Hand holding SIM card

O2 SIM Only Deals UK

Compare every O2 SIM only deal: calls, texts, and data with no extras you don't need, free.

What Is an O2 SIM Only Deal?

A SIM only deal gives you a monthly plan on a physical SIM card or eSIM, without a handset attached. You keep your existing phone, slot in the new SIM, and start using it straight away. Because you are not paying off a device, monthly costs are much lower than a standard phone contract.
O2 is one of the four main mobile networks in the UK, running its own 4G and 5G infrastructure, which means you get real network performance rather than a reseller signal. Two well-known virtual networks, giffgaff and Tesco Mobile, actually borrow O2's infrastructure. O2 itself offers the same coverage at a competitive price with extras those MVNOs do not include.

Why Choose O2 for Your SIM Only Plan?

FeatureWhat You Get
4G CoverageAvailable to around 99% of the UK population indoors
5G NetworkCovers over 77% of the UK population and growing
EU RoamingUse up to 25GB of your data allowance in EU countries at no extra charge
O2 PriorityEarly access to concert and event tickets, plus discounts at shops and restaurants
O2 Wi-FiFree hotspots across the UK, including 250+ London Underground stations
Contract Lengths30-day rolling, 12-month, or 24-month plans
Unlimited DataAvailable on all contract lengths
eSIM SupportYes, no physical SIM needed on compatible phones

The Key Reasons to Pick O2

1

Flexible Contract Lengths

Choose 30-day rolling for maximum flexibility, 12-month for a good balance, or 24-month for the lowest monthly price, all with the same O2 network quality.

2

Free EU Roaming

One of the only UK networks keeping free EU roaming post-Brexit. Use up to 25GB of your data allowance across EU countries at no extra daily charge.

3

O2 Priority Perks

Free tickets, restaurant discounts, brand freebies, and early access to concerts at O2 venues. For regular event-goers, Priority can easily outvalue the monthly plan cost.

4

eSIM Support

No physical SIM needed on compatible phones. Order an O2 eSIM plan and activate in minutes with a QR code. Works with iPhone XS+, Samsung S20+, Pixel 3+, and more.

How Much Data Do You Actually Need?

Monthly AllowanceBest ForTypical Activities
1GB to 5GBLight usersEmails, WhatsApp, occasional browsing
5GB to 20GBModerate usersSocial media, maps, some streaming video
20GB to 100GBHeavy usersStreaming music & video, video calls, working on the go
UnlimitedAlways connectedHotspot use, all-day streaming, no data worry ever

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O2 Priority & EU Roaming: Two Reasons O2 Stands Out

O2 Priority is a free rewards app for all O2 customers. It gives you early or exclusive access to tickets for concerts and events at O2 venues, The O2 London plus regional O2 academies, plus regular freebies, restaurant discounts, and surprise treats throughout the year. If you go to live music regularly, Priority alone can save you more than your monthly plan costs.
On EU roaming, O2 is one of the only UK networks that did not restore EU roaming charges after Brexit. On most O2 SIM only plans, your UK allowance (calls, texts, and up to 25GB of data) works in any EU country at no extra cost. O2's EU roaming policy has been recognised with multiple industry awards for international roaming.
For travel beyond Europe, fixed-fee daily roaming bolt-ons are available. Some higher-tier 24-month plans include wider international roaming as standard.

O2 SIM Only Plan Types Explained

1

30-Day Rolling Plans

Pay monthly with no long-term commitment. Slightly higher monthly cost but zero exit fees, leave or change any time. Best for trying O2 or anyone with uncertain usage needs.

2

12-Month Plans

Lower monthly price than rolling plans for the same data allowance. Most 12-month deals include O2 Priority and inclusive EU roaming, a solid balance of price and flexibility.

3

24-Month Plans

The cheapest monthly rate with a two-year commitment. Longer plans often include entertainment subscriptions at no extra cost. Best value per month if you are confident staying with O2.

How to Keep Your Number When Switching to O2

Simple, free, and automatic: no need to call your old provider

1

Text PAC to 65075

Send the text for free from your current phone. Your old network must reply within seconds with your PAC (Porting Authorisation Code). It is valid for 30 days.

2

Compare O2 Plans on Switch

Filter by data allowance, contract length (30-day / 12-month / 24-month), and price. Every result shows current live pricing, not outdated offers.

3

Give O2 Your PAC Code at Sign-Up

Enter your PAC code during the O2 sign-up process. O2 handles the number transfer automatically. You do not need to contact your old network again.

4

Your Number Transfers Within One Working Day

Your existing number moves to your new O2 SIM automatically. You will receive a confirmation text when the transfer is complete. Insert your SIM and you are ready.

O2 vs Other UK Networks: Quick Comparison

FeatureO2EEVodafoneThree
4G Coverage99%99%99%99%
5G Coverage77%80%+SimilarSimilar
EU RoamingFree (25GB)Charges applyCharges applyCharges apply
Rewards AppO2 PriorityEE PlayVeryMeNone
eSIMYesYesYesYes

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Credit Checks & How to Compare on Switch

O2 runs a credit check for 12-month and 24-month pay monthly plans. If you have a limited credit history or prefer to avoid a check, a 30-day rolling plan is available without the same level of assessment. O2 also offers an eligibility checker before you apply, so you can see your chances without affecting your credit score.
Pay-as-you-go SIMs from O2 carry no credit check at all and use data bundles starting from a low monthly amount, a good starting point if you want O2's network without any commitment.
  • Set your minimum data allowance using the filter
  • Choose your preferred contract length: 30 days, 12 months, or 24 months
  • Sort by price to find the cheapest option for your needs
  • Click through to O2 or the retailer to complete your order

FAQs

Are O2 SIM only deals worth it?

Yes, if you already have a phone you are happy with. An O2 SIM only deal costs significantly less per month than a phone contract because you are only paying for data, calls, and texts, not a handset. You also get access to O2 Priority perks, which add genuine value for many customers.

Can I get an O2 SIM only deal with bad credit?
What is the cheapest O2 SIM only deal?
Can I get an unlimited data SIM from O2?
Does O2 charge for roaming in Europe?
How do I activate my O2 SIM?