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Cheap SIM Deals
What is a Cheap SIM Deal?
A cheap SIM-only deal is an affordable mobile phone plan (usually between £5 to £10 per month) that offers only a SIM card and a bundle of minutes, texts, and data at a monthly cost. SIM-only deals are more affordable than pay-monthly phone contracts because you will get only a SIM with the services included in the package.
Are you looking for cheap SIM deals? Check available offers to find the best affordable SIM deals and save money on mobile expenses without compromising quality.
The deal is favourable and suitable for someone who already has a mobile phone or can’t afford to purchase a new one outright. It is also ideal for anyone on a budget who needs help affording expensive deals from top network providers. You can choose between different types of SIM-only plans designed to meet the unique needs of all categories of customers.
How Does a Cheap SIM Work?
As stated earlier, SIM-only deals do not include a new mobile phone in the contract. 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 any of the cheap SIM-only contracts offered by your preferred network provider.
After selecting a cheap package combining minutes, texts, and data that meets your needs and preferences and receiving the SIM card, insert the SIM into your unlocked phone. You can top up SIM credit according to your needs if you sign up for a pay-as-you-go (PAYG) plan.
Aside from the PAYG plans, cheap SIM deals are available on monthly contracts that can be changed at any time. The monthly contract plans allow you to pay monthly to cover the cost of call minutes, texts, and a specific data allowance.
Types of SIM-Only Deals
As stated earlier, network 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 pattern to find the most suitable plan for your lifestyle. Some of the available SIM-only contracts include:
1. 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 the PAYG 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.
Will I lose my old number if I switch to a pay-as-you-go plan?
You can retain your old number or mobile phone when you sign up for a PAYG or even transfer SIM across compatible devices. The deal is flexible and won’t tie you to any lengthy contract. Instead, you must top up SIM credit upfront for a specified number of minutes, data, and texts.
Do I need to pass a credit check for a PAYG SIM?
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.
2. Pay-monthly SIM-only Deals
A pay-monthly SIM-only deal is a contract between network providers and subscribers. The deal includes only a SIM card with a specific number of call minutes, texts, and data allowance at a monthly cost. You should know beforehand that a pay-monthly SIM-only contract does not include a new smartphone, just as the name suggests. Therefore, you must provide a mobile phone by using your current phone or purchasing one outright if you sign up for a pay-monthly SIM-only contract.
The contract length typically ranges between 30 days, 12 months, 24 and 36 months in some cases, during which you must pay a monthly fee. Pay-monthly SIM-only deals are cheaper than pay-monthly phone contracts. They can help to improve your credit score if you consistently pay your monthly payment.
The deal also comes with many perks and add-ons designed by providers to reward customers and attract new subscribers. Pay-monthly SIM-only plans are perfect if you can purchase a new smartphone upfront or have a mobile phone you are happy to retain.
How does a pay-monthly SIM-only contract work?
When you sign up for a pay-monthly SIM-only contract, you will generally receive a SIM card with a specific number of monthly call minutes, texts, and data allowance. The deal does not include a new mobile phone. Therefore, you should be prepared to pay for one upfront or use your current phone to sign up.
The contract length for a pay-monthly contract typically ranges from 30 days to 12 or 24 months. Some providers also offer 36-month pay-monthly SIM-only contracts during which you will be billed on a 30-day rolling basis throughout the contract period. You can change your SIM-only plan or provider after 30 days.
There is no limit you can do on a pay-monthly SIM-only plan. However, you may be required to pay extra charges if you exceed your monthly call minutes, texts, or data allowance. Pay-monthly SIM-only contracts with unlimited call minutes, texts, and data if you are a heavy user. With this, you can call, text, and stream your favourite video content without worrying about hitting your monthly limit.
Unlimited Data SIM Deals
An unlimited data SIM-only deal is a contract that gives you unlimited mobile phone data at a monthly cost. You can stream your favourite video content and music, participate in online gaming, and download large files without worrying about hitting your data cap.
The plan is more suitable for users who often stream video content on their mobile phones or have multiple devices that connect to the internet through data tethering. 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.
Unlimited data SIM-only plans are more expensive than regular SIM-only plans. You should also know that some providers apply tethering, fair use policy, and speed limits to the plan. The package is unsuitable for light internet users. Therefore, you should analyse your needs to ensure that your usage pattern requires an unlimited data plan before you sign up for it.
Data-only SIM deal
Data-only SIM deals are mobile phone packages for tablets and mobile devices. Like the unlimited data SIM, Data-only SIM does not include monthly call minutes or texts. The only difference is that you will receive a specific monthly data allowance instead of unlimited access to mobile data.
