Is themovantage.online affiliated with any mobile network?+
No. themovantage.online is completely independent and has no affiliation with any UK mobile network operator. We do not work for, represent, or receive payment from O2, Three, EE, Vodafone, Tesco Mobile, Sky Mobile, Lebara, iD Mobile, VOXI, Asda Mobile, giffgaff, BT Mobile, or any other network. We provide free, unbiased guidance only.
Who answers when I call your number?+
Our own independent guidance team. We always identify ourselves as themovantage.online โ never as any network. We have no access to your account with any mobile operator and cannot make account changes.
Why is there no pricing on this site?+
Tariffs change constantly and promotional offers come and go. Rather than risk showing you an outdated price, we explain how each plan type works so you know exactly what to look for when you contact the network directly.
How do I switch network and keep my number?+
Text PAC to 65075 from your current phone. You'll receive a free 9-character code within 60 seconds, valid for 30 days. Sign up with your new network and provide the PAC code during sign-up. Your number transfers within one working day. Your old contract ends automatically.
Which network has the best 5G?+
EE has the widest 5G coverage (87%+ population). Three achieves the fastest 5G speeds (most spectrum). O2 has strong 5G Standalone coverage. VodafoneThree is investing ยฃ11 billion to reach 99% 5G by 2030. See our Coverage guide for full detail.
Does any UK network still include EU roaming free?+
Yes. O2 includes free EU roaming (25GB) on all plans โ the only major MNO to do so. Tesco Mobile, iD Mobile, and Lebara also include EU roaming free. giffgaff and Asda Mobile include EU roaming with a 5GB cap. EE, Three (basic tiers), Vodafone (standard plans), Sky Mobile and VOXI charge daily for EU roaming.
What is a PAC code and how do I get one?+
A PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) lets you move your phone number to a new network. Text PAC to 65075 โ you'll get it within 60 seconds by text, for free, from any UK network. The code is valid for 30 days. Give it to your new network to port your number.
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your device. Instead of a physical plastic SIM card, you activate it by scanning a QR code โ usually in about 10 minutes. Supported by all four major UK networks and most MVNOs. Compatible with iPhone XS+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 3+, and many other modern devices.
Can networks raise prices mid-contract?+
Since 17 January 2025, any annual price rise must be disclosed upfront in exact pounds and pence (not as CPI+%). Most major networks still apply annual rises: EE and O2 ยฃ2.50/month, Vodafone ยฃ2.50/month, Three ยฃ1.80โ1.90/month. Tesco Mobile (Clubcard plans), Lebara, iD Mobile and Asda Mobile pledge no annual rises.
An MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) is a mobile network that doesn't own mast infrastructure โ instead it rents capacity from one of the four MNOs (O2, EE, Three, Vodafone). Examples: Tesco Mobile (on O2), giffgaff (on O2), iD Mobile (on Three), Lebara (on Vodafone). MVNOs often offer lower prices but may have slightly different speeds or features.
How do I check coverage at my address?+
Use the Ofcom coverage checker at checker.ofcom.org.uk to see predicted outdoor 4G coverage from all networks at once. For more detail, use each network's own postcode checker on their website. For MVNOs, use the host network's checker (e.g. for Tesco Mobile, use O2's coverage checker).
What if my network won't provide a PAC code?+
Under Ofcom rules, networks must provide your PAC or STAC code within 60 seconds by text (or immediately by other means). Refusing or delaying is a breach of Ofcom regulations. If a network refuses, report this to Ofcom at ofcom.org.uk/complaints.
How do I complain about my mobile network?+
Contact your network first and allow up to 8 weeks to resolve. If still unresolved after 8 weeks, or if the network issues a 'deadlock letter', you can escalate free to: the Communications Ombudsman (covers EE, O2, Sky, Virgin) or CISAS (covers Three, Vodafone, iD, giffgaff and others). Decisions are binding on the network.
Are phones sold locked to networks?+
No โ since 1 December 2021, all phones sold by UK networks must be sold unlocked. If you have an older phone that's locked, contact your network and request an unlock for free. They must comply within 72 hours.
themovantage.online (themovantage.online) is an independent information and guidance website. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to O2, Three, EE, Vodafone, Tesco Mobile, Sky Mobile, Lebara, iD Mobile, VOXI, Asda Mobile, giffgaff, BT Mobile, or any other UK mobile network operator or their parent companies. We do not sell SIM cards, mobile phone contracts, or devices. No specific pricing is shown on this site โ tariffs change frequently; always verify current plans and prices directly with the network. Calling our guidance line or submitting our form connects you to our own independent team โ never a network's official customer support. Network names, logos and brand colours referenced on this site are trademarks of their respective owners, used solely to identify which network a page covers. Information is updated regularly but may not reflect today's latest promotions. Always confirm with the network before signing up.