Looking to compare SIM only plans in Singapore and find the best fit for your lifestyle? 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.

 

How This Guide Helps You

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 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.

What is a SIM Only Plan?


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.
 

💰

Maximum Cost Savings

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.

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Total Commitment Freedom

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.

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Hardware Flexibility

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.

SIM Only vs Contract Plans

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.
Go Contract If...

You need a new phone now

If you need a new flagship phone and are comfortable with a fixed commitment, a contract plan keeps the upfront cost low and simple.

 
Go SIM Only If...

You value flexibility

If you want lower monthly costs and the freedom to switch plans whenever you like, StarHub 5G Unlimited+ Plans are the smarter choice.

 

How to Compare SIM Only Plans in Singapore

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.

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.

Which SIM Only Plan Has the Best Coverage?


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:

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MRT Tunnels

Underground and tunnel areas where signal needs to penetrate deep structures.

 
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Office Buildings

Large commercial complexes where thick walls can reduce signal strength.

 
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Carparks & Lifts

Basement carparks and lift lobbies where signals travel through thick concrete.

 
99%+

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. StarHub's 5G network, for example, covers over 99% of Singapore outdoors.

SIM Only Plan Comparison

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 $22.00/mth $38.00/mth $48.00/mth $78.00/mth $128.00/mth $188.00/mth
Local Data 150GB Unlimited 5G Data
Talk/SMS 1,000 mins
750 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

Which is the
Best SIM Only Plan for You?

$22/mth

5G Lite

Best For

Essential Connectivity

A streamlined plan providing 150GB of high-speed data. Perfect for those who want a reliable 5G connection for daily browsing and social media without excess features.

 
$38/mth

5G Unlimited+ Core

Best For

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.

 
$48/mth

5G Unlimited+ Plus

Best For

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.

 
$78/mth

5G Unlimited+ Max

Best For

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.

 
$128/mth

5G Platinum

Best For

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.

 
$188/mth

5G Platinum Elite

Best For

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.

 

Why Choose
StarHub 5G Unlimited+ SIM Only Plans

 

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Unlimited Data

True 5G Unlimited Local Data

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.

 
✈️
Built-in Roaming

Seamless Roaming Included in All Plans

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.

165Global Destinations
AutoNetwork Switch
$0Activation Fees
 
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Borderless Talk

Unlimited Global SMS and Calls

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.

UnlimitedRoaming Calls/SMS
UnlimitedIDD to 165 Countries
GlobalConnectivity
 
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Loyalty Rewards

DeviceDollars: Save on Your Next Upgrade

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.

 
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Ultimate Freedom

No Lock-ins, No Contracts

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.

 
🛡️
Proactive Security

Security Included with ScamSafe

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.

 

How to Switch to 5G Unlimited+


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.

 

01

Check Your Current Plan

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.

02

Choose Your StarHub 5G Unlimited+ Plan

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.

03

Switch to your Preferred Plan

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.

04

You're Live Within Minutes

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q What is a SIM Only Plan?

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.

Q What’s the difference between a SIM Only and a contract plan?

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.

Q Can I buy a device with a 5G Unlimited+ Plan?

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.

Q How do I upgrade my Star Plan to a 5G Unlimited+ Plan?
You can upgrade instantly via the StarHub App:
  • Open the StarHub App and tap "More" (bottom menu).
  • Select "Manage Plan & Add-Ons".
  • Tap "Change Plan" on your existing Star Plan.
  • Select your preferred 5G Unlimited+ Plan.
Note: Your new plan will be activated in the next billing cycle.
Q How do I sign up for StarHub’s all-new 5G Unlimited+ Plan?

New customers can sign up online here or visit any StarHub shop across Singapore.

From unlimited 5G to global roaming, we got you.

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+ Plan

Disclaimer:

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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