It was once again bad news for AT&T as it was rated lowest in customer satisfaction among the big four national wireless providers in Consumer Reports’ annual ratings released today. Although Verizon rated highest, none of the four major carriers scored above 72 percent in overall satisfaction and had lower overall scores than two years ago. According to Consumer Reports, cell phone companies have some of the lowest satisfaction ratings of any service it evaluates.

Verizon scored highest, followed by Sprint and T-Mobile.

“Verizon stands out from the pack if you are a heavy-duty data user,” Consumer Reports electronics editor Mike Gikas told NBC. “They’re the Cadillac network. They’re pricey in some respects, but in terms of overall quality of service and availability of service, they are the overall leader.”

Although AT&T scored lowest of the big four in overall satisfaction, it interestingly scored highest among customers who used smartphones connected with 4G networks.

“While delivering an even better customer experience is a never-ending job, we’re pleased that our customers rate their 4G experience as best of any carrier,” an AT&T spokesperson told CNET. “We’ve invested significantly to deliver unique advantages, including offering the nation’s largest 4G network, which enables the fasted iPhone 5 downloads and simultaneous talk and surf.”

Consumer Reports also found satisfaction varies based on geographic location. While Sprint is tied with Verizon for highest satisfaction in St. Louis, it ranks last in Chicago.

Furthermore, three smaller providers scored higher than any of the four major carriers. Consumer Cellular, U.S. Cellular and Credo Mobile customers were all happier with their service than customers subscribing to larger providers. U.S. Cellular, in fact, scored an 88 percent in overall customer satisfaction.

“They also offer an excellent experience for consumers and an affordable one, especially if you’re looking for a family plan,” Gikas told NBC.

The survey also found two-thirds of respondents who changed to “prepaid plans” saved more than $20 a month by switching from long-term contracts and advanced monthly bills. TracFone rated highest among prepaid service carriers. Consumer Reports electronics editor Paul Reynolds told USA Today that various small carriers now offer smartphones with low-priced plans. Straight Talk and Virgin Mobile are both high-ranking carriers that offer low-cost plans that include voice, text and data.

Gikas, however, explained phones are more expensive through prepaid plans because the carrier offers no subsidy. Typically, when a customer signs a 2-year contract, the cost of the phone is rolled into the monthly rate. With a prepaid plan, the phone is paid for up front, allowing for a lower monthly bill.

“Over the course of about two years, you’ll end up paying less,” Gikas told to NBC.