Sim Only Deals – 9 things you need-to-know
Here are the key points to understand when looking for a Sim-only contract.
1 – Mobile ‘text-to-switch’ rules make switching and keeping your number far simpler
Switching to a cheaper deal with another network is really easy. Under rules from regulator Ofcom, you no longer have to call your current provider to ditch it, so you avoid the hard sell of it trying to make you stay. Here’s how to switch providers and keep your number:
- Request a switching code by text. Simply text ‘PAC’ for free to 65075 on any network and you’ll be sent your ‘porting authorisation code’ (PAC) immediately by text so you can keep your number. To get a new number, text ‘STAC’ to 75075.
Its text must include important info, such as any exit penalties, outstanding handset costs or credit balances.
- You need to give the switching code to your new provider within 30 days. You’ll then be switched within one working day. You won’t need to contact your old provider again.
What’s more, if you’re out of your minimum contract period, mobile providers are now banned from charging you for the remainder of your notice period after you’ve switched (which is typically 30 days), putting an end to paying for your old and new contract at the same time.
If you’re still in contract, you could be charged early termination fees for leaving — check how much you’d be charged by sending a text with the word ‘INFO’ to 85075.
I’ve got my PAC, what do I do now?
While the specifics can differ depending on the provider and may sometimes be handled over the phone, the general procedure involves receiving a new (temporary) number from your new network. After that, you typically need to complete an online form available on the provider’s website.
The transfer of your number will occur on the next business day following the submission of your PAC to the new provider.
It’s a different process if you’re swapping within the same provider.
If you’re upgrading to a new plan within the same network—such as moving from a pay-as-you-go to a contract plan—you typically won’t need to go through the usual process. Simply contact your mobile provider’s customer service, and they should handle the transition for you.
Keep in mind that the SIM-only deals featured in our tool are primarily intended for new customers of the provider. If you try to apply for a deal with your current provider and attempt to transfer your existing number to it, your request may be denied by the network.
2 – Don’t overestimate how much data you need — most use less than 3GB a month
If you consistently use less of your allocated minutes, data, and texts each month, you might be paying more than necessary for your mobile plan. On the other hand, exceeding your limits can lead to expensive additional charges.
In a recent survey, 70% of the 5,000 participants reported using less than 3GB of data per month, whereas only 11% exceeded 10GB. However, Ofcom, the regulatory body, suggests that the average monthly data usage in 2022 was closer to 8GB.
To monitor your usage more accurately, you can use our Data Calculator. Simply input your data usage (when not connected to Wi-Fi), and it will provide an estimate of the data you require.
3 – You’ll need an unlocked phone — it’s usually free to get it done
If you purchased your phone through a conventional contract, it might be locked to the network that sold it to you. To check, simply insert a SIM card from a different network and see if it works. If the phone is locked, you’ll typically need to unlock it so that a SIM from your new provider can function.
If you are no longer under contract, your current network should unlock your phone for free. However, if you are still within your contract or if you purchased the phone on a pay-as-you-go plan, you may incur a fee of approximately £10 to unlock it. For detailed information on unlocking policies and procedures for different providers, refer to our Mobile Unlocking Guide.
As of December 2021, new regulations prohibit mobile carriers from selling phones that are locked to their network. This means that when you purchase a new phone now, you can switch networks without needing to unlock the device first.
4 – Check signal strength where you live/work first
You can gauge the signal strength in a specific area using our coverage checker, which relies on the same data as Ofcom’s Coverage Checker.
Our tool will provide you with results for one of the four major networks—EE, O2, Three, or Vodafone. However, many ‘piggyback’ networks utilize these major signals and often offer better value, so your options aren’t limited to just the primary providers. Check out our Mobile Piggybacking Guide for a comprehensive list of which providers operate on which networks.
For a more precise evaluation than what Ofcom’s checker offers, it might be a good idea to get a free pay-as-you-go SIM card from the network you’re considering and test it yourself before making a final decision.
5 – Happy with your provider? Try haggling for a better deal
Negotiating your monthly mobile phone contract can significantly reduce your expenses. If you’re approaching the end of your contract term, your network provider will be eager to retain you, making this an ideal opportunity to negotiate. Long-standing customers generally have a higher chance of achieving a favorable outcome in these discussions.
Our recent survey indicates that Sky Mobile and Three are the most advantageous providers for negotiating better deals. For guidance on securing a more favorable contract, refer to our Mobile Phone Haggling Guide. However, keep in mind that negotiating for a new phone, especially the latest models, can be more challenging.
Before reaching out to your provider, make sure to review the ‘new customer’ offers.
Our Cheap Mobile Finder lists deals available to new customers of various providers. You can use these offers as leverage to negotiate a better deal with your current provider.
6 – Prices can rise with inflation each year
Mobile networks have the right to raise your monthly tariff annually, provided their terms and conditions specify this before you sign up. All the major carriers, including EE, O2, Three, Virgin Mobile, and Vodafone, include such terms in their agreements.
Typically, these price adjustments are made based on the Retail Prices Index (RPI) or Consumer Price Index (CPI)—both of which measure inflation—between February and April each year. However, some companies have recently revised their approach to price increases, opting to raise rates by the inflation rate plus an additional percentage. This trend has been observed among all major networks.
