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Best SIM-Only Deals
Learn about SIM-only deals and find the best one for your lifestyle and budget.
What is a SIM-Only Deal?
Similarly to the standard mobile phone deals, a SIM-only deal is a mobile phone contract that offers a bundle of minutes, texts, and data at a monthly cost. However, a SIM-only contract does 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.
A SIM-only deal is often favourable and suitable for someone who already has a mobile phone or can afford to purchase a new one outright. Compare the best SIM-only contracts from top providers to find the perfect deal for your needs and lifestyle.
How Does a SIM-Only Contract Work?
As stated earlier, a SIM-only contract does not include a new mobile phone. Therefore, you must use your old handset or purchase a new one. The smartphone must be unlocked to work with any provider of your choice. Once you have gotten an unlocked phone, whether new or old, go ahead and choose your preferred network provider and package.
After selecting a package combining minutes, texts, and data that meets your needs and preferences and receiving the SIM card, insert the SIM into your unlocked phone. Aside from Pay-as-you-go (PAYG), SIM-only deals are monthly contracts that can be changed anytime.
Benefits of SIM-Only Deals
A SIM-only contract offers numerous benefits that you should consider. Here are some benefits that set the deal apart from other contract options.
More Affordable
Sim-only deals are more affordable since they only involve paying the SIM card cost, minutes, texts, and mobile data. It allows you to use your old phone and avoid the long-term cost of a mobile phone deal.
Flexibility
A SIM-only package’s contract length usually lasts 1-12 months. Because of this, you can easily change your SIM-only plan at any time since you are not tied to any lengthy contract.
Easier Credit Check
Providers offering SIM-only contracts do not conduct extensive credit checks since the deal does not include the cost of a new mobile phone and poses a lesser risk.
You can keep your old phone.
Signing up for a SIM-only deal does not mandate the purchase of a new mobile phone. Therefore, you are free to use your old phone and save costs. All you need to do is buy a SIM from your preferred provider, insert it in your smartphone, and subscribe to the plan that best suits your needs.
Pros and Cons of SIM-Only Deals
Like every other contract option, SIM-only deals have advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons of the SIM-only packages that you should consider before signing up for the contract.
Pros
Affordability: SIM-only plans are more affordable than other phone contracts since they do not include a new smartphone’s cost. You will also get a reduced monthly payment since you won’t be making payments towards purchasing a new mobile phone.
Flexibility: You can easily change plans or providers since many SIM-only deals are available monthly. SIM-only contracts also allow you to upgrade to a new mobile phone at will without waiting until the end of your phone contract.
More straightforward credit checks: Providers often carry out easier credit checks since the deal does not include a new mobile phone. Because of this, you can still secure a SIM-only contract even if you have a poor credit score.
Cons
Restrictive data: Some SIM-only plans have limited monthly data caps. This might be unfavourable if you are a heavy internet user. Therefore, it is essential that you carefully analyse your usage pattern and choose only the plan that meets your needs.
It could be more expensive: SIM-only deals are more expensive if you don’t have a phone. You would have to purchase a new mobile phone outright or use your old phone to sign up for the contract.
SIM-only deals are unavailable to users still tied to a contract or those whose phones are locked to a provider.
Types of SIM-Only Deals
Providers offer a variety of SIM-only plans to meet the unique needs of different categories of users. Since the deals are designed to meet different needs and lifestyles, you must analyse your usage patterns to find the most suitable plan for your lifestyle. Some of the available SIM-only contracts include:
Pay-as-you-go SIMs (PAYG)
A pay-as-you-go (PAYG) SIM deal is a flexible mobile plan that allows you to top up your SIM credit according to your needs. Users on a SIM-only plan can use their SIM on any compatible or unlocked phone. However, you should know that your calls or data may be disconnected once you have used up the allowance.
You can retain your old number or mobile phone when you sign up for a PAYG or even transfer SIMs across compatible devices. The deal is flexible and won’t tie you to any lengthy contract. Instead, you must top up SIM credit upfront or subscribe to a monthly plan with a specified number of minutes, data, and texts.
Most providers do not perform credit checks for PAYG SIM deals since they do not include a new mobile phone. This makes the deal easily accessible to everyone, including those with poor credit history. However, you should be aware that some PAYGs may not offer you the best call, text, and data rates. The deal also requires an unlocked phone, meaning that you may need to purchase a new smartphone or pay to unlock your old phone if you opt for a PAYG contract offered by a different provider.
How to find the best PAYG SIMs
Your unique needs and lifestyle determine the best pay-as-you-go SIM contract. For instance, light users will be satisfied with the standard PAYG package, which requires topping up your SIM credit on demand. On the other hand, others may prefer a 30-day rolling plan that includes a certain number of minutes, texts, and data.
Since providers offer several PAYG SIM contracts designed to meet the preferences of different categories of users, finding the best PAYG SIMs requires that you analyse your usage pattern to identify the most suitable package for your unique needs and lifestyle.
