There are several ways to pay for your mobile phone. You can keep your phone and get a SIM-only plan, get a new phone with a contract, or use pay as you go.
So, start with one simple question:
Do I need a new phone?
Keep Your Phone?
If your phone still works well, you may not need to replace it. Instead, you could keep it and move to SIM-only.
This can save money because you are not paying for a new phone you do not need.
What Is SIM-Only?
SIM-only gives you mobile service without a new phone. It normally includes:
- data
- calls
- texts
You use the SIM in a phone you already own. Some phones can also use an eSIM, which is a digital SIM rather than a physical card.
So, if you are happy with your phone, SIM-only is worth checking.
Need a New Phone?
If you need a new phone, you could get it as part of a mobile deal or buy it yourself and add a SIM-only plan.
So, compare both options before you choose.
Check the Full Cost
Do not look only at the monthly price. A deal can seem cheap because the cost is spread over a long time.
For example:
£45 a month × 24 months = £1,080
So, work out the full cost and compare it with:
Phone bought separately + SIM-only plan
This gives you a better idea of which option costs less.
How Much Data?
Next, check how much data you use. There is little point paying for a very large amount if you rarely use it.
For example, if you normally use 10GB a month, you may not need 100GB.
So, choose enough for your normal use, with some spare for busier months.
Use our Mobile Data Calculator →
Check the Contract Length
A longer contract can make the monthly payment lower. However, it also means you may be tied in for longer.
Leaving early can also cost money, so check how long the contract lasts before you sign.
Check for Price Rises
Your monthly price may rise during the contract. Therefore, check:
- if the price will rise
- when it will rise
- how much it will rise by
- what the new price will be
Then include the rise when you compare the full cost.
What Is Pay As You Go?
With pay as you go, you add credit or buy a bundle for your data, calls and texts.
There is usually no long contract, so it can suit people who use their phone less or want more freedom.
However, it is not always cheaper. Compare it with SIM-only before you choose.
Check What You Get
Before you sign up, check what the plan includes:
- data
- calls and texts
- contract length
- price rises
- roaming
- extra charges
- cost of the phone
Some deals also include extras, such as streaming services. These can be useful, but they are poor value if you would not normally buy them.
When Your Contract Ends
Your provider should tell you when your contract is coming to an end. When this happens, check your options again.
For example, if you have finished paying for your phone and it still works well, you could keep it and move to SIM-only.
That may be cheaper than getting another phone.
Which Option Is Right?
My phone works well
→ Check SIM-only.
I need a new phone
→ Compare a phone deal with buying the phone yourself.
I use my phone very little
→ Compare pay as you go with SIM-only.
I want more freedom
→ Look at shorter SIM-only plans.
I do not know how much data I use
→ Use the Mobile Data Calculator.
Choose in This Order
First, decide if you need a new phone. Next, check how much data you use.
Then:
- Check network coverage.
- Choose the type of plan.
- Compare the full cost.
- Check the contract length.
- Check any price rises.
- Check roaming and extras.
Finally, choose the deal that best fits your needs.
Key Points
- Keep your phone if it still works well.
- Check SIM-only if you do not need a new phone.
- Compare the full cost, not just the monthly price.
- Check the contract length and price rises.
- Pay only for the data and extras you need.
First choose what you need. Then compare the cost.
Important Information
Energility provides general information to help you understand energy, household and business costs, services and ways to save money. It is not financial, legal, tax, technical or professional advice.
Prices, tariffs, grants, government schemes, regulations and other information can change. Costs, savings and calculator results are estimates and your actual results may be different.
Before making an important financial decision, signing a contract or carrying out significant work, check the latest information and consider getting advice from a suitably qualified professional where needed.
Energility may receive a commission or other benefit from some links or services. Where this applies, we aim to make it clear. This does not increase the price you pay unless stated otherwise.
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