New phones arrive every year with better cameras, brighter screens and faster chips. That does not mean your monthly bill has to rise as well. The simplest way to save is to buy your phone outright and choose a separate SIM only plan that matches your real usage.
Why bundled contracts often cost more
Carrier bundles usually spread the device price over 12 or 24 months. The monthly amount looks small, but there are often markups, fees or built in interest. You are also locked into a plan that may be larger than you need, so you pay for data you never use.
The benefits of buying separately
- Lower total cost. Pay for the phone once, then pick a fair monthly plan.
- Real freedom. Change your plan when your needs change. No long tie in.
- Unlocked phone. Travel or switch providers when you like.
- No surprises. When the phone is paid off, your bill covers only the plan.
The maths with a clear example
These are illustrations. Prices vary by retailer and model.
Bundle example
- Device on contract, €30 per month for 24 months, plus €79 upfront
- Plan on contract, €45 per month for 24 months
- Total over the first 24 months
- Device €30 × 24 + €79 = €799
- Plan €45 × 24 = €1,080
- Subtotal after 24 months = €1,879
Buy separate plus SIM only
- Device outright, for example €1,049
- SIM only plan €24 per month for 24 months = €576
- Two year total = €1,625
- Saving versus the bundle is about €254 in this scenario
Prefer a lighter plan at €18 per month
- Two year total €1,049 + €432 = €1,481
- Saving versus the bundle is about €398
How to do it in three simple steps
- Pick your phone
Choose the storage and colour you like. Make sure it is unlocked. - Choose a SIM only plan
Match minutes, texts and data to what you actually use. Start small, you can always move up. - Keep your number
Start a number transfer during checkout. Pick a switch date that suits you.
Good to know for expats, students and travellers
- Most recent phones support eSIM and Dual SIM, so you can keep your main number and add a second line for work or travel.
- If your plan includes EU roaming, you can use calls, texts and data when you travel within fair use limits.
- If you bought your phone from a carrier in another country, check that it is unlocked before switching plans.
The bottom line
Bundles look convenient, but the total usually adds up. Buying your device outright and pairing it with a SIM only or prepaid plan often costs less and gives you the freedom to switch whenever you want.
See the latest deals
SIM only and eSIM plans at lycamobile.nl/en/esim
Keep your number at lycamobile.nl/en/keep-number