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Phone Contracts
What are Mobile Phone Contracts?
Mobile Phone contracts are smartphone deals offered by providers that require you to pay a fixed monthly fee for a specified period. The deals include a new mobile phone, monthly data allowance, call minutes, and text messaging. These deals typically last between 12 and 36 months, after which you can leave the network.
Phone contracts are designed with customers in mind, allowing them to access their favourite smartphones with little to no upfront payment. The deals may suit you if you need a flagship device with cutting-edge features but cannot afford one.
Check our deals section for a range of mobile phone deals from top providers, compare offers and find a plan that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
How does a phone contract work?
As stated earlier, phone contracts last between 12, 24, and 36 months. During sign-up, you must choose your preferred smartphone and a bundle of monthly call minutes, data allowance, and text messaging that suits your needs and budget. It is essential to note that providers may require that you make an upfront payment for some phones.
After the contract is signed, you must make a specified monthly payment throughout the remaining part of your contract. The amount covers your repayment towards the smartphone purchase, monthly call minutes, data allowance, and texts.
Types of Phone Contracts
There are three basic types of phone contracts designed by providers to cater to the needs of different categories of users. While some plans will include a new smartphone, the SIM-only contract does not include a mobile phone. However, each plan has monthly call minutes, texts, and data allowance.
It is also essential to re-emphasise that some deals may require you to make an upfront payment depending on your preferred smartphone. Let’s look at the different types of mobile phone contracts offered by network providers in the UK.
- Pay-monthly phone contracts
A pay-monthly phone contract requires paying monthly for your preferred smartphone and mobile plan. The deal suits you if you want a new handset but need help to afford to purchase one outright. It also has some advantages.
For instance, paying a fixed monthly fee lets you know exactly how much you spend on your mobile phone. This helps you to plan your finances better. It is also easier to purchase the latest mobile phones since the cost will be spread throughout your contract. However, you should know that you may be paying more for the device.
Advantages of Pay-monthly phone plans
- It is easier to purchase the latest smartphones through a pay-monthly phone contract.
- Pay-monthly phone deals offer a wide range of mobile phones you can choose from, including free or highly discounted phones, mobile phones with no upfront cost, and flagship phones with upfront cost.
- It offers good value since paying in advance for monthly call minutes, texts, and data allowance is cheaper than the pay-as-you-go option.
- Direct debit makes paying phone bills easier and avoids being cut off on essential calls because you forgot to top up your SIM credit.
Disadvantages of Pay-monthly phone plans
- Signing up for a pay-monthly phone contract could result in excessive billing since there is practically no limit to what you can do.
- You may pay more than the actual cost of your preferred smartphone throughout your contract.
- Providers usually perform a credit check before granting a pay-monthly phone contract. Because of this, the deal may be unavailable to customers with poor credit history.
- You will still have to pay the monthly cost even though you break or lose your mobile phone.
SIM-Only Deals
Like the pay-monthly phone contract, SIM-only deals are mobile phone plans that offer a bundle of minutes, texts, and data at a monthly cost. You should note that SIM-only contracts do not include a new mobile phone. A SIM-only deal is more affordable because you will get only a SIM with the services included in the package.
Signing up for a SIM-only phone contract requires purchasing your preferred smartphone outright. The mobile phone, however, must be unlocked if not locked to your preferred provider. Alternatively, you can use your old phone if it is not locked to any provider. Otherwise, you have to get in touch with your provider to unlock it.
Understanding locked vs SIM-Free mobile phones
Mobile phone manufacturers often produce some handsets according to orders from specific network providers. These phones are then locked to the network to ensure they can only be used on the network they are produced for. On the other hand, SIM-Free mobile phones are not locked to any network provider.
A SIM-Free or unlocked mobile phone is either never locked to any network provider or has been unlocked to work with SIM cards from different providers. In other words, the clear difference between locked and unlocked or SIM-Free mobile phones is that the former can only work on the network it is produced for, while the latter accepts SIM cards from different providers.
Advantages of SIM-only deals
SIM-only deals have the following benefits:
- Flexibility
You can easily change plans or switch to another provider since you are not tied to any long-term contract, and your mobile phone is not locked to a particular network provider. You can also change to any unlocked mobile phone without paying additional charges.
