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Classic SIM vs Smart SIM

A comparison between Smart SIM and Classic SIM to help you decide what's best for you

Luke avatar
Written by Luke
Updated over a week ago

Torn between Smart SIM and Classic SIM? Want one but not the other? Check out the differences below to help make up your mind

Classic SIM (Starting from £13.50/month) 📲

Classic SIM is your primary SIM in the UK, providing everything you need for everyday mobile use

  • Network: Works exclusively on the Three network

  • Data: Available as 4GB, 10GB, or Unlimited data plans

  • Calls & Texts: Enjoy unlimited UK calls and texts

  • Roaming in the EU: Get 5 days of free EU roaming per trip. After that, it’s £2 per day.

  • Roaming outside the UK: Additional daily charges and usage caps apply depending on the country you’re visiting.

  • 5G: Access to the UK’s fastest 5G network

  • SIM Type: Available as both eSIM and physical SIM

  • Mobile Number: You can keep your existing number or choose a new one

Classic SIM is great for you if you need a reliable, full-service mobile network in the UK with unlimited calls and texts.

Smart SIM (£10/month or £45/year) ⚡

Smart SIM is the ultimate second SIM. It works alongside your main SIM (from any network) to provide unlimited data on 500+ apps across all four major UK networks, plus free roaming in 180+ countries.

  • Networks: Works across EE, O2, Three & Vodafone networks in the UK.

  • Data: Get unlimited data only on 500+ supported apps

  • Calls & Texts: Calls and texts are not supported on the Smart SIM.

  • Roaming: Enjoy free roaming in 180+ countries, making it a great option for international travel

  • 5G: 5G is supported in certain countries

  • SIM Type: Only available as an eSIM

  • Mobile Number: The Smart SIM does not come with a phone number

Helpful Tips and Additional Info 🤩

Choosing the Right SIM

  • Classic SIM: Best if you mainly use your phone in the UK and need full mobile services, calls, texts, and data.

  • Smart SIM: Ideal if you travel frequently or want a backup SIM for when your primary SIM has poor coverage. It keeps you connected using supported apps even when your main SIM isn’t working.

Data Needs

  • Classic SIM: Offers flexible UK data plans (4GB, 10GB, or Unlimited).

  • Smart SIM: Focuses on unlimited data for selected apps, perfect for staying online when your main SIM loses signal. Be sure to check that your favourite apps are included.

Number Requirements

  • Classic SIM: Lets you keep your existing UK mobile number and use calls and SMS.

  • Smart SIM: Doesn’t include a UK mobile number and can’t be used for calls or texts.

Roaming Considerations

  • Classic SIM: Includes 5 days of free EU roaming per trip. After that, or when roaming outside the EU, additional charges would apply.

  • Smart SIM: Provides cost-effective roaming, but only for selected apps within the 180+ supported countries.

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