9 ways to get a cheaper phone deal

Written and reviewed by Craig Fitches · Last reviewed 15 October 2026

The monthly price is only part of the story. These tips can save you hundreds of pounds over a contract.

1. Compare the total cost. Add the upfront cost to the monthly cost for every month. A slightly higher upfront payment can mean a much lower total. Our lists can be sorted by total cost.
2. Only pay for the data you use. Check your phone’s settings to see how much data you used last month. Unlimited data is handy but often costs more than you need.
3. Look at last year’s model. The previous model is often much cheaper and nearly as good.
4. Consider refurbished. Refurbished phones are checked and come with a warranty, for a lower price.
5. Try a smaller network. Networks such as giffgaff, iD Mobile, Tesco Mobile and Sky Mobile use the same masts as the big four, often for less.
6. Check the price rises. Two deals with the same starting price can cost different amounts if one has bigger yearly rises.
7. Count the extras only if you’d pay for them. A free streaming subscription is only a saving if you would have bought it anyway.
8. Think about a longer contract carefully. A 36-month contract lowers the monthly price but you may pay more in total, and you’re tied in for longer.
9. Move to SIM-only once the phone is paid off. Keep your phone and cut your bill when your contract ends.

More guides

• SIM-only or phone contract: which is cheaper?
• How to keep your number when you switch network
• Credit checks for phone contracts explained
• Mid-contract price rises: what you need to know

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