- Reduced monthly payment
The monthly payment for a SIM-Only deal is less compared to Pay-monthly contracts. The reason for this is because you are only paying for minutes, texts, and data. A SIM-Only deal does not include making payments to cover the cost of a mobile phone.
- An opportunity to test a new network provider
Since SIM-only contracts typically last for a minimum of 30 days, testing out a new network provider to confirm that the network is as reliable as advertised before committing to a long-term contract could be an opportunity.
Disadvantages of SIM-only deals
- On the flip side, SIM-Only deals have disadvantages, including the challenge of providing your own SIM-Free mobile phone. It is usually hard to find a SIM-Free telephone; in most cases, they are way more expensive.
- If you already own a phone locked to a particular provider, you may have to pay to unlock it before it can be used to sign up for a SIM-Only contract.
- A SIM-Only contract could be too expensive compared to monthly contracts if you are a heavy user of calls, texts and data.
Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) phone deals
A pay-as-you-go deal is a mobile phone contract that allows you to top-up credit according to when and how you need it. The deal does not tie you to any contract, making it a good choice for light users who spend little time on calls or surfing the internet. However, you must call or text from the line at least once a few months to keep your SIM active.
How does the PAYG deal work?
A pay-as-you-go deal requires two things to work. The first is a mobile phone, while the other is a SIM. Once you select a mobile phone and SIM card from your preferred provider, you must top-up credit before calling or sending text messages.
If you sign up for a PAYG deal, you can top-up your credit from your provider online, by phone call, or by text message. Alternatively, you can also top-up through cash machines or purchase vouchers from the supermarket.
Advantages of PAYG phone deals
PAYG has the following advantages:
- No Monthly bills: No monthly bill is attached to a PAYG contract; you can only use a prepaid credit. Therefore, you won’t be required to pay monthly to keep your line.
- No contract: PAYG does not tie you to any contract or network provider. With this, it is easy to walk away if you find a better deal elsewhere.
- No credit check: A pay-as-you-go deal is a good choice for anyone with a poor credit history since it does not require a credit check.
- Available to those under 18 years of age: Unlike pay-monthly deals, PAYG is accessible to users under 18.
Disadvantages of PAYG deals
Although PAYG has numerous benefits, there are also some drawbacks you need to consider before switching; some of them include the following:
- Providing a mobile phone: PAYG deals may become too expensive if you have to pay the total price of a new handset, particularly if you want a flagship device.
- The phone will be locked to the network provider: If you sign up for a PAYG contract, your phone will be locked to the network provider. This means you won’t be able to switch to another provider if you don’t pay additional charges to unlock the phone.
- It is not suitable for heavy users: Heavy users are most likely to get cut off during long or essential calls because they need more credit. Getting cut off could be frustrating and a little embarrassing.
- Your line could be deactivated: Your network provider could deactivate your line if they assume you no longer use it. The implication is that you might lose any unused credit left on your account when it happens.
- Bad credit phone contracts: Getting a mobile phone deal will be hard if you have bad credit because providers will always check your credit history before offering you a new phone contract. However, getting a mobile phone contract is possible since there is no set score, and providers deal with it differently.
While some providers may reject you if you have bad credit, there are chances that you could get a no-credit-check phone deal if you go for older handsets. If this does not work, consider saving towards purchasing a mobile phone and signing up for a SIM-Only plan.
- No credit check phone deals: There is no such thing as no credit check phone deals. Instead, there are ways you can get a phone contract even if you have a poor credit record. Aside from improving your credit score, you may have to choose a cheaper phone or sign up for a 30-day SIM-only deal.
Providers that offer phone contracts to people with bad credit
As we stated earlier, providers deal with credit scores differently. Therefore, being rejected by one means you can get a phone contract. Here are some providers offering warranties to people with poor credit scores that you may need to consider.
SMARTY
If you opt for SMARTY, getting a SIM-Only contract is easy because the plans are rolling one-month contracts. They also include unrestricted tethering and an option to save money on unused data.
VOXI
VOXI specialises in offering competitive 30-day SIM-only deals and does not require you to pass a credit check. You may be lucky enough to get a phone contract despite your poor credit history.
Giffgaff
Since Giffgaff plans are pay-as-you-go (PAYG) contracts, you won’t have to pass through a credit check. Instead, you will be offered a 30-day plan, which you can easily change at the end of the 30 days.
Talkmobile
Talkmobile offers cheap SIM-only deals available to people with bad credit. The deal includes 4G of data, unlimited calls and texts for a monthly subscription of about £4.95.
