Showing posts with label SIM Only. Show all posts
Showing posts with label SIM Only. Show all posts

Wednesday, 21 May 2014

Buyers Guide for Virgin Mobile SIM only cover


Virgin Mobile
When it's time for an upgrade or your mobile contract is about to run out , not everyone wants a new handset. For those customers with SIM only offers a real alternative where you can keep your existing phone but still change rates or networks.

Virgin Mobile thinks it has a number of deals that can make you feel like a real VIP even if your trusty handset is a bit past its prime. Short-term contracts , the flexibility to customize your inclusive minutes , text and data allowances and no added expense of paying for a new handset , SIM only deals are becoming increasingly popular.

Why choose Virgin Mobile SIM only ?

If you like to stick to your existing phone but are keen to switch your rate , one of the Virgin Mobile SIM only tariffs to go the way. With coverage set to 99 % of the UK population , in association with a deal that Virgin Mobile customers will automatically switch to the Orange / T -Mobile / EE network when there is not enough coverage of their main supplier , you have not connected a problem continue.

The short -term , 30-day contracts mean that you will not be stuck with a deal you do not like too long. This means you can use a Virgin Mobile SIM only rate as a stop -gap deal while you 're waiting to be released , a new cell phone or a temporary additional cell line.

What are my options ?

Virgin Mobile offers four different SIM only deals on pay monthly tariffs , all contracts at 30 days. Customers looking for an alternative Pay As You Go can choose from two options - one with unlimited text and one with unlimited calling.
You can read our in-depth review of the Virgin Mobile SIM only plans by clicking below :
Virgin Mobile SIM only
Get 150 included minutes , unlimited texts and 500MB of data for £ 7 per month.
Virgin Mobile Starter SIM only
250 UK the mobile and landline minutes , unlimited texts and 1GB of data for £ 10 per month.
Virgin Mobile SIM only essential
£ 12 per month, offers 1200 minutes , unlimited texts and 1GB of data per month.
VIP Virgin Mobile SIM only
Unlimited minutes , texts and data for £ 15 per month.

How much will it cost ?

Flexible 30 day rolling contracts are available from £ 7 to £ 15 per month, subject to a 99p delivery for web and telephone orders - unless you are an existing Virgin Mobile or Virgin Media customers who get free delivery. If you want a physical paper bill sent to you every month , you will need an extra £ 1.50 per month - but you may fee by signing up for an eBill instead.

Virgin Mobile runs a credit check before delivering new SIM cards , and you want to sign up for direct debit payments until the conclusion of a contract.

Even if you choose a plan with unlimited calling , you'll need to keep your conversations to 60 minutes so that they remain free - you will be amortized as you go about an hour mark.

Which rate is right for me ?

If you want the most generous data , text and inclusive minute deal, go straight to the VIP -only SIM rate. The £ 15 a month 30 day contract provides unlimited calls, texts and data , which means you can chat , message and download without fear of exceeding your benefit.

If you are more likely to text , call or go online , but still want the freedom to do all three , the essential SIM only plan for £ 12 can be for a month. The text - friendly fare you get unlimited text messages , 1200 inclusive minutes and 1GB of data.

The only real difference between the basic plan and the slightly cheaper Starter SIM -only tariff is that you get to save 2. 950 fewer minutes for your £ If you know that you are not likely to make a large number of calls , but finding the level of data and text messages appealing to click the Starter SIM card is a good option.

The cheapest deal, the plan SIM only cost £ 7 per month , contains only 150 minutes of talk time and 500MB of data - but an unlimited number of texts. If you trust that texting is the most important way you use your phone , this contract would be suitable for you. Below 10 pounds

What about data and speeds?

There are three levels of data allowance , whichever SIM only plan you choose. You can get a conservative 500MB allowance , with 1GB double or you can also opt for unlimited data with the VIP SIM only deal.
All plans have a fair use policy , and you will find that even the VIP SIM -only fare , which advertises unlimited data actually has a 3.5 GB monthly limit. You can read about how this effects is by reading our in-depth guides for each SIM - only offer. Affect you

The provider states that you should expect speeds up to 384Kbps on its 3G network - but points out that the actual speeds that can reach may be higher or lower depending on the device you are using and your location at the moment.

If you spend a lot of time in the capital , you can save your payment information and get free access to Wi - Fi on the escalators , walkways and ticket halls of the London Underground network , while making it easier to keep in touch. Moving

What about 'binding' ?

