Getting a mobile plan
Looking for a new mobile plan? Here’s everything you need to know before committing to a new phone contract in the UK.
Find a mobile plan that’s right for you
Our phones rarely leave our sides, so finding the perfect mobile plan is essential.
Whether you only need a small data allowance, are looking for affordable international calls or want to enjoy unlimited streaming, there’s a package for you.
Find out more about the UK’s carrier networks, what add-ons to look out for and more in this guide.
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Biggest mobile networks in the UK
EE Mobile
The UK’s biggest network, now owned and operated by BT.
O2 Mobile
The UK’s second biggest network, which recently merged with Virgin Media.
Vodafone
In the first half of 2025, Vodafone will be merging with Three, to become Vodafone Three.
Three
Vodafone Three will become the UK’s biggest network with wide-spread coverage.
How much do mobile plans cost?
The price of a mobile plan on the UK depends on a few factors. First – is the plan for a handset and contract, including the cost of the phone itself, or SIM only, where you only pay for the calls, texts and mobile data?
Second, how much mobile data is included, ranging from just 1GB a month to unlimited mobile data. Third is any included extra features such as pre-paid international calling. Last, the price will vary between providers, with different companies offering different levels of service and extra perks.
Getting a phone with your SIM
Paying for your phone handset and SIM together in monthly instalments is very common in the UK. Usually you will save money on your monthly data but pay more for the handset itself than you would buying it outright. If you are planning to buy your phone in a single purchase, this will be the best value option. However, if you are planning to spread the cost of your handset already then combining this with your call and data plan will usually be cheaper.
Do mobile plans go on sale?
Different providers have different special offers throughout the year. If you’re looking for a combined handset and mobile plan, providers often drop the price for previous generation phones when the new version releases. For SIM only plans, shopping around Black Friday (November) or in late December and January can help you find a great deal. Check out our complete guide here.
Fixed contracts
The best value phone plans are fixed-term contracts. Generally speaking, the longer the contract, the less you’ll pay.
Pay as you go
If you prefer the flexibility to switch or cancel without paying a fee, pay-as-you-go contracts can be changed month to month.
Contract expiration
If you opt for a fixed-term contract, make a note of when it’s due to expire. Once it does, your monthly cost will increase but you’ll be able to start a new contract and keep saving.
How to find a good mobile deal
The best mobile for you depends on how you use your phone and what features you can’t live without.
Make a list of the features that are important to you, and then compare across as many suppliers as possible to get the best price. You can also use Ofcom’s independent reports on different suppliers to check customer complaints and service issues for the companies you’re comparing.
Can I save money by bundling broadband & mobile?
Yes, you can save money on your mobile and broadband plan by combining the two. Sky, EE and Virgin Media all offer discounts on mobile plans for the broadband customers or vice versa.
is international calling included?
Making international calls is not usually included in the allocated minutes of your mobile plan, even if they’re unlimited. If you’re expecting to make a lot of international calls, look for a plan with an add-on that discounts international calls to save.
Struggling to find the best deal for you? Sign up with your new address, and we will find the best options for your home – all set up in minutes.
Unlimited data
Some mobile plans offer unlimited data, but this is only good value for the very busiest users. Look at your monthly data usage in settings, the best value plan for you will be one with a data allowance similar to this.
Limitless social media
If you primarily use a particular app or apps such as Instagram, TikTok or Snapchat, look for a plan with limitless social data. These are cheaper than truly unlimited data.
Unlimited texts and calls
Unlimited texts and UK phone calls are now standard across UK mobile plans except for the very cheapest. However, you’ll usually still pay for international calls and calls to premium numbers.
What information do I need to set up a mobile plan?
When setting up your mobile plan, you’ll need to provide the following personal details:
- Your proof of identity
- Your date of birth
- Your contact details
- Your preferred payment method (either a credit, debit card, or the sort code and account number of a UK bank account)
Do I need a good credit score?
Setting up a pay-as-you-go plan won’t require any kind of UK credit history or a credit check. However a fixed-term plan, especially one with a handset, will require a credit check.
These checks are looking for negative credit history and missed payments, so average scores are fine for the vast majority of plans.
We work with relocation companies and people migrating to the UK on a daily basis. Sign up now to get recommendations on which mobile providers are suitable for those new to the UK.
No UK credit history?
Most service providers require a good credit history for fixed term contracts. If you’re new to the UK, or setting up a contract for the first time – this may not be something you have.
If you’re looking to grow your credit score, check out Canopy Grow, a service that reports your rent payments to all 3 major credit referencing agencies with no hard checks.
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