Whether you’re signing up for a new mobile plan or thinking about renewing your old one, one of the most common questions Singaporeans face is this: Is a SIM-only plan better than a contract plan that comes bundled with a device?
The answer isn’t always obvious. Often, it comes down to the details, including data usage, plan flexibility, and device preferences.
SIM-only plans, in particular, have been steadily gaining popularity in Singapore. Without hidden device costs and often with no long-term lock-ins, they give users control over their mobile expenses while still offering generous data allowances.
This guide is designed to save you hours of research by breaking down everything you need to know about SIM-only plans vs contract plans, from key differences and costs, to who each option is best suited for, so you can make an informed choice that fits your lifestyle.
A SIM-only plan is a mobile subscription where you only pay for services like data, talk time, and SMS without bundling in a new device. Unlike traditional contracts, where the monthly fee covers both the phone and service, SIM-only users bring their own device or buy one outright.
Where contract plans may have been a mainstay several years ago, today SIM-only plans are gaining popularity, as these plans are often the most affordable mobile data plans in Singapore. The rise of remote and hybrid work, overseas travel, as well as high-data streaming and gaming, also makes these plans appealing to students, budget-conscious users, and frequent travellers.
SIM-only plans operate like any standard mobile plan, but with more flexibility:
- Monthly subscription: You pay only for mobile services, and many plans offer eSIM activation.
- Prepaid or postpaid options: Prepaid users top up when needed; postpaid users enjoy auto-renewals and additional perks.
- Number portability: Switching carriers is usually simple, and you can often keep your current number.
- Flexible management: Plans can often be upgraded, downgraded, or cancelled without penalties.
For Maxx users, getting started is particularly seamless. Whether you choose a physical SIM or an eSIM, the process is designed to be fast and convenient. With just a few clicks, you can purchase your plan online, confirm your details, and complete payment.
Once activated through the Maxx app, you can start enjoying your plan immediately, all in under two minutes.
SIM-only plans are better for users who want to keep their mobile costs manageable. Students and budget-conscious individuals, for example, can benefit from predictable monthly bills. At the same time, those who already own a smartphone or prefer to purchase one outright have the freedom to choose their device on their own terms rather than opt for a contract plan.
The flexibility of SIM-only plans also makes them ideal for frequent travellers and digital nomads. With options for roaming data and easy plan switches, users can stay connected both locally and abroad without the burden of long-term commitments.
To sum up, SIM-only plans are particularly well-suited for:
- Budget-conscious users and students
- Those with existing devices or willing to buy phones outright
- Digital nomads or travellers seeking roaming flexibility
- Users who value easy plan changes and minimal commitments
Phone contract plans, which bundle a smartphone with mobile services, make high-end devices more accessible.
Beyond device access, phone contract plans often appeal to consumers who value additional perks and support. Telcos may include services such as priority customer support, bundled subscriptions, or bonus data, making phone contract plans better than SIM-only contracts for those who prefer an all-in-one package.
Phone contract plans are particularly well-suited for:
- Users who want the latest devices without upfront payment.
- Consumers who prefer predictable monthly payments.
- People who value telco perks or premium support bundled with devices.
When deciding between a SIM-only plan and a contract (device-bundled) plan, the choice often comes down to balancing cost, flexibility, and device access.
- Cost: SIM-only plans generally save money over the long term since you’re only paying for mobile services, not a device. Contract plans spread the cost of a new phone over monthly payments, which increases your monthly bill but removes the need for a large upfront payment.
- Flexibility: SIM-only plans allow users to switch providers, upgrade, or cancel their plan with minimal restrictions. Contract plans often lock you in for 12-24 months, limiting the ability to adapt your plan as your needs change.
- Device Access: Contract plans provide instant access to the latest devices bundled with your plan. SIM-only users rely on their existing devices or must purchase a phone separately.
With SIM-only plans offering clear cost benefits and flexibility, the next question is: which provider gives you the best value without compromising on speed or connectivity?
That's where Maxx, M1's SIM-only brand, comes in. Maxx is designed for users who want the freedom to manage their mobile plan on their terms, without sacrificing 5G speeds or data coverage.
| Maxx Plan |
Local Data |
Roaming Data |
Talktime (outgoing) & SMS |
| $7.90* | 4G - Online Exclusive |
290 GB (Singapore & Malaysia) |
10 GB APAC Roaming
2 GB International Roaming |
500 mins Local Outgoing Calls
Unlimited Local Incoming Calls
99 Local SMS
|
| $10 | 5G |
400 GB (Singapore & Malaysia) |
13 GB APAC Roaming
3 GB International Roaming |
500 mins Local Outgoing Calls
Unlimited Local Incoming Calls
50 Local SMS
Up to 300 IDD mins
|
| $12 | 5G |
500 GB (Singapore, Malaysia & Indonesia) |
20 GB APAC Roaming
7GB International roaming |
500 mins Local Outgoing Calls
Unlimited Local Incoming Calls
50 Local SMS
Up to 600 IDD mins
|
*Note: The $7.90/cycle promotional pricing applies for the first 12 cycles. Pricing will be reverted to $9.90 from the 13th cycle onwards. Each cycle lasts 30 days.
SIM-only plans can be broadly divided into prepaid and postpaid options.
Prepaid plans operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, giving users full control over spending. They are especially convenient for light users or those who want a second SIM for work or travel, as you only top up what you need.
Postpaid plans, on the other hand, are billed automatically each month and often include additional perks such as bonus data, loyalty rewards, or discounted services.
Here are the key differences summarised:
- Prepaid: Pay-as-you-go, avoids bill shock, ideal for light or occasional users.
- Postpaid: Automatic monthly billing, often comes with perks, convenient for regular users.
- Who benefits: Prepaid is best for casual or second-phone users; postpaid works well for students, professionals, and regular data users.
While many SIM-only plans offer complete freedom, some providers still have short-term commitments, typically ranging from six to twelve months. These contract SIM-only plans often provide extra incentives such as bonus data.
No-contract plans, in contrast, appeal to users who prioritise flexibility. With no binding terms, you can change plans, upgrade, or cancel at any time without penalties.
SIM-only plans are designed to meet a wide range of needs. Understanding the different plan types can help you choose one that matches your usage patterns and lifestyle.
The key plan types include:
- Data-Focused Plans: Tailored for heavy streamers, gamers, or remote workers, these plans provide generous data allowances.
- Value/Basic Plans: Designed for light users who mainly use their phones for messaging, calls, and occasional browsing. These plans are ideal for seniors, casual users, or those using a second phone.
- Family Plans: These plans allow multiple users to share a single data pool, offering savings and convenience for households.
- International Roaming Plans: Geared towards travellers and cross-border workers, these plans include roaming data, allowing seamless connectivity abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