Lycamobile
Lycamobile offers SIM-only deals without a credit check. The service is delivered through EE’s mobile network.
Advantages of bad credit phone contracts
- One advantage of bad credit phone deals is that you won’t be tied to any provider.
Disadvantages of bad credit phone contracts
On the flip side, bad credit phone contracts have the following drawbacks.
- There are only limited options in terms of providers
- You have to select from a little list of deals.
Pay-Monthly VS Pay-As-You-Go Phone Contract
A pay-monthly phone contract is a fixed monthly fee usually for 12-24 months. For this contract, your monthly fee varies depending on what you are being charged for. A typical pay monthly contract includes a phone, call minute, text, and data. And how much your monthly charge solely depends on how expensive the phone you opt for is.
While a Pay-as-you-go contract is just as the name describes. You only pay for the services you use call, text, and data. While PAYG does not have a fixed monthly fee, it also does not include a phone as part of its contract.
Advantages of Pay Monthly Contract
- Inclusive allowances: Pay monthly contracts often come with inclusive allowances for minutes, texts, and data, which can offer better value for regular users.
- Fixed monthly cost: With a pay monthly contract, you know exactly how much you will be paying each month, making budgeting easier.
- Includes a phone: Pay monthly contracts usually include a mobile phone, which can be beneficial if you want the latest smartphone but can’t afford to pay for it upfront.
- Additional perks: Some pay monthly contracts include free streaming services, international roaming allowances, or discounts on accessories.
Disadvantages of Pay Monthly Contract
- Contract commitment: Pay monthly contracts typically require a fixed-term commitment, usually 12, 18, or 24 months, and terminating the contract early can result in termination fees.
- Credit check: Providers may require a credit check to qualify for a pay monthly contract, which could be a barrier for those with poor credit.
- Overage charges: If you exceed your monthly allowances for minutes, texts, or data, you may incur additional charges.
- More expensive in the long run: While pay monthly contracts offer the convenience of spreading the cost of a handset over time, they may end up being more expensive than purchasing a phone outright and opting for a PAYG plan with lower monthly costs.
Advantages of Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) Contract
- Flexibility: PAYG plans offer the flexibility of not being tied to a fixed monthly contract. You can top up your account as needed and you are not committed to a specific provider for an extended period. And you also have the option to switch providers whenever you want without accruing charges.
- No credit check: PAYG plans do not require a credit check, making it accessible to individuals with poor credit or those who prefer not to undergo a credit check.
- Cost control: PAYG plans allow you to control your spending as you only pay for what you use, which makes it ideal for users with low or unpredictable usage.
- No risk of overage charges: As Pay-As-You-Go does not require a fixed monthly allowance, there is no risk of incurring overage charges if you exceed your usage limits.
Disadvantages of Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) Contract
- Higher per-minute and per-text rates: PAYG plans often have higher rates for minutes, texts, and data than pay monthly contracts, making them less cost-effective for heavy users.
- No phone charges: With PAYG, you need to purchase your phone yourself, which can be expensive at an upfront cost.
- Limited perks: PAYG plans do not offer the same additional perks and benefits as pay monthly contracts, such as inclusive streaming services or international roaming allowances.
Benefits of Phone Contracts
It is no secret that many mobile phone users in the UK signed up to one form of phone contract or the other. The reason is due to the benefits of mobile phone contracts, such as;
- A free Smartphone: Including a mobile phone in the contract plan is undoubtedly the selling point of pay-monthly phone contracts. Customers can access their favourite phone with little or no upfront payment. However, you should bear in mind that the cost of the device will be spread throughout your contract.
- Affordable Phone Bills: Phone contracts offer cheaper calls and text messaging deals than pay-as-you-go.
- Perks and Free Gifts: Many providers offer lots of perks and gifts to customers. The gifts may range from vouchers to cashback or even hands-free headsets and accessories. Others include incentives like cinema tickets and Spotify subscriptions.
What to look out for in phone contracts
Choosing the best mobile phone contract can be challenging, mainly if you are on a budget. However, you can streamline the process by considering the following factors:
- Data allowance
We all need data to surf the internet or stream our favourite shows. However, a high data allowance could result in higher monthly payments. Also, exceeding your monthly data allowance could attract additional charges. Therefore, you should carefully consider the data allowance attached to the plan.
