Comparing iD Mobile with other UK networks in 2025? Discover how iD Mobile stacks up against EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three in terms of price, coverage, perks, and overall value.
Introduction
Choosing the right mobile network in the UK isn’t easy — with dozens of providers offering SIM-only deals, phone contracts, and flashy promotions. But when it comes to value for money, iD Mobile UK has been gaining attention thanks to its low-cost plans, data rollover, free roaming, and 5G access.
But how does iD Mobile compare against the UK’s biggest players — EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three? Let’s break it down to see which offers the best value in 2025.
1. Pricing: SIM-Only & Phone Deals
- iD Mobile: Known for some of the cheapest SIM-only deals in the UK, starting as low as £6–£8 per month. Most plans include unlimited texts and calls, with flexible contract options. Phone deals are also cheaper compared to bigger networks.
- EE: Offers excellent coverage but at a premium. SIM-only deals usually start from £15+ per month.
- O2: Competitive pricing but often slightly higher than iD. Strong on family and bundled perks.
- Vodafone: Premium pricing, especially for unlimited 5G data plans.
- Three: Affordable compared to EE and Vodafone but generally higher than iD Mobile.
👉 Winner: iD Mobile (best for budget-friendly users).
2. 5G Coverage & Network Performance
- iD Mobile: Runs on Three’s network, which offers wide 5G availability in the UK at no extra cost.
- EE: Considered the best for coverage and speed — especially in rural areas.
- O2: Solid 5G expansion, though speeds can be inconsistent.
- Vodafone: Good 5G reach but often slower than EE.
- Three: Strong 5G presence, especially in cities, and powers iD Mobile’s network.
👉 Winner: EE (best coverage overall), but iD Mobile delivers excellent value with free 5G access.
3. Roaming Benefits
- iD Mobile: Offers free EU roaming in 50 destinations — a major plus since many networks reintroduced roaming charges post-Brexit.
- EE: Charges for EU roaming on most plans.
- O2: Still offers EU roaming at no extra cost.
- Vodafone: Limited free roaming, mostly paid options.
- Three: Recently reintroduced roaming charges for EU destinations.
👉 Winner: iD Mobile and O2 (best for EU travel).
4. Unique Perks & Features
- iD Mobile:
- Data rollover (unused data moves to the next month)
- Bill capping to avoid overspending
- Free EU roaming
- EE: Strong entertainment bundles (Apple Music, Netflix, etc.)
- O2: Exclusive O2 Priority perks (concert tickets, discounts).
- Vodafone: Global roaming in select destinations, entertainment add-ons.
- Three: “Go Roam” in select worldwide locations (though limited in 2025).
👉 Winner: iD Mobile for budget-friendly features, EE/O2 for premium extras.
5. Best for Different Users
- Students & Budget Users → iD Mobile (cheap SIM-only, bill caps)
- Frequent Travellers in EU → iD Mobile or O2 (free EU roaming)
- Rural Area Coverage → EE (strongest signal)
- Families Wanting Perks → O2 (Priority rewards)
- Heavy Data Users → Three (big data allowances, unlimited plans)
Conclusion: Which Network Offers the Best Value?
When comparing iD Mobile vs EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three, the answer depends on what you value most.
- If you want the cheapest SIM-only deals, free EU roaming, and smart features like data rollover, iD Mobile is the clear winner for best value in 2025.
- If you need flawless nationwide coverage and don’t mind paying more, EE is your best bet.
- For family perks and exclusive deals, O2 shines.
- For heavy data users, Three may be worth considering.
But for most UK users looking to save money without sacrificing 5G access or key perks, iD Mobile stands out as one of the best value networks in the UK today.