Mobile Phone Deals

Choosing the right mobile phone deal

Whether you're looking for the latest iPhone, Samsung Galaxy or any other popular smartphone, we can help you choose a new pay monthly phone contract. Find out more about data packages, benefits, coverage, and which network could be best for you. Depending on your needs and your budget, there’s a vast range of options out there - and we’ve got loads of deals to choose from.

Uswitch’s most popular mobile phone deals currently revolve around a selection of top-tier smartphones. Topping the list is the highly sought-after iPhone 15, known for its cutting-edge features and advanced technology. Following closely, the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 continue to capture significant attention, offering users a range of functionalities and sleek designs.

The Google Pixel 8 is also a popular choice among users, particularly for its impressive camera capabilities and integration with the latest Android features

The Samsung Galaxy 23, part of Samsung's flagship Galaxy series, is another favourite, offering a powerful combination of performance, design, and innovative features that appeal to a broad spectrum of users.

How can I find the best phone contract?

When picking the right plan, it’s essential to think about how you use your phone. You don’t want to end up being tied into a contract that doesn’t suit your lifestyle.

Here are some things to consider:

1. Select the right phone model

Whether it’s the latest iPhone 15 or Samsung Galaxy S23, or smartphones from brands like OnePlus and Oppo, finding the best mobile phone contract deal starts with the right phone. Choose a model that includes all of your most-used features.

Check out our phone comparison table for help deciding.

2. Calculate your call, text and data usage

Consider how much you’ll use your phone for things like texting, calls, streaming, or browsing websites, and pick an allowance to match.

Most phone contracts now include unlimited call and text allowances. Unlimited data contracts are harder to come by, though you can get unlimited SIM only data deals from networks such as Vodafone and Three.

Not sure how much data you need? Use our mobile data calculator to get a helpful estimate.

3. Check your network coverage

Some rural areas don't have the best mobile phone coverage, so check the coverage for your chosen provider before signing up for a pay monthly contract that could tie you in for as long as two years.

4. Budget for upfront and monthly costs

When you get a contract phone, you pay for the handset and allowances in monthly instalments over your contract length.

You may have to pay something upfront to help cover the cost of the handset. If you can afford to pay more upfront, your monthly costs will be lower as you’ll pay less in total over your contract length. If not, there are lots of mobile contracts available without upfront costs.

5. Choose your contract length

Usually phone contracts last from 12 to 36 months. A longer contract allows you to spread the cost over a longer term, so you won’t have to pay as much every month for your phone - but you'll usually pay more in the long run than shorter contracts.

And it's also worth noting that on shorter contracts, you may have to pay quite a bit upfront to help cover the cost of the phone.

What are the main benefits of a pay monthly phone contract?

Here are some benefits you can look forward to when you sign up for a pay-monthly phone contract (and a few potential cons to be aware of too).

Pros of a pay monthly contract

Lower upfront costs - Pay monthly packages are a great way of getting the latest phones without having to pay loads upfront.

Larger allowances - You usually get bigger text, call and data allowances compared to pay-as-you-go deals. Perfect if you’re always on the phone.

Convenience - There’s no need to fuss with top-ups. You can just set up your Direct Debit and your payments will automatically come out of your account.

Freebies - Your pay monthly plan may come with a reward or free gift like a subscription to a streaming service. However, be mindful of whether this is actually good value before you choose to sign up.

Cons of a pay monthly contract

Locked in for longer - Pay monthly contracts typically last 12, 24, or 36 months, so you’re making a long-term financial commitment.

Credit checks - Most networks require you to pass a credit check before you’re able to sign up for a pay monthly contract.

Pay more in the long run - Since you’re not covering the full cost of the phone upfront, you’ll usually end up paying a little more than if you bought the device outright.

How do pay monthly phone contracts work?

When you find a handset and deal you like, you’ll be sent to the retailer’s website to secure that deal. Here’s what happens next:

Sign up to your new contract - Check your deal and contract terms first. Then provide personal details for your credit check.

Pay any upfront costs - If you’re getting one of the latest handsets, you might have to pay a fee upfront.

Get your phone - Hooray! Now you can start using your new mobile phone.

Plan for the end of your contract - Make a note of your contract end date, so you can shop for the best deals when it’s time to upgrade.

Can I keep my old phone number?

Switching to a new mobile phone plan? Keen to keep your current number? The good news is you can port over your number in a few simple steps, all you need is your PAC code. Here's how to get it:

-- Text 'PAC' to 65075 and you'll get a message back with your PAC code

-- Give your new network your PAC code when you sign up for a new deal

-- You’ll get a message confirming your transfer which tends to take a few days to complete

-- You'll now be able to use the same number on your new plan

How to compare mobile contract deals with Uswitch

From pay monthly smartphone contracts to SIM only deals, Uswitch can help you compare thousands of offers and help you find the best package for your needs.

