Key points
- Three’s award-winning 5G now covers over 650 towns and cities across the UK and it’s still growing.[1]
- Enjoy perks with Pay As You Go, including rewards for regular users.
- Get truly unlimited data on selected plans, no speed caps, no limits.
- The Three+ app unlocks exclusive savings at Cineworld, Uber Eats, Caffè Nero, and more.
- Early access to tickets for gigs, shows and events through the Three+ loyalty programme.
What is Three?
Three is one of the UK’s big four mobile networks, alongside EE, O2 and Vodafone. Launched in 2003, it was built for the internet and helped pioneer unlimited data plans.
Today, Three offers the UK’s widest 5G spectrum and meets the International Mobile Telecommunications standards.
Three mobile contract phones
If you’re looking for a new handset to go with your contract, then Three has a wide variety of models and brands to choose from including Apple, Samsung, Huawei, Sony, Motorola and BlackBerry.
Looking for a new handset? Three offers top brands like Apple, Samsung, Huawei and Sony on contract. Compare deals to find one that fits your needs and your budget.
Three mobile SIM-only deals
Three SIM-only deals often include:
- Unlimited data - no usage caps on selected deals
- Personal hotspot - share your data with other devices
- Three+ - discounts at Cineworld, Caffè Nero, HelloFresh and more
Three mobile pay as you go phones
Pay as you go (PAYG) is ideal if you want flexibility, use your phone less, or are buying for a child. You’ll avoid monthly bills, just top up as needed.
If you’re a heavy data user, you might be better off with a SIM-only or contract plan.
We compare phone contracts and SIM-only deals above, however you can find Three PAYG deals on the Three mobile website.
Tips for getting the best deal with Three
- Compare prices to get the best value
- Only pay for the data you’ll actually use
- Consider buying the phone outright and going SIM only
- PAYG can be cheaper if you don’t use your phone much
- Extras and rewards are nice, but they can cost more
- Can’t commit to a long contract? Go PAYG instead
Is Three a good network?
Three’s 4G covers around 99.8% of the UK population and their growing 5G network has picked up multiple awards.
Want to see how well different networks perform where you live? Use our network coverage quality checker.
Coverage area
Three runs its own network, offering 99% UK coverage on 3G and 4G. Its award-winning 5G is now live in 650+ towns and cities and expanding fast.
Customer service
Need help? Three’s support team is on hand:
- Call 333 from your Three phone
- 8am–10pm (Mon–Fri), 9am–6pm (weekends)
Roaming
Three’s “Go Roam” used to be free, but roaming charges are now back:
- £2/day in Europe
- £5/day in Go Roam Around the World zones
Mobile app
Download the Three app on iOS or Android to:
- Manage your plan, add-ons and usage
- Set spend caps
- Join Three+ for exclusive perks and pre-sale tickets
Contract lengths
Choose from:
- 12-month SIM plans
- 30-day rolling contracts
- Phone contracts over 12, 24 or 36 months
Rolling plans offer more flexibility but usually cost more per month.
Upfront costs or set-up fees
Three SIMs are free to order. Just pick a plan, and it’ll be posted out ready to use, no fees or faff.
Data rollover
Three doesn’t offer data rollover, so unused data won’t carry over. Pick a plan that fits your monthly use to avoid wasting data (or money).
Tariffs
SIM only plans from Three often include:
- 5G as standard
- Rolling, 12- or 24-month options
- Extras like Go Roam or free streaming (on longer contracts)
- Longer deals equals lower monthly costs
Tethering policy
Turn your phone into a hotspot with your data allowance. Handy for laptops, just keep an eye on how much you’re using.
Discover more
Still not sure? Take a look at our other network guides:
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need to sign a contract?
Only if you choose a long-term plan. 30-day rolling deals don’t need a contract. But if you go for a 12, 24 or 36-month plan (especially with a phone) you’ll be committing to the full term.
Can I get a Three SIM only deal with poor credit?
Yes, go for a 30-day rolling SIM. There’s no long-term commitment, and you usually won’t need a credit check.
Does Three only do 36 month contracts?
Nope. Three offers flexible options, from 30-day rolling SIMs to 12, 24 or 36-month contracts.
Is Three’s 5G fast?
Yes, it’s one of the fastest in the UK. Three’s 5G now covers 650 + towns and cities (and counting).
Can I keep my current phone number if I change to a Three SIM?
Absolutely. Text ‘PAC’ to 65075, give the code to Three when you sign up, and they’ll move your number over for you.
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[1] Three's financial results for 2023 say that Three had 4700 5G sites across 650 towns and cities. We haven't seen the 2024 results but we estimate that the number will have grown significantly since then.