Unlimited Data SIM Deals
Unlimited data SIM deals give users unrestricted access to data without extra charges at the end of the month. The plan suits users who often stream video content on their mobile phones. With an unlimited data SIM deal, you can stream music or TV content without worrying about data caps.
Having unlimited access to data means you can continuously stream your favourite content. However, you should be aware that unlimited data SIM contracts are more expensive than standard plans. However, it would help to remember that unlimited data SIM-only contracts are more expensive.
Aside from being pricier, some providers apply tethering, usage, and speed limits to the plan. The package is also not suitable for light internet users. Therefore, you should analyse your needs to ensure that the deal aligns with your unique needs and lifestyle before you sign up for it.
Data-only SIM deal
Data-only SIM is a mobile phone package for tablets and mobile broadband devices. Unlike the standard SIM-only contract, Data-only SIM does not work on mobile phones and includes a monthly call allowance. What you will get in the deal is a specific monthly data allowance.
The Data-only SIM saves you money on calls and texts and allows you to use it on a laptop or Mi-Fi. However, you should be aware that the savings are insignificant compared to the standard SIM-only plan, mainly if you only use your tablet at home.
Consider other SIM-only plans, such as 12-month deals, bad credit SIM-only deals, cheap SIM-only deals, and 30-day plans. Always carefully analyse your usage pattern to identify the most suitable option for your needs and budget.
Providers offering the Best SIM-Only Deals
As we started earlier, the best SIM-only deal for you depends on your unique needs and preferences. This may be influenced by several factors, including how you use your phone in terms of minutes, texts, and data. It may also be affected by your access to Wi-Fi or whether you depend on 4G or 5G coverage.
Your personal preference, coverage, and budget can also influence what makes up the best SIM-only deal for you. Because of this, while a cheap SIM-only contract is the best, it may not necessarily be so for you, particularly if you need a lot of data. Therefore, we must consider the best SIM-only deals according to the different packages.
Best SIM-Only Deals
Although what makes up the best SIM-only deal depends on your unique needs and preferences, we have outlined the following values regarded as the best in different categories. We aim to help you find the best deal for your lifestyle and budget. Take a few minutes to read through and conduct independent research to find the most suitable for your needs and budget.
Three Mobile
Three is known for its excellent SIM only deals, especially the ones that come with unlimited data, making it ideal for heavy data users. Consider the Go Unlimited plan if you sign a deal with Three. The plan offers uncapped data, unlimited call minutes, and text messaging. Three also has excellent network coverage, it has the widest network coverage in the UK and covers more locations than any other provider. Three is also known for excellent customer service, making it one of the most preferred choices for SIM only deals. In addition, you also get to enjoy other perks on the Three+ loyalty app when you sign up for unlimited SIM deals on Three Mobile.
O2
O2 has a network coverage of about 96% within the UK, and O2 has fantastic offers on their SIM only deals. You can get 100GB of 5G data for £15 per month on a 12 month contract. O2 is one of the best networks for roaming, as you can roam for free within the EU and some select locations. You also get a 3 months free Audible subscription when you sign up for O2’s SIM only deals. There are different sim only deals available on O2 that you can choose from, another one is 6GB of 5G data for £6.99 per month. When you sign up for this deal, you get priority tickets to events at O2 venues across the United Kingdom.
SMARTY SIM-Only Deal – Overall Best
Subscribers on SMARTY can access up to 100GB of 5G data for as little as £12 per month. Compared to offers from other providers, the SMARTY deal is valuable. It could be regarded as the best SIM-only deal in the UK regarding affordability and value.
Best SIM-Only Deal – Connection Speed
EE is the network to beat in terms of a SIM-only package with blazing speed. It has excellent 5G coverage, good customer service, and impressive performance. However, it would help if you were mindful that speed comes at a cost. You may have to pay £16.50 monthly for the first six months of your two-year contract. After that, you must pay £33 per month for the remaining part of your contract.
Best SIM-Only Deal – Unlimited Data Plans
You should consider iD Mobile if you are looking for the best SIM-only deal with unlimited data. The provider offers a two-year unlimited data SIM-only contract for £16 per month. One significant advantage of the iD Mobile SIM-only contract is that it does not compromise quality.
Best SIM-Only Deal – Social Media and Streaming
VOXI may be suitable if you are on a budget and want an affordable SIM-only contract. The provider offers 60GB of 5G data at £12 per month. You will also have access to unlimited use of social media platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Instagram. VOXI also offers 90GB of 5G data at £15 per month on a rolling one-month contract, making it one of the best SIM-only deals. In addition to enjoying social media for free, you also get to enjoy Netflix, Apple Music, and Spotify as part of your deal.
