SIM Only Guides & Advice

In-depth information to make you a smarter shopper.

We spend hours searching, trialling and testing – then make these guides so that you don’t have to.

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Which mobile network offers the best 4G services?

On: Saturday, 1 February, 2020

Last November, an intriguing experiment took place across the UK. Four cars travelled over 6,500 miles along A-roads, B-roads and motorways, visiting a total of 50 towns and cities from Belfast to Bristol. Each car contained four Samsung Ga...

How many versions of Android are there?

By: Neil Cumins

On: Thursday, 30 January, 2020

One of the criticisms often levelled against the Android smartphone operating system is that it’s merely a copy of Apple’s iOS. And to an extent, that’s true. The iPhone and its accompanying App Store were launched in 2007, but Androi...

What are Less Secure Apps?

By: Neil Cumins

On: Sunday, 26 January, 2020

We rarely stop to think about the functionality underpinning the apps we use on a daily basis. Whether you’re addicted to Rightmove, constantly checking BBC Sport or a religious user of Spotify, your smartphone is probably home to dozens ...

What’s the difference between 5G and full 5G?

By: Neil Cumins

On: Friday, 24 January, 2020

Last May, the fifth generation of cellular connectivity made its high-profile debut in the UK. The advent of 5G has been hailed as a game-changer, with more excitable commentators suggesting it could ultimately become as significant as the ...

How do Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work?

By: Neil Cumins

On: Friday, 17 January, 2020

In-car entertainment has evolved immeasurably over the decades. In the 1980s, buyers of a new car were lucky to get a radio – and only high-end models got stereo sound. Similarly, in the 1990s, a CD player represented the height of sophis...

Which network operator has the best rural coverage?

By: Neil Cumins

On: Wednesday, 15 January, 2020

If you live and work in a city, mobile network coverage isn’t something you’ll have to worry about. On the other hand, if your daily commute involves bouncing a 4×4 over cattle grids or negotiating passing places, choosing the best...

How to keep your smartphone in as-new condition

By: Neil Cumins

On: Friday, 10 January, 2020

There’s something irresistible about unboxing a new smartphone. Peeling off the protective vinyl tabs is satisfying, the first boot-up is pleasing, and discovering its new features can be thrilling. If we can’t treat ourselves to a new ...

Useful maintenance tips for Android handsets

By: Neil Cumins

On: Thursday, 26 December, 2019

Any electronic device will slow down and perform less effectively as it gets older. Unfortunately, smartphones are no exception. Indeed, the constant variety of uses they’re put to means mobile phones are particularly prone to suffering p...

Why can’t I get 4G in crowded locations?

By: Neil Cumins

On: Monday, 23 December, 2019

One of the great joys of modern life is sharing experiences with people who aren’t in attendance. From Christmas Day Skype calls to real-time social media discussions about live TV, the internet has given us the ability to communicate whe...

How to recycle your old handset

By: Neil Cumins

On: Friday, 20 December, 2019

It seems every winter brings a new David Attenborough-narrated series which uncovers fresh horrors concerning mankind’s impact on the planet. This year’s Seven Worlds One Planet series highlighted the impact of palm oil production, clim...