB. This is enough for simple phones with the Opera Mini browser and for smart devices that consume a minimum amount of traffic. For all others (including modems, routers and tablets) additional packages are offered:

• 15 GB for 400 rubles/month – connect with the command *155*704*1#;
• 25 GB for 600 rubles/month – connect with the command *155*705*1#;
• 40 GB for 900 rubles/month – connect with the command *155*706*1#.

All packages have unlimited night time from 00-00 to 06-59. Unused traffic balances are transferred to the next month.

For “smart” devices in the form of heating boilers, GSM control modules, clocks, etc., the “Internet for Things” tariff plan is offered. It includes 300 MB of traffic, 30 minutes and 100 SMS for 100 rubles/month.

Archived Tele2 tariffs

In the archive we found an interesting version of the “Classic” tariff from April 2021. The tariffs here are fabulous - local calls for 2 rubles/min and long-distance calls on Tele2 and other numbers for 1.95 rubles/min. The modern version looks expensive against this background. And some subscribers still use the “Orange” tariff – 1 ruble/min for any local and all-Russian numbers.

MTS operator

MTS is the largest operator, serving about 78 million subscribers, which has licenses in 83 regions of the country. This operator-provider can also use roaming in Crimea.

4G/LTE coverage has reached all 83 regions of MTS presence. 55% is at 1800 MHz, the rest at 800 and 2600 MHz.

Unlike other operators, MTS blocks incoming calls from many VoIP networks, as they are considered illegal.

The “Red Energy” tariff from MTS does not have a subscription fee, it has simple and understandable conditions. “SMART” is one of the most favorable tariffs for those who make a lot of calls and often send SMS. “Super-MTS” is a popular tariff among those who communicate a lot within the network. This is also a tariff without a monthly fee.

Tariff prices are relevant for Moscow and Moscow Region.

Super MTS tariff is the best tariff plan subject to daily payment. This plan has very cheap mobile communications and internet. The main advantage of the tariff is unlimited outgoing calls to other MTS numbers in the same region per day and to most city numbers in Moscow. Calls within the country are made at an additional cost.

Another benefit of this plan is that you are allowed to add the All Super+ option. It is activated automatically and gives up to 3 GB per month with a daily fee of RUB 9.40. If it is not activated, you need to dial *111*259#.

The MTS Smart smartphone series offers monthly combo plans including calls, SMS and data. For many users, this is the cheapest mobile connection in Moscow.

The big advantage of these plans is their availability (including with roaming in Crimea). All Smart tariff plans include unlimited calls to other MTS Russia numbers.

Unlimited number of social networks in tariff plans X and Tariff includes the use of:

And also Snapchat, YouTube, MTS Music, Apple Music, Google Music, App Store, Google Play, MTS Connect and some games.

The monthly fee is deducted from your account balance at the time the plan is activated. The next debit will occur exactly 30 days after the activation date. If the account is insufficient for the next monthly fee, all services (voice and data) will be temporarily suspended. To unlock, you will need to top up your account.

Tariffs without Internet Beeline

Bi+

Beeline is ready to offer a truly advantageous tariff only for calls. Compared to other tariffs without a monthly fee, the per-minute tariffs within the yellow network are the lowest, especially when calling within Russia. This is a good choice for retirees who communicate mainly with relatives. By connecting “Bi+” the subscriber will receive:

• Calls to any Beeline numbers cost 1 ruble per minute.
• Calls to numbers of other operators are 2.5 rubles per minute.
• Calls to other operators throughout the country cost 15 rubles per minute.

By default, there is an additional “Start” option enabled, which transfers all calls to Beeline to an unlimited basis and provides 3 GB of Internet traffic for 6 rubles per day. If you don’t see the point in it, then you should immediately turn it off so as not to overpay.

Operator Beeline

Beeline is a national operator operating in 78 regions and serving about 58 million subscribers. It is popular for calls to CIS countries and offers tariffs at lower prices.

Beeline is present in almost all regions of the country, its 4G coverage is concentrated in populated areas, but is still limited in rural areas. 4G/LTE coverage is available in almost all cities.

Beeline has high-speed 3G internet almost everywhere in the country, including the countryside between Moscow and St. Petersburg and Lake Baikal + Olkhon Island, which is ideal for traveling to remote areas and traveling by train. However, currently the Beeline 2G network has noticeably lost quality. There are some issues with voice call clarity and data speeds. The problems are related to signal strength and coverage. However, this operator has good tariffs for international calls, especially to the CIS countries, where Beeline has its own and partner networks.

Like other operators, Beeline has monthly combined plans with included rates for voice calls, SMS and Internet, valid throughout Russia.

Messengers are unlimited, these include WhatsApp, Viber, ICQ, Skype, Google, Snapchat (including voice and video calls). Movies, Music and Cloud are the operator's special offers for streaming video and audio and 10 GB of cloud space.

