Finding the best mobile phone deals can be challenging with so many options available. It is crucial that you make an informed decision about your mobile phone deal, regardless of whether you’re a tech enthusiast constantly searching for the latest device or you’re just looking for a reliable phone to help you stay connected. With so many different brands, service providers, and mobile plans available, you are probably wondering how you can get the best deal. No need to feel overwhelmed, because at Docalla we help you find the best deals to suit your needs and budget. Many consumers trust us, as you can find all the best deals in one place. This guide contains everything you need to know about the different mobile phone brands, top service providers, and the best deals available. 

An Overview of Popular Phone Brands 

One of the factors considered when choosing the right mobile phone deal is the phone brand, as it plays a significant role in how you feel about the deal, as you have to be sure that the features available on the phone are suited to you. Here is a closer look at some of the most popular phone brands available in the UK and some of the features they offer.

Apple

The iPhone, manufactured by Apple, is renowned as a luxury and innovative product. The iPhone is a popular choice among mobile phone users because of its sleek design, intuitive user interface, and flawless connection with other Apple products within the ecosystem, such as the Macbook, iPad, and Apple Watch. There’s an iPhone for everyone, from the latest iPhone 15, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 14 and all products in that range to the affordable iPhone SE and XR. Apple has maintained its position as the market leader in the mobile phone market, although Samsung is close up on its heels. The iPhone has a high customer satisfaction rate thanks to regular software updates and a broad range of accessories and mobile applications.

Samsung

In the smartphone business, Samsung is a big player with a wide variety of models to fit different needs and budgets. The Galaxy S24, Galaxy Z Fold6, and other flagship models in the Galaxy S and Z series are well known for their cutting-edge technology, gorgeous displays, and potent performance. The Galaxy A series, which includes the Galaxy A54, offers outstanding value with remarkable features for consumers looking for more reasonably priced solutions. Samsung is a well-liked option among customers because of its dedication to quality and innovation. 

Google

Google’s Pixel phones are praised for offering a pure Android experience and outstanding camera capabilities. The computational photography of the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel 8a is exceptional; they produce beautiful images under all lighting circumstances. Pixel owners are guaranteed to always have access to the newest features and security improvements thanks to regular software updates straight from Google. The Google Pixel is a great option if you value good camera quality and clear visuals, large memory space, and an amazing user experience.

OnePlus 

OnePlus is known for providing high-performance smartphones at affordable costs. OnePlus’s dedication to providing premium functionality without the premium price tag is exemplified with the OnePlus 11 and OnePlus Nord 3. Its latest versions, OnePlus 12, OnePlus Nord 4, feature the super strong Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. OnePlus phones are renowned for their seamless and swift performance. They also feature ample RAM and the OxygenOS interface, which is highly regarded for its speed and customizable features. For those who seek premium features without breaking the bank, OnePlus products are ideal. 

Xiaomi

With its lineup of smartphones, Xiaomi is renowned for offering exceptional value for money. While the Redmi series, which includes the Redmi Note 13, caters to the price-conscious market without sacrificing quality, the Mi series, which includes the Mi 13, delivers flagship-level specs at reasonable rates. Xiaomi phones are a popular option for anyone looking to get the most out of their money because of their abundance of features, which include huge batteries, colorful displays, and high-resolution cameras.

Other Notable Brands

Though the industry is dominated by companies like Apple, Samsung, Google, OnePlus, and Xiaomi, there are other brands to take into account. Brands that target particular markets and have distinctive characteristics, such as Sony, Motorola, and Huawei, give customers more options.

You can choose your next mobile phone with greater knowledge if you are aware of the advantages and distinctive features of these well-known phone manufacturers. There is a brand and model out there that is ideal for you, regardless of your priorities: performance, design, camera quality, or cost effectiveness. At Docalla, we can help you find the best mobile phone deals by comparing different brands. 

Compare deals by mobile network providers

We help you find the best mobile phone deals by comparing offers from different mobile network providers. Choosing the right network provider is as important as finding the best phone for you. Let’s take a look at some of the providers.

EE 

EE is part of the BT group, renowned for its superior 5G services and having wide and dependable network coverage. Because of its extensive coverage and quick internet speeds, it routinely receives excellent reviews in customer satisfaction polls. The major benefits of choosing the EE network include:

• Wide 5G coverage across the UK, making it the best option for customers who require fast, reliable internet on the go.
• EE offers a range of flexible plans for you to choose from, including family bundles, student discounts, and unlimited data options.
• They also offer exclusive offers on the latest smartphones, providing significant savings on top models.

