Compare the Network Provider

• There are five main mobile network operators providing mobile phone contracts to British consumers, namely Vodafone, T-Mobile, O2, Orange and 3. Other providers include Virgin Mobile and Tesco Mobile. While 3 prides itself on being the UK's biggest 3G network operator, Vodafone and O2 (formerly BT Cellnet) are the oldest and by far the largest networks overall.
  
  

Mobile Phone Tariff

• Most U.K, mobile phone providers offer competitive contracts. When it comes to monthly allowances such as minutes, texts and Internet usage, some are more generous than others. There are other variables to compare which may mean that choosing a less generous but realistic tariff will be financially beneficial for you.
  
  

Length of Contract

• Since the popularization of multimedia smartphones, 12-month contracts have phased out completely. Many operators provide mainly 24-month contracts have become the norm, although you can sometimes find 18-month contracts at higher costs. It is important to check to find how long you will be tied into the contract and work out how much it will cost you in the end.