Compare SIM Only Plans, Coverage, Costs and Find the Best One for You
You are in the right place. With dozens of mobile plans on the market in 2026, picking the right one is no longer just about the lowest price. It is about matching data, coverage, roaming, and extras to how you actually use your phone. This guide breaks down everything you need to make a confident, informed decision.
What is a SIM Only plan?
Understand the mechanics of no-contract mobile plans and why they offer the most flexibility for Singaporean users in 2026.
SIM Only vs Contract plans
We break down the cost-benefit analysis between paying for a device upfront versus monthly installments over 24 months.
What to look for in a SIM Only plan?
From 5G network reliability to built-in roaming data, learn the essential features that define a high-value mobile plan today.
The Full 5G Unlimited+ Plan Comparison
Explore a full breakdown of StarHub 5G Unlimited+ plans, featuring unlimited data and integrated security protection.
A SIM-only plan is a mobile subscription that provides only a SIM card (or eSIM) with data, talk time, and SMS, without a bundled phone or a long-term contract.
Eliminate hidden interest and device subsidies. SIM Only plans offer the lowest entry price for premium 5G connectivity, perfect for budget-conscious consumers looking to reduce monthly overheads.
Enjoy the flexibility of a no-contract mobile plan. This allows you to upgrade your data tier or switch providers whenever a more competitive promotional offer becomes available.
Use any compatible 5G device, from flagship smartphones to budget-friendly models. Your service remains consistent and uninterrupted, even if you change your phone every year.
Unlike traditional contract plans that bundle your phone and service together, a SIM only plan separates the two. You pay only for data, calls, and SMS at a lower monthly rate. This means you choose when and how to buy your phone, whether that is upfront, through trade-in, or via interest-free instalments.
| Feature | SIM Only Plans | Contract Plans |
|---|---|---|
| 💰 Monthly Cost | Lower | Higher |
| ⏳ Contract Length | None (Month-to-month) | 12 to 24 months |
| 📱 Phone Included | No | Yes |
| 💳 Device Payment | Upfront or Instalments | Spread over contract |
| 🔓 Flexibility | High | Limited |
| 🚫 Termination Fees | None | Usually apply |
| ✨ Best For | Budget-conscious users and those who prefer buying devices outright. | Users who want to spread the cost of a flagship phone over time. |
If you need a new flagship phone and are comfortable with a fixed commitment, a contract plan keeps the upfront cost low and simple.
If you want lower monthly costs and the freedom to switch plans whenever you like, StarHub 5G Unlimited+ Plans are the smarter choice.
💡 The StarHub Advantage: StarHub's 5G Unlimited+ Plans include built-in DeviceDollars: monthly credits you accumulate toward your next phone purchase via 0% interest instalments. You get SIM only pricing and flexibility, plus a structured way to save for your next upgrade without a contract.
When comparing SIM only plans, the goal is not to find the cheapest option on paper, but the one that fits how you use your phone in real life. The table below summarises the key factors to evaluate and what to look out for.
| What to Compare | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| 📊 Data Allowance | Ensure it matches your real monthly usage. Paying for data you do not use is inefficient. |
| 🚀 Usage Behaviour | Some plans throttle speeds after reaching a cap. StarHub 5G Unlimited+ plans offer consistent high-speed performance. |
| 📡 Network Type | Directly affects speed and latency. 5G is essential for seamless streaming and gaming. |
| 🏢 Indoor Coverage | While outdoor signals are standard, reliable underground and indoor coverage is a key differentiator. |
| ✈️ Roaming Inclusions | Check for more than just data. Comprehensive plans include roaming calls and SMS. |
| 📜 Contract Terms | Contract-free plans provide the flexibility to switch or upgrade without penalties. |
| 📲 eSIM Compatibility | Critical for dual-SIM smartphone users and smartwatch connectivity. |
| ⭐ Extra Benefits | Value-adds like DeviceDollars and ScamSafe security provide long-term benefits beyond just connectivity. |
💡 Regulatory Insights: Singapore's telco market is regulated by IMDA (Infocomm Media Development Authority), which monitors network quality. For an independent view of performance, you can review IMDA’s Quality of Service reports.
In Singapore, most mobile networks provide strong island-wide outdoor coverage, so you are unlikely to face major issues when moving around the city. That said, the actual experience can vary depending on where you spend most of your time and how you use your phone day to day.
Coverage tends to vary most in these spots:
Underground and tunnel areas where signal needs to penetrate deep structures.
Large commercial complexes where thick walls can reduce signal strength.
Basement carparks and lift lobbies where signals travel through thick concrete.
StarHub’s 5G network covers over 99% of Singapore outdoors
Because of this, a plan that works perfectly outdoors may behave differently indoors or during your daily commute. The best way to compare coverage is to check how well a network performs in the places you spend most of your time: home, work, and your regular routes. Learn more about StarHub's 5G network and its achievement of over 99% outdoor coverage in Singapore.
