SIM free phones

Want a new phone but don't fancy a contract package? Looking to get a new phone and pay monthly with a SIM only deal? Often working out as the cheaper option, more and more people are choosing to buy a SIM free phone outright and pay a much smaller monthly bill for their SIM card. This also allows people the flexibility of buying a new phone whenever they like and move between networks and rates as their SIM deal allows them. For many, a deciding factor is the decrease in the price of older (but still able to meet the user's needs) models of phones as newer models come out.

iPhone

Such examples of older models, for fans of the Apple iPhone, are the iPhone 6 and iPhone 7, which still have remarkable performance and build quality. Of course, those looking for the newest models will be after the iPhone XS, the iPhone XS Max and the iPhone XR. Among the numerous hardware and feature improvements are the advances in the camera department, with all three models recording 4K video at 60fps, and the XS and XS Max boasting a 7MP TrueDepth front camera and Dual 12MP rear cameras.

Android

In terms of brands, Android users have the luxury of choice. The devices of two notable Asian companies, Samsung and Huawei, are hugely popular options. Amongst Huawei phones are the Huawei P Smart, ideal for those after great value and, for top-end phone enthusiasts, the Huawei P20 and P30 ranges. The range Samsung phones is vast, with the Samsung Galaxy S10 as their latest offering. Amongst many improvements, this has an increased battery life and introduces PowerShare, allowing you to take charge from another device.

More SIM free phones

There are many other brands of note, such as Nokia, Sony, Alcatel, Honor, Motorola and Google. The Sony Xperia is a popular option for those looking for a mid-range device. Android and iOS aren't the only operating systems around. Nokia phones include both modern smartphones and those in the older style, which have been likened to bricks but, these days, are powerful and easy to use, with modern features and excellent battery life.

Phone accessories

You also have the option to connect your phone to your wrist with a smart watch. These are brilliant, wearable devices that display notifications, track fitness metrics, allow you to access your phone in a simple interface, reply to messages with your voice and much more. During your research, double-check for compatibility with your phone. For example, the Apple Watch only works with iPhones.

If you need replacement earphones, treat yourself to a new set that gives clearer, more powerful sound than your standard issue earbuds. There are Bluetooth earphones and headsets, so you don't have to contend with tangled wires and powerful, over-ear headphones for high quality audio. With a Bluetooth set, you can also connect to a tablet or iPad, allowing you to watch films on a bigger screen. Going for a small tablet, like an iPad Mini, ensures you are not compromising portability.