If you plan on using your phone for "bind" - where you can share your data connection with other devices Contracts Virgin Mobile is that you can not. By doing this, you could end up using data faster than if you just browse on your handset , as you probably download full versions of those sites you visit instead of mobile - friendly. This is especially likely if you have tethered. Your phone to a laptop
In theory , mobile operators can easily track if you are bind by checking how many takes 'steps' every packet on its journey from their servers via your handset and your destination device.
The terms and conditions state that you do not use your connection for peer-to - peer file sharing either , which is another very data-intensive online activities.

Our Recommends

The right package for you depends entirely on what you want from your mobile phone contract - but we would choose the Virgin Mobile VIP to get unlimited data , texts and minutes SIM only deal.
Six essential questions before you buy
There are six key questions to ask to find out if a Virgin Mobile SIM only deal is right for you.
Virgin Mobile offers adequate coverage where you live ?

If you keep your existing phone happy?


  • Do you need to unlock your current handset to use with Virgin Mobile?
  • Are you looking for a flexible 30 day contract?
  • If you are not affected by the lack of international data for iPhones ?
  • You can make a payment by direct debit set up to Virgin Mobile?
  • How do I go to Virgin Mobile ?

Virgin Mobile recommends that if you are about to move to its network plan and want to keep the old number , you need a PAC code ( which stands for Porting authorization code ) applications from your previous provider. If you request this when you let your network know that you're leaving , it should transfer your existing number to Virgin Mobile's much easier. You must act quickly , however, as PACs only 30 days after they are issued. You will also find that Virgin Mobile will not be able to move your number over the weekend or during the holidays and the switch could take up to 24 hours of power.

When you connect your phone before on a different network and plan on using it with a Virgin Mobile SIM card , you need to have it to unlock work. Several networks can charge you for the unlocking code , you will be prompted to enter when first put in a new SIM card.

Buyers Guide for 3 Mobile SIM only

3 Mobile
Looking for a new SIM card to buy pop in your smartphone or tablet and curious what 3 Mobile offer? Our impartial guide shows the various options to help you make the right choice .

Why choose 3 Mobile?

The network was built specifically for the internet and it was the first to launch 3G mobile broadband back in 2003 . You will notice that 3 Mobile SIM only plans really are geared to those who like to spend time online with great value rates generous and limited data .

In fact , 3 Mobile is one of the few providers to offer ' unlimited ' internet information on the extensive 3G network , as well as the new super- fast 4G network has recently launched its nationwide roll out . A big bonus is that 3 has announced plans to upgrade automatically from 3G to 4G customers at no extra cost as the service in your area - allowing you arrive have a 4G - ready device .

You may already know the benefits of SIM only deals like the ability to use any device , and they save on the cost of buying a new phone . At 3 Mobile, you can also choose between a month or 12 month terms on SIM -only mobile plans so you do not have to commit long term if you do not like - although a few pounds extra each month for the shorter , more flexible option will pay

What are my options ?

There is a wide choice of SIM only plans on 3 Mobile which, depending on which device you vary how you want to pay and how often you want to chat , text and surf the net.

The smartphone SIMs include different sized bundles of inclusive texts , calls and internet data, while the tablet plans contain information only .

The pay monthly plans must take a credit check and commit to pay a monthly direct debit , whereas the Pay As You Go plans are credit check free, but you 'll have active top up when your credit runs out or expires ( depending on is the sooner ) .

Your 3 mobile SIM only options include:

  • Smartphone pay monthly ( one month or 12 month contracts)
  • Smartphone Pay As You Go
  • Tablet pay monthly (one month contracts only)
  • Tablet PC Pay as You Go
  • Which package is right for me ?

There is a SIM -only plan every level of user in 3 Mobile , so it's just a case of defining what you need in terms of :


  • Your budget
  • Your typical use - light , medium or heavy ?
  • What device you have - tablet or smartphone?
  • How do you want to pay - monthly direct debit or PAYG top-up ?
Unlimited data plans are available on pay monthly and PAYG mobiles and for its great value for those who spend a lot of time online . But if you do not there is no point paying for unlimited use and you will find one of the 500MB or 1GB is more affordable and convenient .

Tablet PC customers can choose between 250MB , 1GB or a generous 10GB of data on internet pay monthly, while the PAYG work a little different plans . Can you 1GB for a month ; 3GB for three months or 12GB for 12 months.

