As 2026, Airtel currently offers the cheapest unlimited annual plan at ₹1,849 (~₹154/month) for unlimited calls and SMS, while Jio’s ₹3,599 plan (~₹300/month) is best for heavy daily data users. Vi’s ₹1,189 plan is the lowest-cost option overall but is data-only.
Comparison of Unlimited/Annual Plans (July 2026)
Key Insights
Jio: Best for data-heavy users. Daily 2.5GB + unlimited 5G in coverage areas. Includes OTT bundles.
Airtel: Cheapest unlimited calling plan. Ideal if you rely on home Wi-Fi and need only calls + SMS.
Vi: Offers the lowest entry cost at ₹1,189 but limited to 50GB/year. Their ₹1,849 plan mirrors Airtel for calls.
OTT Benefits: Airtel bundles Disney+ Hotstar & Amazon Prime on premium packs; Jio offers Netflix/JioCinema; Vi includes SonyLIV/Hotstar on select plans.
Trade-offs & Risks
Data Limits: Airtel’s cheapest plan has no daily data, so not suitable for mobile internet users.
Vi Reliability: Vi’s network coverage is weaker in many regions compared to Jio/Airtel, which may affect usability.
Fair Usage Policy (FUP): “Unlimited” 5G plans from Airtel & Vi have a 300GB per 28 days cap, after which speeds are throttled.
Recommendation
If you want maximum data + OTT → Go for Jio ₹3,599 annual plan.
If you want the cheapest unlimited calling → Choose Airtel ₹1,849 annual plan.
If you want the lowest-cost backup SIM → Opt for Vi ₹1,189 data-only plan.
