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My main sim is EE and I want a cheap secondary sim to port over another number I want to keep, and to switch to when I have no EE coverage.
I was going to get a multi-network sim (which is a roaming sim for use in the UK) as it allows all 4 networks, but when I looked into them in more detail, they do have some drawbacks...no voicemail, no wifi calling, can't call special numbers (NHS 111, 087's etc) and 0800's come out of your free allowance and are then chargeable when you run out.
So I'm reconsidering, a little more googling suggests (not fact as its generally comments on reddit etc) that Three and Vodafone (merged) are best for 5g/higher peak speeds but have patchier coverage between masts, and O2 have aimed for better coverage (or invested less) and their 4g network would have a greater range than 5g. Its reliable coverage I'm looking for rather than max speed.
Might be a load of rubbish but just interested in comments. I think I'm leaning towards Three or Vodafone unless there is some weight to the suggestion of O2 having better rural coverage...if I don't have EE coverage, or a signal on the combined Three/Vodafone network, am I realistically ever going to pick up service on O2?!!! Sort of hoping its a yes...!
OK so my understanding at least it *was* the case was VF and O2 shared masts. Had their own Antenna but had a mast sharing agreement so coverage was similar. I live in a rural location, O2 / VF coverage at home good, EE outdoors only, 3 non-existent.
I've had both VF and O2 - O2 currently. My impression is O2 is not as reliable as it was or VF before. Quite regularly get cut off mid call when I'm at home. I guess there's a reason O2 is cheaper. Just my 2p other experiences may vary.
Do they still have coverage maps on their websites? I'd be going for whichever providers have best coverage where I spend most of my time (or where it's most important to me if different) with the availabilty/reliability/satisfaction/customer service metrics as second. Having said that, Voda were the most appalling Company to deal with and I'd never use them unless there were zero alternatives. I'm with EE now but they're now BT in disguise. Another horrible Company I'd not use directly again.
The other question is how vital is your connectivity? I understand keeping your alternate number but if your comms are really vital, you'll be looking for something more reliable than mobile phones.
Thanks guys. Connectivity not vital, more of convenience thing, currently both numbers are with EE but as I’m going to be running them on a dual sim phone, the secondary number might as well be on another network!
I think if I was in your position I'd probably just put the second number on VF/O2. Whichever is the cheapest deal!