Cheap Data‑Only SIMs for Tablets in the UK (2025 Guide)

Why Use a Data‑Only SIM in Your Tablet?

When I bought my iPad for work+study, I realised that Wi‑Fi wasn’t always reliable. A data‑only SIM gave me the freedom to go online anywhere — on the train, in cafés, even in parks. With more flexible SIM‑only providers in the UK, getting a cheap data SIM for your tablet is easier than ever. This guide explains how to pick the best plan, which providers are worthwhile, and what traps to avoid.

The benefits of a data‑only SIM

  • No need to pay for voice minutes or texts if you only use your tablet for data.
  • Often cheaper than using tethering from your phone — especially on high‑data plans.
  • Flexibility to pick a rolling SIM or a fixed-term one, depending on how long you need it.
  • Access to 4G/5G in more places: useful when Wi‑Fi is weak or unavailable.

Top Cheap Data‑Only SIM Options in the UK (2025)

Here are some of the most affordable and reliable data‑only SIM plans for tablets available in the UK right now:

  • iD Mobile – Offers data-only SIMs with rolling contracts, using Three’s network. Their high-data SIMs are particularly good for tablets that need a lot of data, and you can often pick a 30‑day plan or longer depending on your usage.
  • VOXI – While better known for its unlimited social and data plans for phones, VOXI also has data-only SIMs that are ideal for tablet users. Good value depending on how much data you need.
  • Three Data SIM – Three itself sells data SIMs (4G and 5G) designed for tablets and mobile broadband devices. Because you're using the MNO network, coverage is strong and performance reliable.
  • Giffgaff – Their “Data Only” goodybags are flexible, with no contract. You top up the data you need, then cancel or renew. Useful for occasional or heavy use depending on how much data you require.
  • Lebara Mobile – Offers SIM-only plans that can be used in tablets. Their data-only offerings often come with reasonable allowances and fair pricing, especially for stable frequent usage.

How to Choose the Right Data‑Only SIM for Your Tablet

Choosing a SIM for a tablet is slightly different than for a phone — here’s what I focused on (and what you should too):

  1. Estimate your data usage: Do you stream video, browse, work? A few GB a month is very different to needing 100 GB.
  2. Decide on contract type: Do you want rolling monthly or are you comfortable with a fixed‑term plan? Rolling gives more flexibility; fixed term sometimes offers better monthly rates.
  3. Network coverage: Make sure the SIM provider’s network (Three, Vodafone, etc.) has good 4G/5G coverage in your area — both where you live and where you travel. Use coverage maps or test with a friend’s SIM first. See our Connectivity & Network hub for coverage‑related guides.
  4. Speed and performance: Some data SIMs may be deprioritised on the network. If performance matters (e.g. for video calls or streaming), test real-world speeds. Check performance tips in our Performance & System hub.
  5. Power consumption: A SIM‑only tablet constant‑data‑use can drain your battery faster. Ensure your tablet’s battery is big enough or consider settings like “Low Data Mode” or aggressive sleep states. Learn more in our Battery & Power hub.
  6. SIM type: Decide between physical nano‑SIM or eSIM. Many modern tablets support eSIM, which is more convenient, but check compatibility.

Common Pitfalls and Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overbuying data: It’s tempting to pick the biggest allowance “just in case”, but unused data is wasted in many plans. Try to roughly match your real usage.
  • Underestimating throttling or deprioritisation: Some MVNOs may slow your data when networks are busy, especially on data-only plans. Test performance before relying on it.
  • Ignoring APN settings: If your tablet doesn’t connect or hits very slow speeds, check and manually configure the APN setting — wrong settings can cripple performance.
  • Not checking cancellation terms: Even for data-only SIMs, some providers may auto-renew or require advance notice to leave — always read the small print.
  • Forgotten secure backup: Tablets often hold important work or study files. Make sure you back up to the cloud or local storage so you don’t lose data when switching SIMs.

How to Activate a Data‑Only SIM in a Tablet

  1. Order the SIM or eSIM from the provider. Choose whether you want a physical SIM or eSIM.
  2. Insert the SIM or install the eSIM profile. On tablets, this usually takes place in Settings → Mobile / Cellular → Add eSIM or Insert SIM.
  3. Configure the APN. In the mobile settings, enter the provider’s APN information (you can find this on their website). Without the correct APN, data may not work or be slow.
  4. Top up / choose your data plan. Many data-only SIMs require you to select a “bucket” — a data-only plan. Do this in the provider’s web portal or app. Tip: Make a note of how much data you’re buying, and set calendar alerts so you don’t forget to renew or cancel.
  5. Test data connection. Once active, browse, stream or run a speed test to confirm you have working 4G/5G.

Real-World Use Cases for a Data‑Only SIM in a Tablet

In my own use, a data-only SIM in my tablet has helped me:

  • Work remotely without relying on café Wi‑Fi.
  • Stream video on weekends while travelling on trains.
  • Use the tablet as a hotspot device for my laptop when needed, avoiding expensive tethering data from my phone.

When a Data‑Only SIM Might Not Be the Best Option

There are times when a data-only SIM may not be ideal:

  • If your tablet doesn’t support LTE/5G — older tablets may have poor or no support, forcing reliance on slower 3G.
  • If your network coverage is weak — low-signal areas might make 4G or 5G unusable.
  • If your data usage is extremely low — sometimes a cheaper phone+SIM plan is more cost‑effective than a separate data SIM.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a cheap data‑only SIM for your tablet in the UK doesn’t have to be a gamble. By estimating your data needs, picking the right provider, and configuring your SIM carefully, you can enjoy fast, reliable mobile data without paying for calls or texts you don’t need.

For seamless connectivity, optimise for performance and battery life, and always compare SIM plans from trusted providers — whether it’s iD, Three, VOXI or Giffgaff. With careful choice, your tablet becomes a powerful, always‑connected tool wherever you go.

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