Why choose a Three SIM only deal?
Described by retailers as ‘fast and generous’, all plans from Three include unlimited minutes and text. All Three SIMs also get access to Three’s 5G network as it rolls out.
The key benefits of a SIM only deal from Three Mobile include:
- Cost savings: Of the bigger providers, Three is known as arguably the cheapest. There are additional savings to be made too. For example, if you opt for a 24-month plan you can often get up to 3 months free. And, if you are looking to make your Three SIM only plan even cheaper, you could get a discount for paying by direct debit. Some retailers also offer cashback which can lower the overall cost. Always check the T&Cs. Three’s costs rise every year, as with most of the popular network providers.
- Flexibility: Many people like the advantages of SIM only deals, such as shorter contracts. Three Mobile could be a good option if you are looking for a shorter agreement, as you can get one-month and 12-month agreements. Of course, one-month plans are more expensive than longer plans. Three Mobile’s SIM only deals start at around £7 a month on a 12-month plan with 8GB of data. For a Three cheap SIM only deal, there is a 24-month option with a small data allowance (3GB). If you’re not able to get a Three SIM only plan due to credit checks, you may decide to look at Three pay as you go options.
- Network coverage: Speed is one of the major advantages for many Three Mobile fans. Three Mobile customers enjoy 4G and, increasingly, 5G coverage across the UK. Three’s 4G network covers 99% of the UK population (outdoor coverage). Like many other providers, Three is turning off its 3G by the end of 2024.
- Rewards: Three’s rewards app Three+ Rewards offers discounts on Caffè Nero, Uber Eats, Cineworld and more. Plus there’s early access to gigs, festivals and other events. There are additional rewards for Chelsea football fans, too. Three customers on SIM only can add extras to their plan just as phone + SIM customers can.
- Data: Three offers a range of data options. The 12-month plans come with 12GB, 30GB, 100GB or unlimited data. The unlimited data SIM only plan from Three starts from around £17 a month. Because it offers such generous data allowances, Three Mobile SIM only deals are popular with those who love gaming or streaming TV shows and music. Check how much data do I need?
In terms of any potential disadvantages, it is worth noting Three doesn’t score as highly as its competitors for customer service.
The Three Mobile website has a tool to help you choose the right SIM plan for you. Questions to consider include:
- what you will regularly use your phone for
- roughly how much data you will need every month
- how much flexibility you need regarding your contract
5G accessibility
5G is the fifth-generation technology for mobile networks. It is much faster and has greater capacity so many more devices can be connected at once. In April 2024, around 92% of UK premises could get 5G coverage (outdoors) from at least one operator, according to Ofcom.
Three says that it is building the UK’s fastest 5G network and has “more usable 5G spectrum than anyone else”. The more spectrum, the faster and more able to handle data. If you want to take advantage of Three’s 5G capabilities, you will need to put your Three SIM into a 5G compatible handset. Three allows SIM only customers to switch to a 4G or 5G device without charge from 3 months into the contract (subject to credit eligibility).
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