Is a SIM-only deal cheaper than a phone contract?

Usually yes, because you are not paying off a handset on top of your airtime. If you are happy with your current phone, moving to SIM-only is one of the simplest ways to cut your monthly bill. Compare plans on data and price to find the right one.

Can I use a SIM-only plan in my current phone?

Yes, as long as your phone is unlocked and takes the right SIM size or supports eSIM. Most phones bought in the last few years are unlocked, and providers can send a physical SIM or an eSIM to suit your handset.

How much data should I choose?

Pick an allowance that matches how you use your phone. If you are mostly on wifi, a small plan is plenty, while heavy streaming or tethering points to a large or unlimited plan. Your current account usually shows your recent usage to guide the choice.

Can I keep my number on a SIM-only deal?

Yes. Text PAC to 65075, give the code to your new provider, and your number moves across, usually within one working day, with no break in service.

Do SIM-only plans need a credit check?

Rolling 30-day plans that are paid in advance often need no credit check, while longer contract plans usually do, as with most monthly agreements. Each provider sets its own approach, so check the terms if this matters to you.

Compare SIM Only Deals

Get your SIM-only deal in 3 steps

Choose your deal

Select your ideal SIM-only plan from trusted retailers. Filter by data, price and contract length to find your perfect match.

Get your PAC code

Keep your current number by texting 'PAC' to 65075. It's free and takes minutes.

Complete your order

Finish your application with SIM-only. Your new SIM will be delivered and your number transferred automatically.

What is a SIM-only deal?

A SIM-only deal gives you calls, texts and data without a handset attached. You keep your current phone, or buy one separately, and just pay for the airtime. Because you are not paying off a phone, SIM-only plans are usually cheaper and more flexible than a full phone contract.

Rolling plans versus longer contracts

SIM-only plans come in two main shapes. Rolling 30-day plans have no long commitment, so you can change or leave each month, which suits anyone whose needs change or who wants to stay flexible. Longer 12, 18 or 24-month plans tend to give more data for the price in return for staying put. Pick the trade-off that fits how settled you are.

Networks and the brands that run on them

The four networks that own UK infrastructure are EE, O2, Three and Vodafone. Many SIM-only brands run on top of those networks, so a smaller, cheaper brand can give you the same coverage as a major one. A plan's coverage matches the network it runs on, so check signal where you live first. Our UK mobile coverage map and the Ofcom checker both show how each network performs by postcode.

How to choose a SIM-only plan

Match the data allowance to your real usage rather than the biggest bundle, since most people overpay for data. Decide whether you value the freedom of a rolling plan or the lower price of a longer one. Then compare on the monthly cost and check each plan's terms, including any mid-contract price changes, before you switch.

Switching and keeping your number

To keep your number, text PAC to 65075, pass the code your provider sends to your new network, and your number transfers, usually within one working day. If you only want a fresh number, you can skip that step.

Our impact grows with you

Every successful switch through Switchity plants 2 trees through our verified reforestation partner, Ecologi. Our switchers have already captured over 5,240 kg of CO₂ and released nearly 26,986 kg of oxygen annually.

262 / 1000 trees26% to goal

Verified reforestation partner: Ecologi

Best Environmentally-Focused Comparison Platform 2026, SME News