It’s a tough cycle to be in. Your current phone is probably fine, but the new models are just so tempting with their incredible cameras and lightning-fast speeds. Then you check the price tag, and suddenly, your "old" phone seems great again. On the other hand, you've the monthly phone bill that arrives with a thud, locking you into an extended contract for data you may not even use.
It feels like you're stuck. But here's the secret: you rarely have to pay the full RRP. Whether you're hunting for a new handset or just a smarter, cheaper SIM-only plan, we're constantly digging for the best UK deals, trade-in offers, and discount codes to get you sorted.
OnePlus
OnePlus carved out its name by building phones for tech fans who wanted all the top specs without the eye-watering price. They're still masters of this, with their ridiculously fast "Warp Charge" and clean, snappy software. We keep a close eye on their student discounts and any launch-day bundles that get you free earbuds or a case.
Samsung
Samsung is the heavyweight champion of the Android world, and for good reason. They have a phone for every single person. You've got the all-powerful Galaxy S Ultra for the photographers, the futuristic Z Fold for the trendsetters, and the brilliant A-series for everyone who just wants a great phone that works. Their real super-power? Their trade-in deals. We're constantly tracking them, as they're often the best way to get a new Galaxy for hundreds of dollars less.
Anker
Okay, so Anker won't sell you a phone, but they're essential for owning one. Since most new phones don't even give you a charger in the box, Anker is the go-to. They make the best high-speed charging bricks, power banks that are a lifesaver at festivals, and tough cables that don't fray in five minutes. We often find great deals on their Amazon store, especially for their popular Soundcore earbuds.
Huawei
Huawei is a bit of a special case, but a fascinating one. Their hardware is, without a doubt, world-class, especially their cameras. However, here's the catch: their new phones don't run Google apps, making them a choice for dedicated tech enthusiasts. However, their other gear? Absolutely top-notch. Their laptops and smartwatches are brilliant, and we often see fantastic deals on them.
Lyca Mobile
If you're sick to death of your £40-a-month contract, Lyca Mobile is your escape route. They're all about super-cheap, flexible SIM-only plans that run on the EE network. This is the smart move when you're happy with your current handset but want to slash your monthly outgoings. We're always flagging their new-customer deals that get you a ton of data for just a few quid.