When data is exhausted, a very high auto-renewal rate is charged. So we recommend choosing a volume sufficient for you initially.

The carrier offers an option that allows users to share the included data allowance in combo plans with other carrier users in the same region.

The best connection: the best telecom operator + the cheapest tariff

What would you choose or recommend?

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First, let's find out which mobile operators are currently in Russia. There are only five of them, if we talk about the main ones and do not take into account local regional operators, and also do not take into account those that began to appear in various large companies such as Sberbank and so on. The five main ones are MTS, Megafon, Beeline, Tele2 and Yota.

Each operator has its own pros and cons, and in order to attract or retain a client, companies are constantly changing tariff plans, offering new solutions suitable for a particular person, and also trying to improve and improve the quality of communication and service.

It is definitely impossible to say which operator is better. This point depends on how extensive the coverage area of ​​the selected network is, how honestly the company works, how its technical support works, and so on. Moreover, it is important to take into account the needs of a particular user: does he need mobile Internet and in what quantity, how long does he talk on the phone, how often is it convenient for him to top up his account and other parameters.

After analyzing the ratings of mobile operators on the network, we were able to compile our own list of the best. Let us remind you that the site’s editors do not cooperate with companies, brands, firms and stores; they only rely on user reviews and independent expert assessments and create materials based on this. So, for you - the TOP 5 telecom operators that are represented in the Russian Federation. Let's get acquainted with their advantages and disadvantages.

No. 5 - Tele2

Tele2
This cellular operator has existed for many years in Russia, appearing and disappearing from the field of view of users, especially in the regions. However, now it is actively developing and creating new interesting and, most importantly, inexpensive offers for users. At one time, the company appeared thanks to investments from Sweden, and now belongs to the Russian financial group VTB.

Unfortunately, Tele2 has not yet managed to rise above fifth place in any of the ratings regarding communication quality. By all general parameters, most independent experts rank it among the worst large operators. But it also has many advantages that are important to many and enable Tele2 to stay afloat. For example, a company can withstand the “attack” of competitors by providing the fastest Internet on the 4G network, without requiring large payments from users. On 3G, the operator’s speed is also very fast and, one might say, the highest.

But one of the disadvantages of this option is the presence of a certain instability of the connection. We also include the coverage area as a disadvantage - even in one city, communication can disappear in places, not providing a high-quality connection. However, if there is no good mobile Internet, there is no normal way to talk on the phone without interruptions.

In a word, the main advantage of Tele2 is the anti-crisis price level for tariffs. The company does not have a single option that would seriously hit the pocket. So it has no shortage of users and is easily included in the list of the most popular providers. Moreover - and the cheapest. In this regard, Tele2 defeats all its competitors.

pros

• the cheapest services
• fast internet
• anti-crisis tariffs
• constant development

Minuses

• unstable connection
• insufficient coverage area

No. 4 - Yota

Yota
is a fairly young operator that appeared in Russia relatively recently, if we talk specifically about giant companies in the world of cellular communications. Yota writes about itself that it is ready to give everything the user needs, notes inexpensive tariffs, stable and fast Internet and high quality communications. By the way, this is a subsidiary brand of another well-known company - Megafon.

However, users report that the quality of services from Yota is still not as excellent as the operator himself says about them. Although we must pay tribute - the choice of services is huge depending on the device used, and among them there are tariffs with unlimited Internet. The quality of the company's mobile communications is excellent, but the Internet leaves much to be desired. Constant disconnections force many active users of the World Wide Web to change their operator. The disadvantages include the coverage area - in a number of regions Yota simply does not work.

But her Internet is unlimited on many tariffs. In short, if you want more Internet for less money - welcome to the Yota office. True, no one promises that the connection will be stable and ubiquitous. You also can’t discount the so-called “virtual operator factor” - the quality of Yota communications strongly depends on the workload of Megafon itself.

Another advantage of an operator is honesty. All tariffs are described in detail, there are no hidden fees or unclear debits from the account. In this regard, the company exceeded all expectations.

pros

• cheapest internet
• good quality mobile connection
• favorable rates
• subsidiary brand of Megafon
• transparent prices

Minuses

• unstable internet
• insufficient coverage area

No. 3 - Beeline

Beeline
Another popular cellular service provider is the “striped” Beeline. The operator at one time attracted many thanks to its inexpensive tariffs and decent communication quality. It has been operating since 1993, and since then many, many people have used its services. According to statistics, Beeline serves more than 60 million subscribers. This is a serious competitor for other operators.

Beeline's tariffs, however, are still quite favorable, although more expensive than those of Tele2. Moreover, they are very diverse and can include a variety of services. It is easy to find clear and simple information for each tariff, so it will not be difficult to understand them, just as it will not be difficult to choose the best option for yourself. Also, one of the main advantages of the company is the frequent holding of all kinds of promotions both within the network and with a number of partner companies. Another plus is the high-quality work of technical support - not every company is able to quickly resolve almost any issue.

