7 Best Mobile Providers in the UK – Reviews In this article we compare the UK’s best business mobile contracts and providers, offering tailored solutions to meet the needs of your business.
Mobile providers:
Businessmobile.com Focus Group Gradwell Communications Ltd EE Vodafone O2 Three
Our Top 3 Mobile Providers in April 2024:
Businessmobile.com LTD – 4.8 stars for unbeatable cost
Focus Group – 4.5 stars for exceptional coverage, speed and security features.
Gradwell Communications Ltd – 4.6 stars for great customer service
How have we selected these providers?
For each provider we review, we assign them a score out of five based on the most useful comparable features and benefits we have selected for mobile providers:
Here’s how we assess and assign scores (out of five) to mobile providers: We focus on the most critical features impacting businesses:
Network Coverage & Speed: This is crucial for businesses that rely on consistent connectivity for calls, data usage, and mobile internet access. We evaluate network coverage strength across different areas (urban, rural) and average download/upload speeds. Value & Plans: We analyse pricing structures, data allowances, call minutes, SMS packages, and any additional features included in business plans. The focus is finding the best value for money based on your business needs. Business Features & Functionality: Here, we delve into beneficial features for businesses. This could include multi-line discounts, data rollover options, resolute account managers, or integrations with business productivity tools. Customer Support & Reliability: Reliable customer support is vital for any business, so we assess response times, availability of support channels (phone, email, online chat), and the overall quality of technical assistance offered. Security & Trust: We prioritise the security of business communications and data. Providers with robust security measures (like two-factor authentication and data encryption) and a proven history of data protection are ranked higher.
Why listen to our reviews?
Our team has been deeply immersed in business communications for over a decade. We leverage this experience, including our CEO’s leadership in mobile network strategy at Exponential-e, a prominent London telecoms firm, to help you choose the perfect mobile provider. We’re passionate about providing in-depth analyses and unbiased reviews so you can make informed decisions for your business.
Click here for a closer look at our review and testing methodology for mobile providers. While we strive to offer the most comprehensive recommendations, remember there’s a vast landscape of mobile providers in the UK, each with unique features that might suit your company’s needs perfectly.
For a comprehensive comparison, use our comparison tool here today.
Topics covered in this article include:
What are Business Mobiles? Business mobiles, specifically designed for professional use, offer features tailored to work needs. They typically come equipped with various productivity applications, including email clients, document editing tools, project management software, and communication platforms. These applications facilitate seamless communication and collaboration among employees, enhancing overall productivity and efficiency in the workplace.
Moreover, business mobiles often incorporate advanced security features to safeguard sensitive company data. These features may include data encryption, remote wipe capabilities, and stringent password requirements. Additionally, companies may implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) software to manage and secure business mobiles remotely, ensuring compliance with company policies and security protocols.
There are two primary types of business mobiles : company-provided phones and Bring Your Device (BYOD) arrangements. Company-provided phones are smartphones purchased by the company and allocated to employees for work-related tasks. Alternatively, BYOD policies allow employees to use their smartphones for work, offering cost-effective flexibility. However, BYOD arrangements necessitate robust security measures to protect sensitive company information while leveraging personal devices.
What are the Benefits of Business Mobiles? A business mobile plan offers a wide range of benefits that can save you time and money in the long run. Some of our favourites are:
Improved communication enables your employees to stay connected to each other and clients, allowing them to respond promptly and provide excellent customer service. It also promotes flexibility, significantly improving your ability to allow remote work and travel, creating a more adaptable working environment.
Better connectivity fosters collaboration and efficiency . Tasks can be completed on the go, and employees can stay connected through various channels, whether they are on the road, working remotely, or based in an office.
While security has its pros and cons, you can choose plans and providers that offer built-in security features that can protect your business information, employee and customer data, and ensure compliance with data laws.
What are the Disadvantages of Business Mobiles While business mobile contracts have a wide range of benefits, there are also some drawbacks that we think should be considered when deciding whether and which type of plan and provider to choose.
First, having a work mobile phone can blur the boundaries between your work and personal life , introducing work-life balance challenges that could lead to burnout if not managed.
You should always be mindful that any mobile will be prone to data breaches and malware attacks without proper security measures.
Also, having extra mobile phone plans will naturally incur a dditional expenses for companies and may provide a distraction for employees, which could ultimately impact productivity.
Lastly, any loss or damage may result in data breaches and replacement expenses, as well as potential improper use for personal activities undertaken by employees.
