Tesco Mobile: Plans, SIMs, and How to Switch Easily in 2025
Tesco Mobile has grown from a small supermarket network into one of the UK’s most trusted mobile providers, known for fair pricing, reliable coverage, and excellent customer service. Whether you’re looking for a simple pay-as-you-go SIM, a family plan, or a flexible contract, Tesco Mobile offers options that fit most budgets — all backed by the same value-driven approach that defines the Tesco brand.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Tesco Mobile plans, SIM cards, and how to switch from your current provider quickly and easily in 2025.
How Tesco Mobile Works
Tesco Mobile operates on the O2 network, which means you get the same 4G and 5G coverage as O2 customers. The network reaches more than 99% of the UK population and continues to expand its 5G availability across towns and cities.
You can choose between:
- Pay Monthly contracts for phones and SIMs
- SIM-only plans with flexible data allowances
- Pay As You Go (PAYG) options for total control
All Tesco Mobile plans include free roaming in the EU, Wi-Fi calling, and access to Clubcard benefits.
Tesco Mobile Pay Monthly Plans
Tesco’s Pay Monthly contracts combine a phone deal with a monthly data allowance. The standout feature is Tesco Mobile Anytime Upgrade — a unique option that lets you upgrade your phone whenever you like, without waiting for the contract to end.
Typical plans include:
- 3 GB data + unlimited calls/texts for about £12 per month
- 12 GB data for £15 per month
- Unlimited data for £30 per month
Prices vary slightly depending on the phone model and Clubcard pricing at the time. You can spread payments for handsets over 12, 24, or 36 months with Tesco Mobile’s separate credit agreement, keeping your device and airtime costs transparent.
SIM-Only Deals
If you already have a phone you love, SIM-only plans are often the best value. Tesco Mobile’s SIM-only deals run on rolling 12-month or 30-day contracts, giving you flexibility to change when needed.
Popular 2025 SIM-only options:
- 2 GB data plan – £7.50 per month
- 10 GB data plan – £12.50 per month
- Unlimited data plan – £25 per month
All SIM-only deals come with unlimited calls and texts. You can order a free SIM online and have it delivered within 2–3 days. Activation takes just a few minutes through your Tesco Mobile account or the Tesco Mobile app.
Pay As You Go (PAYG)
For customers who prefer total spending control, Tesco’s Pay As You Go option works on a top-up system. You only pay for what you use, with no contract or credit check required.
You can buy PAYG SIMs and top-ups in any Tesco store or online. Standard rates are:
- 25p per minute for calls
- 10p per text
- 10p per MB of data
To save more, you can choose Tesco Mobile Rocket Packs — bundles that combine data, minutes, and texts at discounted prices. For example, £10 gets you 4 GB of data + 500 minutes + 5000 texts for one month.
Switching to Tesco Mobile
Changing networks has never been simpler thanks to the text-to-switch service.
- Text PAC to 65075 from your current phone.
- Your old provider will reply with a code.
- Order your Tesco Mobile SIM.
- Give Tesco your PAC code to keep your number.
Your number transfers within one working day. There’s no fee for switching, and Tesco often offers welcome bonuses or extra data for new customers who bring their number.
If you’re moving from another O2-based network (like Giffgaff or Sky Mobile), the switch is seamless because they share the same infrastructure.
Tesco Mobile Family Perks
Families can save even more with Tesco Mobile Family Perks. When you add multiple numbers under one account, each line earns a free monthly benefit — for example:
- 500 extra MB of data
- £2 off the bill
- 150 extra minutes
You can mix and match perks and change them every month. It’s ideal for households with teens or multiple devices.
Clubcard Benefits and Discounts
Tesco integrates its Clubcard loyalty system into Tesco Mobile, which means your shopping rewards and phone plan can now work together.
Clubcard Prices
Customers with a Clubcard get exclusive lower rates on SIM-only and handset contracts. Deals are updated regularly, but savings can reach up to £10 per month on select phones.
Earning Points
You’ll also earn Clubcard points for every pound spent on your mobile bill. These can be turned into vouchers or tripled in value with partner rewards — from restaurants to travel deals.
Network Coverage and Speed
Since Tesco Mobile runs on O2, it benefits from strong national coverage and growing 5G availability. Most urban areas already have 5G access, and Tesco’s O2 partnership plans to reach over 1,000 additional sites by the end of 2025.
In independent tests, Tesco Mobile performs consistently well for reliability and call quality. While data speeds may be slightly slower than EE in certain regions, the difference is minimal for everyday browsing, streaming, and social media use.
Tesco Mobile App
The Tesco Mobile app makes it easy to manage your account, check data usage, and pay bills. You can:
- View remaining data, minutes, and texts
- Top up your balance instantly
- Change tariffs or upgrade your device
- Access customer support via chat
The app is available for iOS and Android and syncs with your online Tesco Mobile account automatically.
Customer Service and Reviews
Tesco Mobile consistently scores highly for customer satisfaction. According to Ofcom’s latest report, it ranks among the top UK networks for helpful support and low complaint levels.
Support is available by phone, online chat, social media, and in-store at most Tesco Mobile counters. There’s also a dedicated community forum for quick troubleshooting and user advice.
International Roaming
Tesco Mobile still allows EU roaming at no extra cost, one of the few UK networks to maintain this benefit. Outside the EU, you can buy affordable roaming passes through your account or the app.
Typical charges for popular destinations include:
- USA: £5 per day for 50 MB
- Australia: £4 per day for 50 MB
- Europe: Included in your plan
Always check roaming rates before you travel, as offers may vary.
How Tesco Mobile Compares
| Network | 4G/5G Coverage | Notable Feature | Average Monthly Cost (10 GB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesco Mobile | 99% (O2 network) | Anytime Upgrade & Clubcard | £12 – £15 |
| EE | 99% | Fastest 5G speeds | £18 – £20 |
| Vodafone | 98% | Global roaming plans | £17 – £19 |
| Giffgaff | 99% (O2) | Flexible goodybags | £10 – £13 |
| Three | 98% | Big data bundles | £15 – £17 |
Tesco Mobile sits comfortably between affordability and reliability, offering competitive prices with the added bonus of Clubcard integration.
Final Thoughts
Tesco Mobile remains one of the best-value networks in the UK. It combines the reliability of O2’s infrastructure with Tesco’s straightforward pricing and customer-first approach. Whether you need an unlimited data plan, a student-friendly SIM, or a simple PAYG setup for light use, Tesco Mobile offers flexibility and fair value across the board.
With transparent contracts, excellent family perks, and easy switching, Tesco Mobile continues to prove that good service and low prices can go hand in hand. If you’re considering changing providers in 2025, it’s a network worth serious attention.
