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Compare SIM only mobile plans
300+ SIM only plans (checked daily), starting from $12.
What different scores mean
9+
Excellent
These mobile plans stack up extremely well for overall cost and data allowance over 12 months plus network coverage. You may also get a little something extra such as Wi-Fi calling and data rollover.
7+
Great
These mobile plans are competitively priced and offer a decent amount of data. You might need to compromise just a little bit on extra features.
5+
Standard
Usually these mobile plans are just okay for overall cost over 12 months and the amount of data you're getting in return. Network coverage and extra features can be lacking.
0+
Basic
You can generally do better than what these mobile plans have to offer in terms of cost, data costs, network coverage and features. In short, they're poor value for money.
What is a SIM only plan?
SIM only is a type of mobile plan where you pay for calls, texts and data. The SIM usually comes included with the plan and you don't get a phone with the SIM, which is why it's known as "SIM only" or a BYO phone plan.
A SIM only plan can traditionally be categorised as one of 2 types: prepaid or postpaid.
The main difference between them is when you pay for your mobile plan. With prepaid, you'll pay upfront at the start of the month before you start using your plan, whereas on postpaid it's normally at the end of the month.
In some instances, providers such as Telstra will make you pay at the start of the month even on a postpaid plan so keep an eye out for this to avoid any surprises.
- Good to know: Historically SIM only plans were postpaid as they were tied to handset repayment contracts. Nowadays these don't come attached to handsets and can be purchased separately, often on a month-to-month basis.
"I've been using SIM only plans for years now. It's got to be one of the easiest things to switch so I change providers every year. There's always a different deal worth snapping up."
Do you need a SIM card with your plan?
In Australia, it's still common to get a SIM card with your mobile plan. You will usually need to buy a SIM card from the store or order it online. The SIM will then need to be inserted into your phone so you can activate your plan.
Some providers also offer the option to sign up with an eSIM, which is a newer technology rolling out in Australia.
An eSIM allows you to set up your mobile plan digitally without the need of a physical SIM card, meaning you don't have to wait for your SIM to arrive by post. This can be especially useful when you're travelling overseas.
Who has the cheapest SIM only plans in Australia?
Some of the cheapest SIM only plans on Finder come from providers such as E.Tel, Flip, ALDImobile, CMobile, Lebara and Catch Connect.
However, the cheapest option won't always mean you're going to get the best value for your money. Plans might cost less but do they offer enough data and features to match your requirements?
A good rule of thumb is to look out for deals and use the benchmark of $1 per GB to compare plans. All you need to do is divide the monthly cost by the monthly data allowance the provider is offering on its plans to find out how much each gigabyte of data will cost you.
Compare cheap SIM only plans
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