Reading time: 8 minutes | Updated: 8th July 2025
We all know that technology rarely stands still and that mobile phones are on the cutting edge of innovation. Over recent years, we have seen the humble SIM card undergo a significant evolution, shrinking in size to fit modern slimline smartphones. However, the latest incarnation is the eSIM - an embedded, digital SIM transforming how we connect.
We will not go into great detail here about eSIMS, how they work and their benefits. If you wish to understand eSIMS better, we recommend you read our guide: What Is An eSIM? Which UK Networks Support Them?
For those seeking a flexible solution for connectivity without the commitment of a monthly contract, Pay As You Go eSIMs are rapidly becoming the go-to choice for UK consumers. But with so many options, how do you know which networks offer eSIMs on Pay As You Go?
At SIM Only Finder, we understand many people prefer not to undergo lengthy phone contracts and credit checks. That is why we have compiled this guide to help you find the best PAYG eSIMs in the UK.
Is Your Phone eSIM Compatible?
Before we dive into the network details, it is crucial to know if your phone supports eSIMs. Most newer smartphones, including recent models of iPhone (XS and newer), Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel devices, are eSIM compatible. If you are unsure, a quick check of your phone's specifications or reading our guide mentioned above will provide clarity.
The UK Networks Offering Pay As You Go eSIMs
At the time of writing (July 2025), a growing number of UK networks officially support eSIM Pay As You Go, and we expect more networks will also get on board in the near future. While some major players are just catching up on the prepaid front, you still have some excellent options for a cheap eSIM Pay As You Go experience.
Here is a breakdown of the networks that currently offer PAYG eSIM UK options:
Three
Three stands out as one of the major UK networks to embrace eSIM on Pay As You Go. Their approach is straightforward and user-friendly.
- How to Get an eSIM: When ordering a new Pay As You Go SIM card online from Three, look for the option to "get an eSIM, not a physical SIM" during checkout. Toggle this, and your digital SIM will be emailed to you. If you are an existing Three customer with a physical SIM, you can contact their customer service to switch to an eSIM.
- Standout Deal: Three often has competitive eSIM deals on Pay As You Go. A noteworthy offer currently provides a generous 120GB of data, unlimited minutes, and texts for just £13.50. This is fantastic value for heavy data users.
- Benefits: Three offers roaming in over 70 worldwide destinations, allowing you to use your UK allowances abroad (up to 30GB depending on your data pack). All their PAYG eSIMs are also 5G ready.
Vodafone
Vodafone is another major network leading the charge with eSIM Pay As You Go. Like Three, they have made acquiring an eSIM quite seamless.
- How to Get an eSIM: When placing your order for a Pay As You Go plan on Vodafone's website, you can request an eSIM during checkout. Vodafone will then email you the necessary instructions for activation. Existing Vodafone customers can also contact the network to convert their physical SIM to an eSIM.
- Benefits: Vodafone provides strong 4G and 5G coverage across the UK. Their eSIMs also support features like Wi-Fi Calling and offer dual SIM functionality.
giffgaff
Known for its community-driven approach and flexible plans, giffgaff is a popular eSIM Pay As You Go choice. They make getting an eSIM relatively simple, especially for new customers.
- How to Get an eSIM: New customers can acquire an eSIM immediately by downloading the giffgaff app, enabling the eSIM option on their dashboard, and selecting a plan. For existing customers, switching from a physical SIM is done directly through the giffgaff app: navigate to Account > SIM > Replace my SIM > Switch to a new eSIM and follow the prompts.
- Benefits: giffgaff operates on the O2 network, offering good 4G and 5G coverage. Their plans are highly flexible, with no long-term contracts, making them excellent eSIM plans with no contract choice. They also offer inclusive EU roaming (up to 5GB).
Lycamobile
For those seeking a truly cheap eSIM Pay As You Go option, Lycamobile often presents some of the most budget-friendly deals. They also cater well to international calls.