Popular deals on EE include the iPhone 15 at £45.21, the iPhone 15 Plus at £48.24, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra at £50.62 per month. 

Vodafone 

Vodafone is one of the top providers of mobile network service in the United Kingdom. It is renowned for its innovative services and extensive network coverage. It provides a selection of flexible plans to suit the needs of all categories of mobile users. The benefits of choosing Vodafone include: 

• Vodafone offers global roaming options that allow users to use their phones without incurring expensive fees.
• Vodafone regularly provides discounts on new phones in exchange for trading in your old device.
• Flexible contracts allow you to roll over unused data.
• Customers on the Vodafone Red plan enjoy unlimited data.

Popular deals on Vodafone include the all-new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 from £60 per month on a 3-year contract with a £50 upfront payment and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra at £38 per month with a £40 upfront payment for a 3-year contract. Another amazing deal offered by Vodafone is on the iPhone 15 Pro Max 256GB for only £42 per month on a 36-month contract. Vodafone also has cost-saving deals on mid-range phones; there is a deal for everyone as they also offer deals on refurbished phones.

You also enjoy a range of perks when you choose Vodafone and enjoy rewards via the VeryMe app. Enjoy discounts on food and drinks from select shops. Finally, customers on the Vodafone Red Bundle plan can get free entertainment subscriptions such as YouTube Premium, Spotify Premium, and Amazon Prime. 

O2 

O2 is well-known for its customer-centric services, including O2 priority, which grants members exclusive access to events at O2 arenas across the country and some other venues, early bird tickets, and other cost-saving benefits. To accommodate various needs and budgets, O2 offers a range of pay-as-you-go and flexible contract options. Other benefits include:

• Priority access to concerts and sporting events.
• Customised flexible plans that allow you to spread out the cost of their device and select the duration of the contract.
• O2 has excellent coverage and a reliable, expansive network.

Popular deals on O2 include the Samsung Galaxy S23 at £28 per month with no upfront cost, the Galaxy Z Flip6 at £60 per month with a £49 upfront payment, the iPhone 15 for £38 per month with a £29 upfront cost, the iPhone 13 Mini at £31 per month with a zero upfront cost, and the Google Pixel 7 for £45 a month with no upfront costs for a 3-year contract.

O2 offers amazing perks and rewards to its customers. You can start by downloading the O2 priority ticket app, which gives you the chance of getting early tickets to different cultural and musical events. O2 customers can enjoy free coffee one day of the week from Greggs. In addition to access to events, the priority app also allows you to enjoy discounts and promotional offers at high-end stores and restaurants. When you sign up for some mobile plans on O2, you can enjoy a 6-month free subscription to Disney Plus, which usually costs about £8 per month.

Three 

Three is an excellent option for heavy data users due to its reasonable pricing and unlimited data options. With an emphasis on value for money, it provides contracts as well as pay-as-you-go alternatives. Key benefits include;

• Three offers some of the most affordable unlimited data plans available, making them ideal for those that stream videos or download very large files.
• Three offers free roaming within the EU and some select locations, making it ideal for frequent travellers
• All plans on Three come with free 5G, so users can enjoy faster internet speeds where it is available.

Popular deals on Three include the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 5G starting at £54.50 per month plus a £60 one-off payment, the Motorola Razr 50 Ultra at £38 per month plus a £50 one-off payment, and the Xiaomi 12T at £24 per month with no upfront cost. 

Three also offers perks for its new and existing customers; some of these include downloading the Three+ Rewards app to enjoy offers from different brands, such as Cineworld. Customers can enjoy free cinema tickets and regular discounts and promotional offers. 

Sky Mobile

For customers on a tight budget, Sky Mobile is an appealing option because of its distinctive offers, which include flexible contracts, the ability to roll over unused data, and discounts on brand new phones as well as refurbished phones. Major advantages include;

• With Sky Mobile, you can roll over your unused data for a maximum of three years, ensuring that you utilise every penny spent.
• You can swap your old device for a newer model; that way, you can upgrade your phone every 12 or 24 months.
•  One of the major benefits of choosing Sky Mobile is the ability to integrate your phone subscription with Sky TV, granting you access to exclusive viewing content.

