How does a mobile broadband with no contract work?
A mobile broadband with no contract works essentially just like a mobile broadband with a contract, except that you only pay month by month and do not commit to a longer period. The term “no contract” is therefore sometimes used synonymously with 1 month plan or 30 days rolling plan, as you can cancel the subscription whenever you wish – although keep in mind there is often a 30 day notice period.
The major advantage of signing up for a mobile broadband with no contract is that it is much more flexible. You can cancel the subscription or switch to another provider after just one month if you are, for whatever reason, not satisfied. The downside is that the monthly cost is generally higher than for mobile broadband with a longer contract period. Your monthly cost can also increase from one month to the next as the contract is not fixed.
Pros of no contract mobile broadband
- Significantly more flexible than with a contract
- Easier to switch subscription or provider
Cons of no contract mobile broadband
- Data options are often fewer
- Generally more expensive over time
- The price may increase at any time
Is a router or dongle included in a contract-free mobile broadband?
Yes, whether you choose to sign up for the mobile broadband with or without a contract, you will often start by selecting which router or dongle you wish to use. The range of devices and models varies between providers, but in most cases, there are at least a couple of different options to choose from.
Which is the cheapest no contract mobile broadband?
Vodafone 5G Mobile Hotspot is the cheapest no contract mobile broadband right now (checked on 07/10/2025). The cost is £18/month when you sign a 1-month contract.
Things to consider when choosing a no contract mobile broadband
- Which data allowances you can choose from: “The longer the contract, the more data options” is usually the case for all providers. If you are looking for mobile broadband with no contract, you should expect to be offered fewer options. With that said, the offerings vary between providers, so this is something you can assess before choosing broadband.
- Which device to purchase with the broadband: Whether you opt for a contract or not, you can generally choose between several different devices, so focus on the type of device and model you need. For example, do you want a 4G or 5G compatible version and do you want a dongle or mobile WiFi router?
- Prices of contract-free broadband: Since contract-free broadband is generally more expensive, you can save a lot by comparing several different options. Feel free to use the table at the top of the page for a quick overview to compare options.
- Terms for notice period: Keep in mind that even contract-free broadband usually requires a set notice period. Check the terms for the notice period with the providers you are considering, just to be sure. If you can’t find the information on the website, you can always contact the provider’s support directly.
What is the difference between contract and notice period on mobile broadband?
The contract refers to a specific period during which you are tied to your agreement with the provider, while the notice period refers to the time between the notification of termination and the actual end of the contract. During the notice period, you are still required to pay for the broadband.
Most providers have a notice period for their mobile broadband, whether the broadband is contract or contract-free. The notice period is usually 30 days, but to be sure, please double-check this with your provider.
Frequently asked questions about no contract mobile broadband
Yes, several providers offer mobile broadband with unlimited data and no contract.
Yes, mobile broadband tends to be more expensive if there’s no contract – especially if you compare the contract and no contract options with the same provider.
Yes, there is mobile broadband with no contract that supports 5G.
Yes, with the providers that offer mobile broadband without a contract or a one month plan, an upfront cost is usually added. But there are exceptions, even though they are rare.
Yes, you can find home broadband with a one month plan, which is classified as an contract-free broadband. However, expect to incur a higher monthly cost than if you sign up for the broadband with a 12 or 24-month contract.
In the table at the top of the page, you can see which providers offer no contract mobile broadband, the applicable prices, and the types of devices included.