Our mobile phone deals include phone contracts starting from under £20, Android phone deals, 5G mobile phone deals, refurbished iPhones, business mobile deals and SIM-free phone leasing.

Compare deals by brand

Each brand is unique in what it can offer, for example, Apple phones are renowned for their intuitive design, featuring easy access to apps from the home screen and streamlined settings in a single menu.

Apple's App Store is also the preferred launch platform for top-tier developers, ensuring early access to high-quality apps, making the iPhone the go-to choice for running apps.

Your iPhone can also integrate with other Apple products and services, such as Macbooks, iPads, Apple Watches, and iCloud, which is great if you want to link up to your devices for a more cohesive experience.

Samsung is renowned for its high-quality AMOLED displays, offering vibrant colours, deep blacks, and excellent contrast ratios. The company's flagship phones often feature cutting-edge display technology.

For a long time, Samsung has also been a strong competitor in the smartphone camera space, introducing advanced camera systems with features like multiple lenses, high megapixel counts, and innovative shooting modes. For example, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra's most eye-catching feature is its 200-megapixel camera.

Google Pixel phones run on a pure version of Android, free from manufacturer-specific customisations. This ensures a clean and straightforward user interface, along with prompt software updates directly from Google.

Google Pixel phones integrate closely with Google Assistant, a voice assistant experience. Features like the Pixel Stand enhance the integration by turning the phone into a smart display when docked.

Whether you want an iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or Sony smartphone, check out our phone comparison table for all the top brands.

Compare deals by network

We make finding a new mobile phone pay monthly deal easy by putting offers from all the major networks, including O2, Vodafone, Sky, Three, giffgaff, iD Mobile, Lebara, Tesco Mobile, Talkmobile, VOXI, SMARTY, Lyca Mobile and Asda Mobile on easy-to-compare deals tables.

No provider is exactly the same and there are factors to consider when choosing one.

O2

O2 was among the pioneering UK networks to initiate the deployment of 5G. The company is on schedule to achieve 5G coverage for over 50% of the UK population by 2023.

The range of mobile plans available includes pay-as-you-go, SIM-only, and contract phone deals. O2's 'Priority' benefits stand out as some of the most comprehensive perks in the phone network industry. O2 customers enjoy complimentary trials to various services, discounts, competition invitations, and priority access to tickets for concerts and events held at O2 venues.

Furthermore, O2 has extended a special offer to customers on qualifying new plans, providing them with six months of free access to either the Disney+ streaming service or an Amazon service like Prime.

Three

Three stands as one of the UK's 'big four' mobile networks and has the fastest 5G network in the UK, according to the Ookla Speedtest Awards.

Three offers a diverse range of plans, including pay-as-you-go, SIM-only, and contract phone deals. With Three's Go Roam feature, customers can utilise their call, text, and data allowances in 71 destinations worldwide by paying a £2 daily roaming charge.

To further enhance the customer experience, Three rewards its users through the Three+ app, offering exclusive deals at brands such as Uber Eats and Cineworld, along with early access to presale festival tickets.

Just select or search for the handset you want above, and you’ll be able to filter by the network you want.

Vodafone

Vodafone boasts extensive coverage, reaching 99% of the UK. The company has implemented 5G in various locations nationwide, delivering 5G speeds to customers without an additional cost.

Vodafone provides a diverse array of mobile plans, encompassing options such as pay-as-you-go, SIM-only, and contract phone deals.

Vodafone's 'VeryMe' rewards scheme offers a broad spectrum of weekly treats and giveaways. These rewards can range from small delights like a complimentary coffee or snack to exclusive access to event tickets.

Sky Mobile

Sky Mobile provides a range of SIM-only and phone contract deals for its customers.

Distinctive advantages for Sky Mobile users include data rollover, permitting the accumulation of unused data for up to three years, and ensuring flexibility for future use. Additionally, Sky TV customers enjoy the privilege of unlimited streaming through Sky Apps, exempt from data usage.

Operating on O2's network infrastructure, Sky Mobile extends coverage to nearly the entire UK, leveraging the reach and reliability of O2's network.

Just select or search for the handset you want above, and you’ll be able to filter by the network you want

Compare contract deals by cost

If you prefer to filter deals by monthly cost, you can. You can apply filters for call minutes, upfront cost and contact length too.

You can also sort by data allowance or cost, just click the filter you’re most interested in to see your ideal deals.

Why compare with Uswitch?

