How to choose the best SIM-only deal
SIM-only plans can offer extra savings and flexibility. Here’s all you need to know about SIM-only in Ireland, picking the best plan and making the switch.
What is a SIM-only plan?
It’s a mobile phone plan that includes minutes, texts and data, but unlike a bill pay phone contract, you don’t get a new phone.
Plans are either offered as a 12-24 month contract or as a 30-day rolling plan, with no contract tie-in. The monthly price is usually fixed, but if you prefer to pay-as-you-go, you can choose a prepay SIM-only plan and top up when needed.
SIM-only plans are usually cheaper than bill pay phone deals because you’re not paying for a new handset.
How much do SIM-only plans cost?
The price depends on the network and plan you choose, for instance capped or unlimited, but at the moment monthly costs range from €10 to €35.
Compare the most up-to-date prices and discounts on our SIM-only deals page.
Some mobile networks offer 12 or 24-month plans, sometimes with an introductory discount, after which the monthly cost increases.
30-day rolling contracts - which sometimes come with an activation fee - mean you’re free to leave and take your number with you whenever you want.
Are SIM-only plans bill pay or prepay?
You can either sign up for a bill pay SIM-only or a prepay SIM-only plan.
Here’s a quick summary of each payment method:
- Bill pay SIM-only: You’ll get a monthly bill and pay a set price for all calls, texts and data. The duration of the contract will usually be either 30 days rolling or 12 to 24 months. If you go above your allowance you’ll have to pay extra.
- Prepay SIM-only: Also known as pay-as-you-go (PAYG) this plan requires you to buy credit and top up your phone via your app, online or in some shops for calls, texts and data. You don’t need to sign a contract, are not credit checked and are free to switch networks at any time.
Get a SIM only deal with the calls, texts and data you need for less.
It only takes a few minutes to find a cheaper deal and start saving.
Pros and cons of SIM-only plans
If you’re not ready to part with your beloved phone and your phone contract has finished, there are many advantages to switching to a SIM-only deal.
Pros
Cons
Which network is best for SIM-only?
Eleven mobile networks offer SIM-only deals in Ireland, offering both prepay and bill pay options.
There are three main networks, eir, Three and Vodafone.
All of the other operators use one of these main networks to provide their customers with phone service.
MVNO operators include:
So, if you have decent coverage with Three, for example, you will get very similar coverage from Virgin Mobile, which is powered by the same network.
You can read more about this in our dedicated guide to mobile phone coverage in Ireland.
Can you keep your mobile number?
Yes, this is called ‘porting’ your number and makes changing network a much smoother process.
Keeping your number means you won’t have to tell all your friends and family your new number or risk losing contact with anyone.
Your new network will guide you through the steps you need to take to port your mobile number.
Can you use your current SIM card if you switch?
No, if you move to a new network, you will need to get a new SIM card. Your new mobile phone operator will provide this when you sign up with them.
However, if you switch to a SIM-only deal with your existing provider, you can keep your current SIM.
What happens when you change your network or provider?
All that will happen when you change network, is you’ll see a new mobile provider name on your phone and on your bills. You may also experience minor differences in mobile phone coverage.
Switching your mobile phone network is straightforward, and your new provider will guide you through any changes you need to make.
Learn more about what happens when you switch in our helpful guide about making the move to a new provider.
How do you know if you’re free to switch?
If you got a phone as part of your current mobile phone contract, it’s likely that your contract was for 24 months. If you’re not sure when you signed up, check your online account, app or contact customer services.
Early exit fees for mobile phone contracts can be high, requiring you to pay for the months remaining on your plan, so wait for your contract to end before switching.
What’s the alternative?
If you need to buy a new phone, are tempted by the latest iPhone or it’s time to upgrade your Android device, then a phone contract is likely the best option although you could always consider purchasing a refurbished phone and choosing a SIM-only deal.
Bill pay phone plans
With a bill pay contract, you’re committed to a plan for a set period usually between 12-24 months.
You’ll typically pay an upfront cost and a fixed fee every month for the handset of your choice and an allowance of calls, texts and data. Most bill pay contracts are unlimited with a fair usage policy.
The latest, premium models are the most expensive, and you can expect to pay a sizeable monthly fee in addition to an upfront cost. The more you pay upfront for the handset, the less you’ll pay per month.
Prepay phone plans
This type of plan means you’ll pay for the phone upfront and top up every 4 weeks with a set fee that covers data, calls and texts.
Your top up offer will re-activate every time you top up, but if you top up before the expiry date, your plan will reset and your remaining allowances at the time of top up will not carry forward.
Mobiles
Apple iPhone deals
See the latest Apple iPhones and best bill pay deals in Ireland.
Mobiles
Samsung Galaxy deals
See the latest Samsung Galaxy phones and best bill pay deals in Ireland.
Pros and cons of phone plans
Here’s some of the advantages and disadvantages of choosing a bill pay or prepay phone on contract.
Pros
Cons
What to consider before going SIM-only
If you’re happy with your mobile phone and don’t want to upgrade for at least 12 months, switching to a SIM-only deal will definitely save you money but there are some things to consider before making the change:
- Check that you are out of any contract tie-in. If you are still in your phone contract you’ll be charged for leaving early so it’s better to wait.
- Confirm you can keep your number. Most mobile providers allow you to keep your number, but check with your new provider before you make the move.
- Check your new provider’s network coverage. If the provider is an MVNO, find out who powers the network - the coverage will be the same.
- Is your phone unlocked? If it’s locked to a network, you may need to unlock your phone, but don’t worry, it’s a simple process.
- SIM-only deals require you to give contact and bank details, if you don’t want to do this, buying a prepay SIM maybe a better option.
How to find the best SIM-only deal
The best SIM-only deal for you will depend on how much you use your phone, what you use it for and where you live.
While you’re comparing networks and plans, think about:
To learn more about choosing a new mobile network, types of phone plans or the best 5G deals and coverage, our complete guide to mobiles is a great place to start.
Switching to SIM-only FAQs
How do I unlock my phone?
You can find out how to unlock your phone in our guide. You may have to pay a fee if you are still in contract.
Where can I buy a refurbished phone?
You can find out more about buying a recycled phone in our helpful guide Should you buy a refurbished phone? which tells you all you need to know about refurbished phones and where to buy one.
Will I lose signal when I switch?
You may experience some downtime between changing networks - you’ll notice your coverage will disappear on your old SIM, at which point you should start to use your new SIM.
At most, it will be about an hour but is usually less.
Get a SIM only deal with the calls, texts and data you need for less.
It only takes a few minutes to find a cheaper deal and start saving.