Best SIM only Deal- Cheap Deal
iD Mobile offers the cheapest SIM only deal in the UK, if you are on a budget, you may want to consider this deal. iD Mobile has a wide coverage on 5G speeds as it runs on Three’s network. Contracts typically range from one month rolling plans to 3 months, 6 months and 12 month plans. iD Mobile offers 120GB at £6 per month for the first 3 months and £12 per month thereafter. Aside from being budget-friendly and promising an amazing 5G performance speed, you can also roll over unused data to the next month and roam for free within the European Union.
Best SIM only deal – Customer Service
Tesco is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) that runs on O2’s network, and as a result, it has wide network coverage. Tesco Mobile adopts the mantra of its parent company, ‘every little helps’, so they’re exceptional at customer service. Tesco offers 30GB for £12.50 per month for a 2 year contract. However, if you have the Tesco Clubcard, you pay £11. You can also roam for free within the European Union
How to Find the Best SIM-Only Deals
As we stated earlier, what constitutes the best SIM-only deal depends on your needs and preferences. To find the best fit for your needs and budget, you must do the following:
Find the right package
In choosing the best SIM-only plan, it is essential to identify the package with the right amount of data, minutes, and texts that meet your needs. Therefore, research offers from different providers to find the most suitable package for your lifestyle.
Choose your preferred contract length
Research to identify the contract length that offers you the best value. You should know that some contracts require you to pay higher monthly fees after the first six months. Therefore, ensure that you choose the right contract length for your needs. Consider 30-day rolling plans if you prefer flexibility or want to try a new provider.
Compare prices
Research offers from different providers and compare prices to find the best SIM-only deal that suits your needs and budget. Doing so lets you identify the most valuable SIM-only plan that fits your budget without compromising quality.
Consider Incentives and additional benefits
Some networks offer incentives, such as free vouchers, streaming services, and discounts, when you sign a contract with them. These benefits make the plans more appealing and affordable, especially if you planned to purchase the services as add-ons in the first place. However, consider whether these incentives and perks are worthwhile to you, as they may increase the cost of the contract.
Consider Reputation of the Provider
It is important to read customer reviews and consider the reputation of the network provider. Feedback on network reliability, customer service, and overall satisfaction will help you understand the provider’s performance and attitudes towards customers. If any issue arises in the middle of your contract, you will want it resolved professionally and as quickly as possible.
Compare Broadband deals with Docalla
Can I retain my phone number if I change to a different provider?
You can keep your phone number if you change to a different provider. All you have to do is to port your number to the new SIM.
How do I port my phone number to a new SIM?
It is straightforward to port your phone number to a new SIM. Text PAC to 65075, and your provider will send you your PAC code. Give the code to your new provider to complete the process of porting.
How can I get a PAC code?
It is straightforward to get a PAC code. Call your old provider and request a PAC code. Alternatively, you can also text 65075 to text-to-switch code provided by Ofcom to receive a PAC code.
How will I know if my phone is unlocked?
To confirm if your phone is unlocked, insert a SIM card from another provider. You should be able to make calls from unlocked phones with SIMs from different providers. If you cannot make calls, your phone is locked to your current provider.
Can I get an unlimited data SIM-only deal?
Yes, you can get unlimited data SIM-only deals from different providers. Please read the contract details to confirm that it meets your needs and preferences. Unlimited data SIMs come at a slightly higher price than SIM only deals
Why should I choose a SIM only deal?
There are a variety of plans you can get with SIM only deals, some networks offer unlimited data, and when the data is limited, it’s still a lot of data, call minutes, and text messaging. It is more affordable as you don’t have to be tied to any lengthy contract that includes monthly payments for a phone contract. Plus, you can get any phone brand of your choice, provided it is unlocked, and you can get a Sim only deal from your preferred network provider.
Do SIM only deals come with additional benefits?
Yes, some providers offer additional benefits like inclusive entertainment subscriptions, inclusive roaming, discounts on accessories, and priority customer service. For example;
- O2 offers free subscriptions to Disney+, Apple Music, and Amazon Prime. O2 also offers priority tickets to events at O2 venues on some select SIM only deals.
- Vodafone gives you reward on the VeryMe App when you sign up for a SIM only deal with them
- iD Mobile offers 3 months free subscription on Apple TV+ as well as 30GB of roaming data
- You can enjoy Netflix for free for a limited time when you sign up with EE
- VOXI allows you to enjoy unlimited social media and videos for free without using your data.
In addition to enjoying social media for free, you also get to enjoy Netflix, Apple Music, and Spotify as part of your sim only plan.
Note that these freebies are subject to some terms and conditions from the provider.
Can I switch providers?
Yes, you can change providers if you get a better deal. However, if your contract is still running, you may have to wait for it to elapse before moving to another network. It is important to read through the terms of your contract to enable you to make informed decisions.
Do I need to pass a credit check for SIM-only deals?
Providers often do not conduct credit checks for short-term deals like the 30-day plan. However, you may be required to pass a credit check if you opt for a more extended contract.
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
