How to choose the right mobile phone deal
Whether you're looking for the latest iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or another popular smartphone, we can help you choose a new pay-per-month phone contract.
Find out more about data packages, benefits, coverage, and which network could be best for you.
There are a range of options depending on your needs and budget, and we’ve got plenty of deals to choose from. Uswitch’s most popular mobile phone deals currently include a selection of top-tier smartphones.
The iPhone 16 tops the list with its cutting-edge features and technology. It's followed closely by the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14, both of which continue to capture attention and offer users a range of capabilities and sleek designs.
The Google Pixel 9 is popular among users, particularly for its impressive camera abilities and integration with the latest Android features.
Another favourite is the Samsung Galaxy 24, part of Samsung's flagship Galaxy series. It offers powerful performance and a design that appeals to a range of users.
How can I find the best phone contract?
When picking the right plan, check how you use your phone so you don’t get tied into a contract that doesn’t suit your needs.
Here are some things to consider:
- 1Select the correct phone model
Finding the best mobile phone contract deal starts with the right phone for you. Whether it is the iPhone 15 or Samsung S24, choose a model with all your favourite features.
- 2Calculate your call, text and data usage
Consider how much you’ll use your phone for texting, calling, streaming, or browsing websites, and pick a package to match.
Most phone contracts now include unlimited call and text allowances, but unlimited data contracts can be more challenging to find. However, 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.
- 3Check your network coverage
Some areas don't have great 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.
- 4Budget for upfront and monthly costs
When you get a contract phone, you pay for the handset and allowances in monthly instalments over the length of your contract.
You may have to pay something upfront to help cover the handset cost. If you can afford to pay more upfront, your monthly costs will be lower as you’ll pay less over your contract length.
If not, there are many mobile contracts available without upfront costs - you'll likely have to settle for higher monthly prices, in turn.
- 5Choose 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-term 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).
Pros of a pay monthly contract
- Lower upfront costs
Pay monthly packages are a great way to get the latest phones without paying a lot upfront.
- Larger allowances
You usually get larger text, call and data allowances than 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 set up your Direct Debit, and your payments will automatically come from your account.
- Freebies
Your pay-monthly plan may include a reward or gift, such as a subscription to a streaming service. However, consider whether this is a good value before signing 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 can sign up for a pay-per-month contract.
- Pay more in the long run
Since you’re not covering the phone's total cost upfront, you’ll usually pay 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 for your new contract - First, check your contract terms. 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? Are you keen to keep your current number? The good news is you can port over your number with 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 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 design, featuring easy access to apps from the home screen and streamlined settings in a single menu.
Apple
Apple's App Store is the preferred launch platform for top-tier developers, meaning early access to high-quality apps. This makes the iPhone the go-to choice for running apps.
Your iPhone can also connect with other Apple products and services, such as Macbooks, iPads, Apple Watches, and iCloud, which is excellent if you want to link up to your devices for a more cohesive experience.
Samsung
Samsung is renowned for high-quality AMOLED displays, offering vibrant colours, deep blacks, and excellent contrast ratios.
For a long time, Samsung has 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.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 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. Android software is clean and straightforward to use and updates directly from Google.
Google Pixel phones work closely with Google Assistant, a voice assistant experience. Features like the Pixel Stand improve the integration by turning the phone into a smart display when docked.
Whether you want an iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or a smartphone from another brand, 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.
Each provider is different, and there are factors to consider when choosing one.
O2
O2 was among the pioneering UK networks that initiated the deployment of 5G.
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 offers customers special offers on qualifying new plans, for example, six months of free access to either the Disney Plus streaming service or an Amazon service like Prime.
Three
Three is 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 diverse plans, including pay-as-you-go, SIM only, and contract phone deals. With Three's Go Roam feature, customers can use their call, text, and data allowances in 71 destinations worldwide by paying a £2 daily roaming charge in Europe and £5 around the world.
Three rewards its users through the Three+ app, offering exclusive deals at brands such as Uber Eats and Cineworld and early access to presale festival tickets.
Select or search for the handset you want above, and you can filter by the network you want.
Vodafone
Vodafone has extensive coverage, reaching 99% of the UK. The company has 5G in various locations nationwide, delivering 5G speeds to customers without an additional cost.
Vodafone provides various mobile plans, including 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 range from small delights like complimentary coffee or snacks to exclusive event ticket access.
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, which permits the accumulation of unused data for up to three years and ensures flexibility for future use. Additionally, Sky TV customers enjoy unlimited streaming through Sky Apps, which makes them exempt from data usage.
Operating on O2's network infrastructure, Sky Mobile extends coverage to nearly the entire UK, leveraging O2's reach and reliability.
You can filter by the network you want by selecting or searching for the handset you want above.
Compare contract deals by cost
You can filter deals by monthly cost. You can also apply filters for call minutes, upfront cost, and contact length.
You can also sort by data allowance or cost; just click the filter you’re most interested in to see your ideal deals.
Mobile and Broadband expert, Ernest Doku
“Find out when your current mobile contract is coming to an end, then plan ahead and shop around. Those upgrade offers on shiny new handsets can be incredibly tempting, but there’s often great value elsewhere.
“Switching from an ending 24-month handset contract to a SIM only contract (and keeping your existing handset) could save you £352 per year, while switching to a new handset contract with a top smartphone could save you £84 per year.
“Even if you’re happy with your current provider, it’s still worth knowing what else is out there. To avoid overpaying - the key is to take action.”
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.
You will find great offers on mobile phone contracts and information on the latest devices, helping you decide when to upgrade.
With a Trustpilot score of 4.7 from over 23,000 reviews, you can trust Uswitch to help you find the best deal. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and industry expertise ensures you’ll receive accurate, reliable advice when comparing mobile phone contracts.
Mobile phone deal and phone contract FAQs
Here are some extra things you should know about getting a mobile handset contract.
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 30 days. The lack of a lengthy commitment also means simplified credit checks, making it an efficient and fuss-free option.
Switching to a SIM only plan can reduce costs, especially compared to a pay monthly plan, as you can keep your handset without continuing the same rate after your contract ends.
Pros 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.
There's no handset charge with SIM only. Pay-per-month plans, on the other hand, involve paying off your handset monthly over a 12- or 24-month commitment.
The monthly fee for pay-per-month 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-per-month plan.
Opting for a less expensive phone, like the £429 iPhone SE, results in a lower monthly cost, potentially as little as £20.
Pros 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 still involves a credit check.
Providers conduct these checks to ensure your ability to meet payment obligations. If they deem your credit check insufficient, they prohibit you from purchasing a contract, which can be 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 to confirm your identity 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 any credit check is declined, 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 you'll likely regain the ability to apply for a contract successfully.
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, you've fully paid for the handset and now own it. If you’re happy to keep your handset, you can 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 at a potentially high cost.
For handset faults, consider contacting the manufacturers directly. Apple, renowned for its exceptional customer service, allows appointments at local Apple Stores.
Regarding water damage, refer to our guide on 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.
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Occasionally, we establish commercial agreements with providers to showcase deals we believe are noteworthy, and these deals are marked as 'sponsored’.
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Written by Archie Burkinshaw, Content Writer
Updated on 9 December 2024