Best 5G SIM-only deals in the UK (December 2024)
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5G technology has revolutionised the digital world with the super-fast speeds it can provide to its users. However, to take advantage of all the benefits of 5G, including its close to 10-20 Gbps speeds, you need to find a provider that offers 5G coverage.
That’s why you should explore our list of the best 5G SIM-only deals in the UK, save money, and enjoy uninterrupted Internet usage abroad. Let’s begin straight away!
List of 5G SIM-only deals
What is a 5G SIM?
5G is a relatively new technology that was launched in 2019 and it has been adopted by several mobile phone networks since its launch. It is currently considered the fastest way to get reliable and secure Internet connections when you’re not using Wi-Fi.
5G is much faster than the previous 3G and 4G generations. By using a 5G SIM-only card, you will be able to download and stream videos without an issue, establish reliable video conferencing, and browse the Internet at stellar speeds. So, the 5G SIM card allows you to securely access the Internet from anywhere.
How do 5G SIMs work?
To use such 5G SIMs, you just need to have a special SIM card, a mobile phone that works with the 5G tech, and, most importantly, to be in an area with 5G coverage. It’s that simple! Even the installation and activation process is as easy as it can be.
Luckily, most of the major UK phone companies now offer 5G in almost all regions of the country. On top of that, you can even benefit from deals with unlimited 5G data. Thankfully, there are many unlimited 5G SIM-only deals from providers like Vodafone, Three and more.
Benefits of 5G SIMs
5G SIMs offer a wide range of benefits. But are you familiar with these advantages? If you’re not, let’s check out our list and understand why you would like to use a 5G SIM-only card. Here is the detailed overview:
- User anonymity. While not all 5G SIM cards offer this feature, some have built-in encryption for your subscriber ID. This encryption is available because it is within the SIM itself, making your communications and online activities extra secure.
- Customised security. 5G SIMs come with special tools that allow mobile operators to control who gets authorisation, authenticate them, and customise their security. This refers to more robust confidentiality and reliability for private networks and business-focused 5G services.
- Seamless 5G roaming. Phone companies can remotely switch your phone to the best available 5G network when you’re roaming. Due to this, you will enjoy a faster and more stable connection wherever you travel.
- Cyber resilience. 5G SIM cards come with key rotation management. This term means the phone company can change the secret code used for the authentication algorithm on your SIM card, keeping things extremely secure.
Which networks offer 5G SIM-only deals?
With the expansion of 5G technology, almost all mobile phone providers in the UK started offering 5G SIM-only deals. We have listed the best ones below.
Vodafone
Vodafone is one of the top mobile network providers. Today, it is a leading force in the world of 5G SIM-only deals. If you decide that this is the UK operator for you, then you need to know that Vodafone offers a lot of plans with a specific or unlimited amount of 5G data for a pretty affordable cost.
The best part is that Vodafone allows you to choose whether you want to use the SIM card for a few days or more than 12 months. Due to this, your data coverage across the UK will come with no roaming costs.
Three
Another reliable SIM card provider is Three. You can either find a plan that has a pre-determined or unlimited amount of data. On top of this, you can find a Three mobile deal for the duration of one month, one year, or 24 months. However, you can even upgrade your data allowance thanks to its pay-as-you-go system.
O2
Another top mobile operator is O2 and we were happy to recommend it on our list of the best networks that provide 5G SIM-only deals. By going for O2 and its plans, you will be able to enjoy ultra-fast 5G Internet, along with free O2 Wi-Fi hotspots.
All of its plans are pretty budget-friendly, and you can choose from the 12 and 24-month pay monthly SIM deals.
Sky
Last but not least, the well-known Sky provider gives you the opportunity to get around roaming costs and still benefit from the secure 5G connection. Keep in mind that Sky’s SIM plans range from 3GB to 30GB of data per month, so there is a wide choice of data allowances that will suit various users’ needs.
