SIM-only or phone contract?
SIM-only gives you a SIM with calls, texts and data — you use your own phone. It's usually the cheapest option if your current phone still works well, and many plans are 1-month rolling or 12 months.
A phone contract bundles a new handset with airtime, typically over 24 or 36 months. It spreads the cost of the phone, but you'll usually pay more overall than buying the phone outright and pairing it with SIM-only. Compare both ways using the total cost.
How much data do I need?
- Up to 10GB: mostly on Wi-Fi; messaging, email, maps and light browsing.
- 10–50GB: regular social media, music streaming and some video away from Wi-Fi.
- 50GB+ or unlimited: heavy video streaming, hotspotting a laptop, or no home broadband.
Check your current usage in your phone's settings or your network's app to see what you really use each month.
Working out the total cost
Total cost = (monthly price × number of months) + upfront cost. A £20/month deal over 24 months with £50 upfront costs £530; a £25/month deal over 24 months with nothing upfront costs £600.
Annual price rises
Most UK networks raise prices once a year, usually in April. Since January 2025, Ofcom rules require these rises to be set out in pounds and pence at the point of sale, so you can see exactly how much more you'll pay each year. Check this in the retailer's terms before you buy.
Switching and keeping your number
- Keep your number: text PAC to 65075. You'll receive a code, valid for 30 days. Give it to your new provider and they'll move your number, usually within one working day.
- Get a new number: text STAC to 75075 to get a Service Termination Authorisation Code.
- These texts are free, and you'll be told about any early termination charges or credit balance in the reply.
- Your old contract ends automatically when the switch completes — you don't need to call to cancel.
Checking coverage
All major UK networks publish postcode coverage checkers on their websites. Check your home, work and any regular journeys. Some networks run on another network's infrastructure, so coverage can be similar between them.
Credit checks
Handset contracts are usually credit agreements, so the retailer will normally carry out a credit check. SIM-only plans may involve a lighter check, and 1-month rolling plans often none. We do not perform credit checks.
Cooling-off and returns
If you buy online or by phone, you generally have 14 days to cancel under the Consumer Contracts Regulations. Retailers may have their own returns policies and may charge for usage during that time. Check the retailer's terms.
Getting help with your network
If you have a problem with your network, complain to them first. If it isn't resolved within eight weeks, or you receive a deadlock letter, you can take it to the network's approved independent dispute resolution scheme free of charge. Ofcom's website explains how.