Among the disadvantages is the high cost of international and long-distance communications. Also, a company can often, secretly from the user, connect him to some kind of paid payment that means money is debited from your account for something that you did not connect yourself.

Also, in some regions, the quality of communication leaves much to be desired or is completely absent - the company does not really like to “enter” territories where monetization will be unprofitable. But in large cities, Beeline is in great demand due to rare network outages, high speed mobile Internet and excellent communication quality.

pros

• clear tariffs
• good connection quality
• fast internet
• many different offers
• holding permanent promotions
• old-timer in the mobile communications market
• great job from technical support

Minuses

• not the best rates
• there are problems with coverage area
• can activate a paid service without informing

No. 2 - MTS

MTS
One of the largest providers, which, like Beeline, has been operating since 1993 and also enjoys the trust of users. There are more than 100 million subscribers using the communication services of this provider.

The MTS company provides communications that, in many respects, occupy a leading position in the country. High quality is the main advantage. This is achieved through the use of the latest technical equipment. The quality of communication and sound is excellent both in open spaces and inside buildings. The coverage area is very extensive, there are problems only in remote regions. The advantages include the ability to talk within the network very profitably through long-distance communication.

MTS tariffs are moderate in cost. They are, of course, more expensive than Tele2, but given the quality of communication, the cost can be ignored. The disadvantages are that the tariffs are not completely balanced. Some other operators offer more favorable prices for Internet or, conversely, mobile communications. Another drawback is the incorrectly working support service. Internet speed is worse than that of some other operators, but overall it works stably.

pros

• high quality communication
• excellent coverage area
• favorable conditions for communication within the network
• rare connection failures
• subscriber trust

Minuses

• incorrect support service
• not the lowest prices

No. 1 - Megafon

Megafon
is a leading company according to many experts and users. Megafon in some cities was awarded as the best telecom operator, and in certain regions it simply occupies leading positions in various ratings. The company, like its predecessors, entered the market in 1993 and since then has been successfully developing and increasing the number of subscribers. However, their number is still less than that of MTS.

The main advantage is the most extensive coverage network. Using Megafon, you can communicate in any corner of the country. Moreover, communication towers are installed even in places where all investments are not recouped by the number of users. In this way, the company shows its concern for subscribers. Megafon also constantly monitors the emergence of technical innovations and actively implements them in order to provide its customers with maximum services with high quality. For example, the very first company that began to provide the ability to make video calls was Megafon, and only then the service appeared on other operators.

Megafon's Internet and communications are excellent. The data transfer speed is high, there are practically no interruptions. But there are some downsides - no one is perfect. Megafon suffers from poor quality support service; it is difficult to reach them to get answers to your questions. Also, not all technical support specialists have the necessary competencies to give the correct answer and help their client. The second main drawback is the confusing and expensive tariffs. The quality of the connection is good, but you will have to pay “good” for it. And many users simply do not want to deal with all the prices and go to simpler and more understandable options from other operators.

In a word, Megafon is considered the best company providing cellular communication services. But it is not beneficial for the consumer.

pros

• high quality communication
• best coverage area
• subscriber trust
• the company received awards for its work
• excellent customer care
• There are virtually no connection interruptions

Minuses

• confusing tariffs
• not the lowest prices
• incompetent technical support

The cheapest cellular tariffs: description, services and reviews

Now we will try to find out which tariff and from which operator will be the most inexpensive. And here the TOP of the best changes radically. Or would it be more correct to say - TOP profitable? Let's take a look at the nine proposed options that are relevant for 2021.

Attention! Depending on the region, the cost of tariffs and the range of services provided may vary greatly. We recommend looking at the details for each tariff directly on the website of the selected operator, taking into account your location.

No. 9 - Yota for smartphone

Tariffs from Yota
Unlike other operators that provide clear tariff plans, Yota took a different path. The provider offers you to choose your own tariff parameters in order to avoid paying for unnecessary services, and gives you the opportunity to do this on the website or in a special application for your smartphone.

For example, users can limit the use of minutes for calls, but choose an unlimited Internet service. In St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region, this option will cost 420 rubles, and in the Yaroslavl region it will not cost even 200.

The subscription fee is charged per month, and the selected package is valid from the moment of connection for 30 days.

Calls throughout Russia to phones of other operators are made without additional charges as part of the consumption of minutes from the package. The cost of the tariff will be the same both for Russian territory and abroad. Calls within the network will be absolutely free. Inboxes of any type are free.

As users say, Yota’s Internet works without speed or traffic restrictions. The decrease is observed only when using a smartphone as a modem and distributing the network to other devices. And if you put a SIM card in a tablet or other device, the Internet speed will be severely limited.

If there are not enough minutes in the package, you can buy additional ones for 170 rubles in the amount of 100 units. They will be available until the tariff expires. If you do not buy such an additional package, then the cost of one minute for calls to other operators will be 2.5 rubles per unit, and outside the native region - 3.9 rubles.

pros

• you can collect a tariff for yourself
• inexpensive intercity
• calls within the network are free
• cheap unlimited internet

Minuses

• The cost of the tariff varies greatly depending on the region

Video - Is it worth using Yota?

