What is pay as you go SIM with no data?
Some providers offer pay as you go SIM that do not include a set amount of data by default, but instead allow you to top up the SIM with various amounts of credits, which you can then choose to spend on calls and texts.
However, it is much more common to find price plans that include a set amount of data and unlimited minutes and texts (so-called bundles), as these are often better value in the long run. So if you’re happy with a lower data allowance, it could be a more cost-effective choice, especially if your main priority is making calls and sending messages. On this page, we explain more about the available options, as well as why having a certain amount of data on your pay as you go SIM can actually be beneficial.
How do pay as you go SIMs without data work?
With the providers that offer pay as you go SIMs without data, you start by filling in an order form for a free SIM card. You should receive the SIM card within approximately two working days, along with instructions on what to do next. You then top up your pay as you go SIM with a (usually) chosen amount, known as credits, and pay a set fee per call, minute and text. You can usually pay for or add extra data if you need it.
One thing to bear in mind is that price plans with fixed data allowances often include unlimited minutes and texts, which is rarely the case with pay as you go SIMs without data. If you know you’ll be using a lot of minutes and sending texts regularly, it may be more cost-effective to buy a pay as you go SIM with a lower data allowance, as this will let you make calls and send texts freely.
How to find the best pay as you go SIM without data
To find the best option for you, you should compare pay as you go SIMs based on your own data needs and preferences. There are certain factors that are always important to consider when choosing a pay as you go SIM, such as the provider’s network coverage, validity periods and overall prices. When you’re looking for a pay as you go SIM without data, there are several factors to keep in mind when making the best choice, which we have listed below.
Choose a pay as you go SIM without data that
- Has the lowest cost per call and text
- Can be topped up with data if needed
- Gives you the most data for your money
Which is the cheapest pay as you go SIM with no data?
Asda Mobile Talk & Text Plan is the cheapest pay as you go SIM with no data right now (checked on 07/10/2025). Top up from £4.
Alternatives to pay as you go SIMs without data: Pay as you go SIMs with the lowest possible data allowance
As pay as you go SIMs without any data are relatively uncommon, your options are quite limited. It can therefore be difficult to find a pay as you go SIM that meets your other requirements. An alternative could therefore be to also consider pay as you go SIMs with low data allowances. There are pay as you go SIMs available with as little as 1 or 2 GB, which can feel quite manageable. Especially considering that price plans with a certain amount of data usually include unlimited minutes and texts.
In fact, having a certain amount of data can be useful, and below we explain why.
A little data may be needed to
- Send MMS and longer texts
- Using digital payment solutions
- Identify yourself digitally
- Make important mobile updates
- Find phone numbers and addresses online
Frequently asked questions about pay as you go SIMs without data
No, not all providers offer pay as you go SIMs without data, but with some you can top up your pay as you go SIM with a certain amount (credits) and then just use the balance for calls and texts.
Not necessarily – it depends on how you use the pay as you go SIM. Unlike pay as you go SIMs with fixed data allowances, pay as you go SIMs without data rarely include unlimited calls and texts; instead, you pay per minute and per message. If you make a lot of calls and send a lot of texts, it could still end up costing more than choosing a pay as you go SIM with the lowest possible amount of data and unlimited calls and texts.
Yes, it is generally possible to pay to access more data or add a data package if needed. However, data speeds may sometimes be limited, so check the terms with the provider you are interested in.
The advantage of a pay as you go SIM without data is that you don’t have to pay for something you’re not using. The downside is that your choices are limited, as they are not common. It can also end up costing more in the long run, especially if you make a lot of calls and send a lot of texts, and need to add data from time to time.
