How to compare mobile data plans: cost per GB, validity and what to check
Mobile operators advertise big numbers: GB, minutes, bonus data. To compare data plans fairly, you need a few simple steps. This guide uses real examples from MTN in Nigeria and Safaricom in Kenya, read from their own websites on 11 November 2026.
1. Work out the cost per GB
Cost per GB = price / data allowance in GB. For MTN’s 7GB monthly plan at ₦3,500: 3,500 / 7 = ₦500 per GB. For Safaricom’s 7GB plan at KSh 1,000: 1,000 / 7 = about KSh 143 per GB. Do not compare the two numbers directly: they are in different currencies and different markets.
2. Compare plans of the same validity
A daily plan and a monthly plan are different products. Compare weekly with weekly and monthly with monthly. Within a group the larger plan is usually cheaper per GB. MTN’s monthly plans range from ₦750 per GB for the 2GB plan to ₦200 per GB for the 45GB Always On plan.
3. Count only the main data
Night streaming, YouTube allowances and WhatsApp bundles are real extras but only help for certain use. Look at the main allowance, then decide if the bonus matters to you.
4. Check how long the data lasts
Cheap per GB but too big is not a saving. If you use 5GB a month, a 40GB plan wastes money even at a low cost per GB.
5. Check how to buy
Some plans are bought only in an app or on digital channels, and some by text code or USSD. Make sure you can buy the plan before you plan around it.
6. Confirm the price
Operators change plans and prices often. Use a comparison as a guide and confirm with the operator before you pay.
Compare on Phone Price Index
Our data plan pages show cost per GB for every plan we list, a budget filter and a side-by-side compare tool:
- Data plans in Nigeria (MTN)
- Data plans in Kenya (Safaricom)
We add an operator only when we can read its plans from its own website, so Airtel, Glo, 9mobile and Telkom are not listed yet.