Finding a deal with the proper data allowance will help you avoid additional charges or paying for what you won’t use.
- Contract length
More extended contracts have recently become popular due to the rising cost of new smartphones. Despite being the easiest way to purchase a new handset, committing to long contracts could result in paying more money towards buying the smartphone.
Consider the different contract durations when looking for a perfect mobile phone deal. Comparing the lengths will help you identify the most suitable deal and avoid paying excessively towards purchasing the device.
- Flexibility
If you like keeping up with the latest smartphones, consider flexibility before signing up for a new deal. Some providers have flexible contract lengths (12 – 36 months) you can choose from. However, it is essential to note that flexible offers could be more expensive. Therefore, you may have to choose between price and flexibility.
- Network coverage
You may need more than a good plan for a decent phone contract. Good network coverage and a reliable connection are equally important. Therefore, verifying that your preferred provider has good network coverage in your area is essential before signing up for a mobile phone contract.
Alternatively, you can test the network’s reception by signing up for an affordable pay-as-you-go SIM deal from the provider. If you are satisfied with the service, you can sign up for your preferred contract option.
- Add-ons
Many providers offer several freebies and incentives to their customers. This may include free cinema tickets, discounts on food and drinks, early ticket reservations, etc. Although they come at no extra cost, freebies and incentives can add more value to your package. Therefore, while searching for a phone contract, you may have to consider providers or plans that offer incentives.
- Upfront cost
Providers often advertise tempting low monthly fees for the latest smartphones. While these offers look attractive, you may pay more towards the handset cost if you sign up for a no upfront cost contract. Therefore, consider the upfront cost and monthly payment carefully to ensure the deal fits your budget.
How can I find the best Phone Contract?
When picking a phone contract, check how you use your phone in other to pick a contract that suits your needs and preferences. Here are some factors you can consider to find the right contract for you.
- Determine your needs: Consider how much data, text messages and talk minutes you need monthly. Put into consideration additional features like; roaming international calling and data rollover. By considering all these, you can be assured not to exceed your monthly data allowance which the charges are expensive. To make it easier, determine apps that drain your data more and create a data cap for them from your phone settings.
- Choose the right contract length: Most phone contract varies from network to network. But typically, a phone contract length runs between a period of 12-36 months depending on whichever contract you pick. While a longer contract allows you to spread your monthly cost and also reduce your expected monthly payment. On the flip side, you may end up getting tied up to a contract without the option of opting out in certain circumstances. Therefore ensure to pick a contract length that will benefit you in the long run.
- Look out for exclusive add-ons and discounts: Keep an eye out for special promotions discounts or incentives offered by your existing network provider. These offers could include limited-time offers, cashback, or discounts. However, in as much as they are freebies, ensure to compare their prices as they can sometimes be overpriced due to the freebies included.
- Be sure of your network coverage: Ensure your network coverage has a good reception in your area and areas you frequently visit. So check with your provider or use the network coverage map. You don’t want to be tied to a network with bad reception
How to Compare Phone Contracts?
Using our comparison service to compare phone contracts allows you to find the right contract that best fits your needs. When you compare phone contracts with our comparison service, you get to find a range of phone contracts to choose from. You can also search and filter our selection to find what you want. Use the following filters to compare;
- Phone Brand – Including storage options, colour, and phone condition(new or refurbished)
- Contract length
- Text, minutes and data allowances
- Type of plan – phone contract, sim-only or pay-as-you-go
- Monthly Cost
- 4G or 5G internet service
- Phone resellers
- Discounts, freebies and incentives
- Network provider.
These filters will help you narrow down your search for the right mobile phone contract. Compare and pick the contract that best caters to your needs.
Compare by Phone Brands
Comparing phone contracts by brand involves evaluating offers from different mobile phone networks based on the smartphone they offer, plan features, pricing and some add-ons.
Apple(iPhones)
Apple is a widely available brand. The phone contract is readily available and offered by various networks. Some networks feature iPhone contracts with subscriptions to platforms like Apple Music, Amazon Prime, and Disney Plus. While some others offer free roaming or access to a 5G sim card. While they may cater to Apple, remember that an iPhone contract can vary in price depending on the contract length, the model and other inclusive features.
To learn more, explore some of our iPhone deals.