Our Recommends

The One Plan is the jewel in the crown and 3 Mobile sure what we would recommend for users who want to get the most out of their smartphone . SIM - only plan provides unlimited data plus 2,000 minutes ( plus an additional 5,000 to three mobile numbers ) 5,000 texts and inclusive tethering , all for under £ 20 per month on a 12 month contract or transaction .

Six essential questions before you buy

If three mobile sounds like the perfect provider for you , consider these questions before you compare offers:
  • Your phone is 3G or 4G ready?
  • Do I need unlimited data would be sufficient or a capped plan?
  • How do I make calls and texts every month ?
  • I want to implement for 12 months , or pay a little extra for a month flexibility?
  • Will my smartphone to accept a 3 Mobile SIM unlocked for entry ?
  • Which SIM size do I need? (see below)
  • Do I need to bind a plan that ? (see below)

More Details About 3 Mobile

If you need more information to help you make up your mind needed here is more detail about what you can expect from 3 Mobile .

Friendly tie

The process of using your phone as a modem to connect other devices on the Internet is known as binding . In the terms and conditions , 3 Mobile states that ' unlimited' data applies to data usage on your phone and does not include tethering on any PAYG plan. Tethering has been included as standard on a SIM - only plan , and you can buy a 1GB binding add-on for the ultimate Internet -only SIM plan as well .

No fair usage policy

It is not uncommon for unlimited data subject buried at a fair usage policy in the fine print , but fortunately this is not the case with 3 Mobile. If the network built for the internet , you can really get as much data as you want without worrying about extra costs or hitting a limit . However, as above - not every plan includes unlimited data binding .

Select the appropriate size of the SIM

SIM cards come in three different sizes : standard, micro and nano so it's important to choose the right one for your phone or tablet . All three rates are available on all mobile SIM sizes , so you have the best of the best have any device.

Unlocking your phone

If you are considering the switch to 3 Mobile from another network , you'll want to check whether your phone is locked with your previous provider . If not , happy day - you can use your new SIM card from 3 Mobile directly in pop . Otherwise , your phone will be unlocked .

Some phones can be unlocked simply by entering a special code from your network provider , while others can be unlocked by an expert at the expense of up to 20 pounds of charge. While perfectly legal , is a word of warning that unlocking is done at your own risk and your phone can guarantee.

How do I go to 3 Mobile?

Before you with open arms to 3 Mobile, its important control which signal is like in your area. Unlimited data have no use if you can not be online to use it . Pop your postcode coverage checker to find out .

Next , make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible . Since 3 Mobile is built on the Internet , you must have a 3G or 4G ready handset - older phones that work only on 2G networks simply will not benefit from the network. To test whether your phone is 3G or 4G : text 'Mobile ' 78333 .

Now , you can just buy the SIM card you want and wait for it to arrive in the mail. If you want to keep your old phone number , leave your old network provider know that you're leaving ; request your PAC code and pass it on 3 . It promises to move your number in less than a day .

Tablet PC Buying Guide SIM Only

If you have a 3G or 4G ready tablet , will sign up for a SIM -only contracts designed specifically mean for you that you no longer have to rely on Wi - Fi to get online.

Offering different levels of inclusive data from a constantly growing number of service providers , with a variety of offers are SIM only contracts tablet useful for consumers who want an easy way to mobile internet on the go .

Why do I need a tablet SIM?

If you have a tablet that can accept a SIM card (they are always referred to as "mobile" tablets as both 3G and 4G options are available now ) , the addition of a SIM card, go online wherever you are . Without it , you have to rely on finding Wi - Fi hotspots to access the internet - which can be problematic depending on where in the country you are.

Early tablets were only Wi - Fi devices can not connect to any cellular networks . The introduction of 3G ( and eventually 4G ) technology to more recent tablets owners have expanded opportunities to get online.

Essentially operate as a mobile phone SIM rate, but focuses solely going to mean that if you get a 3G or 4G signal can , you will be able to get online on data rather than calls and texts , SIM only Tablet PC obtain.

What are my options ?

An increasing number of providers are offering SIM only deals that are specially designed for tablet users . Unlike their mobile counterparts , they do not contain minutes or texts . Instead, they rely on inclusive amounts of data in order to attract customers. Still be more and more suppliers to allow Wi - Fi , 3G or 4G calls and texts over data networks , a tablet SIM offer you the best of both worlds .

Tablets tend to mini - SIM ( 15 x 25 mm ) , micro - SIM ( 12 mm x 15 mm ) or nano - SIM cards (8.8 mm x 12.3 mm ) use . You need to check which SIM Tablet PC is used for the commission of a contract . For example , the iPad Mini uses a nano - SIM , the Sony Xperia Tablet S 3G accepts a mini - SIM , while the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 , iPad 2 and iPad 3 use all micro - SIMs .

