Looking for the cheapest SIM only plan with unlimited data? The lowest monthly price is a logical starting point, but it's not the only factor that determines whether you've really found the best deal.

Why the lowest price isn't always the best deal

Two plans with the same price can be very different once you look at the daily data bundle, the network, and the contract terms. A cheap plan with a small daily limit can, in practice, leave you with a slower connection sooner than a slightly more expensive plan with a more generous bundle.

How to compare smartly

  • Don't just look at the word 'unlimited' — work out what the daily data bundle actually means in practice (for example, 5 GB per day is already more than enough for most users).
  • Check whether you're signing up for a monthly cancellable plan or a 12 or 24-month contract. This mainly comes down to a trade-off between flexibility and cost: a monthly cancellable plan gives you more freedom to switch or cancel at any time, but this often comes with a slightly higher monthly fee than a longer contract term. Decide for yourself which matters more to you.
  • Check the coverage in your own area, not just the nationwide coverage of a network.
  • Watch out for one-off costs, such as SIM card fees or connection fees, which increase the monthly amount in practice.

Step-by-step plan to find the best deal

  • First determine your own data needs: how many GB do you use on average per month, and how important is it that you never hit a limit?
  • Compare at least three providers that offer unlimited data on price, daily bundle, and network.
  • Check reviews on network quality and customer service for the remaining providers.
  • Calculate the total costs over the entire contract term, not just the monthly amount.
  • Only sign up once you're sure the terms (daily limit, notice period, roaming) fit your usage.

Use a comparison tool to save time

Comparing all providers with unlimited data yourself takes time. A comparison tool does that work for you and takes your usage, budget, and preferences into account, so you can make an informed choice in just a few minutes.

Not sure yet whether unlimited data is right for you? Also read: What is unlimited data with SIM only? Explanation + fair use policy

Torn between unlimited data and a fixed data bundle? Also read: Cheapest SIM only plan: how to find the best deal

Conclusion

You won't find the cheapest unlimited data plan by only looking at the lowest monthly price, but by weighing up price, daily data bundle, network, and contract terms together. Take the time to compare at least a few options before making a choice.

Give Welli 2 minutes and you'll get advice tailored to your situation and budget.