Featured Image Caption: SIM Only Contract
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Our mobile phones can be one of our most prized possessions. Not only do we spend a lot of money on them, but we also rely on them for many things. Some of us shop using our mobiles, whilst others use them to run a business.
When it comes to purchasing a phone, you are often faced with one of two options. A contract or a SIM only plan. This article will focus solely on SIM only plans. What are they? Are there any benefits? Where can I get a good deal?
What Is A SIM Only Plan?
As technology is evolving, so is the price of the average smartphone. Research has shown that the average cost has increased by at least £200 compared to three years ago. Now, many phone users are looking for cheaper alternatives to their mobile phone contracts, and this is where a SIM only plan can help. A SIM only is a type of mobile phone plan offered by a provider. You pay the provider only for the minutes, texts and data that you use on the SIM card. Typically, the SIM is free, but you do not receive a phone, hence why it is called a SIM only plan.
How Do I Get A SIM Only Plan?
Switching to a SIM only plan is a straightforward process. All you need is a device that you are happy with. Once you have this, you will need to choose your provider. It is recommended that you use the internet to help you. There are plenty of price comparison sites that you can use to help you find the best deal. You will discuss how many minutes, data and text you would require from your SIM. It will then be sent to you. Simply pop the SIM into your phone, and you are good to go. You also don’t need to worry about losing your old mobile phone number as this can often be an inconvenience. Just make sure to ask for your PAC code when you switch providers.
The Benefits of A SIM Only Plan
Is switching to a SIM only plan worth it? To find out whether it is worth making the switch, it can help to look into the benefits associated with this type of plan. Take a look below:
Cost-Effective
When you compare a SIM only plan to a contract, they tend to be a lot cheaper in the long run. One of the main reasons for this is that you are not paying the price of a new smartphone. By keeping the device you already own, you could end up shaving hundreds of pounds off your yearly phone bill. With that being said, some SIM only deals are better than others, and to find the most cost-effective ones, you will need to do your research. Take a look at Lebara’s best SIM only deals. Prices can start as little as £5 a month. When you compare £5 a month to the price of a new smartphone, you get a clear idea of just how much money you could save by switching to a SIM only plan.
You Have Freedom Over Your Phone Bill
Unlike a contract, a SIM only deal does not tie you in for a lengthy amount of time. You don’t have to commit to a 2-year deal. In fact, you will find that most SIM only plans work on a 30-day rolling basis. So, you have the option to cancel or amend your plan at a time that suits you. You also have more freedom when choosing a provider. For example, if you have a SIM only plan with a provider, but feel like you could get a better deal elsewhere, then you can switch. The freedom that SIM only plans offer is one of the reasons why it attracts so many customers. It is beneficial for those months where money is tight. You can cancel your bill and pick it back up when you are more financially stable.
Stick To a Device That You Love
Often, when you have a contract for a new smartphone, you will be expected to eventually upgrade the device. However, if you have a device that you know and love, this can be disappointing. This is another great benefit of a SIM only plan. You can stick with your favourite device. Even better, you have the option to change your phone whenever it suits you as you are not tied into a lengthy contract. If you like to switch your device regularly, try looking at cheaper refurbished phones online. Often, you can get a great mobile phone for a fraction of the retail price. Some websites will even let you trial the phone and send it back if you don’t like it.
Less Rigorous Credit Checks
If you are applying for a contract for a new smartphone, you will be expected to go through a credit check. Often, if you have a poor credit score, you can be rejected. SIM only plans also check your credit history upon application. However, they are a lot less rigorous. If you have a poor credit score, there is still a chance that you will be accepted for the deal. If you do have a poor credit score and are worried about how this will affect you, there are some things that you can to do improve it. You can learn more about this by conducting some online research.
Summary
It is clear to see why so many phone users opt for a SIM only plan. If you think that you could benefit from switching, it is important that you do your research. Shop around to find the best provider for you, and if you can find a better deal elsewhere, don’t hesitate to switch. Once you tell your provider you are leaving, they may even match the deal you have seen elsewhere. However, this is not a guarantee.
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