Ireland’s best mobile phone deals
Compare cheap SIM-only plans or buy the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy from Ireland’s best mobile networks.
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Guide
Your complete guide to mobiles in Ireland
Whether you’re choosing a new mobile network, curious about 5G or want a refurbished phone, our complete guide to mobiles covers everything you need to know, including how to compare SIM-only deals and bill pay phones.
- Part 1 Ireland’s mobile market
- Part 2 Types of mobile plans
- Part 3 Choosing a mobile network
- Part 4 Choosing a new mobile phone
- Part 5 Switching your mobile network
Our expert says
The good news is there are lots of flexible and affordable mobile deals out there.
SIM-only deals or pay as you go plans can suit those on a budget, or who prefer to be contract-free.
You could opt for a bill pay plan if you want the latest smartphone and don’t mind spreading out the cost, but a refurbished phone could save you over €370 vs a shiny new device.
As consumers become more cost-conscious and sustainability aware, sales of refurbished devices surged by around 5% last year.
Before switching to a new provider it’s a good idea to research their level of coverage in your area first. Check your existing data and call usage to help you choose the right deal, so you only pay for the airtime you need.
With average speeds 10 times faster than 4G, 5G has been rolled out to most towns in Ireland - but don’t fork out for a super-fast plan or device if you don’t need it.
Other ways to save include multi-deal discounts like the RED Family plan from Vodafone, which offers customers €20 or more off their monthly bill if they bundle mobile plans or broadband together.
Eoin Clarke
Choosing the best mobile deal
Whether your bill pay contract has ended and you’re looking for a cheaper deal, or you’re thinking of a buying the latest bill pay phone, here’s some tips for choosing the right plan.
SIM-only deals
A SIM-only deal is cheaper and more flexible than bill pay, as you’re not covering the cost of a phone, and it is only a 30-day, rolling contract.
It might be a good choice for those who don’t want to buy a new phone. You can also read our SIM-only guide.
Bill pay phone plans
A bill pay phone plan means paying for your phone and airtime monthly instead of buying a new phone upfront.
It’s best for those who want a new device, and prefer to spread the cost. Read our bill pay and SIM-only guide to weigh up which is right for you.
Prepay or pay as you go
A prepay or pay as you go mobile plan is paid for upfront, as opposed to a monthly bill and contract.
It can be useful if you’re under 18 and don’t have a bank account, if you have a poor credit history or if you don’t want to be tied into a contract.
Mobile add ons and bundles
An add-on is a bundle of minutes, texts, data, or combination, that can be bought and activated straight away, keeping you topped up for 30 days, or on an ongoing basis.
Check out whether you can tie in your mobile plan with other services like broadband, phone and TV for extra perks or discounts.
Latest Update
Mobiles roundup
Tesco Mobile announces two-year price freeze
29/02/2024: Tesco Mobile says they will freeze prices for new and existing customers for the next two years.
The company, who is the largest mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) in Ireland, said prices of 24-month, bill pay plans would remain unchanged for the duration the contract.
The announcement comes as many Eir, Vodafone and Three customers face recurring, annual price increases which are tied into inflation.
48 launches 5G with €12.99 plan
15/02/2024: 48 is the latest mobile network to offer unlimited 5G as standard.
Customers can now enjoy 5G with 48’s prepay, SIM-only deal for €12.99 a month; which comes with unlimited calls, texts and data. The provider are also offering a second month free.
48 uses the Three network, which offer over 85% 5G coverage.
The new Samsung Galaxy S24 launches in Ireland
18/01/2024: Samsung has launched the new Samsung Galaxy S24 series. Innovative AI features will enable mobile users to get quick language translation on a call, convert voice recordings into text and edit photos like a professional.
There are only a few design changes, such as thinner bezels and flatter edges and the cameras remain the same. It will be available in a range of pastel hues.
Pre-orders are available from 18 January 2024 from mobile networks and the Samsung.ie website. The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24+ will start shipping on 24 January and the S24 Ultra on 14 February.
Eir reveals 130% growth in 5G mobile usage
04/01/2024: eir has reported a 130% increase in 5G network use compared to 2022. 5G mobile and broadband are 10 times faster than 4G, depending on network coverage and where you live.
eir is Ireland’s largest 5G network and the first to offer 5G coverage to over 70% of the population. 5G coverage is available in 322 towns and cities in all 26 counties in Ireland.
What you need to know
Buying a refurbished phone
A refurbished phone - a preowned device restored to like-new conditions - could save your over €370 vs a shiny new smartphone.
5G vs 4G
5G, or fifth generation, is the latest leap in mobile internet with faster connection and download speeds than its predecessor, 4G.
Mobile coverage
ComReg (The Commission for Communications Regulation) has an outdoor mobile coverage map that makes it easy to check coverage and signal levels of all the networks at your Eircode.
Switcher.ie has recognised and rewarded telecom industry excellence in Ireland for over a decade. Our annual awards highlight standout plans, value for money and customer service in broadband and mobiles to help you make the right choices.
We survey over a thousand customers to find our Public Choice winners because we believe that you know best. Our Telecom experts at Switcher.ie choose the rest.
Look out for the Awards badge or check out our Switcher.ie Awards page to discover this year’s champions.