Buyers Guide for SIM only deals
If you are happy with your current handset but want you like to upgrade your rate , could be a SIM only deal offer the ideal solution . You will sign a new contract but rather comes with a new phone , just get a new SIM card instead.
This means that networks can move contracts , and modify the bundle of inclusive minutes , texts and data you get , but to avoid the cost of a new phone . Additionally , you stick to the handset that you are already familiar with , the time and effort to save to grips with a different name .
SIM-only explained
A SIM only deal is a mobile phone contract where you can choose from a range of tariffs offering different amounts of data , texts and inclusive minutes . Unlike other mobile contracts , SIM only rates do not include a handset - you literally just a SIM card . Contract terms are typically shorter than that included a phone .
By only providing a SIM card instead of a handset , expanding networks of their customer base , but avoid the cost of providing new phones to consumers . Mobile phones bundled with new or extended contracts are generally subsidized by the supplier , so removing this overhead means savings can be passed on to the customer . Also, since the Port and packaging for a SIM card is considerably cheaper than mailing high value handsets , it may reduce final costs to the consumer .
Early SIM cards were the size of the standard credit or debit cards. Current SIM cards contain the mini - SIM (measuring 15 x 25 mm ) , micro - SIM ( 12 mm x 15 mm ) and nano - SIM (8.8 mm x 12.3 mm ) . It is important that you check the size of SIM card, you take your phone and the appropriate request one when you commit to a contract. For example, the iPhone 5, 5C and 5S accepts only a nano - SIM. This is also the case for the ASUS PadFone Infinity and Motorola Moto X.
Advantages / Benefits
If you are looking for a relatively cheap rate with a minimum short term , is a SIM only deal worth considering. Providers of my offer either 3G , 4G or two generations of SIM - only tariff , while the minimum contract periods can be as short as 30 days.
You may be able to retain your existing number by asking your current provider for a Porting Authorisation Code ( PAC ) before starting a new contract - however , there are no guarantees that this will always be possible . Your old number with you to bring depends on a number of factors including which network you are currently connected to the network you to move and your current phone number .
Disadvantages
The obvious disadvantage of a SIM -only contract is that you miss out on the opportunity to upgrade your handset for a more recent model . Many consumers want the security of having their old phone as a backup while using the newer handset as their daily device . You can also unwanted old or new mobile phones are traded for cash recycling service using a handset .
Another disadvantage of a SIM only deal is that if you are networking you'll probably have to get it unlocked handset switches so that it will work with your new service providers . While this could be a simple and free process are some devices more difficult to release than others. Do you have an extra cost unlocked in a high street store to get your phone can do .
As mentioned earlier , although it is possible that you will be able to retain your current number using a PAC , networks can not guarantee that you will be able to do . Finally, if your SIM only contract is allowed to roll constantly , it will often be more expensive than if you commit to a 12 , 18 or 24 month contract from the beginning.
Which only offers SIM Deals ?
You can find many of the major mobile networks and service providers offer SIM only deals. You can get a SIM only contract from 3 Mobile, T -Mobile , Orange , Vodafone , EE , O2 , Talk Mobile , Virgin Mobile , Giffgaff , Tesco Mobile and Talk Talk . Terms range from 30 days to 12 months.
Unlocking Handsets
Depending on your handset , you will find that there are two main ways of unlocking the phone. The fastest and easiest way is to enter . An unlocking code This is often a simple set of commands or numbers that you specified on your phone to change its software and virtually "unlock" . Your existing network is for you and you can talk through the stages to unlock your phone - but they can charge you for this information .
You can also connect some devices may be exposed. Practiced on a computer with a program installer unlock them for these changes In this case , you need that high street phone shops offer this service for a small fee . We suggest searching online for advice regarding your specific brand and model of phone .
Borrowing to determine if your handset is network locked, a SIM card from someone you know who belongs to a rival network . After setting in your phone, the handset works perfectly , or you find that an error message appears on the screen . This will help you to discover and unlock the device to accept a new SIM card or not.
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 .
Six essential questions before you buy
To help you decide you are going as a SIM only deal right for you , here are six key questions to help you decide . The more you answer 'yes ' , the more suitable it might be for you .
Do you have a working handset that will keep you happy?
Are you happy to unlock your phone if your SIM only deal on another network ?
Contract length is important to you ?
Have you checked if your new provider the right size SIM card for your phone ?
Are you satisfied with the level of coverage of the network that you are offered ?
Will your credit history , you can set up a direct debit ?
