Compare SIM-only postpaid plans

If you already own a smartphone outright, and want to use it for calls, texts, internet and more, a SIM-only postpaid plan may interest you.

While many phone plans cover the cost of the service as well as the phone itself, SIM-only postpaid plans only cover your service. This may let you enjoy more affordable access to data and calls when using your own phone.

An important benefit of a SIM-only postpaid plan is the cost – since you won’t be paying for a phone alongside your data, you can potentially end up paying less in total than you would by purchasing a new phone on a plan.

Another potential benefit is the portability – if you want to switch your phone service to a new device, you can do so as simply as popping out the SIM card from the first device and plugging it into the second. This can be a convenient way to keep your contacts, records, and saved data consistent when switching handsets.

Finally, postpaid plans are often fairly flexible. You typically make monthly payments with no contracts, though a few plans run for 12 month or 24 month terms. You’ll often get unlimited calls and texts on a postpaid plan, so you can communicate more freely without worrying too much about running up extra charges.  

One potential drawback of SIM-only postpaid plans is that you need to already own a smartphone outright to use one. This could mean using an older, out-of-date model with fewer features and benefits, or buying a new smartphone outright, which can be an expensive purchase when you pay for one upfront.

While many SIM-only postpaid plans offer unlimited calls and texts, they might put caps or limits on your monthly data. Running over your data limit can prove expensive if you’re not careful, thanks to excess usage costs.

Most of Australia's major phone networks offer SIM-only postpaid plans, including Telstra, Optus and Vodafone. There are also SIM-only postpaid plans available from smaller competitors, who may be able to offer plans, though possibly with not as many extra features and benefits.

As with other types of phone plans, it’s important not only compare the cost of different SIM-only postpaid plan options, but the value they may be able to offer you as well. The cheapest plan may not always be the best plan, and the best plan for you may not be the best plan for someone else.

Consider looking at not just the monthly cost, but the call, text and data allowances, and any other extras that may be included. Some providers may also offer introductory discounts that could save you some money early on, though they may not always be the cheapest option over the longer term.