O2-based networks: which MVNOs are best in 2025?
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See which virtual providers piggybacking on O2's network we rank best, whether you want a SIM only plan or phone contract. Last updated: 8th April 2025.
In our guide
Get on O2’s network but with better prices and benefits
✔ Use O2’s network on another providerSkip to the networks
We’ve given O2 a positive rating in our full network review of them. But if you’re on this page, you’re probably looking for a better priced alternative, as they can be among the most expensive.
Before you rule out O2 directly though, do check our exclusive SIM only deals with them below. They offer much better value than their main advertised deals. And you still join O2 in the normal way:
But if you know you want an alternative to O2 on their network, we’ve picked out the best options for you below. And listed their pros and cons.
Skip to: Networks on O2 | SIM only plans | Phone contracts
Providers using O2
giffgaff have identical coverage and are better value
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What we don't like:
If you’re looking for lower prices and more flexibility on the O2 network, we think you should be looking at giffgaff. They were set up by O2 and coverage is identical (you can check for yourself here).
In our tests of giffgaff vs O2, we’ve only ever found data speeds identical too (though some users report occasional slower speeds vs O2). You also now get WiFi/4G calling too and access to O2’s handy WiFi hotspots.
Benefits-wise, you’ll get EU roaming included on giffgaff too, which isn’t the case for some of the providers further down. You can also change plans whenever you like, even on longer-term SIMs and phone contracts.
And giffgaff’s SIM only pricing offers much better value than O2 (though do check our O2 exclusive deals). Phone contracts are similarly priced.
Useful link: Read our full giffgaff review
Sky Mobile are particularly strong for phone contracts
What we like:
What we don't like:
Another good alternative is Sky Mobile. They have identical coverage to O2 and data speeds (use their network map here). You’ll also get network extras like WiFi calling and VoLTE (4G calling).
The main advantage Sky have over O2 is their better benefits. You can keep unused data for up to 3 years, to use again if you ever run out. Or trade it in for discounts against new phones or devices.
And if you have Sky TV, you can get maximum value out of your package. Every Sky Mobile SIM lets you stream their TV apps without using up your data. So you never have to restrict how much you watch.
The only big downside is that Sky don’t include EU roaming. But other than that, Sky have very competitively priced phone contracts with early upgrade options. And their SIMs stack up well when on offer.
Useful link: Read our full Sky Mobile network review
Tesco Mobile have identical signal to being on O2
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What we don't like:
Tesco Mobile are the last alternative to O2 and offer full access to O2’s entire network and full 5G/4G speeds. And their WiFi/4G calling is good, even if their list of supported devices is quite short.
They also tend to offer better value both on phone contracts and SIM only deals. So if you want to get access to O2’s network without the massive prices of joining directly, Tesco’s plans are worth looking at.
You also get access to exclusive discounts for being a Clubcard holder and you’ll earn Clubcard points on your bill. And if you have multiple plans on your account, each user will be able to choose a Family Perk.
Tesco also have one of the best customer service records of all networks, with the added convenience of being able to get help in person at their stores. The main downside is that they’ll remove EU roaming in 2026.
Useful link: Our full network review of Tesco Mobile
These providers don’t use O2’s network any more
✔ These no longer use O2’s network
There are two providers that used to use O2’s network - these being Virgin Mobile and Lyca Mobile. Each has a different reason for not offering access to O2’s signal any more.
Virgin Mobile stopped selling to new customers a while ago. They’re now actually owned by the same company as O2 and the two brands have rapidly merged together, so there’s no way to join Virgin Mobile any more.
Lyca Mobile have moved over to EE’s network. This has given them access to much faster typical 4G and 5G data speeds, but they don’t get full access to EE’s 4G signal, which somewhat defeats the purpose.
It’s fairly common for virtual providers to switch from using one network to another: So we’ll update this page if any of the providers above move to another network or if any new networks move onto O2.
Useful link: Read about the benefits of being on O2 and Virgin Media broadband
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