SIM-Only Plans: Everything you Need to Know

New to SIM-only plans?

Switching to a SIM-only deal for the first time can seem daunting – but it could also be a smart, savvy, and exciting move for you.

Not everyone needs the latest handset with an eye-wateringly priced contract.

In fact, most people don’t.

This is why we help sign up countless customers to a new SIM-only deal every day. If you’re happy with your current mobile device, it could be perfect for you too.

Read on to learn everything else you need to know.

What is a SIM-only deal?

A SIM-only deal does exactly what it says on the tin.

Rather than sticking with a long term, £30+ monthly contract to pay off the cost of a new device, you’re only paying for your usage.

Your usage includes texts, minutes, and data – not the handset itself.

Once you picked a suitable plan, you’ll receive a SIM card, which is a small and removable card you can put straight into your current mobile to activate it and connect you to the network.

A lot of people don’t realise when they’re out of contract, so they often end up overpaying for months when they already own the phone outright and could switch to a SIM for no-brainer savings!

Benefits to consider

Our experts have explained all the benefits of getting a SIM-only plan below.

Money savings. As you’ll have guessed it, SIM-only plans are considerably cheaper than handset contracts. Our SIM-only deals start from just £5 per month, whereas the average contract is at least £30 per month.
Personalised usage. Not only will your bill be cheaper, but you’ll find that SIM-plans can be a lot more generous too. In a few quick clicks, we’ll help you find a deal that gives you all the minutes, texts and data you need.
Freedom and flexibility. A lot of networks will offer you 30-day rolling contracts, Pay -as-you-go, or short term SIM-only plans. Given that the average contract length is 24 months, a short-term SIM would be perfect if you don’t want to be tied down. What’s more, a lot of deals give you the freedom to change or end your plan whenever you want – as long as you give a bit of notice.
Travel-ready. If you’re going abroad, a SIM-only plan gives you the freedom to use minutes and data internationally, without it costing you a fortune.

Are there any disadvantages of a SIM-only plan?

The only resounding difference between a contract and a SIM-only plan is that you don’t get a new mobile included with your deal. This means you’ve got to own a device beforehand, which might not suit every customer.

Networks may also be less likely to throw in freebies and perks with a SIM-only plan, due to their competitively low prices.

However, if you’re looking to save up money (perhaps for a new device?), a SIM-only plan helps you do just that, without any long-term commitments.

How do I set up a SIM card?

Once you have your new SIM card, you’ll need to activate it.

This typically involves calling your carrier or visiting their website to input your SIM card information and set up your account. Make sure you have your phone’s IMEI number handy, as well as any other information your carrier requires to activate your account.

Once your account is set up and your SIM card is activated, your new phone is ready to go!

If you’re switching carriers, you may need to transfer your contacts and other data from your old phone to your new one. This can be done using a cloud service or through a USB cable.

Regardless of what deal you choose; our experts will guide you through the whole switching process and explain everything you need to know.

Will a SIM-only plan affect my credit score?

Unlike a pay monthly mobile contract, signing up for a SIM-only doesn’t involve a credit check.

Making regular-timed payments every month for your SIM deal helps you to build a positive payment history, which will boost your credit score over time.

This makes a SIM-only deal more attractive if you’ve had issues with your credit rating in the past and want to build it back up.

What is an eSIM?

eSIMs are still a fairly modern invention, but they’re set to take off in the near future. Rather than having a separate SIM card to put into your phone, your phone will have one prebuilt into the device.

When switching network carriers, eSIMs can be reprogrammed with ease, making them a popular choice for users with multiple phone numbers with one device.