Considerations to Make When Choosing a Business Mobile When choosing your mobile plan and provider, we think there are quite a few things you should consider, which we have compiled into a useful list for you:
When it comes to business, reliability is key. We suggest you prioritise providers like EE or Vodafone for strong 4G/5G coverage, especially if your business operates in remote areas or relies heavily on mobile data.
Next, Data Management, and by this, wemean usage analysis and cost considerations (including being sure to read and review your contracts). In saying that, you should be sure to consider the length of the contracts and upgrade options – these are usually offered by providers, but may also reset your contract, so be sure to read any small print.
Look for data protection features like encryption, and remote wipe capabilities (in case your phones are lost), and some providers will also offer extras like management tools and international roaming packages tailored for businesses.
Next, be sure to check for customer service reviews and quality. This is a given – check to see if you will have a dedicated account manager and read reviews from past and current customers.
Bonus Tip! Explore bundled packages for multiple services like mobile, broadband, and landline calls, often cost-effective for businesses needing diverse services.
How Much Should a Business Mobile Plan Cost? The cost of business mobiles can be categorised into two main areas:
Device Cost:
Purchase Options:
You can decide whether you want to buy your phones outright or opt for leasing programs, spreading costs over time for better cash flow.
And Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) – If employees use personal devices, the company might not incur device costs but could offer subsidies.
Estimated Costs:
Device Cost: £150 – £1,200+
Mobile Service Plan Cost: £15 – £70+ per month
Estimated Total Costs:
Basic System:
£600 – £900 upfront + £0 – £49 per month.
Standard System :
£800 – £1,000+ upfront + £60 – £100+ per month.
Advanced System:
£1,500+ upfront + £150+ per month.
Please bear in mind this is a general ballpark and may be higher or lower depending on your location (or multiple locations) provider deals and updates, as well as your bespoke needs.
Which UK Network is Best for Your Business? Each provider has different pros and cons, which we will go into below. Selecting the right network involves more than just pricing, and each major network offers unique advantages:
EE boasts high-speed connectivity and 5G capabilities.
O2 excels in international calls and minutes packages.
Three offers exclusive business benefits like marketing services.
Vodafone provides generous data packages at competitive prices, along with perks through the VeryMe scheme.
What is the Best Business Mobile Phone?
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Google Pixel 8 Pro Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4: Apple iPhone 15 Pro :Apple iPhone 14 Pro:
Each provider has different pros and cons, which we will discuss below. Selecting the right network involves more than just pricing, and each major network offers unique advantages:
EE boasts high-speed connectivity and 5G capabilities.
O2 excels in international calls and minutes packages.
Three offers exclusive business benefits like marketing services.
Vodafone provides generous data packages at competitive prices, along with perks through the VeryMe scheme.
UK Business Mobile Providers There are many mobile business providers, each with their own set of benefits and drawbacks, ranges of costs and tariffs, add-ons and levels of support available. We have reviewed the top four providers, as well as services that will aim to find you the best deals for your specific business needs.
BusinessMobiles.com
Our performance rating of Businessmobiles.com out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4.8 out of 5 stars
Network Coverage & Speed 4.7 out of 5 stars
Value & Plans 5 out of 5 stars
Business Features & Functionality 5 out of 5 stars
Customer Support & Reliability 4.7out of 5 stars
Security & Trust 4.5 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary of Businessmobiles.com:
BusinessMobile.com receives fantastic reviews across the board, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers agree that they excel in value and business features. Customer support and network coverage are also very strong, and security is another strong point. However, aside from Trustpilot there are not many review sites to gain a comprehensive overview of varied customer scores.
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
Businessmobiles.com : Video from a user’s perspective:
Businessmobiles.com : The Design & how it Affects users:
Businessmobiles.com offer their clients discounted prices from 4 different networks, giving them a dedicated account manager to help resolve any issues or queries.
Businessmobiles.com : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Businessmobiles.com will search for the best deals from the main four phone companies for you, taking out the hassle of having to do the research yourself. They will negotiate and deal with your chosen provider, freeing up your time for more important things – like running your business!
Features of Businessmobiles.com
Businessmobiles.com offers mobile phone solutions, VoIP, laptops, and broadband, so you can combine all of your tech needs in one convenient place.
You can choose sim-only deals if you would like to BYOD. These deals can offer more flexibility and often have low credit-check criteria.
They offer corporate packages from 50-to 100,000 employees, offering 24/7 support and incredible price-saving options.
