What is a SIM free phone?

Looking for a new phone? Fed up with costly contracts and being tied into one network? If you’re confused about SIM free, pay as you go, locked and unlocked, we’re here to help.

What is a SIM free phone?

A SIM free mobile phone is one that can be used with any network such as EE, 3, Vodafone and O2. When you purchase an unlocked, SIM free phone you are only paying for the phone leaving you free to choose the network and phone package that suits you best. And if you change your mind? The benefit of a SIM free phone is that you can change your tariff or phone package when you decide because you’re not tied to a lengthy contract or network.

What is the difference between SIM free and pay as you go?

A SIM free phone enables you to choose the phone network, data package and price that suits your usage best. You may already have a SIM that you want to transfer to your new phone and with a SIM free mobile phone you can do this quickly and easily by simply inserting the SIM card into your new device.

Pay as you go phones allow you more flexibility than monthly contract phones as you aren’t tied into a contract and you can top up your credit balance when you want. But, pay as you go phones are usually locked to one network provider and you are committed to using this network unless you pay to unlock your phone. Please note most SIM free phones are sold unlocked, allowing you complete flexibility to choose your mobile network.

How do SIM free phones work?

When you buy a phone directly from a manufacturer such as Samsung you are not tied to any network or contract. You buy the phone and it arrives unlocked, without a SIM.

It is possible to use your Galaxy smartphone without a SIM but you’ll have limitations on what you can and cannot do with your device. For example, you won’t be able to make calls, send SMS or MMS messages and access mobile data while you’re out and about. If you’re happy to only use Wi-Fi, rather than mobile data, you’ll still be able to browse the web, access social media and stream video content without a SIM. If you wish to make calls, send messages and access 3G, 4G and 5G on the go you’ll need a SIM card and appropriate data plan. If you decide to opt for a SIM data plan, you’ll be sent a SIM card by your chosen network provider which is then inserted into your phone. This will allow you to make calls, send messages and access mobile data, not restricting you to Wi-Fi hotspots.

Why would you buy a SIM free phone?

A SIM free mobile phone not only offers greater flexibility but also allows you to find the right phone tariff for you. So, what are the advantages of a SIM free phone?

Free to choose

When you buy a SIM free phone, you’re free to choose the phone, network and tariff that you want. SIM only deals are less expensive and more flexible with rolling contracts and top ups only when you need, the power is in your hands. And when you fancy an upgrade there's no need to worry about contracts, penalties or locked networks.

Saving you money in the long run

Whilst initially buying a SIM free phone may appear to be the more expensive option, SIM free plans from networks are usually far cheaper than contracts that come with a phone, so if you plan to keep your phone for at least a few years you’re likely to be quids in.

Perfect for travelling abroad

If you are a frequent traveller using an unlocked SIM free phone can free up your options allowing you to buy a cost-effective SIM card for the country you are travelling to. You can quickly switch between different SIM cards depending on where you are in the world.

No network branding or apps

You’ll not have to worry about network branding, locked network features or network specific apps with a SIM free phone. And even better? An unlocked, SIM free phone has a far greater resale value than a locked network equivalent.

Is it better to buy a SIM free phone outright or go for a contract?

Whether it's better to buy a SIM free phone outright or go for a contract will depend on your personal situation and what you’re looking for. Generally, if you can afford to, buying a phone outright offers better value for money in the long run. Since a contract phone is purchased under a credit agreement it is likely that you’ll be paying interest on your new smartphone and for the latest flagship models this can mean you end up paying a large sum on top of the price of the phone. Remember if you opt for a contract deal, you’ll be tied into a network for a minimum of 12 months and will have to meet the monthly repayments. Once you have brought your SIM free phone you are free to do what you please with it for as long or as little as you want.

Is it better to go SIM-only or contract?

When choosing the right tariff for you, you’ll want to make sure you get the most for your money. Pay monthly contracts and SIM only plans offer different benefits for different people so deciding on the best tariff for you really is down to your personal circumstances. Let’s take a look at the key considerations.

Pay monthly contracts

With this option you pay a fixed fee, every month for between 12-24 months. In return you get a smartphone, texts, calls and data each month.

Are you committed?

When you sign up to a pay monthly contract you will typically need to sign up for 12, 18 or 24 months. You’ll be committed to paying the monthly charge until the contract is paid off and you’ll pay penalties if you decide to end your contract early. Within your monthly tariff you’ll usually receive a set number of calls, texts and data as well as a phone. This option can be a great way of getting a flagship phone without the high upfront costs. Check out some of the amazing pay-monthly contract offers available on Samsung devices right now.

Credit checks

A pay-monthly contract can be a great way to build up a good credit score, just remember to pay your phone bill off on time each month for the duration of your contract. However, in order to be eligible for a pay monthly plan you’ll need to undergo a credit check which may not be suitable for everyone.

Upfront costs vs long term benefit

It’s always a good idea to do your sums and check whether the monthly contract fee offers good value for money compared with the upfront cost of purchasing a SIM free mobile phone and separate SIM only tariff. If you’re paying £50+ a month for 24 months you’ll soon have covered the cost of a phone and more.

