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, here's a helpful guide.
What is a SIM free phone?
A SIM free mobile phone is one that can be used with any network such as tariff. 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 WiFi, 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 Wifi 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 whatsmore, 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 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 could offer better value for money in the long run. Since a contract phone is purchased under an 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 amount 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.
SIM only plans
With a SIM only plan you get a bundle of calls, texts and data but no phone.
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. It’s hard not to love the latest and most powerful Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra SIM free series with the ultimate Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Galaxy’s longest battery and revolutionary night-time cameras. And when it comes to performance you can rest safe in the knowledge that the intelligent chip and the fastest 4nm processor mean you can experience all the graphic heavy gaming and multitasking performance you want. Plus, with the most advanced S Pen embedded into the minimalist design, Galaxy S23 Ultra is setting an epic new standard for power, creativity and performance. Packed with top technologies, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is one of the best smartphone options!
Why not treat yourself to one of the best inventions*, the Galaxy foldable phone? The Galaxy Z Flip4 5G is a powerhouse of innovation and technology combined into one perfect pocket-sized package. Measuring a compact 4.2” when folded, unfolding it reveals a sensational 6.7” Infinity Flex Display with Dynamic AMOLED 2X and 120Hz refresh rate. It’s the most vivid, brightest and smoothest display ever seen in the Galaxy Z. And that’s not all. Boasting a Snapdragon 888 processor and 8GB of RAM it has the fastest chip ever seen on a Galaxy Z so you won’t be left lagging behind.
Or why not go SIM free with a Galaxy phone made for the fans? The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is the newest member of the epic Samsung Galaxy S21 series. Bringing together pro-cameras, next level performance and stunning design this Fan Edition phone is made with Galaxy fans in mind. The immersive 6.4” screen has been slimmed down for an even wider view, perfect for watching all your Netflix favourites and playing blockbuster games. You’ll enjoy studio quality images with the four impressive cameras including a 32MP selfie camera, 12MP ultra-wide camera, 12MP wide-angle camera and 8MP telephoto camera.
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
Most common questions
Explore answers to frequent queries below.
Smarter Service
Instant advice from the experts who know Samsung best.
Free 14 Day Returns
If you don’t love it, return it.
Flexible Finance
Spread the cost and trade in for an instant discount.
Free Scheduled Delivery
Next day or choose your delivery day.