The deal saves you money on calls and texts and allows you to use it on a Laptop or Mi-Fi, making it one of the best cheap SIM deals. However, you should know that the savings are insignificant compared to that standard SIM-only plan, mainly if you only use your tablet at home.
What Are The Benefits of SIM-Only Deals
SIM-only deals offer numerous benefits that make them ideal for anyone saving money on a mobile phone subscription. Here are some benefits of SIM-only contracts that you should consider.
Flexibility
A SIM-only package’s contract length usually lasts 1–12 months. Because of this, you can easily change your SIM-Only plan anytime since you are not tied to any lengthy contract.
Affordability
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.
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 check: 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.
What To Look For In A Cheap SIM-Only Contract
Finding the best cheap SIM-only deal for your needs and budget requires analysing your usage pattern and comparing offers from different providers. Therefore, it is essential to look for the following in a cheap SIM contract before signing up for it:
Data allowance
Considering the data allowance included in the deal is essential when choosing a cheap SIM-only plan. The more affordable the contract, the more likely you will get a lower monthly data allowance. Therefore, you should consider the data allowance carefully and verify that it meets your needs before signing up for the deal.
Minutes and texts
Aside from the data allowance, you should also check the number of call minutes and text messaging in the deal, mainly if you spend a lot of time on calls or texting. However, you should know that Data-only SIM plans do not include call minutes and texts as part of the deal. Therefore, you should carefully check to confirm that you are choosing the right plan for your needs.
The contract length
It is no secret that longer SIM-only deals offer the best value for your money. However, you should be aware that committing to a lengthy SIM-only contract could tie you to a wrong plan or a provider that you are not satisfied with its service for an extended period. Because of this, you must check the contract length to identify the one that best suits your needs and lifestyle.
Unlimited social data
Some providers offer unlimited social data plans suitable for anyone who constantly uploads or watches video content on social media platforms like TikTok, X, Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Snapchat. If you constantly upload or stream content on social media, you should look for a SIM-only plan that gives you unlimited social data.
Incentives
Freebies and other perks offered by network providers could benefit you, particularly if the incentives align with your needs. For example, an entertainment lover may find the O2 priority booking for events at the O2 Arena beneficial. Therefore, looking out for cheap SIM contracts with many incentives is essential before signing up.
Tips for Maximising Savings on SIM Deals
Saving money on your mobile plan doesn’t stop at choosing cheap SIM deals. In this section, we offer practical tips and strategies to help you maximise your savings and get the most value out of your chosen plan.
1. Monitor and Manage Data Usage
Keep track of your data usage to avoid exceeding your plan’s allowances and incurring additional charges. Utilise the built-in data monitoring tools on your device or download third-party apps to track your usage in real-time.
Adjust your usage habits to stay within your data limits and prevent unexpected fees.
2. Consider Family or Group Plans
If you have multiple lines or family members needing mobile service, explore family or group plans offered by mobile providers.
These plans typically offer discounted rates for additional lines, allowing you to save money while providing service to multiple users under a single account.
3. Take Advantage of Wi-Fi
Connect to Wi-Fi networks whenever possible to minimise your data usage. Whether at home, work, or in public places like cafes or libraries, leveraging Wi-Fi connections for data-intensive tasks can help conserve your mobile data allowance when you’re on the go.
4. Review and Adjust Your Plan Regularly
Periodically review your usage patterns and assess whether your current plan still meets your needs.
If you consistently underutilize your allowances or frequently exceed them, consider adjusting your plan accordingly to better align with your usage habits and save money.
5. Explore Loyalty Rewards and Referral Programmes
Check if your mobile provider offers loyalty rewards or referral programmes for existing customers. These programmes often provide incentives such as bill credits, discounted rates, or bonus data for referring friends or remaining with the same provider for an extended period.
6. Stay Informed About Promotions and Deals
Look out for promotions, deals, and limited-time offers from mobile providers. Follow your provider on social media, sign up for newsletters, or regularly check their website for announcements about discounts, flash sales, or exclusive offers available to subscribers.
Implementing these money-saving tips and tactics can help you stretch your budget further and make the most of your cheap SIM deals.
Cheap SIM-only Deal Providers
O2
O2 is one of the leading network providers in the UK. You can get a 12-month cheap SIM deal from O2 that includes 15GB of 5G mobile data, unlimited call minutes, unlimited texts, and EU roaming at £7.99 per month. You should be aware that all O2 SIM-only deals include discounts at restaurants and high-street stores.
Aside from the Rewards scheme, O2 customers also get priority booking for events at the O2 arena. This makes the provider ideal for entertainment lovers who would rather not miss music or entertainment events.