Pros and Cons of Businessmobiles.com
Businessmobiles.com Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Great customer service reviews
Offers unique special offers and deals for their customers.
Great prices – promise to get their customers discounted rates.
Early upgrade options
Not much variation in reviews outside of Trustpilot
Only offers options from the leading four providers, potentially restricting options
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Businessmobiles.com:
We love that Businessmobiles.com prioritise their customer service above all else. They stay on top of their customers’ bills and take action if anything looks different or suspicious. They save their customers time and money and offer useful expertise which is particularly beneficial for smaller companies or for individuals who would like to save time by outsourcing the administration of sourcing and organising a phone plan.
The evolution of Businessmobiles.com over the years:
Improvements:
With Businessmobiles.com you do not need to wait until the end of your contract to upgrade, which is a handy feature that is useful for anyone who needs to have the latest technology or increased storage.
Issues:
Although Businessmobiles.com promises to find discounted prices for all customers, using only the 4 main providers somewhat limits options and potential add-on features that may be available with smaller providers.
How can I purchase Businessmobiles.com?
Direct:
Our concluding thoughts of Businessmobiles.com:
Businessmobiles.com us rated exceptionally high in all of our categories for good reason. They prioritise customer support, something that the big mobile companies are not generally known for providing. They can save you time and hassle searching for the best deal, and you know you will get a dedicated account manager who can do all of the hard work for you. We think that their services can provide numerous benefits for a huge range of businesses and individuals.
Focus Group
Our performance rating of Focus Group Mobiles out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars
Network Coverage & Speed 4 .7 out of 5 stars
Value & Plans 4 out of 5 stars
Business Features & Functionality 4 .6 out of 5 stars
Customer Support & Reliability 4 .3 out of 5 stars
Security & Trust 4 .7 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary of Focus Group Mobiles:
Focus Group mobiles excel in security, network coverage and speed. Customers are impressed with their extensive range of features. However, they feel the value of their plans could be improved. Generally, customers seem satisfied with their overall customer support and experience.
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
Focus Group Mobiles : The design & how it effects users:
Similar to Businessmobiles.com, Focus Group will search for the best deals to suit your specific business needs for you, as well as manage your bills, handset information and communicate with providers on your behalf.
Focus Group Mobiles : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Focus Group employee a team of over 1000 experts across the UK with the aim of managing businesses IT, telecoms and connectivity/mobile services. They are working towards being carbon neutral, so companies that prioritise sustainability can be assured that they are working with a team that aligns with their values.
Features of Focus Group Mobiles
Focus Group offer flexible Sim-Only plans, helping customers find the best deals on low-cost calls and superfast 5G connections.
Their expert team will learn about your business needs in order to create a bespoke package for your business, with the goal of providing excellent mobile coverage and handsets at a competitive price.
You have complete control and visibility of your entire business mobile estate, managed by their dedicated team of experts.
You can choose between a range of business mobile networks (EE, Vodafone, and O2).
Pros and Cons of Focus Group Mobiles
Focus Group Mobiles Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Offer flexible sim-only plans.
Excellent customer ratings on Trustpilot
Knowledgeable tech support team
Competitive prices
Some reports of discrepancies between contract and services
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Focus Group Mobiles:
Focus Group can take the stress out of organising mobile phone contracts by offering company device management, where they can manage, monitor and keep your device information secure – all of which you can access from their control hub. We think this is very convenient for businesses that have limited time and resources.
The evolution of Focus Group Mobiles over the years:
Improvements:
We love the in-house support team that Focus Group offer their customers, and their customer portal (InFocus) offers customers free webinars and useful guides.
Issues:
There are not many negative reviews for Focus Group on Trustpilot, but some report hidden costs in invoices that have not been clearly communicated at the start of the contract. We think clear communication is essential for any business partnership.
How can I purchase Focus Group Mobiles?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts of Focus Group Mobiles:
Focus Group has 80% 5-star reviews on Trustpilot, one of the highest of any mobile provider we have researched. Their reviews show that their customers feel incredibly supported by their knowledgeable team. They offer a wide range of mobile solutions, making them suitable for any sized business from SMEs to enterprise-level.