Samsung
Samsung produces new models each year that boast impressive photography screens. Its models consist of mid-range and low-cost that cater for various individual budgets. Phone contracts are also available from the majority of network providers. Network providers offer incentives such as extended warranties or discounts on Samsung accessories. Want to explore Samsung phones and their features? You can take a peak at some of our available Samsung Phones
Google (Pixel)
It represents Google’s flagship Android smartphones. Known for its seamless integration of Google services and its excellent camera quality, Pixels accompany features like; Google Assistant, Now playing, and Call screen which enhances users’ convenience and productivity. Pixel phone contracts are available through some network providers and Google Fi. They also offer exclusive services tailored to pixel phone users.
Huawei
If you are looking for a smartphone with a blend of technology, sleek design, and affordable costs then opt for Huawei. It features cutting-edge technology, EMUI software, long-lasting battery life and quality aesthetics which makes it attractive.
Compare Phone Contracts by Network
Various networks are known to offer phone networks these include;
- Virgin Media
- VOXI
- Labara
- Asda Mobile
- Giffgaff
- ID Mobile
- Three
- Vodafone
- O2
When comparing phone contracts by network, be sure to consider factors like coverage, plan features, pricing, and additional perks offered by the network you want.
While all the network offers varying features, O2, Vodafone and Three have one thing in common which is being the major network provider for most households in the UK and they also offer 4G and 5G coverage across the UK. Vodafone is known for its VeryMe Rewards for exclusive discounts.
While 02 provides perks such as O2 priority which offers exclusive discounts on movies and early access to events or concerts. And a network provider like VOXI and Giffgaff which are smaller networks, provides phone contracts on budget. However, being a smaller network does not affect the quality of service you will get from them.
While all network has a role they play, an incentive to offer, or a feature you would need ensure to pick the right one with the potential to cater to your phone needs.
Phone Contracts
Compare Broadband deals with Docalla
How long do mobile phone contracts last?
Mobile phone contracts last 12, 24, or 36 months. More extended contracts are cheaper than short contracts. However, you may end up paying more before the end of your contract.
Can I cancel my mobile phone contract?
Providers usually offer the first 14 days after you sign up as a cooling-off period, during which you can cancel your contract for free. After this period, cancelling your contract will attract early exit charges.
What happens if I break or lose my phone during the contract period?
If you lose or break your contract while under contract, you must purchase a new phone and continue to pay the monthly fee. It is essential to understand that losing or breaking your phone does not void your contract. Therefore, securing a mobile phone insurance for your mobile phone should be an intelligent move.
What is the age requirement for a phone contract?
You must be 18 years of age and above before signing up for a phone contract in the UK.
What documents do I need to sign a phone contract?
There is no need for a passport or proof of address as providers only require your credit card as proof of identity before you can get a phone contract.
What does pay monthly mean?
Pay-Monthly refers to the billing period of your agreement where a user pays a fixed amount each month over a specified period which is 12-24 months. This payment is made in exchange to cover for your line rental that includes services like; calling texting, data usage and any other services if you have gone beyond your monthly allowances.
Can i get phone contract with no credit history?
Getting a phone contract with no credit history can be challenging but not impossible as you can never predict the outcome of a credit check. However, if you find out you do not have enough credit history, you could consider opting for a sim-only connection to build your credit history or consider the following options;
- Prepaid plans: Some mobile network offers prepaid plans that do not require credit, but you have to pay for your service upfront.
- Pay-as-you-go-plan: This is somewhat similar to prepaid plans. It allows you to top up your account with credit and use it as needed and it also doesn’t require a credit check.
- Sim-only plans: Some network providers offer sim-only plans without a phone. And since you are purchasing without a phone, they can be less strict about your credit check.
Can i keep my old number?
Yes, you can when switching to a new phone number or mobile network. You can achieve this process by porting your number. To transfer your number;
Text PAC from your old phone number to 65075.
Inform your new network provider of your intention to keep your existing phone number.
Then provide your new network with information about your old phone number, provider and your porting authorisation code to start your porting process.
With this information, your new network provider will initiate the porting process by coordinating all your information from the old provider and transferring it to the new network.
But keep in mind that you may experience network downtime during the porting process which would only last for a few hours. At the successful completion of the porting process, you will receive a confirmation message.
Sky Broadband
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
Offer ends 30th Jan. 2023
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
Offer ends 30th Jan. 2023
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
Offer ends 30th Jan. 2023
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
Offer ends 30th Jan. 2023
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
