What is a data only SIM?
A data only SIM is used in devices such as tablets or routers and contains only data. It is therefore not possible to make calls or send texts if you have a data only SIM.
A data only SIM works like a mobile broadband, with the difference that you do not purchase the broadband together with a mobile hotspot or router. It is therefore a good idea to purchase a data only SIM card if you want mobile broadband but already have your own device for the SIM card.
How to choose the right data only SIM
Check which providers have network coverage where you live
Since data only SIMs use the mobile network, it’s important that your chosen provider offers good network coverage where you live (or where you intend to use the broadband). On many of the providers’ websites, there is a coverage checker where you can enter your postcode to see the quality of network coverage in your area. You can also read more about the providers’ networks on our page Which mobile network has the best coverage?
Find out how much data you need
There are many different data allowances to choose from for your data only SIM, ranging from a few hundred megabytes to unlimited data. How much data you need depends on how you plan to use the mobile broadband.
If you plan to use your data only SIM frequently, perhaps even as a replacement for fixed broadband at home, you will need a higher data allowance or unlimited data. But if you plan to use the broadband only occasionally, a lower data allowance might be more suitable. If your data usage is going to be very low, perhaps a pay as you go data only SIM might be better value.
Choose whether you want a contract or not
In some cases, you have the option to commit your data only SIM for 12 or 24 months. You are often offered a lower monthly cost when you choose a longer contract, at least when comparing prices with the same provider. However, you can find lower cost data only SIMs with a one-month contract if you compare prices between different providers.
If you value flexibility over low prices, we recommend choosing a data only SIM with no contract. But if you know that you will be using your data only SIM for an extended period and don’t mind staying with the same provider, you can choose to sign up to the contract.
Compare prices
If you have followed the steps above, you should now have several different options that meet your criteria. In the table at the top of the page, you can filter which data only SIMs are displayed based on provider, data allowance, and contract. Now you can easily compare the prices between the different options and choose the cheapest and best data only SIM for you.
Which data only SIM is the cheapest?
SMARTY 2 GB is the cheapest data only SIM plan right now (checked on 02/07/2025). The cost is £5/month when you sign a 1-month contract.
How to order a data only SIM
- Visit the provider’s website and find their offers for data only SIM.
- Choose the amount of data you want and any additional features.
- Enter the requested information.
- Select payment method and complete the order.
- The provider is processing your order and will send a SIM card as soon as possible.
Frequently asked questions about data only SIM
Yes, several providers offer data only SIMs with unlimited data.
Yes, there are pay as you go data only SIMs.
It is possible to use a data only SIM in a phone. But keep in mind that you will not be able to make calls or send texts in this case.
Yes, you can use a SIM only for data only, even if it includes minutes and texts.
There should be no difference in speed between data only SIMs and SIM only or pay as you go SIMs. According to Ofcom’s network neutrality rules, providers must not prioritise or restrict their services in a way that makes certain services more advantageous than others.
No, as the name suggests, data only SIMs can only handle data. It is not possible to make calls or send texts with a data only SIM.
