There is no single cheapest network. Every operator sells small bundles at a high price per gigabyte and large ones at a low one, and prices change several times a year. What you can do is compare like with like, and the regulator’s own survey shows how.
What the NCA found
In April 2024 the National Communications Authority’s Billing Verification Unit compared 21 monthly data plans across the networks and worked out the cost of one gigabyte in each.
| Cost of 1GB | |
|---|---|
| Cheapest plan | ₵1.08 |
| Median plan | ₵4 |
| Most expensive plan | ₵16.77 |
The cheapest gigabyte came from the largest bundle in the survey, and the most expensive from MTN’s smallest. That is the finding to take away: the size of the bundle moves the price of a gigabyte far more than the choice of network. The survey’s own figures are now out of date - see below - but the pattern has not changed.
The NCA also noted the difference that makes comparisons hard: MTN’s data did not expire, while the other operators’ bundles had validity periods.
What changed in July 2025
From 1 July 2025, after a directive from the Minister of Communication, MTN added 15% more data to its bundles and Telecel and AT 10%, at the same prices. Some large bundles grew by much more. Bundles for tertiary students and content creators were also opened to subscribers on all three networks.
Working out the cheapest for you
- Divide the price by the gigabytes. A ₵20 bundle with 2GB is ₵10 a gigabyte; an ₵80 bundle with 16GB is ₵5. Do this for every bundle you are choosing between.
- Check the validity. A cheap gigabyte that expires in a week costs more than a dearer one you use up. Work out how much you use in a month (your phone’s settings show it) and buy the bundle that matches.
- Look at the network, not only the price. A gigabyte on a network with weak signal at home costs you time. Ask neighbours which works on your street.
- Check before you buy, every time. Bundles are changed and renamed often. Each network lists its bundles in its USSD menu and app.
Ways to pay less
- Buy larger bundles less often, if you can use them before they expire.
- Night and social media bundles are cheaper, if your use fits them.
- Turn off automatic updates and backups over mobile data.
- Use home broadband or Wi-Fi for anything heavy - video, updates, backups.
— SIM cards and internet in Ghana — How to check your own number