Gradwell Communications
Our performance rating of Gradwell Communications out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4.6 out of 5 stars
Network Coverage & Speed 4 .3 out of 5 stars
Value & Plans 4 .5 out of 5 stars
Business Features & Functionality 4 out of 5 stars
Customer Support & Reliability 4 .5 out of 5 stars
Security & Trust 4 .2 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary of Gradwell Communications :
Gradwell Communications shows promise as a business mobile provider, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Customers agree that they excel in customer support, value, and comprehensive security features. We do note that aside from Trustpilot and Bark, there are limited customer reviews online (including for their Apple and Samsung apps).
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
Gradwell Communications : Visual from a user’s perspective:
Gradwell Communications : The design & how it affects users:
Gradwell offers its users a Wave login, VoIP login and partner login, allowing customers to access all of their information from a useful online dashboard.
Gradwell Communications : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Gradwell offer a range of tech solutions for businesses, including leased lines, broadband, SIP trunks, mobiles and VoIP. By using one single provider, you can consolidate your bills and have a single point of contact for all of your business communication needs.
Features of Gradwell Communications
Gradwell offer a range of services and integrations, including international numbers, fax-to-email and VoIP. They also integrate with Microsoft 365, 3CX and Wave, allowing you to consolidate your suppliers and have a single point of contact for all business communication needs.
Gradwell will tailor flexible packages to meet your specific business needs, offering a range of tariffs from EE, O2 and Vodafone.
With Gradwell, you can expect significant discounts on your mobile bills as they promise to find the best deals on the market for you.
Their Mobile Device Management (MDM) allows you to control and review your devices from anywhere, ensuring compliance with data regulations.
Pros and Cons of Gradwell Communications
Gradwell Communications Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Exceptional customer service and knowledgeable technical support.
Short wait times for advice
Offer customer onboarding
Some customers complain about being opted into monthly subscriptions after ‘free trials’
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Gradwell Communications:
Gradwell has an excellent customer knowledge base, offering customers how-to guides, as well as billing support and troubleshooting assistance. Because of Gradwell’s relationship with 3 of the 4 big mobile providers, they can find flexible contracts at unbeatable prices.
The evolution of Gradwell Communications over the years:
Improvements:
Gradwell has exceptional customer reviews. Customers feel confident that their helpful team will efficiently resolve any issues. Gradwell also offers potential customers the ability to send a recent bill to them to review so they can analyse your data and usage and let you know if they can help you find a better deal.
Issues:
While it is useful that Gradwell offers a range of communication solutions, some of their reviews are mixed when it comes to their broadband and leased line connectivity.
How can I purchase Gradwell Communications?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts on Gradwell Communications :
We think Gradwell Communications offer a fully customisable suite of communication solutions that are competitively priced and straightforward to use. While they have limited hosting options, we think they make up for it with the level of support and care they give to their customers. However, we do think there could be more clarity from the team when it comes to customer billing and add-ons.
EE
Our performance rating of EE Business Mobiles out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars
Network Coverage & Speed 4.5 out of 5 stars
Value & Plans 3.5 out of 5 stars
Business Features & Functionality 4 out of 5 stars
Customer Support & Reliability 2 out of 5 stars
Security & Trust 4.5 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary of EE Business Mobiles:
EE Business Mobiles offers excellent network coverage, security, and features, potentially justifying their higher price point. However, the significant discrepancy between user reviews on Trustpilot and Reviews.io compared to other sources raises some concerns about customer service experiences. It should be noted though that these scores are a combination of personal and business user reviews.
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
EE Business Mobiles : Video from a user’s perspective:
EE Business Mobiles : Visual from a user’s perspective:
EE Business Mobiles : The design & how it effects users:
EE business mobile gives customers full flexibility with their range of add-on extras, some of which include Microsoft 365 subscriptions as well as apple music TV and sports packages. Depending on your tariff you may be entitled to one additional extra, or all three on their highest tier.
EE Business Mobiles : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Some of EE’s higher end of tariffs include EE business roaming (the ‘Roam Abroad Pass’), which allows business users to use their minutes, data and text across most of Europe, Australia and the US.
Features of EE Business Mobiles
EE has a reputation for excellent network and coverage for both 4G and 5G. This ensures dependable connectivity which is vital for keeping on top of your business operations.
EE also provides essential features such as their ‘Stay Connected Data ‘ and Wi-Fi Coverage Boost.
They offer diverse business mobile plans catering to various needs, some flexible options allowing customers to choose different data allowances and contract lengths.
EE also extends peace of mind with warranties on business mobiles, reducing replacement costs in case of device issues. Additionally, they offer Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions for remote device management and security enforcement.