Popular deals on Sky Mobile: the iconic Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 starting at £62 per month with a £36 upfront cost for a 36-month contract, the iPhone 15 Pro Max at £35 per month on a 36-month contract at zero upfront cost, and the Google Pixel 8 5G ready phone at £19 a month with no upfront cost for a 36-month contract. 

One of the biggest perks offered by Sky Mobile is its data rollover scheme, also known as Sky Piggybank. It allows you to save your unused data at the end of every month in an online piggy bank, and it’s good for 3 years, unlike other networks where your unused data can only be rolled over from a previous month to the current one. Customers on Sky TV can get unlimited calls and texts on any of the Sky mobile SIM-only deals. 

Tesco Mobile

Tesco Mobile has a wide network coverage of over 90% of the country since it uses O2’s network. It offers a wide range of affordable phones for you to choose from. You can earn club card points and free delivery within the UK. Popular deals available on Tesco mobile include:

Samsung Galaxy S23 starting at £27.99 per month with 6GB data and Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max starting at £42.99 a month with 3GB data; both plans are pay monthly phone deals.

Some of the perks offered by Tesco Mobile include the ability of customers on Tesco Mobile to collect club points for every £1 spent on their monthly contract or airtime top-up. Customers on pay-as-you-go plans can get three times the amount they top up once every month. Families love Tesco Mobile, as you can use your earned club card points to shop in Tesco stores. 

VOXI 

Voxi offers amazing flexible deals for you to choose from. It has extensive network coverage because it uses Vodafone’s network. There is a wide range of phones, from brand new devices to refurbished smartphones. One of the benefits of choosing Voxi is the unlimited social media. You can get the Motorola Edge 50 Pro, 5G enabled, for as low as £11.04 per month for a limited time only.

Some perks of choosing Voxi are that social media lovers can enjoy most social media apps, including TikTok, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), SnapChat, and Facebook, without using their data on any of their SIM-only plans. You get Amazon Vouchers for introducing your friends to VOXI. You can also stream music and videos from your favourite streaming service all day long without worrying about your data allowance. One of the drawbacks of choosing VOXI is that most of the best deals do not come with a phone. 

Types of Mobile Phone Deals

Selecting the appropriate mobile phone package is essential to guarantee you receive the most value for your money. Here’s a detailed look at the different kinds of mobile phone deals that are available for you to choose from, emphasizing their features, advantages, and target customers.

Contract Deals 

Contract deals, sometimes referred to as pay-monthly agreements, combine the monthly allotment of minutes, messages, and data with the cost of the phone. Usually, these agreements are for 12, 24, or 36 months. Its main advantages include:

• Lower Upfront Costs: Contract deals typically have minimal or no upfront costs, which makes it simpler to get the latest phones without having to make a large down payment.
• Bundled Services: contract deals offer complete bundled offers that include a set monthly allotment for call minutes, texts, and data.
• Device Upgrades: With contract deals, many providers offer you the option of trading in your old device for a new one. You can upgrade your phone during or at the end of your contract, ensuring that you always have access to the latest technology.

Contract deals are ideal for users who want the latest smartphones available in the market without having to pay the full price upfront and those who prefer paying monthly for the phone service. 

SIM-Only Deals 

SIM-only deals do not come with a new phone; instead, they offer a specified amount of call minutes, texts, and data. They are cheaper than contract deals as the payment does not include paying for a phone. Its advantages include:

• Cost Saving: SIM-Only deals are usually less expensive because they do not require the purchase of a new phone but can run on your existing phone, making them a cost-effective option.
• Flexibility: SIM-Only plans typically offer a rolling monthly option or shorter contract, usually 1–12 months, allowing you more flexibility to change plans or switch providers if you’re not satisfied with your current provider.
• Simple Upgrades: You can upgrade your plan and switch providers easily because you are not locked into a long-term contract.

SIM-only deals are ideal for those seeking more flexible and reasonably priced mobile phone deals, as well as those who already own a phone and do not require a new one.

Pay as you go deals offer complete flexibility, as you only pay for what you use and top up your minutes as you deem fit. Its benefits include:

• No commitment: pay-as-you go plans offer complete freedom as you are not tied to any contract and have control over your phone service spending.
• Cost control: managing your mobile phone spending is easier with pay as you go plans because you only pay for the minutes, texts, and data that you use.
• Instant Access: PAYG grants you immediate access to mobile phone service as no credit checks are required.