No. 8 - MTS Tariff

Tariff MTS Tariff
Not the most profitable, but convenient tariff with unlimited Internet. It is popular because the package of services is created by artificial intelligence. That is, in the first month the user pays 275 rubles (the cost is valid for the initial connection) and receives:

• unlimited calls within the MTS network;
• unlimited Internet;
• 500 minutes;
• 500 SMS to all networks in the Russian Federation.

Attention! If you already have an MTS SIM card, then when you change the tariff you will pay an amount of 550 rubles for connecting the tariff, that is, you will not take advantage of the discount.

After a month, the range of services may change. For the same subscription fee, artificial intelligence will select the optimal tariff for you by analyzing all your habits. The number of minutes and SMS upon initial connection can vary from 500 to 3000 per month. Accordingly, the cost also changes. Above we have indicated the lowest base price.

When the package runs out, but the time for charging the subscription fee has not yet arrived, the cost of a minute when making a call will vary from 0.75 to 1.5 rubles. It depends on how many minutes were originally in the package. The same principle applies to SMS - here the cost can vary from 2.8 to 2 rubles. The package does not include international communications.

pros

• the tariff will be adjusted to you
• unlimited Internet
• good range of services
• discount for initial connection

Minuses

• expensive compared to other operators

No. 7 - Smart MTS

Smart MTS tariff
One of the most popular tariffs used by smartphone owners is Smart from MTS. It has a more or less attractive price of 350 rubles with high quality communications and a good range of services. The user receives payment for 350 rubles, which he pays a month in advance:

• 300 minutes to any phones within your region;
• 7 GB network traffic;
• 300 SMS;
• free communication within MTS in your home country.

Moreover, you can avoid paying service fees and tariffs at all or pay less for them if you use an MTS Cashback card. If you exceed the allocated package of minutes, then calls to mobile MTS will also remain unlimited, but making a call to phones of other operators will cost 3 rubles per minute. The package does not include calling services with other operators in Russia (the cost of long-distance calls in this case is 5.5 rubles). Also not included in the package is sending SMS messages to numbers of other operators outside the home region. One message will cost 3 rubles. If the Internet runs out, you can purchase additional traffic of 500 MB for 95 rubles.

pros

• You may not have to pay a subscription fee in some cases
• unlimited within the network
• good connection quality
• optimal range of services for the average user

Minuses

• insufficient internet
• expensive compared to other operators

Video - Review of Tariffs from MTS

#6 - Get involved! Have fun Megafon

Tariff Get involved!
Have fun Megafon We will also look at a couple of the cheapest cellular tariffs from this provider. Each of them has its own subscription fee. Unfortunately, the cheapest Megafon cellular tariffs are not available without a monthly fee.

Tariff Get involved! Have fun, which will cost its users 370 rubles per month. It costs a little more than the cheapest one from this provider, which we’ll talk about later. This option is aimed at those who like to surf the Internet. For 370 rubles paid as payment, the user will receive:

• 100 minutes of calls to numbers in your region;
• unlimited calls on your network in the Russian Federation;
• calls to Megafon do not consume minutes from the package;
• 10 GB Internet;
• unlimited use of many services such as Yandex. Music, VKontakte, instant messengers, YouTube, etc.

And there is a trick here - unlimited Internet will only work when using the latest versions of applications. If you don’t update, you won’t see the free network. Also, the Internet will be wasted if you open any third-party sites through social networks or instant messengers. When using a VPN, traffic will also be consumed.

Like a number of other tariffs, this one also has free pleasant bonuses. for example, Megafon TV, which does not waste traffic in this service, or using ESET NOD32 antivirus for free. Holding a call while using the function is a paid service.

If the service package is over, you can buy additional minutes or megabytes of the Internet - 30 rubles for 30 minutes or 500 MB for 50 rubles. For communication with users of other operators in their home region they will charge 2 rubles. And calling the number of another provider in the Russian Federation will cost as much as 13 rubles per minute. The subscription can be paid either in parts or in full once a month.

pros

• high quality communication
• big internet package
• there are many sites where traffic is not wasted
• some other free features

Minuses

• expensive intercity
• few minutes
• you need to use the latest versions of applications

#5 - Get involved! Write. Megaphone

Tariff Get involved!
Write to Megafon The cheapest tariff from Megafon at the moment is Turn on! Write, which requires a subscription fee of 300 rubles. Targeted at those who like to send SMS or use instant messengers. For this money the user receives:

• unlimited calls within the network;
• 300 minutes of calls with local users using the services of other operators;
• 5 GB of Internet and unlimited use of major instant messengers such as WhatsApp;
• ability to send 300 SMS.

