DO I CHOOSE A SIM ONLY DEAL? |
It is good to know all the advantages and disadvantages of both SIM only and contract deals to determine the best package for your calls, texts, and data. Each deal has its unique usefulness and drawbacks. If you are wondering which package is better to subscribe to between a SIM only and contract deals, the following might come in handy to help you make the best choice.
SIM Only Deals There are two major types of SIM only deals; PAYG (pay as you go) and pay monthly. Pay monthly deal gives the subscribers an allowance to make calls, use data and send texts as they get billed after a month. On the other hand, as the name suggests, PAYG deals require the users to top-up their card with credit every time they need to call, text or browse. Both of these deals do not come with a free phone. Pay Monthly deals to offer Nano, micro and standard SIMs for the subscribers to choose. Paying for the service is simple; all you need to have is a debit or credit card (you might also be required to pass a credit check.) It is wise to note that the deals are also available in a 12-month contract. Pros • Freedom of choice – SIM only deals do not hold the subscribers into lengthy contracts. After a month, you are free to swap to a new service provider. To do this, you will be needed to give notice to the service provider on time as set in the terms and conditions. • Cheap – SIM only deals are more affordable compared to contract agreements. You will not pay for a new handset when subscribing to this deal; it does not come with a new phone. • You can continue keeping your favourite handset – it is normal to get attached to your mobile phone. Good news is that you have a chance of retaining the handset when you get into a monthly or PAYG SIM only deal. • Credit checks are not thorough – although the credit checks are conducted, they are not as comprehensive as those of a contract deal. • Simplicity – you are not required to learn how to operate a new handset when dealing with a SIM only plan. • There is a wide variety of service providers. Cons • Do not offer the subscribers with a free handset as it is the case for the contract deals. • Pricey handsets especially for starters who previously had no mobile phone. • The plans are confusing in some cases. Contract Deals Contract deals are fantastic; you do not have to top up to enjoy calling, texting or browsing on a daily basis. To enjoy these contracts, sign up to a 12 or 24 months subscription. (You can also go for the 18 months contract). Depending on the service provider, you will pay a certain amount of fees per month. The fee covers a set number of texts, minutes and data bundles. It also caters for your line rental. It is important to note that you will be offered a new handset when you subscribe for a contract deal. Hoever, you have to go through a credit check before signing up. There are many rewards to enjoy from the contract deals; all you need to do is to register and start experiencing convenience. Pros • You will be given an affordable handset once you subscribe – the handset is not entirely free, you will have paid for it in the monthly fee charged. However, this is an excellent way of owning a superb smartphone at an affordable price. • The deals offer a significant allowance for data, texts, and calls compared to the PAYG SIM-only subscriptions. • It is easier to manage your money – it is not necessary to top-up on a daily basis to enjoy free texting, calling or browsing. • Has many gifts – some service providers offer rewards to their customers. For instance, you may win a new handset or get a deal that provides free music services access. Cons • Credit check – this is the main drawback of contract deals; your credit history has to be checked before proceeding. • You might be tied in lengthy contracts when you sign up for these services. • You can easily exceed your allowances which will increase your charges significantly. Before selecting a deal, it is essential to ask yourself the following questions. • Are the monthly charges affordable? • Are you able to afford the extra fees charged after exceeding your allowances? • Is the monthly expenditure is justifiable according to your mobile phone usage? Choosing the best deal can be tempting; it is, therefore, wise to go through the terms of all contracts before making the big move. If you hate lengthy agreements, then SIM only deals will suit you better. On the other hand, if you need a new handset, contract deals will work better for you. |