What does SIM free mean? SIM free and unlocked explained

a SIM-free phone is sold on its own, with no network contract attached, and works with a SIM from any UK network. "Unlocked" means the phone is not restricted to one network. For a new phone sold in the UK today the two mean the same thing.

SIM free

SIM free describes how a phone is sold. You pay the full price once, with no monthly repayments to a network. You then choose any SIM-only plan, or use a pay-as-you-go SIM, and you can change it whenever you like.

Unlocked

Unlocked describes the phone itself. A locked phone only works with one network's SIM cards until the network removes the lock. An unlocked phone works with any. Since December 2021, Ofcom's rules have required UK providers to stop selling locked phones, so a new phone from a UK seller should be unlocked.

The difference in practice

How to check a phone is unlocked

• iPhone: Settings, General, About. Under Network Provider Lock it should say "No SIM restrictions".
• Samsung Galaxy: Insert a SIM from another network. If it connects, the phone is unlocked.
• Either: Ask the seller to confirm in writing that the phone is unlocked.

How to use your own SIM

1. Switch off the phone and insert your SIM card, or set up an eSIM from your network.
2. Turn the phone on and wait for the signal to appear.
3. If you are changing network, ask your old network for a PAC code by texting PAC to 65075. Give it to the new network to keep your number.

Most new phones take a nano SIM, which is the smallest size, and many also support eSIM. See our eSIM guide for the differences.

Is SIM free cheaper?

It can be, over time, because you can pair the phone with the cheapest SIM-only plan available. The sums are worked through in our guide on SIM free against contract.

Common questions

Does a SIM-free phone come with a SIM card?

Usually not. You add your own. Some sellers include a SIM or eSIM plan as an option.

Will a SIM-free phone work abroad?

Yes, with a local SIM or an eSIM travel plan, as long as the phone supports the local bands. All recent iPhones and Galaxy phones do for most countries.

Can I use a SIM-free phone on a contract?

Yes. A SIM-only contract is the same SIM and the same airtime, without the phone repayment.