The tariff is valid for 30 days from the moment of connection. Incoming calls of any type are absolutely free. It is possible to connect additional services and features: for example, #Spices give favorable discounts when shopping online, and Litres gives a book as a gift every month. These services are free to use. But you will have to pay to hold a call, but while using this service.

If the measured number of minutes runs out, then within the Megafon network in your home region you can also call for free, but when calling local numbers of other operators you will have to pay 2 rubles for each minute. In addition, you can add a mini-package for 30 minutes for 30 rubles. SMS are sent at a cost of 2.2-3.5 rubles per piece, depending on the territory where the message needs to be sent. If the Internet runs out, then 500 MB will cost an additional 50 rubles. Calling numbers from other Russian operators is expensive - 13 rubles for both local and landline numbers in other regions.

The subscription fee is charged once a month or in installments. Its automatic debiting depends on the account level. It's more profitable to pay right away.

pros

• high quality communication
• good range of services
• additional free features
• two options for charging the subscription fee
• for those who love SMS and instant messengers

Minuses

• expensive intercity

Video - Best rates from Megafon

No. 4 - Unlim Beeline

Unlim tariff from Beeline
The Beeline operator certainly cannot boast of the cheapest unlimited cellular tariffs. But still, let’s look at a couple of options that users might like.

So, a tariff called Unlim. The cost of the subscription fee is 540 rubles per month, but when purchasing a SIM card on the website for the first three months, users will be able to receive a package of services for only 270 rubles (valid for St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region). What is included in this price?

• unlimited calls within the native network, that is, Beeline;
• unlimited internet throughout the country;
• the ability to use Wi-Fi in the metro without annoying advertising;
• 600 minutes for calls to other operators;
• 300 SMS, which can be sent to the numbers of any operators.

The tariff also offers a package of TV and movie services - 30 channels and 300 movies as a gift for a month in subscription.

When the package runs out, you can call another operator for 2.5 rubles per minute. A call to a landline number will cost the same. Intercity will immediately increase to 5 minutes, but again - to numbers of other operators. SMS to local mobile phones will cost the same 2.5 rubles, and you can send a message to another city for 5 rubles.

Definitely, this tariff will be beneficial for those who like to surf the Internet. But even that is only the first three months. In the future you will have to pay more. However, the content of the tariff is quite good for the money.

pros

• unlimited Internet
• extensive range of services
• the first three months the tariff is very favorable
• adequate long-distance costs for calls to numbers of another operator

Minuses

• after three months you will have to pay twice as much

No. 3 - First gigs. Beeline

Tariff First gigs from Beeline
This tariff from Beeline is cheaper than the previous one, if you look at it in perspective. But his range of services is somewhat different. So, for 350 rubles per month the user receives:

• unlimited communication within the Beeline network;
• six months of Wi-Fi in the metro without advertising (for St. Petersburg);
• 30 GB of Internet, which is quite a lot;
• 300 minutes per month to call other operators.

Beeline also gives up to 7.5 GB for free if you use the “My Beeline” application on this tariff and develop useful habits. You can also enable the option #EVERYTHING is possible, and it will make it possible not to waste traffic when using VKontakte, Yandex.Music, Facebook, Instagram, etc., but only if you purchase a SIM card on the site.

In addition, as in the previous case - 30 TV channels and 300 movies as a gift. If the package is exceeded, a minute when calling a landline number or a mobile number of another operator in your home region will cost 2.5 minutes. Intercity travel will cost 5 rubles. The price of an SMS message will be 2.5 rubles, but sending a message to other regions will cost only 5 rubles.

pros

• a lot of internet
• good connection quality
• extra gigabytes for good habits
• the tariff is cheaper than the previous one in the future
• free messengers

Minuses

• the fullness of the tariff is worse than in the previous case

Video - Review of Unlim tariff from Tele2

No. 2 - My online Tele2

Tariff My online Tele2
As most ratings state, Tele2, despite the insufficiently good quality of communication, has the most favorable tariffs for most people. Let's see what this provider offers us. One of the most inexpensive communication options is the My Online tariff. A user in St. Petersburg for 350 rubles per month receives:

• 400 minutes for making calls;
• 40 GB Internet;
• unlimited calls within your network;
• unlimited use of instant messengers and social networks WhatsApp, Viber, TamTam and Instagram.

The package also includes the services Transfer of balances, Roaming abroad, Unlimited on Facebook, Odnoklassniki, Viber and other social networks. For an additional fee, you can connect to the Unlimited Internet service abroad.

All these services are valid when traveling throughout the country. Perhaps, this is truly one of the most profitable offers on the cellular market.

