Best 5G SIM Cards UK
Superfast Speeds at No Extra Cost
Experience next-generation mobile speeds with free 5G access on O2 and Vodafone networks. No premium charges, just blazing-fast connectivity.
Free 5G Access
No extra charges for 5G
Superfast Speeds
Up to 10x faster than 4G
Wide Coverage
200+ UK locations
Why Choose 5G SIM Cards?
Experience the future of mobile connectivity today
Lightning-Fast Downloads
Download movies in seconds, not minutes. 5G speeds reach up to 1Gbps - that's 10x faster than 4G. Perfect for streaming, gaming, and large file transfers.
Ultra-Low Latency
Near-instant response times make online gaming, video calls, and real-time applications smoother than ever. Experience lag-free connectivity.
Better Performance in Crowds
5G handles more devices simultaneously. Stay connected in busy areas like stadiums, concerts, and city centers without slowdowns.
Future-Proof Technology
Invest in the future of mobile connectivity. 5G networks are expanding rapidly across the UK, with new locations added monthly.
No Extra Cost
Unlike some providers, both GiffGaff and Lebara include 5G access at no additional charge. Get next-gen speeds at 4G prices.
Enhanced Mobile Experience
Stream 4K video without buffering, download apps instantly, and enjoy crystal-clear video calls. 5G transforms how you use your phone.
5G Network Coverage Comparison
GiffGaff 5G (O2 Network)
O2's 5G network covers over 100 towns and cities across the UK, with continuous expansion.
- ✓ Average 5G download speed: 150 Mbps
- ✓ Peak speeds up to 1Gbps in optimal conditions
- ✓ 5G coverage in all major UK cities
- ✓ Excellent indoor 5G penetration
- ✓ Free 5G access - no premium charges
- ✓ Automatic 5G/4G switching for seamless connectivity
Lebara 5G (Vodafone Network)
Vodafone's 5G network reaches over 200 locations across the UK with rapid expansion plans.
- ✓ Average 5G download speed: 185 Mbps
- ✓ Peak speeds exceeding 1Gbps
- ✓ Largest 5G coverage footprint in UK
- ✓ Strong 5G signal in business districts
- ✓ No extra cost for 5G access
- ✓ Compatible with all 5G-enabled devices
5G Requirements
What You Need for 5G
- 5G-Compatible Phone: You need a 5G-enabled device. Most phones from 2020 onwards support 5G, including iPhone 12 and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and Google Pixel 5 and later.
- 5G Coverage Area: You must be in an area with 5G coverage. Check O2 and Vodafone coverage maps to see if 5G is available in your location.
- 5G-Ready SIM: Both GiffGaff and Lebara SIM cards are 5G-ready out of the box. No special SIM required.
- 5G Enabled in Settings: Ensure 5G is enabled in your phone's network settings. It's usually on by default on 5G phones.
5G SIM Only Deals & Pricing
Typical 5G SIM only pricing from the two networks we recommend. All plans are rolling 30-day deals — no contract, no credit check, and 5G included at no extra cost.
| Plan type | Typical price | Data | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget 5G SIM | £5–£8/month | 2–5GB | Light browsing, messaging |
| Mid-tier 5G SIM | £10–£15/month | 10–20GB | Streaming, social, hotspotting |
| Large 5G SIM | £15–£25/month | 30–100GB+ | Heavy streaming, working on the go |
| Unlimited 5G SIM | £25–£35/month | Unlimited | Mobile WiFi replacement, 4K streaming |
Cheapest 5G SIM: Lebara
5G on Vodafone's network from around £5/month with unlimited UK calls and texts. Ideal if you want the lowest entry price to 5G.
Get Lebara 5G SIMBest Flexible 5G SIM: Giffgaff
5G included on all goodybags from around £6/month on O2. Change or cancel your goodybag every month — including unlimited data options.
Get Giffgaff 5G SIMPrices are indicative and may change — always confirm current pricing on the network's site before ordering.
5G SIM Cards: FAQs
What is the cheapest 5G SIM only deal in the UK?
Lebara offers 5G SIM only plans from around £5/month and Giffgaff includes 5G on goodybags from around £6/month. Both are rolling 30-day plans with no contract and no credit check, and 5G is included at no extra cost.
Do I need a special SIM card for 5G?
No. Giffgaff and Lebara SIMs are 5G-ready out of the box. You just need a 5G-compatible phone (most models from 2020 onwards), 5G coverage in your area, and 5G enabled in your phone settings.
Which UK network has the best 5G coverage?
Vodafone (used by Lebara) currently has one of the largest 5G footprints in the UK with 200+ locations, while O2 (used by Giffgaff) covers 100+ towns and cities. Check each network's coverage map for your specific address before ordering.
Is 5G included in unlimited data SIM plans?
Yes. Both Giffgaff and Lebara include 5G at no extra cost on their unlimited data plans, so you get the fastest available speeds without paying a premium.
Can I get a 5G pay as you go SIM?
Yes. Giffgaff runs on pay-as-you-go credit with optional monthly goodybags, and Lebara offers rolling 30-day plans. Both include 5G where coverage is available, with no contract or credit check.
Ready to Experience 5G Speeds?
Get your free 5G SIM card today and enjoy superfast mobile connectivity at no extra cost