How much will it cost ?

SIM only tablet that offers tend to be either offered on Pay As You Go or short month contracts , although it is possible to sign up with longer minimum terms if you prefer . This only makes SIM tablet contracts very flexible .

Prices can start from as little as £ 5 per month , with a general guideline , the more inclusive data you need, the more it will cost .

With 3G and 4G SIM only deals available , consumers can choose which is best for them , but it is important to check first both 3G and 4G coverage in your area . Also means a wide range of data allowance both casual and heavy mobile broadband users to select . Appropriate contract

How to choose the correct SIM card ?

This is a SIM only contracts are supplied without a tablet device - so they are only suitable if you already have a 3G or 4G -enabled tablet.

Unless you select a Pay As You Go rates , your SIM only contract will roll when the minimum term expires . If you hold a short contract for a longer period of time , it could end up costing you more than you originally selected a longer period .

To make sure you get the right SIM card for you , it is important to consider how much data you probably use every month and how much you want to spend your contract or Pay As You Go deal. Unlike SIM only deals for cell phones , you should consider how many minutes , texts and how much data is included in getting your deal , consumers are looking for the perfect SIM only deal tablet should really deal with three things : network coverage, data fees and expenses .

By examining how much data you need versus how much your monthly budget, you are more likely to find the right rate for you to .

Which only offers SIM Tablet Deals ?

This is a read - SIM tablet contracts are available from most major networks and providers . This is a SIM -only offers designed for tablet users can be purchased at : giffgaff , 3 mobile , Virgin Media , T -Mobile , EE , Vodafone , O2 and TalkTalk.

Can I ‘tether’ with my tablet SIM?

"Tethering" is a SIM using Tablet PC or a mobile phone as a Wi - Fi hotspot that other devices to the Internet via connecting service can. Several providers have to tie their own point of view . Some , such as Virgin Mobile , saying that you should not bind . Tablet PC to other devices Providers , such as EE and 3 Mobile , however, say that you can bind. Tablet PC

If you plan to regularly chain of the Tablet PC , you should check with your chosen provider , you can do this with them or on the plan you have chosen.

Do I have to unlock my tablet ?

Tablet PC SIM cards can easily be moved from one device to the other , so much more than their counterparts smartphone. Unlike mobile phones, tablet devices tend to provide ' open ' , meaning you can move networks and SIM cards exchange without worrying about the Tablet PC is locked to a particular provider .

Our Recommends

Finding the right tablet SIM only deal depends a lot on how much data you need, how much you want to pay and how comprehensive the coverage of the network of your chosen provider . We opt for the 10GB Mobile Internet Data SIM only deal from 3 Mobile, which allows a healthy amount of data for the same price as some other less information -packed deals.

Six essential questions before you buy

To decide whether a SIM only contract is suitable for you , ask yourself the following questions :

The Tablet PC is accepts a SIM card ?
Does your chosen network that the right sized SIM ?
Do you want the flexibility that brings a short - term contract ?
Will you have adequate network coverage where you are?
Does your chosen plan sufficient data in it?
Will you be able to set up a rolling payment by direct debit ?

Top Tips

  • Use a coverage checker to see which networks are available in your area .
  • Compare different rates before you buy
  • If you plan on using a lot of mobile Internet , check that your deal has enough data .
  • Do not spend more on unlimited minutes , texts or data if you really do not need to .
  • SIM only contracts should be as short as 30 days, but will roll if you do not cancel .
  • Knowing what type of SIM card, your phone does : it will be a mini - , micro - or nano - SIM .
  • Do not forget your SIM card with a PIN .
Shopping : all major mobile networks and service providers offer SIM only deals.

Jargon Buster

  • SIM permanently Subscriber Identity Module , a SIM card is a chip of memory dongles can be found in the selected tablet devices, mobile phones and Wi - Fi .
  • SIM card physical card that is inserted . SIM card These come in three sizes : mini , micro- and nano.
  • SIM -only mobile phone or tablet contract where your network provides you with a SIM card , but to use it with . No device
  • SIM - free mobile device ( usually a phone ) that is bought ' open ' and is compatible with any network .
  • PIN personal identification number is a four digit code that you can limit . Access to your SIM card
  • Monthly usage allowance - how much data , texts and minutes your contract covers every month .
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