By Joe Longman | Posted December 15, 2025
If you’ve ever felt a bit annoyed with your connection, endless buffering or you feel you’re paying a little too much for your mobile plan, you’re not alone. It might feel like a tall order to switch your mobile provider, maybe even a little overwhelming, or you might not even know when it’s best to do so. If that’s the case, then this is for you.
Let’s delve into switching with ease and what areas you will want to keep in mind during the whole process.
There’s a variety of reasons why you might want to switch mobile providers. Usually, it’s based on price or coverage but let’s break it down.
Rising costs – Some providers raise the costs unexpectedly and some just rise it annually – often without much notice on where the price is going.
Poor coverage – Dropped calls or patchy reception can make most people go mad. If this is you, then you may want to switch to a provider who can ensure you’re connected even in the most remote of places.
Speed problems – As well as poor coverage, network speed issues and buffering can be one of the most frustrating problems with mobiles.
Customer service – If you feel like service is declining the longer you’re with a contract, then it may be time to look online and see who’s getting good reviews from their customers for being particularly helpful.
Deals elsewhere – It’s often worth shopping around with other providers as there can be some very good offers out there. They could have cheap sign-on prices or offer switching discounts.
There can sometimes be some red flags with your current provider which may prompt you to evaluate your mobile plan. Remember – sometimes these can be rectified with a simple chat with the customer service team, but others may be best sorted simply by switching to a new mobile provider altogether.
Your bill doesn’t match your data usage – Don’t pay for data you don’t use.
You rely on Wi-Fi – Your current provider may not be giving you enough coverage.
You’re out of contract – Don’t keep paying for a contract you’re not using.
Signal is better with other providers – Other people you may know could be having better luck with better signal from another provider.
There are no loyalty benefits – This isn’t always the case but sometimes you’ll get access to unique benefits when becoming a customer elsewhere.
Before you jump in to make the switch, there’s a few things you should be mindful of.
Contract status – If you’re still in contract, it’s worth looking at how much longer you have left. A large majority of providers tend to make you pay for an exit fee so watch out. It might be worth waiting a little longer to save some cash.
Coverage in your area – If you’re looking around, it’s worth looking at the data coverage maps. Networks often have their own but if you want an unbiased source then OFCOM has a particularly brilliant tool online – https://www.ofcom.org.uk/mobile-coverage-checker
Available deals – Carrying out some comparisons can go a long way in saving you money whilst getting the best bang for your buck. There can also be packages which group benefits together like roaming, data allowances and loyalty bonuses meaning you make the most of what you’re spending.
Roaming – Roaming prices can vary from provider to provider. Checking your existing offering, if you travel around Europe often, and reviewing new potential providers can provide full clarity on pricing and additional charges.
When you’re ready to switch, getting your PAC code is the next step, if you’re looking to keep your mobile number. Take a look at the different ways to get your PAC code.
– The easiest way, which works with most mainstream providers, is to text PAC to 65075.
– Request it online via your current provider’s online portal or mobile app.
– Give them a ring – phone up your current provider and speak to a member of their customer service team.
Once you have it, it’s as easy as handing it over to your new mobile provider. They’ll give you some pointers to getting online with your existing mobile number.
– Give them your PAC code.
– Choose a date for your number to transfer.
– Put in your new SIM or activate your eSIM. (We’ve previously covered the difference between a physical SIM and an eSIM – if you’re interested! Take a look at the blog: “eSIM vs Physical SIM”)
– Your new number will switch after a few minutes.
A PAC code is valid for 30 days. If you run out of time, request another and continue the mobile number switching process.
—
Knowing when to switch is important as you don’t want to get caught out. Are you looking for a new SIM plan for your business currently? Take a look at our instant offers for business mobiles.
