Everything about Sim Only

How it works, which networks exist and what you should pay. Plus the sharpest plans from every Dutch provider, updated daily.

Compare in three steps

Picking the right plan takes minutes when you know what to look at.

  1. 1

    Know your usage

    Check your current data usage in your provider app. Most people use between 5 and 20 GB per month, far less than they pay for.

  2. 2

    Pick a contract length

    Two-year plans are the cheapest, monthly plans give freedom. One year is the middle ground for most switchers.

  3. 3

    Compare the real monthly cost

    Promo prices end. We show what a plan costs after the discount period, so you compare what you actually pay.

Providers and their networks

The Netherlands has three mobile networks. Every Sim Only brand uses one of them, so a budget brand gets you the same coverage as the network owner.

KPN network

Also the network behind Simyo, Lebara, Lyca Mobile and Youfone. Strong nationwide coverage.

Odido network

Formerly T-Mobile. Also carries Ben and Simpel, two of the cheapest brands in the country.

Vodafone network

Also the network behind hollandsnieuwe. Solid coverage with competitive bundle promos.

Sim Only or prepaid?

Both keep your own phone and number. The difference is how you pay and what it costs you.

Sim Only Prepaid
What it is A monthly plan with a fixed bundle of data, minutes and texts. Pay as you go credit you top up yourself. No contract, no monthly bill.
Best for Anyone who uses their phone every day and wants the lowest price per GB. Very light users and short stays. Per-MB rates make regular use expensive.
Data From 1 GB to unlimited Small bundles or per MB
Price per month From € 4 to € 25 Depends on usage

Switching is easier than you think

Your new provider arranges almost everything, including taking your number with you.

Order online

Sign up with your new provider in a few minutes. You have a 14-day cooling-off period on every order.

Keep your number

Enter your current number when ordering and the providers arrange the transfer between them. Your old plan stops automatically.

Or go instant with eSIM

Most providers support eSIM. Scan a QR code and your new plan is active, no waiting for a sim card in the mail.

Frequently asked questions

Everything about Sim Only plans.

A Sim Only plan is a mobile plan where you only receive a SIM card, without a smartphone. You pay a monthly fee for mobile data, calling minutes and SMS. Because there's no phone included, Sim Only plans are typically € 10 to € 20 cheaper per month compared to plans with a device.

The average Dutch user needs about 5 to 10 GB per month. If you mainly use Wi-Fi at home and work, 5 GB is often enough. Stream a lot of video or music on the go? Then consider 10 to 20 GB or unlimited data. Check your current usage in your provider's app to see what you actually need.

The cheapest Sim Only plans in the Netherlands start around € 5 per month for basic plans with limited data. For a good balance of price and features, expect to pay € 10 to € 15 for plans with 5 to 10 GB data. Use our comparison tool above to find the best deal for your specific needs.

Yes, you can always keep your current phone number when switching to a new Sim Only provider. This is called number portability. Your new provider handles the entire transfer process. You just need to provide your current phone number during signup.

Monthly contracts offer maximum flexibility, cancel anytime. However, they're usually € 2 to € 5 more expensive per month. 2-year contracts give the lowest monthly price but lock you in for 24 months. 1-year contracts offer a middle ground with moderate savings and reasonable flexibility.

KPN, Vodafone and Odido operate the three main networks in the Netherlands, all with excellent nationwide coverage. Budget providers like Simpel (KPN network), Ben (Odido network) and Hollandsnieuwe (Vodafone network) use these same networks at lower prices.

Switch and start saving

Pick your plan, keep your number and arrange the whole switch online. Sorted in a few minutes.