SIM only plans

With a SIM only plan you get a bundle of calls, texts and data but no phone.

No fuss, no commitment

If you’re looking for no long-term commitment, no fuss and lots of flexibility a SIM only plan is a great choice for you. You can keep your old phone, there’s no need for a detailed credit check and you can change your mind whenever you like, it's a win-win.

Looking to save money?

SIM only deals tend to be cheaper in the long run compared to contract agreements because you’re not paying back the cost of the new smartphone, plus interest. You can also pick and choose the data package which suits you best rather than paying for things you don’t even need. And if you already have a phone you’re perfectly happy with, you'll save even more money!

Can I use my existing SIM card in a new SIM free phone?

Strictly speaking you can use your existing SIM card in your new SIM free phone but there are some considerations you need to make first.

Right size SIM card?

There are a variety of SIM cards out there from mini to micro and even nano. In order for your SIM to work in your new SIM free phone you need to ensure that your old SIM card will fit. Older phones tend to use standard sized SIM cards whilst most new phones now use nano or micro SIM cards.

Backup your data

If you are transferring an old SIM to your new phone and wish to move your data over with you, you need to ensure that you have a backup of your data. SIM cards are not designed for storage and can only hold a small amount of basic data such as your phone number, contacts, SMS messages and data usage. You can find out more about backing up and restoring data on our Galaxy support page. Remember Samsung offers a fantastic switching service with the Smart Switch app available from the Google Play Store.

Can I use a SIM free phone on any network?

If your SIM free phone is unlocked it is able to work on any network. Since December 2021 it has been against the law for manufacturers to sell locked smartphones in the UK. But if you have an older phone that is locked to a certain network, you can pay a small fee to unlock your phone, usually around £10. All Samsung phones are SIM free and unlocked when bought direct.

How do I check if my SIM free phone is locked?

The easiest way to check if your SIM free phone is unlocked is to put your SIM card in it and try using it:

1. Put the SIM card in your new phone

2. If you’re asked to enter a SIM unlock code your phone is locked to the original network it was purchased from

3. If you don’t see an unlock code, try making a phone call - if you get through, excellent! You have an unlocked phone!

If you can’t make a call or send a message it is likely that your phone is locked to a network. No need to panic though, you can get your phone unlocked in a matter of minutes, check out our support page to unlock your Galaxy device for step-by-step instructions for unlocking your Samsung Galaxy phone.

Does Samsung sell SIM free phones?

If you're looking for an epic next generation Samsung SIM free phone, look no further than a Galaxy smartphone.

Why not treat yourself to the flagship Galaxy Z Fold5. With its revolutionary folding design, it’s far from an ordinary smartphone. You’ll find two impressive displays; a front 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen and an expansive 7.6-inch unfolded display. This incredible versatility allows you to enjoy a tablet-like experience while maintaining the convenience of a smartphone. There’s no compromise on specs either, with a fast Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, ample RAM and a powerful battery, you’ll enjoy fast downloads, smooth gaming experiences and seamless multitasking. What’s more with a high-quality triple-camera setup you can capture stunning photos and videos both day and night. If you’re ready to elevate your mobile experience to new heights the Galaxy Z Fold5 is the one you want.

Looking for something a bit smaller? The Galaxy Z Flip5 is a powerhouse of innovation and technology combined into one perfect pocket-sized package. Measuring just 8.5cm x 7.2cm when folded; it features the biggest cover screen on a Galaxy Z Flip yet. There’s plenty of personalisation options too which allows you to style it your way. Add photos, videos, and GIFs to create your own bespoke looks. When the moment calls for it, flip it open and get all the room you need for video calls and streaming on the generous 6.7” screen. There’s a new zero-gap hinge and the overall slimmer design makes it perfect for slipping in your pocket when you’re on the go. And that’s not all. Boasting a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and 8GB of RAM it has the fastest chip ever seen on a Galaxy Z Flip so you won’t be left lagging behind.

Or why not go SIM free with Samsung’s epic S24 series phone; the Galaxy S24 Ultra With the ultimate QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Galaxy’s longest battery and revolutionary night-time cameras it offers an incredible combination of style and innovation. And when it comes to performance you can rest safe in the knowledge that the intelligent chip and Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, mean you can experience all the graphic heavy gaming and multitasking performance you want. Plus, with the most advanced AI on a Galaxy device, jaw-dropping camera specs, and embedded S Pen, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is setting an epic new standard for power, creativity and performance. Packed with top technologies, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is one of the best smartphone options!

Samsung SIM free phones are available to buy directly online. Alternatively you can choose to buy a Galaxy phone from one of our fabulous network partners on a competitive pay monthly contract. And when it comes to your old phone you can sell or trade it in with Samsung Recycle; an online service that is fast and hassle free. We’re sure to have a deal to suit you.

*Awarded CES® Innovation Awards and TIME © Best Inventions 2021