Vodafone
Vodafone needs no further introduction as one of the largest networks in the UK. It is one of the providers that offer cheap SIM deals to subscribers. You can get up to 25GB of 4G data, unlimited call minutes and texts, and VeryMe Rewards at the cost of £8 per month if you sign up for the Vodafone cheap SIM-only contract.
Some incentives you would benefit from through the VeryMe Rewards scheme include freebies and discounts at high-street stores and a chance to participate in regular prize draws or competitions.
Lebara
Lebara is one of the providers that offer competitive pricing to its customers. It offers an exclusive 30-day cheap SIM deal with 5GB of 5G data, unlimited call minutes and texts at £4.99 per month. You can also choose another 30-day contract with 20GB of 5G data, unlimited calls and texts at the cost of £7.99 per month.
Additionally, you can choose between 100, 500, or unlimited international call minutes to up to 42 countries. There are also lots of other discounts and value-added services you can benefit from, including car insurance.
VOXI
VOXI may be perfect for you if you often spend lots of time uploading or streaming content on different social media platforms. The provider offers some cheap SIM plans that grant you access to unlimited video streaming services on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Netflix, and many others.
You can get a 30-day SIM-only contract from VOXI that includes 30GB of 5G data, unlimited call minutes, unlimited texts, unlimited social media, music, and video streaming at the cost of £10 per month.
iD Mobile
iD Mobile is another provider that offers cheap SIM deals to subscribers. You will have many options to choose from if you decide to sign up for iD Mobile’s cheap SIM contract. Some options include a 30-day plan with unlimited calls and texts and 6GB of 5G data for £6 per month.
You can choose a 12-month contract with 20GB of 5G data, unlimited calls and minutes at the cost of £8 per month. There is also a 30-day plan that comes with 50GB of 5G data unlimited calls and texts at the cost of £10 per month. Interestingly, each plan comes with a 3-month free access to Apple TV+ and music
giffgaff
giffgaff offers its cheap SIM deals on an 18-month contract basis. Each plan comes with unlimited call minutes and text messaging. However, you can choose between 6GB of 5G data at the cost of £6 per month or 40GB of 5G data at the cost of £10 per month.
SMARTY
SMARTY is another provider that offers cheap SIM deals to providers. It provides a 30-day contract plan with unlimited call minutes, unlimited text messaging, and a roaming option within the EU. You will have to choose between 5GB of 5G data at a monthly cost of £6 or 8GB at the cost of £7 per month.
ASDA Mobile
Consider ASDA if you are looking for a provider with one of the cheapest SIM-only deals. The provider offers a 30-day SIM-only contract with 3GB of 4G data, unlimited call minutes and texts, and EU roaming at the cost of £5 per month.
It is essential to note that many other providers offer cheap SIM deals to their customers. Aside from the monthly contract options, these providers also provide pay-as-you-go SIM-only contracts to meet their subscribers’ unique needs and preferences. Therefore, we recommend carefully analysing your needs and finding the most suitable, cheap SIM-only deal for your budget and lifestyle.
Cheap Broadband Deals
Compare Broadband deals with Docalla
What are cheap SIM deals, and how do they differ from traditional contracts?
Cheap SIM deals refer to affordable mobile plans that typically offer a combination of data, minutes, and texts at a lower cost compared to traditional contracts. Unlike contract plans, which often include the cost of a handset, SIM-only deals provide the SIM card and service without a bundled device
Is it cheaper to sign up for a SIM-only deal?
Yes, SIM-only plans are usually cheaper than pay-monthly phone contracts because you will only be required to pay monthly call minutes, texts, and data allowance. At the same time, the pay-monthly phone contract involves making payments towards purchasing the smartphone.
Is pay-as-you-go cheaper than pay-monthly SIM-only deals?
No, the pay-monthly SIM-only plan is generally cheaper than PAYG. However, you should know that PAYG is more flexible, allowing you to leave the plan or provider anytime.
Does a SIM-only plan improve your credit score?
Yes, SIM-only packages are not forms of credit since you pay upfront for the monthly data, minutes, and texts. However, using direct debit to pay for your monthly SIM-only plan can improve your credit score.
How do I unsubscribe from a pay-monthly SIM-only deal?
You can unsubscribe from a pay-monthly SIM-only plan if unsatisfied with the provider. Call the customer service to cancel the deal. Depending on your provider, you can cancel your pay-monthly SIM-only contract through SMS. However, you should know that you may be required to pay off the contract before you cancel the deal.
Can I upgrade or downgrade my cheap SIM deal if my usage patterns change?
Many mobile providers offer flexibility to upgrade or downgrade your SIM deal as needed, allowing you to adjust your plan to match changes in your usage habits.
Check with your provider for details on their policy regarding plan changes and any associated fees.
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
