Mobile phone deals in September 2024
Are you looking for the best mobile phone deals? We can help you find the best contracts in the UK so you can upgrade your mobile phone without spending a lot of money.
Keep reading to find a mobile phone deal that fits your needs and budget. Below, we will discuss mobile phone deals from all the top brands, including iPhone, Samsung, and Google. We’ll also provide precise information on data allowance, network coverage, and special features!
Best mobile phone deals
How to find the best mobile phone deals
Finding the best mobile phone deals can be difficult. There are many mobile operators and network carriers offering different types of deals. To help you easily find the best mobile phone deals, we’ve put together a list of the most important things you should consider to make an informed decision:
- Mobile phone model: Choosing the best mobile phone deal starts with selecting the right phone. Whether you’re looking to get an iPhone, Samsung, Google, or a phone from another brand, it’s vital to pick a device that has all the features you need.
- Consider your usage: Many carriers in the UK offer SIM plans that include data, phone calls, and SMS messages. But, you must consider the allocated data, call minutes, and number of text messages each plan comes with. If you prioritise more data over calls and text, choose a plan that reflects this. While unlimited calling and texting are common, phone contracts with unlimited data are usually more expensive.
- Network coverage: Unfortunately, not all regions have great mobile phone network coverage. Therefore, it is crucial to check if your chosen provider has coverage in your area before signing a contract that could tie you to the provider for a long time.
- Upfront and monthly costs: Many mobile operators split your phone costs from the official mobile contract. That’s why you should read the terms and conditions carefully when signing up for a deal to see whether you have to pay some money upfront or make monthly payments.
- Contract length: Mobile phone contracts generally last 12-36 months. Longer contracts usually come with a lower monthly payment. However, with shorter contracts, you’ll need to pay more money monthly.
What types of mobile phone contracts can you get?
There are various types of mobile phone contracts available today. Below, we’ll explain the different types of deals and highlight the differences between them.
Pay monthly phones with no up-front cost
This type of mobile phone deal allows you to split the price of your chosen phone over your monthly payments instead of paying some money for it upfront.
Pay monthly iPhone
Another common mobile phone contract is the pay-monthly iPhone deal, which enables you to get the latest iPhone on a contract and pay for it and your service in monthly instalments.
Pay monthly unlimited data deals
This is one of the most highly requested deals nowadays, as it comes with unlimited data. With this mobile phone contract, you will need to pay a pre-determined monthly fee. The main advantage of this type of contract is that you don’t have to worry about going over your data allowance and paying extra charges if you need more data.
Pay monthly 5G deals
With the expansion of 5G technology, many providers are now offering 5G deals. These contracts allow you to access the ultra-fast 5G mobile network while paying monthly for your phone and service.
How do pay monthly contracts work?
Although monthly contracts may sound complex, they are very straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you figure out how it works:
- Find a mobile phone contract with terms you’re satisfied with and sign up.
- Provide your details for a credit check.
- Pay any upfront costs (if any).
- Start using your phone.
- Specify the end date of your mobile phone contract (so you can shop for the best deals when you want to upgrade).
Pros and cons of pay monthly phone contracts
Pay monthly mobile phone contracts have their good and not-so-good sides (we can’t really say bad). We’ve prepared a detailed list of pros and cons to help you make the best decision!
Based on our research, these are the most prominent pros and cons of pay monthly phone contracts:
Comparing mobile phone deals by brands
There are a few ways to compare mobile phone deals, and one of them is by brands. So, let’s see how some of the most famous brands, like Apple, Samsung, and Google, stack up against each other.
iPhone
Apple is known for its mobile phones, which have sleek and simple designs that set them apart from competitors. Top developers favour the App Store, so iPhone users usually get early access to the latest apps.
Plus, iPhones seamlessly connect with other Apple devices, including Macbooks, iPads, and Apple watches. As a result, you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free experience when sending files across your Apple devices.
Samsung
Samsung shines with its stunning displays and powerful cameras. Its mobile phones are widely recognised for their AMOLED screens, which boast incredible colours, deep blacks, and sharp contrast.
Samsung keeps pushing the boundaries in the camera department. For example, its latest device, the Galaxy S24 Ultra, comes with a mind-blowing 200-megapixel camera as well as advanced features like multiple lenses and innovative shooting modes.
- Samsung S24
- Samsung S24 Ultra
- Samsung S24+
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Google Pixel phones stand out for their impressive camera quality. The latest Google Pixel phone, the Pixel 9, comes with a 50-megapixel main camera, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 10.8-mega pixel front camera. Google also uses AI technology to make pictures more vibrant and colourful. Another unique feature of Pixel phones is the Pixel Stand, which lets you dock your phone and transform it into a smart display.
Google’s Pixel phones offer a simple Android experience. They run the stock Android software straight from Google, free from additional customisations. As a result, users receive timely updates directly from Google. Pixel phones work with other Google services, like Google Photos, Google Home, and more.