Pay as you go plans are ideal for those who do not use their phones frequently and those that desire complete control of their mobile phone expenses. 

Having a good understanding of the different mobile phone deals available will make it easier for you to make an informed decision on choosing the plan that is best for you based on your lifestyle, preference, and budget. There is a mobile phone plan for everyone, regardless of what is important to you—owning the latest device and staying abreast of innovation and technology, saving money, or just being able to enjoy the internet on the go with your smartphone.

Tips for Finding the Best Mobile Phone Deal

With so many options to choose from, finding the best mobile phone deals can be a daunting task. These tips will help you navigate the market and obtain the best deals that fit both your needs and budget.

1. Evaluate your Usage

Assess your usage pattern by calculating the amount of data that you normally use within a month. This will help you determine if you’re a heavy user or a light user. Consider how much time you spend on social media. Do you want videos online, stream music, or play online games? Also, do you use your mobile phone for work-related things like requiring you to download large files or send and receive emails? If that is the case, choose a plan that offers unlimited data. 

2. Consider your Call and Text Requirements

Evaluate how many call minutes you use within a period; do you prefer to call or text? Some mobile providers offer unlimited texts and longer talk time. Review the different deals to determine which is best for you.

3. Roaming Options

If you’re a frequent traveller, you may want to consider a plan that offers free roaming, allowing you to call or use your data in select countries at no extra charge. Some networks provide free roaming within the EU and discounted roaming charges for other countries outside of the EU. Carefully consider the roaming plan of the deal you want to choose to help you make an informed decision. 

4. New or Existing Device

Are you a tech enthusiast keen on innovations and current technologies? Then you might want to consider a network that offers regular upgrades, allowing you to trade your old device for a new version as soon as it becomes available. However, if you don’t mind using your existing device, then you can consider a SIM-only deal that does not involve getting a new device.

5. Compare Providers and Plans

Use comparison websites like Docalla to compare different providers and the deals they offer to determine which one suits your needs and budget. At Docalla, we help you filter the various offers, making it easier to find the best option. 

6. Consider Network Coverage

It is important to know that not all providers have 100% coverage in all parts of the country; choose a network that has excellent coverage in your area. Also,  as 5G is being rolled out in most parts, be sure to check that you have 5G coverage in your area before choosing a 5G-enabled device. Enter your code on our site to check for a particular network availability in your area. You can also visit the website of providers to view their coverage map.

7. Evaluate the Contract Length

Choose the contract length that suits your needs. While longer contracts (typically 24-36 months) often have lower monthly payments, shorter contracts (usually 12 months or less) have higher monthly fees but offer more flexibility, allowing you to switch providers easily without having to wait too long or upgrade your smartphone.

8. Consider Perks and Benefits

Many providers offer amazing perks and benefits; while these are good, not all perks are suitable for you depending on your lifestyle and preference. For TV lovers, providers like Sky and BT offer exclusive packages on Sky TV and BT sports. O2 offers access to early bird tickets when you download the priority app. Vodafone offers a variety of perks with the VeryMe rewards app. Other perks include a free subscription to Apple Music, YouTube Premium, Spotify Premium, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. Before choosing a mobile phone plan, consider the different perks and benefits and decide on the one that suits you best.

9. Read the Fine Print

Carefully read the terms of the contract before signing it; look out for hidden charges, early termination fees, and data caps. Study the provider policy on things like how to roll over unused data, fees for exceeding your data limit, and other terms of the contract as they apply to you.

10. Look Out for Promotions and Discounts

Take advantage of seasonal offers such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales. These events usually feature significant discounts on mobile phones and plans. Some providers also offer student discounts and family discounts if you have more members of your family on the plan. This can help you save money and also get the most out of your phone service.

The mobile phone market is incredibly competitive, with so many options to choose from. Finding the best mobile phone deal that is right for you requires proper evaluation. Research the different providers and plans and take advantage of available discounts and offers. Remember that the most expensive offers do not usually offer the best value, nor do the cheapest deals offer the best cost-saving option, as there may be some hidden fees that you’re not aware of. There is a suitable deal for everyone, regardless of whether you’re a heavy or light data user, frequently making long calls on your phone, or just want to upgrade to the newest smartphone.

The tips offered in the post will guide you in choosing the best mobile phone deal for you that suits your needs and budget. Compare mobile phone deals with us today, and you’re guaranteed to find the best deal available.