Buying a New Phone: Here's How to Save with a eSIM Plan

25 August, 2025 by Rajiv Pattni
Buying a New Phone with a SIM only plan
Buying a New Phone with a SIM only plan

Saving money by decoupling

New phones packed with the latest technology come out all the time. In fact, it’ll soon be time for the iPhone 17 to be launched. But just because your phone might cost lots of money, your sim only plan doesn’t need to. So how can you save money when it’s time to upgrade your phone?

Even though it seems more convenient to head to your mobile carrier and sign up for a contract that bundles a new device with an airtime plan, it’s not always the most cost-effective choice. In fact, buying your phone and airtime plan separately can often save you money in the long run. Here’s why.

The True Cost of Bundled Contracts

Carrier contracts usually spread the price of a new phone over 12, 24 or 36 months. While the monthly payments seem manageable, you often end up paying more than the phone’s retail price sometimes much more. On top of that, you’re locked into a plan that may not be the best fit for your usage in the long run.

Pay As You Go Affordable Approach

Purchasing a high-end smartphone can be a significant financial outlay, therefore, a viable alternative is to opt for a pay-as-you-go sim only plan. The plan provides flexibility allowing the phone owner to change their plan at their convenience while still getting access to advanced technology, strong connectivity and 5G speed.

The Benefits of Buying Separately

  • Lower overall costs: Buying a phone outright means you avoid hidden interest or markups built into monthly payments.
  • Freedom to choose: You can shop around for the best eSIM-only plan often far cheaper than bundled contracts.
  • Flexibility to switch: If a better deal comes along, you’re not tied down. With an unlocked phone, you can change providers whenever you like.
  • No surprises at the end: Once you’ve paid for the phone, it’s yours. Your monthly bill only covers the airtime you actually use.

 

The Bottom Line

While bundled phone contracts seem convenient, they often cost more in the long run. By buying your device outright and pairing it with a Lyca Mobile Pay Monthly SIM-only or Pay As You Go Sim only plan, you’ll likely save money and enjoy the freedom to choose the plan that fits your lifestyle best.

For the best choice of eSim plans which offer 5G speed, seamless connectivity and EU roaming. Check out our latest new phone eSIM deals.

 

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