More and more Dutch people are opting for a sim only contract. Especially 50-plus people are switching in large numbers lately, often because of the low price and convenience. According to CBS, in 2023 as many as 91% of 65- to 75-year-olds and 66% of over-75s used the Internet daily. It was already impossible to imagine daily life for young people without the smartphone, but by now it is no longer possible for the elderly either. One of the providers that focuses specifically on this target group is 50+ mobiel. But what can you really expect? In this review we share the most important experiences, plus and minus points, and everything you need to know about the network, bundles and conditions.
Customer experiences with 50+ mobiel
Rating on reliability and service
Customer surveys show that many users experience 50+ mobiel as reliable. Customer service is mostly rated positively: quickly accessible, helpful and clear. However, there are a few cases where customers report slow activation or lack of clarity in setting up features such as hotspotting.
User-friendliness of the contract
The SIM card is usually delivered within 1 to 2 business days. Installation is easy thanks to clear instructions. The online environment is also perceived as clear and user-friendly - ideal for those who do not deal with technology on a daily basis.
Switching and installation process
Switching is usually smooth. Number portability is included and works smoothly in most cases. However, there may be short delays in activation. In our experience, the switching service is well organized, but it pays to start the process early.
Network and coverage of 50+ mobiel
Network performance based on national coverage
50+ mobiel uses Vodafone's network, which offers around 98% nationwide coverage. In practice, that means: Good reception in virtually all of the Netherlands.
Internet speed and 5G
The maximum speed on 5G is around 200 Mb/s, which is more than enough for most users. 5G is not yet available at this time. For a full picture of current network technology, you can check out:
Compare for yourself: Compare Sim onlyExperiences with calling and internet at the same time
A common limitation was that you couldn’t make calls and use the internet at the same time. This was because calls were routed through the 2G network, while the internet used 4G/5G. As a result, your internet connection would temporarily drop out while you were on a call.
Since the introduction of VoLTE (calling via 4G), this has changed. 50+ Mobile now supports VoLTE, which means your calls are routed through the 4G network. In practice, this means you can continue to use the internet while on a call, for example to send a text message or look something up.
This not only makes things more convenient, but also ensures a more stable connection and better sound quality during calls.
Bundles, costs and fine print
Contracts and flexibility
You can choose bundles between 6 and 25 GB of data. The contract term is a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years. You can increase your bundle in the meantime, but not decrease it. Monthly contracts are not available with 50+ mobiel. So do you prioritize extra flexibility? Then you better look elsewhere.
Out-of-bundle rates
If you call outside your bundle, you pay € 0.23 per minute/SMS and € 0.05 per MB. Note: an extra 100 MB of data will cost you € 5. However, this provider offers a convenient solution for this. For only €0.50 extra per month you can set your own cost ceiling. This prevents unexpected out of bundle costs.
Fair use policy with unlimited calling and texting
With unlimited calling and texting there is a fair use policy of about 10,000 minutes/text messages per month. More than enough for most users, but it is good to know that there is a limit.
Pros and cons of 50+ mobiel according to our research
Plus points from customer reviews
Low monthly price for sim only
Reliable network with wide coverage
SIM card delivered quickly and easy to install
Customer service scores well in accessibility and assistance
Frequently recurring points of criticism
No monthly contract or bundle reduction possible
Is 50+ mobiel a good choice for you?
For whom this contract is attractive
50+ mobiel is a smart choice if you:
Looking for an inexpensive sim only contract
Do not need extreme speed
Value stable customer service and good coverage
What to look out for when signing up
Pay attention to these things before you choose:
No monthly plan available
Bundle adjustable only upwards
Fair use rules for ‘unlimited’ calls/texts
Outside the bundle you pay relatively much
Conclusion: 50+ mobiel is inexpensive and reliable, but less flexible
After our research, we conclude that 50+ mobiel is an attractive option for those looking for a competitively priced sim only contract with reliable coverage. You benefit from low monthly charges, clear terms and conditions and a customer-oriented switching service. The provider does exactly what it promises - without fuss.
Still, there are points of interest: you're stuck with an annual contract and the out-of-bundle costs can add up if your bundle is not properly aligned with your usage.
In short: 50+ mobiel is a smart choice if you want to pay little, have good coverage and know your usage well. Still in doubt? Then always compare multiple sim only contracts on Welcompare and choose what suits you best.
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