Pros and Cons of EE Business Mobiles
EE Business Mobile Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
My EE Bill Analyser aids in managing phone bills effectively for employees.
Extensive 4G and 5G coverage with the fastest download speeds across the UK.
Free replacement for 24 months in case of breakage or damage provides peace of mind.
Lower customer satisfaction score compared to Vodafone.
Roaming charges were reinstated in January 2022, posing challenges for firms with employees working abroad.
Our own experience with the pros & cons of EE Business Mobiles:
EE provide businesses with a range of handsets that suit any budget, and being part of the BT family gives customers confidence in their value for money, reliability and speed. We like that they give business customers the option of SIM only deals which again will influence the overall costs of that contracts.
The evolution of EE Business Mobiles over the years:
Improvements:
We love the EE online account management tools facilitate easy bill viewing, data monitoring, and plan adjustments. In addition, their bundled packages combining business mobile and broadband services offer potential cost savings for comprehensive connectivity needs, simplifying your business operations.
EE also has one of the fewest number of complaints out of all of the big four mobile phone providers about pay monthly mobile contracts, according to Ofcom. They offer 24/7 support for their customers, as well as 99% population coverage and over 150,000 hotspots.
Issues:
EE boasts many benefits that the smaller companies cannot compete with, due to their size and partnership with BT. However, they do have very mixed customer service reviews and have reinstated roaming charges (unless you have their Roam and Abroad add-on enabled).
How can I purchase EE Business Mobiles?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts of EE Business Mobiles:
EE may not be the most budget-friendly option, but it excels in data allowance and coverage for businesses. However, this comes at a higher cost, reflected in a customer satisfaction score of 74% for value for money. Their plans start at £13 per month for SIM only with unlimited data but device costs increase rates. For instance, a Google Pixel 8 Pro with EE costs £51 monthly, pricier than Vodafone’s £37. BT’s partnership with EE offers potential exclusive deals for BT broadband customers, enhancing their business mobile offerings.
Vodafone
Our performance rating of Vodafone Business Mobiles out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars
Network Coverage & Speed 4.5 out of 5 stars
Value & Plans 4 out of 5 stars
Business Features & Functionality 4 out of 5 stars
Customer Support & Reliability 3.5 out of 5 stars
Security & Trust 4.5 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary of Vodafone Business Mobiles:
We think that Vodafone business mobiles scores one of the best out of the main providers. Customers are satisfied with their level of customer support and have a lot of trust in the company and their network coverage and speeds. Customers are also happy with their range of features and overall value for money with their plan options.
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
Vodafone Business Mobiles : Video from a user’s perspective:
Vodafone Business Mobiles : Visual from a user’s perspective:
Vodafone Business Mobiles : The Design & how it affects users:
In addition to traditional mobile plans, Vodafone offers their business mobile customers ‘One Net Anywhere’, which allows adding a single contact number that looks like a landline on a mobile contract.
Vodafone Business Mobiles : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Vodafone offers business customers roaming benefits for just £1 per day, and all of its plans come with 5G as standard. It also offers a lifetime service promise, with all of its phones coming with battery refresh and a lifetime warranty at no extra cost.
Features of Vodafone Business Mobiles
Vodafone offers their business mobile customers super-fast replacement (‘Rapid Insurance’) for all lost, damaged, or stolen phones.
Customers can add on in-building coverage, which can ensure that employees will receive high-quality signals in large office buildings that may not typically get good coverage.
In addition, Vodafone Business Mobile offers robust 4G and 5G connectivity across the UK, and a huge range of unlimited data plans, shared data options, or plans with individual data allowances.
Access One Net Anywher e for unified contact numbers and Microsoft 365 integration for streamlined collaboration.
Also, you can benefit from data encryption , remote wipe capabilities, and mobile device management solutions to safeguard company data.
Pros and Cons of Vodafone Business Mobiles
Vodafone Business Mobile Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Generous rewards scheme tailored for pay-as-you-go customers.
Convenient access to business mobile experts through Vodafone’s network of 500 UK stores
Global roaming included in select plans, allowing the use of UK allowances overseas at a small extra cost
Slightly lower Ofcom complaints-solving rating compared to rivals.
Higher cost for unlimited data plans on monthly contracts (starting from £23 per month)
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Vodafone Business Mobiles:
We love that Vodafone aim their business mobile packages at quite literally every sized business – from 1 employee to 250+, they can tailor a package to suit you. In comparison, we have found many other providers to aim their deals at SME sized businesses and up.
