Compare UK mobile plan types
A clear, side-by-side guide to the main types of mobile plan available in the UK, and what to check before you sign up.
Plan types side by side
Use this overview to narrow down which type of plan suits you, then speak to an adviser for help comparing the details.
| Plan type | Typical term | Handset included | Credit check | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SIM-only | 30 days, 12 or 24 months | No | Usually yes for contracts | Lowest monthly cost |
| Pay monthly handset | 24 or 36 months | Yes | Yes | Spreading phone cost |
| Upgrade | 24 or 36 months | Yes (optional) | Usually yes | End of contract |
| Family / multi-line | Varies by line | Optional | Yes (account holder) | Households |
| Business | 12 to 36 months | Optional | Business credit check | Sole traders & teams |
| Pay as you go | No contract | Bring your own or buy outright | No | Light or occasional use |
General guide only. Terms vary by provider — always confirm the details with the provider before agreeing to a contract.
Which plan type is right for you?
SIM-only plans
You keep your current phone and pay for an airtime allowance only.
Best for
- People who own their phone outright
- Anyone wanting flexibility with shorter terms
Things to check
- Whether your phone is unlocked
- Data allowance vs. your real usage
- Annual price rise terms
Pay monthly handset contracts
A new phone and airtime plan bundled together, with the handset cost spread over the term.
Best for
- Anyone who wants a new phone without paying the full price upfront
- People happy with a fixed 24 or 36-month term
Things to check
- Total cost of the contract (upfront plus all monthly payments)
- Whether handset and airtime are on separate agreements
- What happens to the price once the minimum term ends
Upgrades
Moving to a new plan or handset when your current minimum term is ending.
Best for
- Customers nearing the end of their contract
- Anyone paying for a handset they have already paid off
Things to check
- Your current contract end date
- Any early exit charges if you upgrade early
- How to get your PAC or STAC code if switching network
Family & multi-line plans
Several lines grouped on one account, often with discounts for extra lines.
Best for
- Households with several phones
- Parents wanting spending controls for children’s lines
Things to check
- Discounts per additional line
- Spend caps and parental controls
- Who is responsible for the account
Business mobiles
Plans designed for sole traders, partnerships and limited companies.
Best for
- Self-employed people and small teams
- Businesses that need to reclaim VAT
Things to check
- Whether prices are shown with or without VAT
- Number of lines and flexibility to add or remove
- Account management and support options
Pay as you go
No contract — buy credit or a monthly bundle as and when you need it.
Best for
- Light users and children’s first phones
- People who want to avoid credit checks
Things to check
- Whether bundles auto-renew
- How long credit lasts
- Out-of-bundle charges
Your pre-contract checklist
- Work out the total cost — upfront cost plus monthly price multiplied by the number of months.
- Check annual price rises — providers must now show any in-contract price rise in pounds and pence at the point of sale.
- Check coverage — use the provider’s or Ofcom’s coverage checker for your home and work postcodes.
- Check roaming — if you travel, confirm any daily charges for using your phone abroad.
- Keep your number — text “PAC” to 65075 for a code to switch and keep your number, or “STAC” to 75075 to switch without keeping it.
Want help comparing?
Our advisers can talk you through your options and the terms to look out for. It’s free to use our service and there’s no obligation.
Calls to 0330 520 4172 cost the same as calls to a standard UK landline (01/02) number and are usually included in inclusive call minutes.
Ready to find a better-value plan?
Speak to one of our advisers for clear, impartial guidance on the plan types that suit how you actually use your phone.