If you’re looking for a new phone or your current contract is ending, you’re probably weighing up which option to go for next: a SIM only deal, or a pay-monthly contract phone.
Both involve a monthly contract for your data, minutes and texts, whilst pay monthly contract phones also come with a new handset of your choice. Browse our range of SIM only and pay monthly contracts to find the best deal for you.
What’s a SIM only deal?
A SIM only deal gives you a monthly allowance of minutes, texts and data for an agreed amount of time, without the price of a new handset built into your monthly cost. If you’re happy with how your existing phone is running, a SIM only plan will make a smaller dent in your finances on a monthly basis – compared to a pay monthly contract phone with the same allowances – regardless of contract length. When you open a SIM only contract with us, our SIM Only Price Lock means you’ll never be caught out by unexpected annual price increases.
If you want to switch up your handset further down the line, you can do so stress-free, in the knowledge that you aren’t still paying off the old one. Although, you will need to buy the new phone outright, enter into a second contract to pay for it monthly, or upgrade your contract early, so it’s good to think carefully about your needs long-term before you choose SIM only.
Depending on your provider, SIM only contract options might range from 1 to 36 months.
What’s a pay monthly contract phone?
Pay monthly phone contracts are again taken out for an agreed period of time, but they include the cost of a new handset alongside the monthly allowance of data, minutes and texts. These contracts are a great option if you like to have the latest model but would rather not buy a brand-new phone upfront.
Contract lengths usually range from 6-36 months to ensure you can spread the cost of your handset as much as you like. Of course, your choice of data allowance impacts your monthly cost, but generally speaking, the newer the phone, the more you will pay each month. When you reach the end of your contract, you can upgrade your phone and switch to a new contract if you’d prefer or move to SIM only.
Should I choose a SIM only or pay monthly contract phone?
There’s benefits to both SIM only contracts and pay monthly contract phones, but the best option for you ultimately depends on what you’d like to pay, how you’d like to pay, and whether you’re keen to get a new handset.
Benefits of SIM only deals
Benefits of pay monthly contract phones
What’s the difference between contracts and Pay As You Go SIM deals?
Simply put, contracts offer a set allowance per month over an agreed number of months, while you pay a monthly fee. Pay As You Go deals allow you to choose a SIM preloaded with your choice of data, minutes and messages, which will usually expire after a month. You can then choose to renew for another month or top-up whenever you need to.
Pay As You Go (PAYG) is a great option if you’re looking for more flexibility from your phone bill, because there’s no contract involved. If you don’t use your phone very often, this could help you save on regular contract costs.
Are pay monthly contract phones more expensive?
Pay monthly contract phones are usually more expensive than SIM only deals with an equivalent allowance, because you also get a shiny new handset! Depending on your provider, you might pay more for the handset by spreading the cost this way – instead of buying upfront – due to interest being added. ]It is also worth noting that contract phone plan is subject to annual price increases which means the monthly cost of your contract phones plan will go up every year. That’s why it’s always important to weigh up the handset cost against what you want to invest and what you can afford each month. However, contract phones do allow you to buy the latest handsets, and you can often get access to extra benefits like higher trade-in values, discounted phone security and Apple Music, which could save you some pennies in the long run.
What else should I know about contracts?
How much data you need
If you rely on your phone for data-gobbling films, music and games on your commute, you might benefit from unlimited data.
4G or 5G
Some providers don’t offer 5G or have limited 5G coverage. Our superfast 5G covers 99% of the UK, so you’ll be able to use your new phone from almost anywhere.
Data roaming
If you’re a regular jetsetter, you’ll probably want inclusive roaming, which not all providers offer. You can text, call and scroll as usual in the EU with iD Mobile’s 30GB free EU roaming; there to help you navigate from the beach to the bar while you’re abroad.
FAQs.
Yes, you can keep your number when you switch to a new provider or choose a SIM only deal. You’ll need to request a PAC code from your current provider in order to move your new number across. Find out more about how to switch your number.
Once your pay monthly contract ends, you’re free to switch to a SIM only deal. If you’re still in contract, you might need to pay an early-termination fee or settle the remaining handset cost before switching.
Whether it’s the newest piece of tech you’re after, or something a little more cost-effective, our deals are designed for everyone. Have a read of our guide to SIM free phones for more advice on finding your next handset.