Here is how our StarHub 5G Unlimited+ and Platinum Plans stack up:
| Feature | 5G Lite | 5G Unlimited+ Core |
5G Unlimited+ Plus |
5G Unlimited+ Max |
5G Platinum | 5G Platinum Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $25.00/mth | $38.00/mth | $48.00/mth | $78.00/mth | $128.00/mth | $188.00/mth |
| Local Data | 200GB | Unlimited 5G Data | ||||
| Talk/SMS | 1,000 mins 1,000 SMS |
Unlimited Voice & SMS | ||||
| Roaming Data | 1GB Global + 1GB SEA |
3GB Global + 5GB SEA |
5GB Global + 10GB APAC |
20GB Global | 30GB Global | Unlimited Global |
| Unlimited IDD | N/A | 165 Destinations | ||||
| DeviceDollars | N/A | $5/mth | $10/mth | $20/mth | $50/mth | $80/mth |
| Security | CALLER NUMBER DISPLAY SCAMSAFE PROTECTION | |||||
Essential Connectivity
A streamlined plan providing 200GB of high-speed data. Perfect for those who want a reliable 5G connection for daily browsing and social media without excess features.
Unlimited Local Usage
Total digital freedom within Singapore. Ideal for users who want the peace of mind of unlimited local data, talktime, and SMS with no contract restrictions.
Regional Travel and Upgrades
Adds significant roaming data for regional trips and doubles your monthly DeviceDollars, making it a smart choice for those planning their next flagship phone upgrade.
Global Data Flexibility
Designed for those whose lifestyle takes them across borders. Features 20GB of global roaming across 165 destinations with high-priority 5G access.
Frequent Travellers and Nomads
A premium tier for users with heavy international needs, offering 30GB of global data and unlimited IDD calls to stay connected with family or business abroad.
Total Peace of Mind
The ultimate zero-limit experience. Endless data, calls, and SMS locally and overseas. Perfect for the power user who requires seamless connectivity around the world.
Experience the freedom of truly unlimited local data on StarHub 5G Unlimited+ Plans (Core and above). Stream in high definition, game with low latency, and work on the go without ever worrying about data caps or throttled speeds on Singapore's most awarded 5G network.
Travel with confidence knowing roaming data is already included in your monthly plan. Covering up to 165 destinations, StarHub ensures you stay connected the moment you land without the need for manual activation or swapping SIM cards.
Communication knows no borders. StarHub 5G Unlimited+ Plans (Core and above) provide unlimited roaming calls and SMS when you are abroad, alongside unlimited IDD calls from Singapore to 165 destinations. Connect with loved ones or colleagues worldwide without the fear of bill shocks.
Your loyalty pays off. Monthly DeviceDollars are credited to your account with every StarHub 5G Unlimited+ Plan (Core and above). Accumulate these credits for up to 36 months and use them to significantly lower the upfront cost of your next flagship smartphone or tablet.
Enjoy the freedom to stay because you want to, not because you have to. Our 5G Unlimited+ SIM Only plans are completely contract-free. This gives you the flexibility to adjust your mobile strategy or switch plans whenever your needs change, without any hidden penalties or termination fees.
Stay protected at the network level. Every StarHub 5G Unlimited+ Plan includes ScamSafe at no extra cost. Our system automatically blocks known scam calls and filters fraudulent SMS messages before they reach your device, ensuring a safer mobile experience for everyone.
Switching from a contract plan to a SIM only plan is straightforward. You can keep your existing phone number and be up and running in a few steps.
Open the StarHub app and review your current plan type under "Manage Plan." SIM Only customers can switch to StarHub 5G Unlimited+ Plans anytime. Our plans are contract-free, giving you the freedom to change with no penalties.
Compare the plan tiers in the comparison table above and pick the one that matches your data, roaming, and budget needs. Whether you choose Core, Plus or Max, you'll enjoy a seamless 5G experience.
Log in to the StarHub Store or use the app, tap "Shop," and follow the steps. For eSIM switches, please have your SingPass ready for instant identity verification.
Your new 5G Unlimited+ Plan will be active within a few minutes. You'll receive a notification and an SMS confirming the switch. No new SIM card is required for most users.
Switching from another provider? You can port in your existing number during sign-up. Submit a port-in request with your NRIC/ID and existing mobile number. You'll receive an SMS once the port-in is complete.
A SIM Only plan provides high-speed mobile service without a bundled smartphone. This allows you to pay exclusively for 5G data, talktime, and SMS, resulting in much lower monthly costs.
SIM Only offers lower monthly bills and full flexibility with no long-term commitment. Contract plans bundle a new device with your service, which usually requires a 12 to 24-month commitment and higher monthly expenses to subsidize the device cost.
Yes! You can choose to pay in full or opt for 0% interest buy now pay later instalments (12 or 24 months). All hardware purchases are subject to eligibility requirements.
New customers can sign up online here or visit any StarHub shop across Singapore.
Your mobile plan should empower you, not hold you back. With StarHub's 5G Unlimited+ Plans, you get the flexibility of a no-contract SIM Only service paired with the power of unlimited data and built-in device savings. It’s time to live your best life, connected.
Switch to 5G Unlimited+ PlanDisclaimer:
This content is provided for general information and convenience. While we take care in preparing our articles, readers should refer to official sources or professional advice for specific, up-to-date details.
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