- Google Pixel 8a
- Google Pixel 9
- Google Pro
- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Xiaomi
Xiaomi phones stand out for their competitive prices and premium quality. They’re known for their excellent build quality, long battery life, and impressive cameras. Some Xiaomi phones are comparable to Samsung and Apple devices.
Xiaomi phones run on MIUI, an operating system based on the Android OS. They allow a lot of customisation and work seamlessly with other devices in the Xiaomi ecosystem.
- Xiaomi 13
- Xiaomi 13 Ultra
- Xiaomi 13 Pro
- Xiaomi 14
- Xiaomi 14 Ultra
Sony
Sony tapped into its wealth of experience in consumer electronics and multimedia to create its Xperia lines of phones. Sony Xperia phones are known for their premium build and remarkable quality. They’re popular among photographers, videographers, and other creatives.
Many Xperia devices come with a 4K OLED display, resulting in clear, stunning visuals. These devices are built with advanced sensors and lenses, so they produce crystal-clear pictures and videos. Sony also equipped Xperia phones with high-quality speakers, resulting in high-resolution audio.
Honor
Honor is an offshoot of the Huawei brand dedicated to high-end and affordable smartphones. Honor phones are known for their high-resolution displays, advanced cameras, long battery life, and stylish designs. Due to their powerful performance, they’re popular among gamers.
Honor phones run on MagicUI, based on the Android operating system. Like Xiaomi phones, Honor devices allow extensive customisation.
- Honor Magic 6 Pro
OnePlus
OnePlus phones are renowned for their high-level performance and affordable price tag. These phones come with impressive specs, including powerful processors and high-resolution displays. As a result, OnePlus phones can handle intense tasks without slowing down or lagging.
In addition to their fast and smooth performance, OnePlus phones take stunning pictures thanks to their high-quality cameras. These phones run on OxygenOS, which is based on the Android operating system and customised to be fast and efficient.
- OnePlus 12
Oppo
Oppo makes innovative and stylish phones with long-lasting batteries, high-resolution displays, and powerful processors. Oppo phones are especially known for their advanced cameras with ultra-wide angles and up to 10x hybrid zoom. The company also uses AI to enhance photos. Unsurprisingly, it is one of the top smartphones for people who dabble in mobile photography. Oppo phones run on ColorOS, an Android-based operating system with loads of unique features and customisation options.
- Oppo Find X7 Ultra
Motorola
Motorola is one of the pioneers of mobile phone technology, and it continues to lead the way with high-quality phones equipped with a long-lasting battery and advanced cameras. Motorola phones, which run on Android, deliver smooth performance and have unique features like Moto Actions, which allows you to control the device with simple gestures. Motorola releases regular software updates, ensuring its phones get the latest security patches and deliver optimal performance.
- Motorola Razr
- Motorola Razr+
Nothing phone
The first Nothin phone was released in 2022, and this brand has quickly grown to become a top contender in the market. Nothing phones are known for their minimalist design and transparent back cover. They’re among the most aesthetically pleasing phones available today.
Beyond appearance, Nothing phones are relatively affordable and deliver solid performance. They come with a powerful processor, high refresh rate, dual cameras, and customisable LED lights. Nothing phones run on Nothing OS, which is based on the Android operating system.
- Nothing Phone (2a)
Huawei
Huawei is one of the largest smartphone manufacturers in the world, and it has an array of phones in its collection, from mid-range to premium devices. Huawei is one of the brands that pushes the bounds of innovation in the smartphone industry. Its devices often come with cutting-edge cameras, high-quality hardware, powerful processors, and long battery life. Depending on where you purchase your Huawei smartphone, it may run on either the Android-based EMUI operating system or Huawei’s HarmonyOS.
Comparing mobile phone deals by contract length
Another way to compare mobile phone deals is by looking at the contract length. As you may already know, mobile phone contracts generally last for 12, 24, or 36 months. But what exactly does this mean? Let’s find out!
The first thing to look at when assessing the length of a mobile phone deal is the cost of your monthly payment. In general, the longer the contract, the lower your monthly payment will be. The main reason for this is that your mobile phone cost is split over several months, lowering the amount you need to pay each month.
However, long-term payments may increase the cost of your overall bundle. The price of the mobile phone is usually the same, but longer mobile phone contracts may include additional fees.
Another thing you should consider and understand is flexibility. A shorter mobile phone contract gives you the freedom to buy a newer phone sooner or switch providers if a better deal comes along.
On the other hand, longer contracts, such as those that last 24 or 36 months, tie you in for a longer period. This can be an issue if you want to change your phone before the expiration date of the contract. If you do wish to break your contract, you will need to pay an early termination fee. This fee is usually based on how much time is left on your contract.
Comparing mobile phone deals by price
For many people, the biggest factor when choosing a mobile phone deal is the price. Naturally, you don’t want to overpay for a device. So, it makes sense to compare the contracts by price. Here’s everything you should know about comparing mobile phone deals by price.
