Buying the latest and greatest smartphones directly can cost up to £ 1,000, and the upfront costs are one of the main reasons people tend to sign monthly contracts. However, in the long run, that usually means paying more.
In the UK; EE, Vodafone, ThreeUK and O2 network providers offer the latest transaction models such as iPhone 12 and Samsung S21 for mobile payments and carrier service charges (call charges, SMS, data). Contracts range from 12 to 24 months, often promising “unlimited” data and “free” calls and texts, but the end cost far exceeds people’s expectations.
Some transactions can provide large amounts of data, but you pay more than you need to. This guide will walk you through everything about simulated transactions, from credit checking to number retention (if you want to switch between providers and data quotas jargons).
What is a SIM only transaction?
Only SIM card transactions offer essentially the same monthly plans, the same texting and mobile data plans, and the same monthly fees as traditional mobile contracts. However, although the new mobile phone is not included in the contract, the difference is that you can get a SIM card.
Why choose a SIM-only transaction?
If you are happy with your phone or want to buy a new phone without signing a long term mobile contract, buying sim only is a good option.
What are the advantages of SIM-only transactions?
· Flexibility: You can get a 1-12 month contract instead of a 12-24 month contract, giving you the flexibility to change your trades as needed.
· May be cheap: New phones are expensive and as you don’t want one included in your contract, this can lower your monthly payments.
· Keep your existing phone or buy a new one: you can keep your existing phone or buy a new one just by paying the SIM card charges.
· Simple credit check: This not only lowers the contract price, but also lowers your risk, as the mobile network does not “rent” your mobile phone.
How does a SIM-only card work?
An only-SIM card trading is very easy: Select the minutes, text and data plan that suits your needs, insert the SIM card into your mobile phone and you are good to go.
Which SIM card do you need?
There are three main types and sizes of SIM cards available, suitable for your particular device. These are all:
• Standard SIM card (15 mm x 25 mm)
• Micro SIM card (12 mm x 15 mm)
• Nano SIM card (8.8 mx 12.3 mm)
Today, standard SIM cards are rarely used, and even micro SIM cards are scarce. Modern smartphones can generally be used with nanoSIM. But if you don’t know which size to choose, don’t panic. Most networks and carriers send 3 in 1 SIM cards. You can use this card to choose the right size SIM card for your mobile phone or tablet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to switch to SIM-only rates?
If you are currently in a contractual transaction, you may need to wait until the end of the contract to avoid paying a cancellation fee. Once you have contacted us, you can find and register a SIM only package. If you want to change the network, you have to unlock the phone.
How can I check if my phone is unlocked and can accept a SIM card from another network?
Insert the SIM card from another network and try to make a call. If the call is connected, the phone will be unlocked.
If I switch to a SIM only, can I keep my cell phone number?
Yes, you can keep your mobile number by requesting a PAC code from your old network. This must be delivered to the new network within 30 days.
How to get a PAC code?
Contact your old network to obtain a PAC code. Usually this can be done over the phone or online. In addition, you can use Ofcom’s “text switching” service. Simply send the text “PAC” to 65075 and you can send the PAC code directly to your mobile phone. Once you have the PAC code, you need to provide it to your new network so that you can port the number.
How much data do you need for a SIM-only transaction?
How much data you need is completely up to you and how you use your phone. If you often find yourself in a place with good WiFi connectivity, such as at home or at work, you may not need a lot of data. However, you may need more data, usually if you are not at home or do not have a suitable WiFi signal. Before choosing a new transaction that only applies to SIM cards, it’s a good idea to review your current plans to see how much data you tend to use each month. This will give you a good estimate for choosing how much data you need for your new plan.
Can I benefit from a reduction on the SIM-only for a tablet?
If you are on the go and want to use your tablet when you are not connected to Wi-Fi, you can get a SIM card that contains only data. These are similar to regular SIM cards, but they only carry data, not text or minutes. Make sure your tablet has a SIM card slot before purchasing it. Also check the manufacturer’s manual for the type of SIM card you need.
What about an old SIM card?
SIM cards can contain a lot of personal information, such as the names and contact numbers of friends and family. Therefore, the easiest way to protect yourself is to destroy the old SIM card. Cut in half and recycle the plastic shell.
Is there a credit check for SIM card transactions only?
There may be a credit check, but the terms you have to meet are not as strict as the contractual agreement.
Will SIM-only transactions increase my credit score?
There is a possibility. Your credit score can improve if you always pay your monthly bill on time. However, please note that if you miss your monthly payment your credit score may drop.
To read more on topics like this, check out the Money category
Leave a Reply