The evolution of Vodafone Business Mobiles over the years:
Improvements:
Vodafone offers customers award-winning coverage, good reliability, and excellent customer service. They are known to have some of the best coverage of all mobile providers.
Issues:
Customers have raised concerns about their value for money, and we think that now, more than ever, it is of the utmost importance for companies to offer cost-saving solutions for customers.
How can I purchase Vodafone Business Mobiles?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts on Vodafone Business Mobiles:
Vodafone is renowned for offering excellent value for money with a diverse range of pay-monthly plans tailored for business use. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident through their provision of trials and discounts, allowing businesses to test products before making a purchase, thus mitigating the risk of investing in unsuitable plans. Operating its own network, Vodafone ensures extensive coverage across the UK, boasting a strong presence in 2G, 3G, and 4G services. Recent developments include the acquisition of Three in August 2023, with ambitious plans to expand their 5G network to over 99% of the UK population by 2034.
While their complaints handling score, as reported by Ofcom, improved to 56% in 2023, Vodafone continues to focus on enhancing customer service. Notably, their generous 30-day trial period surpasses industry standards, offering businesses ample time to evaluate phone and coverage suitability, with the assurance of a full refund if unsatisfied.
O2
Our performance rating of O2 Business Mobiles out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 3 out of 5 stars
Network Coverage & Speed 4 out of 5 stars
Value & Plans 4 out of 5 stars
Business Features & Functionality 4 out of 5 stars
Customer Support & Reliability 1.5 out of 5 stars
Security & Trust 4 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary of O2 Business Mobiles:
Customers believe that O2 business mobiles offer a respective amount of network coverage and speed, and think that overall, the value of their plans is reasonable. Their app is also highly rated compared to the apps of its competitors, as are their security features. However, their customer service scores are very low. Similar to other providers, we should note that this is a combination of personal and business reviews,
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
O2 Business Mobiles : Video from a user’s perspective:
O2 Business Mobiles : Visual from a user’s perspective:
O2 Business Mobiles : The design & how it effects users:
O2 offers customers the opportunity to manage their business accounts online and a range of useful billing tools to help customers review and manage their services and data usage.
O2 Business Mobiles : What sets it apart from its competitors?
O2 offers businesses free EU roaming, the cheapest solution out of all providers we have reviewed.
Features of O2 Business Mobiles
O2 prioritises straightforward plans with competitive pricing, which can simplify business mobile management.
They offer diverse business mobile tariffs tailored to different requirements, including Small Business Tariffs for simpler, flexible options and ‘Shared Data Tariffs for larger teams with varied data needs.
O2 understands the need for adaptability in business, offering customers Anytime Upgrades for devices and plan flexibility and flexible contract lengths to suit different preferences.
O2 also provides free data roaming in Europe with many business plans, ensuring employees stay connected while travelling.
In addition, business mobile customers benefit from O2 Priority , an exclusive rewards programme offering discounts and perks on various products and experiences.
Pros and Cons of O2 Business Mobiles
o2 Business Mobile Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Generous range of offers and perks.
Lower upfront costs
Enhanced roaming options
Can be hard to get in contact with customer support.
Limited flexibility
They have a high number of customer complaints
Our own experience with the pros & cons of O2 Business Mobiles:
We love O2’s fantastic range of offers add-ons and perks. They offer free EU roaming, which is great for businesses requiring travel. However, these convenient additions are let down by their poor customer service reviews from various sources.
The evolution of O2 Business Mobiles over the years:
Improvements:
O2 business mobiles stand out for their incredible value for money. Their business tariffs start from only £10 per month. They also offer data-only tariffs if businesses want to use devices such as tablets or laptops with mobile connectivity.
Issues:
Where O2 falls over is their customer support and reliability. We think their low scores on review sites let down their excellent value for money.
How can I purchase O2 Business Mobiles?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts of O2 Business Mobiles:
As a leading mobile phone provider in the UK, O2 offers convenient access to its network through numerous high-street stores staffed by knowledgeable ‘O2 Gurus’. According to Ofcom’s 2023 report, O2 boasts one of the lowest complaint percentages, with only 9% of business users expressing dissatisfaction with complaint resolution. O2 Priority provides exclusive benefits such as pre-sale tickets, while O2 Rewards PAYG customers with credit based on their spending.
