What is a data only SIM?
A data only SIM, or data only SIM plan, offers data-only internet access using a cellular mobile network. These plans connect to the same mobile networks that allow you to access the internet on your phone, offering fast and portable internet connectivity wherever you have coverage.
Unlike a mobile phone SIM plan, a data only SIM doesn’t offer traditional calling and texting capabilities. These plans exclusively include mobile data, which is generally measured in gigabytes (GB). Although you may have an ID number or phone number assigned to the SIM card for identification purposes, a data only plan isn’t a substitute for your phone’s existing SIM card, as it can’t actually receive calls or texts.
Is a data only SIM the same as mobile broadband?
‘Mobile broadband’ and ‘data only SIM’ are terms that are often used interchangeably, even by telcos. They’re essentially the same type of product, just packaged and marketed differently.
Both use mobile networks to connect your devices to the internet. However, instead of including a bundled-in dongle, modem or hotspot — which are common features of mobile broadband plans — data only SIMs just include a SIM card.
To keep things simple, we’ll just use ‘data only SIM’ to describe the products in this guide.
How fast is a data only SIM plan?
The speeds you can achieve on a data only plan will be similar to what you get on a mobile phone plan, as both products use the same mobile networks to connect you to the internet.
If your data plan is 4G only, you can expect download speeds of up to 25 megabits per second (Mbps). This is equal to the NBN 25 speed tier, and should be more than fast enough for everyday internet use and even high-definition video streaming.
The best data only SIM plans will include 5G network access as well as 4G, so download speeds can potentially reach 200Mbps or faster. Ultimately, the speed of your data only plan will depend on factors such as the plan itself, the network used, your location, how many devices are connected and how busy the network is.
How much do data only SIM plans cost?
Data only SIM plans are generally priced by data allowance — so the more data in your plan, the more expensive it is.
Plans with smaller data allowances of 10GB per month or under are available for around $15 monthly, while bigger plans with 100GB of data or more tend to begin at $35 from cheaper telcos.
A cheap data only SIM plan can be good for connecting on the go or as backup for your home internet, but may not be ideal for frequent use due to the smaller data inclusions.
Can I get a prepaid data only SIM plan?
Yes, depending on your provider, prepaid data only plans are available. These allow you to pay for your plan in advance, instead of the end of each month or billing cycle.
Are there 5G data only SIM plans?
5G data plans are available from most providers, including Telstra, Optus, Vodafone, Aussie Broadband and Amaysim. To use your data SIM with 5G, you’ll need to insert your SIM in a 5G-capable device and be in an area covered by your telco’s 5G network.
Which telcos sell data only SIM plans?
Australian internet or mobile providers that also sell data only SIM plans or mobile broadband include:
- ALDI Mobile
- Amaysim
- Aussie Broadband
- Belong
- More
- Optus
- Southern Phone
- SpinTel
- Tangerine
- Telstra
- Vodafone
- Yomojo
Which devices are compatible with data-only SIM plans?
Tablets and iPads
Tablets generally come with two connectivity options: WiFi only, or WiFi and cellular. Look for models that are listed as cellular capable, or support 4G, 5G or LTE, as these will include a SIM card slot or built-in eSIM which will allow you to access internet on the go with a compatible plan.
Laptops
Many laptops feature physical SIM card slots or even eSIM support, but you can also connect to a data-only plan via USB with a WiFi dongle (see below).
WiFi modems or dongles
Sometimes called ‘pocket WiFi’, these devices create a WiFi hotspot that connects to your phone, laptop, tablet, etc. to the internet. A WiFi modem is a small physical modem that plugs into a power outlet or runs on a rechargeable battery, while a dongle is a USB stick that can be inserted into a laptop port.
Smartphones
A data-only SIM can work in your smartphone, but you won’t be able to use it for calls or messaging. However, some providers may have conditions, limits or charges around using a data SIM as a mobile phone service.
How to choose the best data only SIM plan for you
Some things to consider when looking for a good data only SIM plan are:
- Data: How much data in gigabytes do you need each month or recharge? High-intensive activities such as video streaming and gaming will use more data than activities like web browsing and checking emails.
- Price: What is your budget per month or recharge period?
- Network and coverage: Do you have a preferred mobile network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone)? Do you want 4G or 5G coverage?
- Prepaid or postpaid: Are you happy to pay a monthly bill for your usage, or do you prefer to pay in advance and recharge when needed?
- Devices: Do you just need a SIM for one device? If you’re connecting multiple devices, do you need a hotspot or modem?
How to set up a data only SIM plan
Data only SIM cards can be installed the same way as a traditional phone SIM card.
- Place the SIM card in the relevant SIM card slot in your phone, tablet or device.
- If you plan on using separate SIM cards in the same phone — such as one for traditional talk and text and one for data only — ensure that you have a dual SIM phone, otherwise you will have to manually swap out the SIM cards as needed.
- Your telco may offer you an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card, if you have a compatible device with an Embedded Identity Document (EID). The EID can usually be found on your device’s box or in the Settings app. Follow your telco’s instructions to download your new eSIM profile to your device.
- Once the SIM has been inserted or loaded into your phone, tablet or device, complete the setup prompts to activate your data plan.
Pros and cons of data only SIM plans
Even the best data only SIM plan comes with pros and cons. Below is a breakdown of some of the major advantages and disadvantages of data only plans.
Data SIM pros
- Prepaid and postpaid plans available, with lots of data options and plan lengths.
- Great for tablets that require a SIM card when not using WiFi.
- Provides internet on the go when used in combination with a mobile broadband device, such as a dongle or modem.
- A good backup plan if your home internet service is patchy or you have a large household with high usage needs.
Data SIM cons
- Only includes mobile data access, so calls and messages will need to be via an app or on a network with WiFi calling/SMS.
- You’ll be unable to use apps, services or two-factor authentication that require a mobile number for access.
- Service will be limited where there is low or no mobile data reception.
- Larger data inclusions can be more expensive than what is available with standard prepaid/postpaid mobile plan or home wireless broadband plans.
Should I get a data only SIM?
Data-only SIMs are best for users who want portable internet for devices such as tablets and mobile broadband modems. While these plans can technically be used in a smartphone, they’re not meant to replace a traditional mobile phone service.
It’s also worth noting that data-only plans aren’t meant to replace home internet connections like NBN or home wireless broadband. Typically the data inclusions on data SIM plans are smaller than on NBN and most home wireless plans, so generally aren’t ideal for heavy data users. However, these plans can come in handy as a backup or to supplement your home internet connection.
If a data only SIM plan is the best choice for you, it’s important to compare a wide range of plans from different providers. The best data only SIM plan for you is one that suits your needs, fits your budget and offers good network coverage.
Can I use an eSIM for a data only SIM plan?
Some telcos now offer eSIM for data only/mobile broadband plans. This means instead of a physical SIM card, you can connect with a digital SIM that’s built into your device— although you’ll need to make sure your device is eSIM compatible.
Are there unlimited data only SIM plans?
The majority of data only SIM plans include a limited full-speed data allowance. However, some telcos will allow you to keep using data at slower, ‘capped’ speeds once your high-speed allowance is used up each month/recharge.
Can I replace my phone plan with a data only SIM plan?
If you don’t need traditional calling or texting options (e.g. you use apps such as WhatsApp or Facetime to call or text), you could use a data SIM in your phone exclusively.
However, many apps and services such as banking now use two-factor authentication to verify your identity, including sending a text message to your mobile number — this will be a major issue if you’re on a data-only phone plan.
