48
48 offers a good value prepay SIM-only plan. It uses the Three network which has 99% 4G population coverage in Ireland. They were big winners at the 2022 Switcher.ie Mobile Awards with accolades for the Best SIM-Only PAYG Plan, Best Value Mobile Network, Best Data, and the overall Mobile Network of the Year.
Clear Mobile
Clear Mobile offers just one affordable SIM-only plan with unlimited data, calls and texts. Powered by the Vodafone network, Clear Mobile has 99% 4G population coverage across Ireland.
eir mobile
eir offers SIM-only plans and bill pay phones, plus broadband and TV bundles. The mobile network has 99% 4G population coverage in Ireland and is rolling out 5G rapidly across Ireland.
Tesco Mobile
Tesco Mobile offers SIM-only and bill pay phone contracts, with a range of plans to suit all types of mobile user. Tesco uses the Three network which boasts 99% 4G coverage across Ireland. They were awarded for Best Customer Service at the Switcher.ie Mobile Awards 2022.
Virgin Mobile
Virgin Mobile offers a range of SIM-only and bill pay phone plans. Powered by the Three network, they offer 99.7% 4G population coverage. Mobile users can benefit from a range of Add-Ons for international calling and great introductory discounts.
Mobile networks in Ireland
There are three main networks operating in Ireland; namely Three, Vodafone and eir. There’s also seven mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) using the main networks to deliver mobile services.
In total there are 10 mobile providers in Ireland:
- An Post
- 48
- Clear Mobile
- eir mobile
- GoMo
- Lycamobile
- Tesco Mobile
- Three
- Virgin Mobile
- Vodafone
At Switcher.ie, we compare networks and plans so you can find the best deal to suit you.
Compare mobile networks
Our SIM-only comparison tool, makes it simple to find a mobile phone deal to suit you.
We compare SIM-only deals from all the Irish networks, so you can pick from the best plans available in Ireland.
Best SIM-only mobile networks
If you don’t need a new handset, the network you choose is the main decision you need to make, we show the best SIM-only mobile deals from the top Irish networks.
If you’re thinking about switching to a SIM-only deal, our guide Saving money with a SIM-only deal covers how to find the best plan and make the switch.
How to choose a mobile network
Take a look at our SIM-only comparison to see the best plans for every network.
When you’re comparing networks and plans, think about:
- Coverage: If you have a mobile phone, good reception is crucial. If you’re not sure which networks have the best coverage, our dedicated guide can help.
- Type of plan: Unlimited deals allow you to call, text and surf as much as you like. Capped deals are normally cheaper but you get a set number of minutes, texts and data.
- Price: This is usually the most important factor. If the plan has an initial discount, make sure you also consider the ongoing monthly cost when this discount ends.
If you’re unsure what data or call plan you need, check your mobile phone account to find out how much data you normally use. You could also take a look at our guide to call charges.
Finally, consider whether you want to bundle your mobile plan with other services like broadband, phone and TV. Broadband providers including eir and Virgin Media offer discounts on mobile plans to their broadband customers.
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.