Comparing mobile phone contracts means adding up everything you are likely to pay, not just the opening monthly price. The cheapest monthly quote does not always result in the lowest total cost.
1. Start with the upfront payment
This is the amount charged when you order, separate from the monthly tariff. It might be £0, £19, £99 or more depending on the phone and deal.
2. Add monthly payments across the full term
For a hypothetical £20 per month tariff over 24 months with £49 paid upfront, the initial-rate calculation is £49 + (24 × £20) = £529. This does not include mid-term increases or out-of-bundle charges.
3. Check planned price changes
Some agreements specify future increases, often with dates or fixed amounts. Read the retailer’s contract summary and use the actual scheduled charges to estimate the true total.
4. Review extras and exit terms
- Are international calls and picture messages included?
- What are the charges for roaming or exceeding an allowance?
- Are airtime and device financing separate agreements?
- What are the cancellation, returns and early-exit terms?
5. Confirm on the supplier website
Store the supplier’s pre-contract information and contract summary. Our examples are not a substitute for the terms you will actually accept.