If your provider raises your monthly charge and their terms and conditions do not permit such an increase, you are entitled to terminate your contract without incurring any penalties.
7 – You could make extra savings with some cashback deals — though be warned…
It’s possible to nab extra savings through cashback on some deals. There are three types of cashback available, and they all work differently:
- Redemption cashback. The most substantial savings are available through ‘cashback redemption’ offers on mobile reseller websites. To take advantage of these deals, you must submit your bills at various intervals during your contract and receive payments in installments. Failing to submit a bill on time could result in forfeiting your cashback.
- Automatic cashback. These promotions, which are often facilitated by resellers, involve receiving a check automatically within a few months without needing to make a claim. However, these deals generally provide smaller discounts. Additionally, some offers might feature a combination of manual and automatic cashback options.
- Cashback through cashback sites. Occasionally, you might find better deals through specific cashback websites than those listed in our Cheap Mobile Finder. However, keep in mind that cashback offers are not always reliable and can come with their own set of issues. For comprehensive details, check out our guide on the Top Cashback Sites.
8 – Key things to watch out for when taking out a new Sim-only contract, including credit checks
If you’re willing to commit to a Sim-only contract, there are a couple of final things you need to be aware of…
You’ll be credit-checked
If you decide to go for a monthly pay SIM, most providers will perform a credit check. Therefore, if you often have difficulties with credit, it might be wise to review your credit score prior to applying.
ExEconomics offers a free Experian credit score and report. Although it won’t guarantee your approval for a contract, it can provide a general indication of whether your credit is perceived positively or negatively.
If you’re concerned about failing a credit check or have already been turned down, you might consider opting for a 30-day rolling SIM (look for providers that don’t require credit checks for these plans) or a pay-as-you-go SIM instead.
Deals are usually for new customers only
The promotions available here and on many comparison websites are typically designed for new customers of the respective network.
If you’re an existing customer, even if your current contract has ended and you attempt to access these offers, you might face challenges transferring your current phone number to the new plan. While it’s possible to secure the deal by starting a completely new contract, this approach may result in you receiving a new phone number.
However, there is a workaround, albeit somewhat involved. You can secure the promotion with a separate new contract and obtain a free pay-as-you-go SIM from a different network. First, transfer (or port) your existing number to the free pay-as-you-go SIM. After that, you can port your number again to the new contract once it’s active. To facilitate this process, you’ll need to request a porting authorization code from your current provider.
9 – How to complain about your network
The mobile industry doesn’t have the best customer service reputation, and while a provider may be good for some, it can be hell for others. Common problems include limited network coverage, slow data speeds, unexpected charges and more.
It’s always worth trying to call your provider to sort the issue first, but if not then you can use free complaints tool Resolver. The tool helps you manage your complaint, and if the company doesn’t play ball, it also helps you escalate your complaint to the free Ombudsman Service (or CISAS if you’re complaining about Virgin Mobile or Sky Mobile).
FAQs
Q – Why choose a Sim-only deal?
A – A Sim-only plan is ideal if you’re satisfied with your current phone or prefer to purchase a new one without committing to a lengthy contract. Explore affordable Sim options using our Cheap Mobile Finder tool.
Q – Who are the main networks in the UK?
A – There are four main networks in the UK: Vodafone, Three, EE and O2. You can use our Cheap Mobile Finder to filter networks if you know a certain network has better coverage in your area.
There are also smaller networks which piggyback of the main networks. These are known as mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs). These are separate from the big providers, but have agreements in place to use their networks, so this can be a good way to save if only one network has good coverage where you are. An example would be Giffgaff, which uses O2’s network to operate its service. More examples include Voxi (uses Vodafone), Tesco Mobile (uses O2) and Smarty (uses Three).
Q – What are the different types of Sim cards?
A – There are three main types and sizes of Sim card available, which fit specific devices. These are:
- Standard Sim card (15mm x 25mm)
- Micro Sim card (12mm x 15mm)
- Nano Sim card (8.8m x 12.3mm)
When you order a Sim card from a provider, it’ll usually send a 3-in-1 Sim, so if your phone supports a smaller size, you’ll be able to break it down to the correct size for your phone. The latest smartphones will usually work with a nano Sim.
Q – How much data should I look for in a Sim-only deal?
A – In our last data usage poll, 70% of the 5,000 respondents said they use less than 3GB a month, while only 4% of people actually use more than 30GB a month.
If you want to check your usage, our handy Data Calculator in our Cheap Mobile Finder tool can help you. Key in your usage (for when you’re not using Wi-Fi) and it’ll give you a general idea of how much data you need.
Q – How easy is it to switch networks?
A – Switching to a cheaper deal with another network is easy. Here’s how to switch providers and keep your number:
- Request a switching code by text. Simply text ‘PAC’ for free to 65075 on any network and you’ll be sent your ‘porting authorisation code’ (PAC) immediately via text so you can keep your number. To get a new number, text ‘STAC’ to 75075.
Its text must include important info, such as any exit penalties, outstanding handset costs or credit balances.
- You need to give the switching code to your new provider within 30 days. You’ll then be switched within one working day. You won’t need to contact your old provider again.