In Ofcom’s 2023 report, O2 leads in customer satisfaction with a 79% approval rating for value for money, surpassing EE’s 74%. O2’s commitment to affordability is evident in initiatives like its cost calculator launched in August 2023 to help users identify potential smartphone overpayments. O2 extends a warm welcome to small businesses with dedicated Small Biz tariffs, offering competitive SIM only, SIM+phone, and pay-as-you-go deals. For just £16 monthly, small business owners can enjoy 20GB of data on a two-year SIM-only plan.
Virgin Mobile’s integration with BT for business mobile customers resulted in the creation of Volt , a shared offering now under O2’s umbrella. This transition positions O2 as the go-to choose for business mobile users, with added benefits like access to Virgin Media broadband for increased speeds and double data.
Three
Our performance rating of Three Business Mobiles out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars
Network Coverage & Speed 3 .5 out of 5 stars
Value & Plans 4 .5 out of 5 stars
Business Features & Functionality 3 out of 5 stars
Customer Support & Reliability 3 .5 out of 5 stars
Security & Trust 4 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary of Three Business Mobiles:
Three stand out for being the best value for money, with customers boasting about their plan affordability. There are also no concerns about their security features, and while their features are not exceptional, there is also no cause for concern. However, the negative user reviews regarding customer service are a significant concern.
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
Three Business Mobiles : Video from a user’s perspective:
Three Business Mobiles : Visual from a user’s perspective:
Three Business Mobiles : The Design & how it affects users:
Three have recently invested in expanding their network, and we think it has paid off – with their coverage reaching far greater than it previously did.
Three Business Mobiles : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Three is undisputably the cheapest of the main providers, offering incredibly low tariffs and tempting contracts from just £5 per month.
Features of Three Business Mobiles
Three is best known and loved by customers for offering affordable business mobile plans, making it an attractive option for startups or businesses with budget constraints.
Three’s plans are straightforward with transparent terms and conditions, avoiding complex add-ons or hidden fees for easy cost management.
Three Business Mobile provides “Truly Unlimited” data plans, allowing unlimited data usage within their network without worrying about exceeding allowances.
Three offer business customers shorter contract lengths than the other big providers, and PAYG SIM cards allow businesses to adapt to changing needs or preferences.
Pros and Cons of Three Business Mobiles
Three Business Mobile Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Potential improvement in coverage due to the Vodafone merger.
Lowest costs of the leading providers.
Unlimited data available from as low as £5 per month.
Expensive roaming charges in certain countries.
Below-average ratings for customer service, coverage, and reliability.
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Three Business Mobiles:
Three Have 64% one-star reviews on Trust Pilot, which undermines their fantastically affordable contracts that would otherwise appeal to a wide range of customers. We’re hoping that their merger with Vodafone will allow them to focus on improving these customer scores, as these scores, combined with well-known blackout areas for coverage, are quite a high deterrent for potential business customers.
The evolution of Three Business Mobiles over the years:
Improvements:
Aside from having very affordable tariffs, three boasts excellent Wi-Fi calling, some of the fastest 5G speeds, and 4G, second only to EE.
Issues:
Three has below-average customer service reviews compared to some of the other providers on our list. We are also disappointed that EE has removed some of its added-value benefits, such as EU/worldwide roaming, as standard since its merger with Vodafone.
How can I purchase Three Business Mobiles?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts of Three Business Mobiles:
Three are poised to become a major player through their merger with Vodafone. New business customers could see a significant benefit: improved network coverage, a historical weakness identified through many various review sites, which might be addressed by becoming part of the Vodafone network.
Three didn’t win any awards in the 2023 Expert Reviews Business Mobile Network Awards , but they came close, particularly in the value for money category. Their affordability is undoubtedly their biggest selling point.
Three undeniably offers the most competitive prices of any major network. But remember, cheap doesn’t always equal great value. You might need to consider other providers from our list if you prioritise top speeds, reliable connections, and extensive coverage.
UK Mobile Phone FAQS Which handset should I choose?
Selecting a new phone can be exciting yet daunting with the plethora of options available. It’s advisable to stick with the operating system you’re accustomed to being it iOS for Apple users or Android for others. This familiarity streamlines usage across your personal and business devices, ensuring a seamless experience.
Are business mobile plans more cost-effective?
Yes, typically, business mobile phone plans offer better value for money as they prioritize data and call allowances, making them a cheaper option for businesses compared to consumer mobile phone plans.
Can I obtain a phone contract through my business?