Overall, the cost of mobile phone contracts varies from around £300 to £1,000+. However, if you go for the most affordable mobile phone deal, you may be limited to choosing from older mobile phone models that don’t have a lot of robust features.
However, you can choose a mid-range contract that costs around £300 to £600. These contracts usually offer a good balance between budget-friendliness and good mobile phone features, allowing you to fulfil most of your needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for the latest mobile versions, you may need to go for a mobile phone contract that costs at least £1,000. This price will usually get you phones with high-performance processors for smooth gaming and multitasking, exceptional cameras, stunning displays, and expandable storage options, among other perks.
You can look for deals within your budget limit using the filters on your network provider’s site. Most network providers allow you to filter by monthly costs, call minutes, upfront fees, and contract length.
Compare deals by network provider
You can also compare mobile phone deals by network providers. There are numerous network providers in the UK. While they may have similar contract lengths, each provider usually has different devices and slightly different prices. Here’s a rundown of some of the top network providers in the UK and the mobile phone deals they offer:
Vodafone
Vodafone is one of the top telecom companies in the UK. It has coverage in nearly every part of the country and supports 5G. Vodafone offers different types of mobile phone plans, including pay monthly plans, pay-as-you-go plans, SIM-only plans, and more.
O2
O2 is a leading network provider in the UK, covering a substantial portion of the country. Depending on your location, you can get 3G, 4G, or 5G connectivity from O2. This network provider offers an array of mobile phone plans, including pay-as-you-go plans, SIM online plans, and pay monthly plans.
Three
Three is a major network provider in the UK, known for its competitive prices and fast speeds. Like Vodafone and O2, it supports 5G in select locations. Three offers various types of mobile phone plans, including pay monthly plans, SIM-only plans, pay-as-you-go plans, and more.
iD Mobile
iD Mobile is a mobile network provider with excellent coverage in the UK. This network provider offers flexible and affordable mobile phone deals. Its mobile phone deals include pay monthly plans, SIM-only plans, and pay-as-you-go plans.
How does Cybernews deal comparison work?
We collect a live database of deals and special offers from the most popular mobile network providers, including Three, Vodafone, O2, and Tesco. Since the data is taken straight from the provider, you can be sure that the prices and all the other offer details, such as contract length and monthly cost, are up to date.
Suppose you’re looking for a contract deal with a handset; you can easily choose from the newest models from the most popular phone brands like Apple, Google, Samsung, Xiaomi, Sony, Motorola, OnePlus, and many more by browsing through our mobile phone deals. Instead of going through several network providers’ websites, use the filtering system above to select the best SIM-only offer or contract with a handset deal!
Can I keep my old phone number?
One of the most frequently asked questions we get from users is whether you can keep your old phone number if you’re switching your mobile phone model or contract. The answer is yes, you can! Nowadays, all you need is to have a PAC code to do this. Here’s how it works:
- Text “PAC” to the official provider number and wait for a message with your PAC code.
- When you sign up for a new deal, provide your PAC code to your new network provider.
- Wait for a message that your transfer is completed (it may take a few days).
- That’s it! You can now use your old number on your new mobile phone.
What’s the difference between a contract plan and a SIM-only deal?
Choosing between a contract plan and a SIM-only deal depends on your priorities, as well as your budget. That’s why you need to know the differences between them to make an informed decision. So, let’s get to it.
If you sign up for a mobile phone contract, you will receive a new phone and a mobile service plan with fixed call minutes, texts, and data allowance for a pre-determined monthly cost. The phone's price is split over the contract length, and you pay only one bill for both the device and the service.
On the other hand, SIM-only deals offer a yearly plan or a monthly mobile service plan with data, call minutes, and SMS messages without a new device. However, these deals also come with some perks. Among other things, you can use your existing phone, you only pay for the service, and you’re not tied to a contract, meaning you can easily switch network providers or upgrade your phone model.
FAQ
What do I need to get a phone contract?
To get a phone contract, all you have to do is go to the network carrier you prefer, let them check your credit, and choose the contract that best meets your needs.
Do I need to be from the UK to sign up for a monthly contract?
No, you don’t need to be from the UK to sign up for a monthly contract. However, the general policy states that you need to have been a UK resident for at least three years before applying for a pay monthly mobile phone deal.
How can I check when my phone contract ends?
You can check when your phone contract ends by calling your network provider or sending them a text on their official phone number.
Do I have to pass a credit check for a monthly phone contract?
No, you don’t have to pass a credit check for a monthly phone contract. However, the process is more complex if your credit is poor or you don’t have any. Still, some network providers allow users to sign a contract without a decent credit score.
Do I have to pay an upfront cost for a contract phone?
This will depend on the carrier. Some mobile phone network providers require an upfront payment for a contract phone, while others have no initial fees.
What happens if my phone breaks on contract?
Some mobile operators require you to sign a warranty that will cover the fixing costs if your phone breaks on contract. Still, not all of them have this option, meaning you will need to pay additional fees to repair the damage.