- How to Get an eSIM: You can request an eSIM when placing your order online by selecting the eSIM option during checkout. Lycamobile will then send an email containing an eSIM QR code, which you can scan with your phone’s camera for installation. If you are an existing Lycamobile customer, you can order and set up the eSIM as a new one, then use the SIM Swap feature in your online account (SIM Management > SIM Swap) to transfer your number.
- Standout Deal: Lycamobile offers incredibly competitive introductory rates. For instance, you could find a deal with 5GB of data, 1000 minutes, and texts for as little as £2.50.
- Benefits: Lycamobile uses the EE network to access strong 4G and 5G coverage. Many of its plans offer inclusive international minutes and EU roaming, making it ideal for those who regularly call abroad or travel within Europe.
iD Mobile
iD Mobile, powered by Three's network, provides a straightforward path to getting a PAYG eSIM.
- How to Get an eSIM: When ordering a new plan from iD Mobile, you can select the eSIM option during the purchasing process. They will email you a QR code to download and activate your eSIM. If you wish to switch from a physical SIM, contact iD Mobile directly to facilitate the change.
- Benefits: iD Mobile offers competitive deals with data rollover, meaning unused data from one month can be carried over to the next. They also offer free roaming in selected destinations.
Tesco Mobile
While not always explicitly advertised for Pay As You Go online, Tesco Mobile does offer eSIM functionality for their prepaid customers.
- How to Get an eSIM: The process of ordering a PAYG eSIM online might not be immediately apparent. It is best to contact Tesco Mobile's customer service directly or visit a Tesco Mobile store to request an eSIM or arrange a switch from a physical SIM.
- Benefits: Tesco Mobile uses the O2 network, providing reliable coverage. It often offers attractive clubcard holder benefits and flexible plans.
VOXI
A Vodafone sub-brand, VOXI is known for its youth-focused plans and unlimited social media usage, which are now also available on Pay As You Go eSIMs.
- How to Get an eSIM: VOXI offers instant online delivery of its eSIMs. When ordering your plan online, simply choose the eSIM option.
- Standout Deal: VOXI often has compelling offers, such as 80GB for £10, which includes unlimited UK minutes, texts, and, notably, unlimited social media usage without eating into your main data allowance. They also have plans with unlimited music and video data for heavy streamers.
- Benefits: VOXI leverages Vodafone's extensive 4G and 5G networks for excellent coverage. The unlimited social media perk is a significant draw, and the "VOXI Drop" rewards add extra value.
Activating Your PAYG eSIM
Activating your Pay As You Go eSIM is generally quick and intuitive. It typically involves scanning a QR code provided by your chosen network.
Here is a general overview of the steps:
- Order Your eSIM: Select your desired prepaid eSIM plan from one of the networks listed above and choose the eSIM option during checkout.
- Receive Your eSIM Details: Your network will typically email you a QR code and activation instructions.
Scan the QR Code:
- iPhone: Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM.
- Samsung Galaxy: Navigate to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM.
- Google Pixel: Head to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Download a new eSIM.
- Point your phone’s camera at the QR code on another screen (or from a printed copy).
Your phone will guide you through the rest of the setup with on-screen prompts, which usually involve confirming the plan and naming your eSIM profile. Once installed, your PAYG eSIM will be ready for use! You may need to restart your device. You can then manage your instant eSIM top-up and usage directly through your network's app or website.
Conclusion
Choosing an eSIM Pay As You Go option offers great flexibility for frequent travellers seeking an easy travel SIM solution or simply someone who appreciates the freedom of a no-contract eSIM solution.
By comparing the offerings from networks like giffgaff, Lycamobile, Three, Vodafone, iD Mobile, Tesco Mobile, and VOXI, you can find the perfect PAYG eSIM to suit your needs and unlock a new era of mobile freedom.
At SIM Only Finder, we work hard to find the best deals. This guide provides information for the best PAYG eSIM deals, but for those who prefer a pay-monthly option, you can check out the best pay monthly eSIM Only deals currently offered by leading providers.
