Unlimited data pricing
The cost of unlimited data SIM plans varies depending on the deal you choose. 5G plans are generally pricier than their 4G counterparts—but that’s not always the case.
Consider your typical usage to determine if an unlimited data plan is worth it. Have you frequently run out of data and needed to pay for extra? Comparing those costs with an unlimited plan can help you decide if the switch makes financial sense.
It’s also worth checking if your provider has a mid-contract price rise. The RPI inflation rate was announced in February 2025 at 3.4%, while the CPI was set at 2.5% in January. These figures influenced most mobile network price rises in 2024, often with additional increases from providers.
From 2025, Ofcom banned inflation-linked price hikes for new customers. Instead, providers must disclose a fixed yearly increase upfront when you sign up.
Surprisingly, around a third of mobile customers aren’t aware whether their provider can hike prices during their contract. Your price will also depend on whether you’re taking out a new phone contract or opting for a SIM-only plan for your current device.
Contract Length
When choosing an unlimited data SIM plan, decide whether you prefer a flexible rolling contract or are happy committing to a longer-term deal.
At Uswitch, we compare a range of unlimited SIM-only plans, as well as phone contracts, offering different contract lengths to match your needs:
- One-month contract – These pay-as-you-go SIM-only plans offer maximum flexibility, letting you switch providers after just a month. If you’re happy with your provider, your contract rolls on. However, this flexibility often comes at a slightly higher cost.
- 12-month contract – While less flexible than a rolling monthly plan, a one-year contract typically offers better value, rewarding you with lower prices in exchange for a longer commitment.
- 24-month contract—Often part of a phone plan but available for SIM only deals, these contracts provide the best savings but the least flexibility. If you leave early, you could pay a cancellation fee if a better deal appears during your term.
What are the benefits of unlimited data deals?
The main benefit of an unlimited data deal is that it never runs out of mobile data. So, even if you’re miles away from a Wi-Fi connection, you won’t have to worry about using lots of data to stream a show or run an online playlist all day. It’s the best way to ensure you always have data when needed.
Do I need unlimited data SIM only deal?
It depends on your usage. Ofcom reports that 73% of data connections happen over WiFi, and the UK average mobile data use is 5.6GB per month. A third of users only use 500MB–2.5GB, meaning unlimited data may not be necessary.
If you regularly exceed 20GB, an unlimited plan could be worth it. Some providers offer data calculators to help estimate your needs based on your browsing and streaming habits.
Alternatives to unlimited SIM only plans
If you don’t want to go for an unlimited data SIM only deal but still require a lot of data, you can opt for a plan that caps your limit at a high number, like 100-200GB. Most networks provide deals with extremely high data caps, so compare SIM only deals on Uswitch today to find a price plan that suits your needs.
Other SIM only deals include pay as you go SIMs, 12 month SIM deals, no credit check SIMs, iPhone SIM deals, 30-day SIM deals and 5G SIM deals.
Is there a limit to the amount of data I can use?
There’s no data cap on an unlimited data SIM only deal. You’re free to use as much mobile data as you like on your smartphone. There may be an instance where a fair usage policy is applied, but this will come down to individual networks. So check the fine print of your deal before you commit. But generally, unlimited means unlimited.
Most unlimited data SIM only deals will not have any restrictions and you’ll be able to download as much data as you want. Some networks may include a fair usage policy. But even if that’s the case, it won’t kick in after you’ve used more than enough data for most consumers. Check with your network to see what their specific policy is.
Will I lose service if I switch to a SIM only deal with another network?
No, you won’t lose any service by switching networks to a new SIM only deal.
How easy is it to switch networks?
Switching networks on a SIM only deal is incredibly easy thanks to Text to Switch.
To receive your PAC code, text PAC to 65075. Then, give this to your new network, which will be able to port over your current phone number. As long as you’re out of contract, you don’t even need to speak to your old network.
