Your Guide to SIM-only Plans 

Tired of being locked into a contract? Already have a mobile phone? Why not go for a SIM-only plan? Opting for a SIM-only plan in Singapore offers mobile users greater savings and more data. It’s also easier to switch over to another service provider when you’re on a SIM-only plan. Often available contract-free, you’ll never have to worry about a hefty termination fee should you decide to switch plans or telcos.  

What is a SIM-only Mobile Plan?

Most service providers now offer customers a SIM–only option on both postpaid and prepaid plans. With SIM-only plans, users do not have to sign a contract nor choose a handset, and only get a SIM card from the service provider. 

The SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card is a small card that stores data that’s needed to identify a subscriber. You can remove the SIM card and use it on any compatible mobile device. If you don’t have one, then you can’t make calls, send SMSes, or use mobile data.

How Does the SIM-only plan work? 

As mentioned, you only pay for the SIM card. With a SIM-only deal, you choose the plan which best suits your needs of talktime, texts, and mobile data. You then get a SIM card for your phone, and that connects you to the network. 

With a SIM-only plan, most providers also allow you to port over your current number from a different telco. Typically, the new telco will handle the port-over process for you. All you’ll have to do is key in your current number during the sign-up process and they’ll give you a temporary number while they sort things out. 

Are SIM-only Mobile Plans Actually Cheaper? 

One of the biggest selling-points of SIM-only plans is the reasonable price tag on higher data allowances. This is how they keep their prices down: 

• They offer most of their services online, increasing convenience for prospective customers 
• They don’t subsidise the cost of a handset. As a result, SIM-only plans allow them to focus only on their service and nothing else

However, are SIM–only plans actually cheaper? This depends on the plan you sign up for. Sure, you’ll only be paying for the SIM card and monthly subscription, but what if you require multiple mobile add-ons? The cost might skyrocket as a result. It is therefore important to keep in mind that SIM–only plans are not designed for everyone. If you only need basic mobile network services and do not see yourself needing to replace your mobile any time soon, then SIM–only plans are perfect for you. Otherwise, take some time and look into other options. 

Benefits of a SIM-only Plan

The biggest advantage of a SIM-only plan is that you are not locked into any minimum contract period with the telco. It is also cheaper, but as mentioned, you only get a SIM card. Most people who already have an excellent mobile phone or prefer buying a handset on their own directly from a retailer should opt for a SIM-only mobile plan. Also, while most postpaid plans in the market are similar, providers tend to come up with attractive deals, typically including more data, sometimes even talk time and SMS for less. 

How to Choose the Best SIM-only Plan? 

The customer is spoilt for choice with SIM-only plans in Singapore. However, when it comes to the ‘best’ SIM-only plan, that depends on what the customer needs. You need to know what you regularly use to select one suited to your needs. 

Check your monthly phone bills to see how much data, talktime, and SMS you use. Once you’ve that figured out, it’s easy to pick a mobile plan to match your needs. 

But first, you’ll want to turn to the quality of reception and service. It’s wise to choose functionality and practicality over prices. Do a quick search on Google, or ask your friends who are already using the provider’s services. 

Which Are the Best SIM-only Plans?

There are some really amazing SIM-only mobile plans on the market:

• Cheapest Plans: less than $15 a month

TPG offers a 50GB SIM-only plan with additional features such as Roaming Data, local call minutes, and local SMS.

• Mid-Range Plans: between $15 and $30 a month

The TPG 80GB SIM-only and MyRepublic Mobile Pro plans offer more than 50GB and other free add-ons, making them a bargain. 

• Premium Plans: between $30 and $50 a month

For a SIM-only plan, these are quite expensive and are typically meant for heavy data users. The StarHub Mobile+ SIM-Only 1-year plan with 90GB and 4G SIM-Only no-contract plan with 80GB costs under $50 per month. They both come with free incoming calls and free international roaming. The 4G mobile plans come with a free 3-month subscription to Amazon Prime, while the Mobile+ throws in a free 12-month subscription to Disney+.