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GiffGaff Review
giffgaff is a UK mobile virtual network operator owned by Virgin Media O2, running on the O2 network. Launched in 2009, it was built around a radical...
Network Info
4.5/5
MVNO
5G Ready
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely flexible with no long-term contracts required on rolling monthly Goodybags
- Strong community-driven support with average response times under 90 seconds
- 5G included on all plans at no extra cost on O2's expanding 5G network
- Award-winning service recognised as Uswitch Mobile Network of the Year 2025
Cons
- EU roaming data is capped at a restrictive 5GB fair usage limit
- No traditional phone support or call centre for customer service
- Data speeds can occasionally lag behind competitors, particularly on 5G
Overview
giffgaff is a UK mobile virtual network operator owned by Virgin Media O2, running on the O2 network. Launched in 2009, it was built around a radical idea: a mobile network shaped and supported by its own community of users. The name itself comes from a Scots word meaning mutual giving, and that ethos runs through every aspect of the service. Members help each other through community forums, contribute ideas for new features, and even assist with customer support in exchange for rewards.
giffgaff has become one of the most popular MVNOs in the UK by combining genuine flexibility with competitive pricing. Its signature offering is the Goodybag, a monthly bundle of data, calls, and texts that can be set to auto-renew or changed every 30 days. There are no lengthy contracts to worry about, and switching between plans is as simple as choosing a different Goodybag. The network has won numerous awards, including the Uswitch Mobile Network of the Year award in 2025.
All giffgaff plans now include 5G access as standard, and the network supports eSIM, WiFi calling, and VoLTE on compatible devices. With prices starting from just 6 pounds per month and an unlimited plan available for 25 pounds on an 18-month term, giffgaff remains one of the most accessible and flexible networks in the UK.
Coverage & Speed
giffgaff uses O2's network, providing 4G coverage to around 99% of the UK population. O2's 5G Standalone network is one of the most extensive in the UK, covering over 500 towns and cities. As an O2-owned MVNO, giffgaff customers benefit from the same coverage footprint, though some independent reviews suggest data speeds may occasionally be slightly slower than O2 direct.
Plans & Pricing
giffgaff's plans are centred around Goodybags, which are 30-day bundles of data, calls, and texts. Plans are available on either rolling monthly terms or 18-month contracts, with longer commitments offering better value. All plans include unlimited calls and texts, plus 5G access.
Roaming
giffgaff includes free roaming in EU and selected destinations, allowing you to use your UK minutes, texts, and data abroad. However, data usage while roaming is subject to a fair usage cap of 5GB, which is one of the lower limits among UK networks. For heavy data users travelling in Europe, this could be limiting. Outside the EU, standard roaming charges apply, and it is advisable to check rates before travelling.
Our Verdict
giffgaff has earned its place as one of the UK's most popular mobile networks by doing things differently. The community-driven model is not just a marketing gimmick; it genuinely shapes how the network operates, from customer support to product development. Goodybags were born from member feedback, and the forum remains one of the most responsive support channels in the industry.
The combination of competitive pricing, genuine flexibility, and a growing feature set makes giffgaff a strong choice for most users. The addition of 5G on all plans, eSIM support, and Golden Goodybags with enhanced data allowances shows that the network continues to evolve. Winning the Uswitch Mobile Network of the Year award in 2025 is a testament to its overall quality.
The main drawbacks are the restrictive 5GB EU roaming cap and the lack of phone-based customer support. If you travel frequently in Europe or strongly prefer calling a helpline when something goes wrong, you may want to consider alternatives. For everyone else, giffgaff offers a refreshingly simple, flexible, and affordable mobile experience that is hard to fault.