Why would I choose a 12-month SIM only contract
If you want to cut your mobile phone bill, a 12-month SIM only plan may be the answer. It is also a good choice if you want to keep an eye on your expenses. With a fixed tariff, you know how much you’ll be paying each month. The only additional expense is the upfront cost of a new handset if you haven’t got one.
As with all mobile phone contracts, choosing the right 12-month SIM only deal means weighing up the pros and cons.
What happens when I choose a 12-month SIM only deal?
We’ll help you compare the best 12-month SIM only deals available. Once you’ve chosen your favourite, there are a few simple steps to get you signed up.
How to switch to a 12-month SIM only plan with Confused.com:
- Click the ‘Buy now’ button. You’ll get an overview of the deal. If you’re happy, click ‘Continue’ to go straight to the provider’s website.
- Sign up. Add your details and accept the contract terms and conditions – make sure you read them carefully first.
- Get your PAC (Porting Authorisation Code). This lets you keep your mobile number. Text PAC to 65075 and your provider will send you the code or tell you what to do next. You can also request your PAC via your current online account on your provider’s website. Once you’ve got your PAC, use it within 30 days.
- Get your SIM card. Simply slot it in and you’re ready to go.
Can I get 5G with a 12-month SIM only plan?
Yes, although certain conditions apply.
- 5G must be available in your area. Find out by putting your postcode into Ofcom’s coverage checker
- It must be included as part of your 12-month SIM-only deal
- Your phone must be 5G-enabled
In the UK, 5G is currently limited to the main towns and cities. All the main networks (EE, Vodafone, Three and O2) offer it to customers in those areas. You can also get 5G through MVNOs like Voxi, Sky, Lebara and Lyca Mobile.
Which networks offer 12-month SIM only deals?
EE, O2, Three and Vodafone all offer 12-month SIM only deals.
Check out the MVNOs too. They’re hosted by the Big Four and run on their networks rather than owning or operating their own. This means they can sometimes undercut their parent companies as they don’t have the overheads.
Check out the MVNOs too. They’re hosted by the Big Four and run on their networks rather than owning or operating their own. This means they can sometimes undercut their parent companies as they don’t have the overheads.
Here are some of the main MVNOs.
- EE: BT Mobile, Plusnet Mobile
- O2: Giffgaff, Lycamobile, Sky Mobile, Tesco Mobile, Virgin Mobile
- Three: ID Mobile, Smarty
- Vodafone: Asda Mobile, Lebara, Talkmobile, Voxi