Uswitch makes comparing mobile prices quick and easy, by offering exclusive deals and tariffs you won’t find elsewhere. Our comprehensive database will give you access to top brands and networks like Apple, Samsung, Google, Huawei, Sony, O2, Vodafone, and Tesco.

Not only will you find great offers on mobile phone contracts, but also information on the latest devices, helping you make an informed decision when it’s time to upgrade.

With a Trustpilot score of 4.8 from over 18,000 reviews, you can trust Uswitch to help you find the best deal. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and industry expertise ensures that you’ll receive accurate, reliable advice when comparing mobile phone contracts.

Mobile phone deal and phone contract FAQs

What’s the difference between a contract plan and a SIM only deal?

A SIM only deal gives you data, call and text packages without purchasing a handset, making it ideal if you have a phone you're content with. Without the handset cost, these plans are significantly cheaper than monthly contracts.

Unlike contracts, SIM only plans don't require a long-term commitment, often allowing changes or cancellations after just 30 days. The lack of a lengthy commitment also means simplified credit checks, making it an efficient and fuss-free option.

Switching to SIM only can reduce costs, especially in comparison to a pay monthly plan, as you can keep your handset without continuing the same rate after your contract ends.

Pro’s of SIM only:

• Usually much cheaper
• No credit check is often required
• More sustainable (less waste)

While SIM only plans are also billed monthly, "pay monthly" typically refers to a mobile phone and SIM contract.

With SIM only, there's no handset charge. Pay monthly plans, on the other hand, involve paying off your handset monthly over a 12 or 24-month commitment.

The monthly fee for pay monthly plans varies based on your chosen phone and includes a set amount of calls, texts, and data. For example, the iPhone 15 Pro costs £999 outright, but you can access it for less through a pay monthly plan. Opting for a less expensive phone, like the iPhone SE at £429, results in a lower monthly cost, potentially as little as £20.

Pro’s of a mobile contract:

• You can choose a new and improved phone
• Good for your credit score

Do I have to pass a credit check for a monthly phone contract?

Obtaining a new phone contract might not appear as significant as a mortgage or credit card, but it does still involve a credit check.

Providers conduct these checks to ensure your ability to meet payment obligations, and if they deem your credit check as insufficient, they prohibit you from purchasing a contract. Which can come as a big shock.

Can I get a phone contract with poor or no credit?

Yes. Networks like Smarty and Voxi frequently offer SIM only deals or pay-as-you-go plans, catering to individuals with poor credit.

On the other hand, networks like TalkMobile conduct a 'soft search' on your credit file for identity confirmation, without performing a full credit check.

Although handset choices may be restricted, these options provide flexibility and an opportunity to improve your credit score by responsibly managing your phone usage.

For more information check out our guide on how to get a mobile phone deal with poor credit history.

What happens if I fail my credit check?

Getting a phone contract with poor or no credit can be tricky. If you are declined by any type of credit check, a mark is created on your credit file, temporarily complicating future credit applications or contract approvals. Applying indiscriminately for contracts in the hopes of acceptance can further reduce your chances.

However, there's no need to panic. Take the opportunity to improve your credit score, and demonstrate trustworthiness through a SIM only deal, and in due course, you'll likely regain the ability to successfully apply for a contract.

Do I have to pay an upfront cost for a contract phone?

The upfront cost for a phone contract varies based on the device you opt for. High-end brands often require an upfront payment of at least £50, in addition to the pay monthly contract. If the initial payment is a concern, alternatives including contracts with no upfront fees are available on selected phones.

Do I own my phone after the contract?

If you have a contract phone and the contract ends, it means you've fully paid for the handset and now you own the handset. At this point, if you’re happy to keep your handset you can then reduce your monthly bills by opting for a SIM only or pay-as-you-go deal.

What happens if my phone breaks on contract?

Pay monthly customers typically benefit from a standard warranty for their phones. If your phone experiences malfunctions, verify if it's covered under warranty. If not, most networks provide repair services, albeit at a potentially high cost.

For handset faults, consider reaching out directly to the manufacturers. Apple, renowned for its exceptional customer service, allows appointments at local Apple Stores.

In the case of water damage, refer to our guide for how to fix a water damaged phone.

How can I check when my phone contract ends?

Text INFO to 85075 to find out the information about your contract.

If you’re not sure whether you’re still in contract with your provider and if you would have to pay charges to end your contract early, you can find this out without requesting a switching code.

How our site works

Our website operates on a no-cost basis for users. And while we do not charge you for our services, we may earn a commission from the companies we recommend to you. This commission structure enables us to maintain our site as a free resource for your use.

Occasionally, we establish commercial agreements with providers to showcase deals we believe are noteworthy, and these deals are clearly marked as 'sponsored’.