Pros and cons of 5G SIM plans
To help you decide if a 5G plan is for you, we have compiled a list of the benefits and drawbacks of these plans below.
What to consider when looking for a 5G SIM-only deal
Now that you are familiar with the concept of the 5G SIM-only deals and the best network providers in the UK, you need to learn about the factors you should stick to when looking for one, such as the following:
- Cheap 5G SIMs. 5G SIM card plans can vary in price. Look for a deal that offers everything you may need, such as data allowance, phone call minutes, or SMS texts, at a price that fits your budget.
- Freebies. Some 5G SIM-only deals might include extras like free streaming services subscriptions, international calls, or free hotspot spaces. Consider this if you want an even better 5G experience.
- Unlimited data SIMs. If you’re frequently on the go, you may need to find a provider that comes with an unlimited amount of data. This is helpful if you don’t want to surpass your data limit and pay extra fees.
- Area coverage. Keep in mind that you need to check the network provider’s coverage to see if 5G is available where you live, work, or travel. In other words, there is no point in paying for 5G speeds if you’re rarely in an area that offers it.
- Contract length. Usually, 5G SIM-only plans come with contract lengths of 12 months or 24 months. This aspect is essential if you plan to travel frequently or move back home from the country where you are right now. No one wants to pay for a two-year SIM card that they don’t use.
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.
If you’re looking for a contract deal with a handset, you can choose from the newest models from the most popular phone brands - Apple, Google, Samsung, Xiaomi, Sony, Motorola, OnePlus, and many more. Instead of going through several network providers’ websites, use the filtering system to select the best SIM-only or contract with a handset deal!
Does my current SIM support 5G?
If you have a phone that operates on the 4G network, then it is very probable that it will work with 5G, too. However, this also depends on whether there is 5G coverage in your area. If there is no 5G coverage, then your 5G SIM won’t work. However, there is a way to check this. Just follow the steps below:
- Open the Settings app on your mobile phone.
- Choose the option about your SIM card and mobile data.
- Select a SIM and check the preferred network type (you can find this under the SIM information).
- Confirm if your device is compatible by checking if 5G is listed under the preferred network type.
Can I get a 5G SIM card with unlimited data?
We have great news! You can get a 5G SIM card with unlimited data in the UK, so you have the opportunity to never run out of data. Fortunately, there are numerous providers that implement this type of SIM card plan.
But there is one thing that you need to keep in mind. These deals are usually more expensive than those with a pre-determined amount of data.
Is 5G available in my area?
Finding out whether 5G is available in your area is extremely easy. All you have to do is enter your postcode in the field of your chosen network provider. Here are some mobile operators that have these options:
- Vodafone
- O2
- Three
- Sky
- BT
- EE
- Tesco
Alternative SIM-only plans
- Pay-as-you-go SIM-only deals
- Unlimited data SIM-only deals
- 30-day SIM-only deals
FAQ
Can I use 5G abroad?
Yes, you can use 5G abroad. However, to do this, you need to find a network carrier that includes international SIM-only plans that run on 5G.
Can you get 5G on a SIM-only plan?
Yes, you can get 5G on a SIM-only plan. All you have to do is subscribe to an Internet provider that has such deals, like Vodafone, Three, O2, Sky, and more.
Am I limited to how much data I can hotspot if I have 5G?
Yes, you may be limited to how much data you can hotspot if you have 5G. This depends on your provider and the type of SIM card you’ve bought.
Will a 5G SIM card work in a 4G phone?
Yes, a 5G SIM card will work in a 4G phone. However, there is another factor that impacts this. The 5G coverage in your area plays a significant role. If there is no 5G available, then your SIM card won’t work.
Which is the best 5G SIM?
There are many 5G SIM providers, but some of the best are Vodafone, Sky, Three, and O2. They have great offers, affordable prices, and even include extra perks.
Is a 5G SIM worth it?
Yes, a 5G SIM is worth it. Not only will you enjoy faster speeds, but you will benefit from more robust security and subscriber anonymity.