5G SIM only deals

5G is the latest generation of mobile network technology, designed to connect your smartphone, tablet and other devices to the internet more quickly and reliably than 4G.

With lower latency and higher potential speeds, 5G can improve everyday activities such as:

• Streaming films and TV in high definition
• Online gaming with reduced lag
• Video calls and large file downloads

If you have a 5G-ready phone and you’re in an area with 5G coverage, you could see significantly faster download speeds than on 4G. That may mean downloading large apps or high-quality video content in far less time.

However, actual speeds depend on your location, network provider and data plan. As 5G coverage continues to expand across the UK, more people will be able to take advantage of these faster, more responsive connections.

Our best 5G SIM deals this week

Head to the top of this page to see our best 5G SIM deals this week:

What is a 5G SIM?

Generally, 5G SIMs are physical SIM cards that offer up to 20x faster speeds than standard, 4G SIMs.

To get started, simply insert the card into the back of your 5G-ready smartphone – just as you would with a standard pay-as-you-go SIM.

Bear in mind, though, because 5G technology is new, plans may cost a little more than 4G tariffs, depending on the network you go for.

How do 5G SIMs work?

5G SIMs work just like normal SIM-cards. Just pop the card into the SIM tray located inside the back of your phone, and you’re good to go.

5G e-SIMs are also available in the form of a small chip fixed into the back of your smartphone. These only feature in phone’s that are 5G-ready.

Which networks offer 5G SIMs?

5G SIMs are available from the following networks:

EE

Having already rolled out 5G to 125 towns and cites in the UK as of January 2021, EE’s 5G network is the farthest reaching, with plans to connect even more places in the coming months, and further on into 2022.

O2

Get a 5G SIM deal from O2 and you can expect an array of excellent freebies and incentives. These include priority gig tickets and free access to popular streaming services like Disney+, free of charge, for six months.

BT Mobile

VOXI uses the same network infrastructure as EE, which means you’ll get access to the widest ranging 5G connectivity in the country. There’s also reduced rates available for BT broadband customers, and access to BT Sport to boot.

Three

Most SIM plans from Three come 5G-ready at no extra cost. Plus, at the time of writing, Three boasts the fastest 5G in the UK due to its heavy investment int the UK’s first 5G mobile network core.

VOXI

VOXI offers unlimited social media data – so with its 5G SIM plans you’ll get to use apps like WhatsApp, Twitter and Facebook as much as you like, and won’t be charged a penny extra.

What should I look for in a 5G SIM deal?

When choosing a 5G SIM only deal, focus on the features that match how you use your phone. The right plan for you will depend on your budget, data usage and the level of flexibility you want.

Here’s what to consider:

Price and data allowance

5G SIM deals can start from around £10 per month for lower data allowances, although prices vary depending on network and promotions.

Before choosing the cheapest option, check how much data you typically use each month. Streaming, gaming and hotspotting can quickly increase your usage.

Coverage and speeds

5G availability depends on where you live and work. Make sure your chosen network offers strong 5G coverage in your area and check whether any speed caps apply.

Contract length

You can choose between:

• 30-day rolling contracts for flexibility
• 12 or 24-month contracts, which may offer lower monthly costs

Longer contracts can be better value, but they offer less flexibility if your needs change.

Extras and incentives

Some networks include perks such as discounted streaming services or customer rewards. While these can add value, plans with added benefits may cost more overall. Make sure the extras are worth it for you.

Unlimited data 5G SIMs

Most major UK networks, including EE, O2, Three and Vodafone, offer unlimited data 5G SIM deals. Expect to pay from around £20 per month or more, depending on the provider and contract length.

As with any deal, compare what’s included and check the small print for fair usage policies or speed restrictions before signing up.

Pros and cons of 5G SIM plans

Pros

• Faster speeds – download 4K video in seconds.
• Lower latency, meaning 5G is more reliable.

Cons

• Generally more expensive than 4G plans.
• Not widely available across the UK.

Will my current SIM support 5G?

Yes, all SIM cards are 5G ready. To get access 5G, you’ll need to sign up to a 5G plan with your network, and your phone must be 5G-compatible.

How do I know if I have 5G in my area?

This all depends on your network’s 5G coverage.

To find out if you can get access to 5G, enter your postcode into your chosen network’s 5G availability checker:

• O2 5G postcode checker
• Three 5G postcode checker
• Vodafone 5G postcode checker
• EE 5G postcode checker
• BT 5G postcode checker
• Sky Mobile 5G postcode checker
• Tesco Mobile 5G postcode checker
• VOXI 5G postcode checker

Alternative SIM only plans

Looking for a different type of SIM plan? There are plenty to choose from:

• Pay-As-You-Go SIM Cards.
• SIM Cards.
• Unlimited data SIMs.
• Data only SIMs.

Can I use 5G abroad?

Sometimes. To use 5G overseas, you’ll need:

• A 5G-compatible phone
• A 5G SIM plan
• A destination where your network offers 5G roaming

5G roaming is available in selected countries and on selected networks. Availability and any extra charges depend on your provider, so check before you travel.

How do I find a 5G plan?

If you already have a 5G-ready phone, you can compare 5G SIM only deals based on price, data allowance, contract length and network coverage.

Use comparison tools to filter by monthly cost, data limits and contract type to find a plan that suits your needs.

Am I limited to how much data I can hotspot if I have 5G?

Possibly. Some networks place limits on how much of your data allowance you can use for tethering, even on unlimited plans.

Always check the fair usage policy to see if hotspot caps or speed restrictions apply.

Is 5G available in the UK?

Yes, 5G is widely available across the UK, particularly in cities and larger towns. However, coverage is not universal and can vary by network and postcode.

If you are outside a 5G area, your phone will automatically switch to 4G where it is available.

Will a 5G SIM card work in a 4G phone?

Yes. A 5G SIM will work in a 4G handset, but you will only receive a 4G connection. To access 5G speeds, you need a 5G-compatible device and coverage in your area.

Are 5G SIMs more expensive than 4G?

Not necessarily. Many networks now include 5G access at no extra cost compared with equivalent 4G plans. However, prices vary depending on data allowance, contract length and network.

Is there a 5G iPhone?

Yes. All iPhone models from the iPhone 12 onwards support 5G. That includes standard, Mini, Pro and Pro Max versions released since 2020.

What happens when I’m not in a 5G area?

If 5G is not available where you are, your phone will connect to 4G instead. You will still be able to browse, stream and make calls as normal, just at 4G speeds.

As networks continue to expand their coverage, more areas across the UK are gaining access to 5G.