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Tesco SIM Only Deals Review: Which One to Choose?

Affordable roaming and charge per usage - are Tesco's SIM-only deals worth considering for budget-savvy mobile phone users? We discuss this below!
Updated on September 11, 2024 2:07 PM
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As we all know, owning a mobile phone can be quite steep, especially when you factor in the monthly bill for your contract plan. This is where SIM-only deals come in – they offer a more affordable option for those who already have a phone and are just looking for a SIM card to use with it.

One provider that offers SIM-only deals is Tesco Mobile, a British mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) owned by the well-known supermarket chain Tesco. They offer competitive rates and coverage using O2's network infrastructure.

So, let's dive into a review of Tesco's SIM-only deals and see if they are worth considering for budget-savvy mobile phone users.

Check Tesco Mobile SIM-Only Deals

Tesco Mobile Network Advantages at a Glance

The facts and Tesco Mobile's success story speak for themselves. Tesco Mobile won the awards of Network of the Year, Best Network for Customer Service, and Best Handset Contract Network at the Uswitch Telecoms Awards.

This speaks volumes about the quality of their network and customer service.

So, what are Tesco's key benefits that make it stand out in the crowded UK mobile market? As a Tesco Mobile user, you get 15.06 Mbps on 4G, which is slightly higher than the UK's average of 13.8 Mbps. Additionally, Tesco offers roaming in all EU countries at no extra charge.

Also, all the SIM-only deals provide you with 4G and 5G as standard mobile data, so you never have to worry about slow internet speeds.

Check Tesco Mobile SIM-Only Deals

How Does Tesco Mobile Work? How Do You Pay for the Service?

The SIM-only deals come with contracts and monthly payment plans. The contracts generally range from 12 to 24 months, and you can also upgrade anytime you want the option.

You pay monthly, and when your contract time is over, you are free to switch to another deal or stop the service altogether, questions asked. Most frequently, SIM-only users continue using the deals by paying per usage - which is a top-up system.

If you want to buy a new phone before your previous contract is finished, you may pay off whatever's left of your total phone payment.

What Are Tesco SIM-Only Deals?

Firstly, you can bring your old number and switch to a Tesco deal anytime if you don't have a contract with another network.

Secondly, Tesco offers different SIM-only plans based on how much mobile data you plan to use per month. There is something for everyone's needs and budget.

Deals with 4G and 5G

If your phone is compatible, all SIM-only deals from Tesco Mobile are ready to work with 4G or 5G. You don't have to pay extra for 5G; it comes as a standard with the deals.

Deals for Unlimited Data

If you want unlimited mobile data, Tesco Mobile offers two SIM-only deals—one with a 12-month contract and another with a 24-month contract. The monthly fees for both are slightly different.

Deals Without Long Contracts

Rocket Pack plans are the best option if you don't want any contract with the mobile network. You are not tied here to any contract but get the same benefits as a Contract SIM-only user. You can cancel the Rocket Pack anytime without any penalty and renew the plan monthly.

Deals With 1-Year Contracts

12-month contract SIM-only deals vary in the amount of mobile data you are allowed to use monthly. There are six options: 2GB, 12GB, 30GB, 100GB, 60GB, and unlimited.

Deals With 2-Year Contracts

As with 1-Year Contract SIM-only deals, you have six options to choose from: 2GB, 12GB, 30GB, 100GB, 60GB, and unlimited. The main difference is that these contracts last two years and come with a lower monthly fee than the 1-year contract deals.

What Are Mobile Data Usage Limits on Tesco SIM-Only Deals?

The lowest mobile data limit on Tesco SIM-only deals is 2GB per month, while the highest is unlimited. This means you can choose a plan that suits your needs and budget, whether you are a light or heavy mobile data user. With Tesco's flexible options, you won't have to pay for more than what you need.

Are There Loyalty Bonuses for Tesco SIM-Only Deals?

You can collect Clubcard points while using your Tesco SIM-only deal. These points can be redeemed for various discounts and rewards, providing additional savings on top of the already competitive prices. Additionally, if you are an existing Tesco Mobile customer, you may also receive loyalty bonuses such as extra data or discounted monthly fees.

To collect Clubcard points, register your Clubcard on your phone, and you'll receive points for every £1 you spend on your monthly bill.

Verdict: Which SIM-Only Deals Are Best for You?

You should consider only one factor: SIM-only cards don't include phones, so you should have a working phone before you buy. The choice of which SIM-only deal is best for you ultimately depends on your preferences and usage habits.

If you are a light mobile data user and value flexibility, then Tesco's 1-year or 2-year contracts with lower data limits may be the perfect fit. However, if you heavily rely on mobile data and want an unlimited plan at a reasonable price, then Tesco's unlimited SIM-only deal may be worth considering.

Check Tesco Mobile SIM-Only Deals

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