Yes, you can acquire a phone contract under your business name and details. As long as each staff member receives only one mobile, you can deduct the cost of each phone and associated bills as a legitimate business expense.
Why choose a business mobile deal?
Business mobile phone deals are tailored to support businesses with specific features and protections. Whether you’re a small enterprise or a multinational corporation, these tariffs align with your business needs, offering options like unlimited data, international calls, or generous call allowances.
Can I acquire a mobile deal for my business?
Absolutely! Regardless of your business size, from small enterprises to large corporations, there’s a suitable business mobile plan for you. Such contracts not only ensure connectivity but also maintain a professional image by keeping personal and business calls separate.
When should I consider switching business mobile phone deals?
Keep an eye out for better deals and consider switching if:
You’re paying excessively.
Network issues arise.
Your current tariff doesn’t meet your needs.
Customer service dissatisfaction occurs.
Updated handsets are needed.
Managing existing plans becomes challenging. Plan your switch towards the contract’s end to avoid early termination fees. Use our mobile comparison tool to find the ideal tariff for your business.
What handsets are offered on business mobile deals?
Business tariffs provide a diverse range of handset options, catering to various preferences and operating systems such as iOS, Android, and Windows. Whether you require the latest models or more budget-friendly alternatives, there’s a handset to match your business requirements.
Can I get a contract with bad credit?
Providers conduct credit checks, so approval depends on individual criteria. Rejection may prompt you to improve your credit score before reapplying.
What if I’m declined for a contract?
Avoid immediate reapplication to prevent further credit impact. Consider purchasing a phone outright and opting for a SIM-only deal while working to enhance your credit score.
Do I need to pay upfront for a contract phone?
The upfront cost varies based on the phone, ranging from £50 to £250, especially for newer flagship models. However, contracts with no upfront fees are available.
Do I own my phone after the contract?
Yes, after the contract ends, you own the handset. You can continue using it with a SIM-only or pay-as-you-go deal or sell it for an upgrade.
Do I have to return my old phone when upgrading?
You decide whether to keep or recycle your old phone. It can serve as a backup or be recycled responsibly.
Is it better to pay upfront or monthly?
Paying outright and opting for a SIM-only deal is cost-effective if affordable. However, monthly payments make high-end phones more manageable.
Can I retain my old phone number?
Yes, it’s simple to transfer your number to a new contract with another network.
Can you get a business mobile as a sole trader?
Yes, you absolutely can get a business mobile as a sole trader! In fact, it can be quite beneficial for managing your business operations.
Should I pay monthly or get a Sim-free phone?
Opting for a pay-monthly phone contract means you pay for both a monthly allowance and the phone itself in instalments. However, choosing a SIM-free phone entails buying it outright, off-contract, requiring only a separate SIM deal for calls, texts, and data.
While purchasing a phone SIM-free and getting a separate SIM often proves cheaper, saving £150-£300 over two years, it necessitates a substantial upfront payment. As the latest flagship phones often cost around £1,000, many find it challenging to afford. In such cases, a contract can ease the financial burden by spreading out the payments.
Compare Business Mobiles & more related articles:
James Ward is CEO and founder of CompareYourBusinessCosts.co.uk, a website that won the Prestigious ‘Website of the Year’ only in its second year of operations in 2015. The website has grown organically since then offering comparisons on over 20 different products including insurance, energy, telecoms, card machines, coffee machines and much more. James has a range of interests including horse racing, skiing, rugby and boxing. He splits his time between home family life, friends, exercise and socialising.
Co Authors : Hi, I’m Ally Cox, one of the leading Copywriter/Bloggers at CompareYourBusinessCosts.co.uk, a platform renowned for its in-depth analysis and comprehensive comparisons of business services. With over a decade of experience in the industry, I bring a wealth of expertise in areas such as leased lines, VoIP, business energy and office solutions, HR solutions, accounting, and payroll services, among others.
My journey in the industry began over 10 years ago, and my extensive knowledge enables me to provide invaluable insights to our users and customers. Prior to joining CompareYourBusinessCosts, I’ve been involved in various business ventures, gaining hands-on experience in HR and copywriting across a multitude of different sectors, gaining valuable knowledge about everything from clocking in systems to card machines, EPOS systems, payroll services, and so much more.
My mission is to simplify the often-complex buying process for businesses, helping them streamline their product and service comparisons effectively. By leveraging the expertise I’ve acquired over the years, I aim to assist businesses in making informed decisions that enhance their efficiency and bottom line.
