Multi network SIMs: the mobile upgrade everyone’s talking about

Imagine if every time you lost signal, you could just hop onto another network. 

No imagination needed: you can have just that with a multi network SIM.

Keen to learn more about the world of the multi network SIM and why it’s the best thing since sliced bread when it comes to your phone? Read on 👇

What is a multi network SIM?

A multi network SIM does what it says on the tin: it uses multiple networks. No more being stuck on one network like a regular SIM.

Just like when you go abroad and your phone connects to any available network, a multi network SIM lets you do that in the UK. 

Does a multi network SIM always pick the best network?

At the risk of sounding like a politician dodging a tricky topic on Question Time, it depends what you mean by “best” 😅

First of all, not every multi network SIM uses all available networks in a given country. Our Smart SIM, for example, uses EE, O2 and Three (not Vodafone, yet) in the UK.

And some are steered, meaning they’re primarily on one network and only switch to another if the main one fails.

When it’s unsteered, the network a multi network SIM chooses is based on a few factors. 

“Fastest” isn’t one of them. Instead, it’ll generally choose the network with the strongest signal (measured in decibel milliwatts 🤓) on connection and stick to it until it drops out.

Network congestion is a big issue in the UK since the infrastructure is so outdated (our CEO even spoke about it here). So even if you have a connection, you might be stuck on speeds slower than dial-up (remember that?), especially in busy areas.

The difference with a multi network SIM is that you can always hop over to a different network and be in with a chance of faster speeds there.

Does a multi network SIM work like a regular SIM?

You’ve guessed it: it depends. Some multi network SIMs have normal SIM functions like calling and texting, so you can install one and use it as your primary SIM.

But here’s the catch: they usually charge by the megabyte, and the cost can add up fast.

To put that into context, one multi network SIM provider on the market charges 10p per MB. The average person uses 8GB of data per month, so that’s an £800 phone bill for a normal month of usage. And that’s not counting the calling and texting charges too 🫣

That’s why we designed Smart SIM as a multi network SIM that kicks in whenever your main SIM loses signal or you go abroad. It keeps you connected on 100+ essential apps, without needing to take out a small mortgage at the end of the month.

How fast are download speeds on a multi network SIM?

A multi network SIM tends to be slower than your average UK SIM, as it doesn’t have network priority. 

Think of it like a queue: regular SIMs can whizz to the front, while a multi network SIM will often have to wait its turn.

This isn’t as noticeable with Smart SIM, as the supported apps don’t need the fastest data possible to work well. You can send a message, find your destination or order an Uber with no trouble.

Does a multi network SIM work abroad?

Not every multi network SIM works abroad. Some are strictly UK-based, meaning you’d have to use a different SIM abroad or pay hefty roaming fees.

Not with Smart SIM 😎

While EU roaming is pretty simple these days (you get 5 days free per trip with an Honest Classic SIM, for example), that holiday in Turkey or world tour (lucky duck) can get pretty expensive pretty quickly.

But we don’t think you should be paying through the roof just to book an Uber from the airport or keep your friends updated on your travels. 

Smart SIM lets you do just that, for a set £5/month.

Not every multi network SIM is created equal

While every multi network SIM uses more than one network, not every multi network SIM works in exactly the same way.

Some work just like a regular SIM for calls, texts and data, but with an eye-watering price tag to match.

Others, like the Honest Smart SIM, work more like a second SIM. Whenever your main SIM drops out or you go abroad, Smart SIM lets you keep using your most important apps across EE, O2 and Three, plus free global roaming. 

Think of it as the ultimate insurance for your main SIM. When your main SIM falls short, Smart SIM kicks in.

Sounds like your kind of multi network SIM? Sign up to the waiting list now 👀