If suddenly the service package ends before the subscription fee is charged, then an additional 500 MB of Internet can be purchased for 50 rubles. Calls to phone numbers of operators in your home region will cost 1.95 rubles per minute. They will cost the same in Russia. SMS over the package will cost 1.95 rubles apiece.

pros

• inexpensive tariff
• excellent set of services
• a lot of internet
• inexpensive cost of services above the package

Minuses

• poor connection quality

No. 1 - My conversation Tele2

Tariff My Conversation Tele 2
And the leader in the cheapness of communication services is the tariff from Tele2 My Conversation. It will cost the user only 250 rubles per month (for St. Petersburg), and as part of the package the subscriber receives:

• unlimited calls to all Tele2 numbers;
• 150 minutes for making calls to other numbers;
• Internet in the amount of 5 GB.

Mobile Internet traffic within the tariff is not spent on using the Tele2 TV and Sound applications. It, that is, the tariff, is valid unlimited throughout the Russian Federation. You can also share the Internet with a friend for free, and the remaining traffic at the end of the month is not burned, but transferred to the next one. If the package has run out, and the payment for it is still far away, an additional 500 MB of Internet can be purchased for 50 rubles. Calls within Tele2 will also remain free, but to call a number of another operator you will need to pay 1.95 rubles per minute. SMS to any number in Russia will also cost 1.95 rubles per unit.

pros

• best offer
• low cost of subscription fee
• optimal package of services for an undemanding person
• unlimited within the network

Minuses

• poor connection quality

Video - Tariffs from Tele2

Operator MegaFon

MegaFon (mainly owned by the Russian USM Holding and Gazprombank) is one of the three largest Russian mobile operators. Many users consider MegaFon to be the best operator in the country due to its nationwide distribution and high Internet speed.

MegaFon was the first to launch 3G networks (at 2100 and 900 MHz) and 4G / LTE in the country. This is the only network that is available in all regions of the country. 4G/LTE primarily operates on the 2600 MHz frequency (B7) and covers all 83 regions.

MTS: flexible tariffs “Tariffishche” and “My Smart”

Let's continue the comparison of tariffs and prices of mobile operators for 2021 with an analysis of offers from the MTS company: today it has two types of tariffs with customizable content.

• An absolute hit and leader in connections and transitions is the MTS telephone tariff called “Tariffishche” - the most tempting part of it is considered to be complete Unlimited Internet access throughout Russia. A nice bonus was the ability to independently choose the desired number of free minutes and SMS messages to all networks, while communication within MTS is completely free.

Within this tariff plan, the monthly subscription fee is:

1. 650 rubles for 500 minutes and 500 SMS;
2. 800 rubles for 800 minutes and 800 SMS;
3. 1050 rubles for 1500 minutes and 1500 SMS;
4. 1550 rubles for 3000 minutes and 3000 SMS.

• Not far behind “Tarifisch” is a product called “My Smart”, in which all content sections can be customized.

1. The amount of traffic varies from 10 to 20 GB;
2. Free calls and number of SMS from 200 to 600 minutes/piece;
3. Subscription fee from 500 to 700 rubles per month.

Thus, if you choose everything to the maximum - 20 GB of traffic, 600 minutes and SMS messages, then you will pay only 700 rubles.

Please note, if you look at the previous offer (“Tariff”), then for just 100 rubles on top you will get Unlimited traffic and 800 minutes/SMS.

The catalog of additional services of this mobile operator, which can be connected to the current tariff plan for a fee or free of charge, contains more than 120 items.

• Brief summary:

1. The prices for tariffs from the mobile operator MTS are higher than those of Yota or Tele 2, but the quality of communication and Internet connection is an order of magnitude higher;
2. Many functions and options can be activated;
3. The designer's options for setting up the tariff are very clear, simple and understandable - just pull the slider. This is an additional plus;

Thus, we will call MTS a multifunctional cellular operator with objective prices and high-quality communications.

Operator Tele2

Rostelecom's Tele2 is building its fourth national network, active in 60 regions, with approximately 44 million customers.

The cheapest mobile Internet is from Tele2 - 27 rubles/1GB.

How to choose a cellular operator

Changing a cellular operator is a question that sooner or later faces every person. It is hardly possible now to find someone who has never “changed” their very first operator, whose SIM card they purchased when mobile communications began to actively spread throughout the country. Some used the services of a local provider, which was later bought by some cellular communications giant, while others simply became disillusioned with their favorite operator for one reason or another and went to another. In short, there can be many reasons to change your provider.

In addition, some people use 2-3 SIM cards from different operators at once in order to spend their money more profitably. For example, you can have a Yota SIM card to receive unlimited Internet and an MTS card to be able to use uninterrupted communication. Also, the reason for changing the operator may be moving to another region, where the provider whose services you used previously simply cannot provide the proper level of communication.

So, how to choose the operator option that suits all the parameters? In fact, the advice will be banal and consists mainly of analyzing the offers on the market and your own preferences. You can get acquainted with them in the table below.

Choose the right operator, the tariff and quality of communication will completely suit you

Table. Recommendations for choosing a cellular operator.

Important! When choosing a tariff and assessing its cost, be sure to pay attention to the footnotes marked with an asterisk. There are usually unpleasant surprises hidden there in the form of communication restrictions in certain conditions or an increase in the cost of the tariff after some time.

