Compare 12 month SIM only deals

Compare 12-month SIM-only deals

We compare a wide range of deals from UK providers including EE, O2, Vodafone, Three and Tesco Mobile.

Each deal typically includes:

• A fixed monthly cost (which may increase annually in line with provider terms)
• A set data allowance (from low usage to unlimited)

Calls and texts (often unlimited in the UK)  

Our best 12-month SIM deals this week 

Here’s our best 12-month SIM deals this week: 

What is a 12-month SIM-only contract?

A 12-month SIM-only deal is a mobile contract that lasts for one year and doesn’t include a handset.

You’ll receive a SIM (or eSIM) that works with your existing phone, paying a monthly fee for:

• Data usage
• Calls and texts

Unlike 24-month contracts, you’re not tied in for as long — making it a popular option if you want flexibility or already own your device.

How do 12-month SIMs work?

When you take out a 12-month SIM:

1. You agree to a fixed-term contract (12 months)
2. You pay a monthly fee for your allowance
3. You may be subject to annual price increases (depending on provider terms)
4. At the end of the contract, you can switch, cancel, or renegotiate

If you want to switch provider, you can keep your number using a PAC code.

Which networks offer 12-month SIM plans? 

You’ll find 12-month SIM deals from most major UK networks, including: 

O2

O2 is one of the biggest networks in the UK. As such, it offers plenty of 12-month contracts at different price points. 

Elsewhere, O2 also has some of the best customer incentives around, including free access to popular streaming services and priority gig tickets. 

BT Mobile  

BT Mobile’s 12-month SIM only contracts come with a variety of minutes, texts and data to choose from. There’s also the BT Sport app at no extra cost with certain packages, and all SIMs are 5G enabled. 

EE 

Take out a 12-month SIM contract with EE and you’ll get great incentives like Apple Music and Brit Box to choose from, plus the UK’s widest ranging 5G coverage.  

There’s plenty of contracts available, along with the option to share data with family members for an outlay. 

Three 

With Three’s 12-month SIM plans, you’ll get 5G-ready SIM cards at no extra cost, usage alerts so you don’t max-out your allowance, plus the option to buy extra data when you need it. 

Tesco Mobile 

Tesco Mobile offers loads of affordable 12-month contract SIM deals, and you can even add a £5 safety buffer if you think you’ll go over your allowance. 

Moreover, the network scores highly for customer satisfaction. So if good customer service is important to you, Tesco Mobile is well worth a look. 

Vodafone 

Some of Vodafone’s 12-month SIM only contracts come with perks like free Amazon Prime for 12 months, and over fifty roam-free destinations.  

There’s also the option to save money by purchasing a broadband and 12-month SIM plan altogether. 

What to look for in a 12-month SIM deal

Choosing the right plan depends on how you use your phone. Key factors include:

1. Data allowance

• Light use (1–5GB): browsing, messaging
• Moderate use (10–50GB): streaming, social media
• Heavy use (100GB+ or unlimited): frequent streaming, hotspot use

2. Price and total cost

Look beyond the headline monthly price:

• Introductory offers may increase after a few months
• Some deals include cashback or vouchers
• Providers may apply annual price rises

3. Network coverage and speed

• 4G vs 5G availability
• Coverage in your local area
• Any speed caps (if applicable)

4. Extras and perks

Some plans include:

• Streaming subscriptions
• EU roaming (or global roaming add-ons)
• Loyalty rewards

Pros and cons of 12-month SIM-only deals

Pros

• Lower monthly cost than many handset contracts
• Shorter commitment than 24-month deals
• Flexibility to switch after one year
• Keep your existing phone

Cons

• Still tied in for 12 months
• Prices may increase during the contract
• No handset included
• Credit check usually required

Alternative SIM only plans 

Looking for a different type of contract altogether? Here’s some alternatives:  

• Pay-as-you-go SIM contracts.
• Cheap SIM cards.
• Unlimited data SIMs.

Can I keep my number when I get a new SIM?

Yes. Request a PAC code from your current provider and give it to your new network.

Will I need a credit check?

Most providers carry out a credit check before approving a contract.

What happens when my contract ends?

Your contract typically rolls onto a monthly basis. You can switch, cancel, or negotiate a new deal.

How do I find a 12-month SIM plan?

Most major networks including O2, EE, Three, Tesco Mobile and BT offer 12-month SIM plans, so you’re really spoilt for choice.

Before you start shopping around, though, think about how often you use your phone, and what you use it for. Once you’ve established the type of contract you need, you’ll be ready to start looking for the best deals.

Can I switch my SIM only deal with my existing network?

If you’re on a rolling, 30-day contract, you’ll be able to switch with 30 days’ notice.

However, if you’re currently in the early to middle stages of a 12-month contract, you’ll likely have to pay a termination charge to opt out before your minimum term expires. This usually adds up to be the number of months left on your contract, in one sum.

Is a 12-month SIM only cheaper than pay monthly?

Yes, 12-month SIM only contracts tend to work out cheaper than standard pay monthly plan. That’s because you only need to pay for your minutes, texts and data.

Are price increases guaranteed?

Many providers apply annual increases (often linked to inflation). Check the provider’s terms before signing up.