In this SIM-only plans guide:
What are the different types of SIM-only plans?
With SIM-only plans in Singapore, you'll pay for a SIM with service from your telco of choice. You'll bring a phone, whether that's brand new or one you already own. SIM-only plans come in two types: prepaid and postpaid plans. The main difference between the two is when you pay.
With a prepaid SIM-only mobile plan you pay upfront for your plan.
- These plans come in different expiry amounts. The most common is a 28 or 30-day expiry
- When your plan expires, you forfeit any remaining data, SMSes, or call minutes. Many telcos offer data rollover, though, so you can keep using your data come the next cycle.
Postpaid SIM-only plans are paid for after the fact.
- These plans are billed month to month (usually on a contract)
- Sometimes you'll get extra perks, like a streaming service subscription or roaming data
- If you exceed your monthly data, SMS, or call allowance, some providers may hit you with additional fees
- Some telcos offer unlimited data (more on that below)
Some commonly seen features you'll get with SIM-only plans include:
Data rollover
Unlimited data
International Direct Dial (IDD) add-ons
5G connectivity
Which providers offer SIM-only plans in Australia?
Big telcos like StarHub and Singtel aren't the only ones who offer SIM-only mobile plans in Singapore. There are also many smaller providers to choose from, otherwise known as Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). The same mobile networks that power StarHub, Singtel, and M1 also power their MVNOs.
Typically, because they don't have to pay the overheads to maintain the network, MVNOs have simpler products and cheaper prices.
StarHub SIM-only plans
As a StarHub customer, you’ll have access to SIM-only mobile plans for BYO devices or as part of postpaid bundles. StarHub also caters to prepaid mobile users and those who need broadband home internet. When it comes to SIM-only plans. When it comes to SIM-Only plans, each plan includes:
- Roaming data
- Free incoming calls and SMSes
- Contract free options
- 5G network coverage
SIM-only plans on the StarHub network
StarHub's network powers three MVNOs - redONE, giga, and eight.
Here are their cheapest mobile plans with at least 50GB of data:
Singtel SIM-only plans
Singtel is one of the largest mobile networks for users seeking a 4G or 5G mobile plan. Users can choose from SIM-only plans, postpaid plans bundled with a device, or prepaid plans. The more you pay, the more data, call minutes, messages, and plan features are included. Singtel plans come with:
- eSIM support
- IDD and roaming inclusions on select plans
- Unlimited data, SMSes, and calls on select plans
- 5G network access on select plans
SIM-only plans on the Singtel network
The Singtel network powers MVNOs like CMlink, Gomo, Whizcomms, Zero1, ZYM Mobile, and VIVIFI.
These are the cheapest mobile plans with at least 20GB of data from Singtel MVNOs:
M1 SIM-only plans
M1 SIM-only mobile plans come with perks that are similar to StarHub and Singtel:
- eSIM support
- Free weekend data
- Roaming data inclusions on select plans
- 5G network access on select plans
SIM-only plans on the M1 network
The M1 network powers the Circles.Life, Changi Mobile, MyRepublic, and Maxx MVNOs.
Here are their cheapest mobile plans with at least 20GB of data:
Things that you need to watch out for with SIM-only plans
There are a few things to be on the lookout for when choosing between SIM-only plans:
- Most inclusions are for use within Singapore only - In many cases, these mobile plans won't include overseas usage. Many plans will include up to 10GB of Asia roaming (or global roaming if you're lucky).
- Some plans don't include international talk, text and MMS - However, it is becoming increasingly common to find a plan with some international calling inclusions. You can usually find these in a list of countries you can call/text. However, there will likely be limits on how many minutes and texts you can use each month.
Is it better to buy a phone outright and get a SIM-only plan?
These mobile plans end up being cheaper than regular plans because you don't have to pay for a new phone. They have the same bells and whistles as regular plans.
This kind of mobile plan might be right for you if:
- You're looking to save on your monthly phone bill
- You already have a phone that you want to keep
- Your contract is ending, but you're waiting for a new phone release to upgrade.
It might not be the best option for you if:
- You can't afford to buy the phone you want outright
- You want to take advantage of the perks you get when buying a new device
Cheap SIM-only plans in Singapore
It's not uncommon to pay up to $100 per month for a phone on a plan these days. You can save a lot of money by using an existing phone instead of forking out for the latest iPhone and pairing it with a cheap SIM-only mobile plan.
See the five cheapest SIM-only plans with at least 50GB from our database of 17 providers:
SIM-only plans FAQs
What is a SIM card?
A SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card is a tiny removable card that stores data needed to identify a subscriber on a mobile network. You can remove your SIM from your current phone and insert it into any other compatible device. You've also got the option of an eSIM, or electronic SIM card.
How do you switch SIM-only plans?
Switching to a new mobile plan is as simple as finding one you like and signing up. As part of the process, you can even decide if you want to "port" your number so you can keep your existing phone number. Transferring your number can take no time at all, to a few days, depending on the telco. Your new provider will have information about the time it takes to process transfers.As soon as your new plan is activated, you're good to go. If you’re not porting your number, you’ll need to contact your old provider and cancel your service.
Can I keep my mobile number when I switch mobile plans?
Yes, during the switching process, you have the chance to port your number to your new mobile plan provider.
Can I choose my mobile number when signing up for a SIM-only mobile plan?
Yes, a handful of telcos let you choose your mobile number. This includes Circles.Life, M1, giga, redONE, Singtel, SIMBA, StarHub, MyRepublic, Changi Mobile, VIVIFI, GOMO, and eight.
Can I get a 5G SIM-only mobile plan in Singapore?
Yes, select phone plans include 5G network access.
What is the cheapest SIM-only mobile plan?
At the time of writing, CMLink's 300GB 4G SIM-Only plan is the cheapest in WhistleOut's database. That gets you 300GB of data, 300 minutes, and 100 messages. You'll also get 5GB roaming to 12 selected Asian countries and 600GB of data for use in Indonesia & Malaysia for 365 days.