Online tariff selection calculators also help you choose a tariff; there are a lot of them now. It is enough to open a website with such a calculator, enter the necessary data and analyze the offers that the program will give. Using a calculator will save a lot of time, since this will allow you to weed out all completely unsuitable options at once.

An example of what a tariff calculator looks like

Other operators

Certain mobile operators provide preferential packages at affordable prices, operating outside the main Russian mobile networks. Yota, for example, is considered a subsidiary of MegaFon and a major player in the MVNO market.

The operator's main idea is completely unlimited data traffic, but with some restrictions in other areas, for example, blocked P2P networks. Despite the fact that the network is the same as MegaFon, the user may not have access to LTE in some regions where Yota SIM cards are not sold, unlike MegaFon subscribers.

Yota became the first operator in the country to provide fixed prices for all regions. But still, the operator charges different prices depending on where the SIM card is purchased. The operator is targeting residents of large cities who use smartphones, tablets or modems.

The cheapest mobile connection in Russia without the Internet is from Yota.

Anyone can calculate their tariff plan independently on the website using the constructor.

Yota also provides a special plan for use with a modem or router. It has completely unlimited data. This solution is LTE (4G) only, no voice capabilities, internet only.

However, if the SIM card is not used in a smartphone (for example, in a router, modem or tablet), the speed will be reduced to 64 Kbps. If a smartphone is used as an access point for a modem, the speed is limited to 128 Kbps; this limitation can be removed for 2 hours for 90₽ or for 24 hours for 190₽. When using file-sharing networks, the speed is reduced to 32 Kbps. Often the operator does not warn its users about this.

Some regions also have local operators, such as Motiv in Yekaterinburg, Kurgan, Ugra and the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Tattelecom in Tartastan or Vainakh Telecom in the Chechen Republic.

Tinkoff Mobile started as one of the first virtual operators in 2021 of Tinkoff Bank. The operator operates in the Tele2 network. SIM cards are sold throughout the country, as the company has opened stores in large shopping centers. From 2021 they also offer eSIM, but are currently only available to Tinkoff card holders.

The operator offers to try mobile services completely free for a week!

Tinkoff Mobile offers attractive offers for new subscribers. On the official website you can calculate an individual tariff plan.

MegaFon: tariffs without monthly fee

We found two decent tariffs from MegaFon - “Per-Second” with real per-second billing and “Go to ZERO”, resurrected from the archive. Let's look at them in more detail.

"Second-by-second"

Mobile communications from MegaFon have a wide coverage area throughout Russia. For budget-conscious subscribers, the operator has prepared a “Per-Second” tariff - it can be compared with the offer of the same name from Beeline. A minute of conversation to home region numbers costs 3 rubles with per-second billing from the first second of the conversation. Intercity costs more - 5.1 rubles/min for MegaFon numbers and 13 rubles/min for other Russian numbers (per minute). The cost of traffic is 10.1 rubles/MB.

"Go to ZERO"

An updated version of this tariff was released in late July 2021. It is deprived of intranet unlimited and offers subscribers an honest per-minute tariff – 1.2 rubles/min for MegaFon numbers and 1.5 rubles/min for numbers of other local operators. Mobile Internet is charged in packages - 25 rubles for every 100 MB. It is possible to connect the option “Switch to ZERO +” - it includes 3 GB of mobile Internet and intranet unlimited with a monthly fee of 5 rubles / day.

Tariffs for mobile Internet

MegaFon - Online TP is suitable for mobile Internet. There really is no monthly fee, and 1 MB of received/sent data costs 2.5 rubles. The tariff includes options from the “Your Internet” family:

• 15 GB for 550 rubles;
• 30 GB for 900 rubles;
• 50 GB for 1300 rub.

The payment period for options is 4 weeks. Additionally, unlimited Internet is provided for cloud storages Dropbox, Yandex.Disk, iCloud and Mail.ru Cloud.

The “Your Internet 50 GB” option is provided with unlimited Internet, valid from 01-00 to 06-59.

Archived tariffs

A popular archival offer is the “Everything is simple 03.17” tariff. All local calls on it cost 1.8 rubles/min. There is also an inexpensive intercity connection - 3.9 rubles/min to any Russian numbers (including within the network). Mobile Internet without options costs 9.9 rubles/MB or 70 MB/day with a monthly fee of 7.5 rubles/day. Unfortunately, it is not possible to switch to this tariff plan - today only old subscribers use it.

Compare tariffs and choose the most profitable one

The most common and largest mobile operators in Russia are Mobile TeleSystems (MTS), MegaFon, Beeline and Tele2Russia (owned by the state provider Rostelecom). Services and prices are competitive in major cities but vary by region.

It's time to sum up the results and decide on the winner. The cheapest mobile communication tariff from MTS is “Tariffishche”. For the first 6 months, new subscribers will be able to pay 585 rubles for the entire package of services, and later - 600 rubles. Megafon offers this package of services the most expensive - 1000₽ for 30 days.

