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Plusnet Mobile Review
Plusnet Mobile was a budget-friendly MVNO operated by Plusnet, a subsidiary of BT Group, running on EE's extensive network infrastructure. Launched as...
Network Info
3.5/5
MVNO
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Ran on EE's network, providing access to the UK's most extensive 4G coverage
- Simple, affordable pricing with SIM-only plans starting from six pounds per month
- Award-winning UK-based customer support available seven days a week
- Inclusive EU roaming across 40 destinations at no extra cost
Cons
- Service has been discontinued as of June 2024 and is no longer available to new or existing customers
- No 5G support was ever offered despite running on EE's network
- No Wi-Fi calling feature, which limited usability in areas with poor indoor signal
- No data rollover, meaning any unused data was lost at the end of each month
Overview
Plusnet Mobile was a budget-friendly MVNO operated by Plusnet, a subsidiary of BT Group, running on EE's extensive network infrastructure. Launched as an affordable way to access EE's market-leading coverage, Plusnet Mobile offered simple, no-frills SIM-only plans on 30-day rolling contracts. The service was well regarded for its straightforward pricing and UK-based customer support team.
Plusnet stopped selling mobile plans to new customers in March 2023, and the service was fully shut down for all remaining customers throughout June 2024. The closure was part of BT Group's strategic decision to consolidate its mobile offerings under the EE brand. Existing Plusnet Mobile customers were advised to switch to another provider and request a PAC code to keep their number.
During its time in the market, Plusnet Mobile served as a solid budget option for users who wanted reliable EE coverage without the higher price tag. It was particularly popular among existing Plusnet broadband customers who appreciated the simplicity of having both services under one provider. While the network lacked some modern features like 5G and Wi-Fi calling, it delivered dependable 4G service at competitive prices.
Coverage & Speed
Plusnet Mobile benefited from EE's industry-leading 4G network, which covers over 99% of the UK population. This gave Plusnet customers excellent coverage in both urban and rural areas. However, the network was limited to 4G only, with no 5G access provided at any point during the service's lifetime.
Plans & Pricing
Plusnet Mobile offered a small range of SIM-only plans on 30-day rolling contracts. All plans included unlimited calls and texts with data allowances typically ranging from 1GB to 20GB. Pricing was kept deliberately simple and affordable.
Roaming
Plusnet Mobile included EU roaming at no extra cost on all plans, covering 40 European destinations. Customers could use their UK allowances abroad, subject to a fair use data cap of 15GB for plans with 20GB or more. This was a competitive offering for a budget MVNO and allowed customers to use their phone abroad without worrying about unexpected charges.
Our Verdict
Plusnet Mobile was a well-regarded budget MVNO that punched above its weight by offering access to EE's excellent network at genuinely affordable prices. Its UK-based customer support was a standout feature that set it apart from many competitors in the budget segment. For customers who simply needed reliable calls, texts, and data without bells and whistles, Plusnet Mobile was an excellent choice.
However, the service was ultimately a victim of BT Group's corporate strategy. The decision to consolidate mobile services under the EE brand meant that Plusnet Mobile's days were always numbered. The lack of 5G, Wi-Fi calling, and data rollover highlighted that investment in the service had slowed well before the official closure announcement.
Plusnet Mobile closed to new customers in March 2023 and shut down entirely in June 2024. Former customers looking for a similar experience should consider other budget MVNOs on the EE network, or look at EE's own SIM-only plans, which have become more competitively priced since absorbing the Plusnet Mobile customer base.