SIM only deals
30-day rolling plans with no contracts. Compare budget and independent networks — same masts as EE and Vodafone, lower prices.
Budget and independent networks use the same masts as the big names — you get identical coverage at a lower price. Affiliate disclosure: GadgetRank earns a small commission on purchases at no extra cost to you.
Why choose a SIM only deal?
30-day rolling means you can cancel or switch whenever you like. No early exit fees.
Text PAC to 65075 from your current SIM. Your network must provide it within 2 hours, free.
1pMobile uses EE's network — the UK's widest 4G and 5G coverage — at a fraction of EE's price.
Any unlocked phone accepts a new SIM. Locked to a network? You can request unlocking free after 6 months.
More providers added as partnerships are confirmed. All prices correct at time of publication — check provider sites for current offers.
What is a SIM only deal?
A SIM only deal gives you calls, texts and data without a handset. You keep your existing phone and just switch the SIM card — or stay on the same SIM if you port your number to a cheaper network. SIM only plans are significantly cheaper than phone contracts because you are not paying off a handset.
The biggest savings come from choosing a budget or independent network rather than going direct to EE, O2, Vodafone or Three. Budget networks like 1pMobile lease capacity from the major networks — 1pMobile runs on EE — so you get the same coverage at a fraction of the price.
SIM only vs phone contract — which is better?
If you already have a phone you are happy with, SIM only is almost always the better deal. A typical 24-month phone contract bundles a handset with data — but you pay a premium for the convenience. Once you have paid off the phone (or bought it outright or refurbished), a SIM only plan gives you the same network coverage for far less per month.
For example, a 100GB SIM only plan on 1pMobile costs £10/month on EE's network. The equivalent EE direct plan costs around £25/month. Over 12 months that's a saving of £180 for identical coverage.
How to switch to a SIM only deal
- Check you are out of contract — if you are still in a phone contract, check the exit fee before switching. Many contracts let you leave penalty-free after the minimum term.
- Get your PAC code — to keep your existing mobile number, text PAC to 65075 from your current SIM. Your network must provide it within 2 hours, free of charge.
- Choose a plan — compare the plans above. For most people, the 30-day rolling plans are best — you can switch or cancel any time without penalty.
- Order and activate — your new SIM arrives within a few days. Activate it online, enter your PAC code and your number transfers within one working day.
What to look for in a SIM only deal
Data allowance
Light use (social, maps, messaging) needs 5-10GB/month. Heavy use (streaming, working on the go) needs 50GB+. Unlimited plans are now available from budget networks.
Network coverage
Check which major network your chosen provider uses. 1pMobile uses EE — the UK's widest 4G and 5G coverage. Check Ofcom's coverage checker for your specific postcode.
Contract length
30-day rolling gives you maximum flexibility. You can switch whenever you find a better deal. Annual plans are cheaper per month but lock you in for 12 months.
Roaming
Budget networks often have limited or no roaming included. If you travel regularly, check the roaming policy — or use a separate travel SIM for trips abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1pMobile's network as good as EE?
Yes — 1pMobile uses EE's own network infrastructure. The coverage is identical to EE's direct plans. The difference is price, not network quality. EE is the UK's most extensive 4G and 5G network, covering over 99% of the UK population.
Can I keep my existing phone number?
Yes. Text PAC to 65075 from your current SIM — your network must send you the code within 2 hours, free of charge. Give the PAC code to your new provider and your number transfers within one working day. Under Ofcom rules this process must be free and fast.
What's the difference between 30-day rolling and a 12-month SIM only contract?
A 30-day rolling plan renews monthly and can be cancelled any time without penalty. A 12-month contract is cheaper per month but locks you in for a year — leaving early usually means paying the remaining months. For most people, 30-day rolling is the smarter choice unless the monthly saving is significant.
Will a budget SIM work in my phone?
Yes, provided your phone is unlocked. If you bought your phone outright or have finished your contract, it should be unlocked. If you're still under contract or bought through a network, it may be locked to that network — contact them to unlock it, which must be free under Ofcom rules after 12 months.