Tele 2: tariffs and “best price guarantee” - is it true or fiction?

Next, we’ll try to compare the tariffs of mobile operators for 2020 by examining products from Tele 2: according to the provider, you won’t be able to find a cheaper offer - he states this right on the start page of his website. Let's check how true this loud promise is.

The cellular company Tele 2 today has as many as 5 customizable tariffs, which are leaders in the number of connections.

• An absolute hit is the “My Online” package. Conversations within Russia within Tele 2 are not charged.

By default, it includes full Unlimited access to all popular social networks, but if you take the “poorest” package, you can turn it off, completely or selectively - then the subscription fee will be less (if completely turned off - by 150 rubles).

The simplest package package is 2 GB for the Internet + 200 minutes for calls with third-party networks (within the region). This tariff will cost only 350 rubles (remember about the opportunity to remove Unlimited on social networks). The most voluminous content includes 1000 minutes and 40 GB for 1000 rubles per month. It's really inexpensive!

• The closest “relative” or an extended version of the previous proposal is the “My Online +” tariff. It is completely identical in content, but for a small increase in the amount of the monthly fee, it provides almost twice as much traffic and free calls.

• The next tariff is called “My Conversation”, it offers 2 GB of traffic and 200 minutes of calls to other networks for only 200 rubles. This is a minimum fill, but you can set up larger volumes if needed.

• The “My Tele 2” tariff involves a daily subscription fee. For just 7 rubles a day you will receive Unlimited communication within the network, as well as 5 GB of Internet.

• For starters, there is a very interesting tariff called “Classic” - it does not contain any traffic, nor packages of minutes or SMS. Its main highlight is the absence of a subscription fee. If you maintain a positive balance, you will be able to make calls within Tele 2 for free (when you activate the “Unlimited on Tele 2” option for 5 rubles). A minute of calls with other networks costs 2 rubles.

Let's complete the review of the products of this cellular operator with information on additional services and options - there are so many of them that we could not even count them. To compare objectively, let us mention that there are definitely no fewer of them than, for example, MTS or Beeline.

• Brief summary:

1. Tele 2 does offer low prices, but if you study them in detail, it becomes clear that Yota’s are still a little cheaper (because you can turn off unnecessary options);
2. Many users are unhappy that when switching to new tariffs, a lot of additional services are activated at the same time, often paid and completely unnecessary.
3. Sometimes the declared free Unlimited turns out to be just a bait, but in reality, in order to use it, you need to activate the option (paid);
4. The quality of communication is not always pleasing - it should be remembered that Tele2 has always positioned itself as a discount provider, so problems with coverage should be expected;
5. Tele 2 has a lot of cool options and features, additional services and functions. Some are free, and those that you have to pay for are inexpensive.

We believe that Tele 2 deserves the title of the most oriented mobile operator to the needs of subscribers with reasonable prices. But not without its drawbacks.

The most favorable MTS tariffs for pensioners in 2021

People who have reached retirement age are offered the most favorable MTS tariffs for pensioners in 2021, including “Active Pensioner”. Despite the presence of a subscription fee, people get many benefits for just 100 rubles. per month. Included here:

• no limit on calls within the network in the home region;
• 100 minutes – to other operators;
• free 50 SMS.

In addition, for an additional 100 rubles/month. You can join the “More Communication” campaign. The advantages are obvious:

• adding 100 rubles to the regular payment;
• no restrictions on outgoing calls within the network;
• 200 minutes offline;
• 200 SMS;
• Internet – 1GB.

This program is valid only in the capital. To activate it you need:

1. Come to the office.
2. Provide identification.
3. Join the “Active Pensioner” campaign.

How to activate the tariff?

Now let's look at how to switch to the Tele2 tariff without a subscription fee. This can be done through the official website of the mobile operator, using the page with the selected offer. Also, as a last resort, you can personally visit the post office, but it’s difficult to call this option convenient. We invite you to read the step-by-step instructions that explain everything in detail:

• Go to the page with the selected tariff plan (classic or classic (per second)).
• Click on the “Connect to Tele2” button, and then select whether to create a new number or transfer the current one (in the second case, you will need to enter your real mobile phone number).

• Select “Place an order” and you will be taken to a page where you fill out contact information.

• First, select the SIM card format (regular or eSIM). Secondly, enter your current contact phone number and name. And thirdly, choose the option to receive the order. It should be noted that Tele2 also delivers SIM cards by courier, so you can choose any convenient method.

• Click “Place an order” and wait for a technician to contact you to confirm your purchase.

Important! Only an existing Tele2 subscriber can subscribe to the “Classic (per second)” tariff.

When the SIM card is manufactured, you will need to receive it. To do this, you need a passport or other identity document. In advance, when filling out the application, you can indicate your passport information - this will significantly reduce the time it takes to receive your order.