iD Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) in the United Kingdom that operates on the Three network infrastructure. The provider offers a range of mobile plans, including pay monthly phone deals, pay monthly SIM-only deals, and pay-as-you-go SIM contracts. A key feature of iD Mobile's service is the inclusion of unlimited UK calls and texts on all tariffs, along with the option to choose an eSIM over a physical SIM. The company provides a variety of SIM deals with contract terms of 1 month, 12 months, or 24 months, and data allowances ranging from 5GB up to unlimited monthly data. While the selection of data limits on pay-as-you-go SIMs is noted as being slightly more limited compared to longer-term contracts, iD Mobile often includes extras and freebies on many of its pay-monthly tariffs, such as complimentary access to services like Apple Music or Apple TV+. Furthermore, the provider includes one month of data rollover on its plans, allowing customers to utilise any leftover data during their next billing period.
In terms of network performance, iD Mobile leverages the Three network, which is reported to offer the fastest median 5G download speeds in the UK. Testing indicates that users can generally experience very fast 5G speeds, often exceeding 200 Mbps on compatible devices. The 5G coverage is described as very good in suburban and urban areas, with reliable call performance and no significant dropouts observed. However, it is noted that certain other MVNOs using EE infrastructure may offer better coverage in remote areas. For customers concerned about coverage in very remote locations, an alternative provider such as 1pMobile, which uses the EE network, might be a consideration, though it is typically more expensive and offers fewer roaming benefits.
A significant area where iD Mobile stands out is its roaming allowances, which are considered very strong for an MVNO. On all of its plans, customers receive free inclusive roaming in 50 different countries, subject to a 30GB monthly fair usage limit. This means that even on unlimited data plans, roaming data is capped at 30GB per month. This fair usage limit is considerably higher than that of many competitors; for example, Three limits roaming data to 12GB, and another Three MVNO, Smarty, also limits roaming to 12GB across 44 countries. Some providers, like VOXI, do not offer free roaming at all. While iD Mobile's roaming is particularly strong within the EU, the provider also offers the ability to purchase relatively inexpensive monthly roaming passes for popular non-EU destinations such as India, Turkey, Australia, and the USA. This flat-fee option for roaming outside of Europe is a feature not commonly offered by most other MVNOs. Beyond these specific destinations, standard roaming charges apply, which can be expensive.
From a value-for-money perspective, iD Mobile is positioned as a cost-competitive option. For pay-as-you-go SIM-only deals, iD Mobile's pricing is comparable to Smarty and generally cheaper than other MVNOs like VOXI and 1pMobile. For customers willing to commit to a 12 or 24-month contract and pass a credit check, iD Mobile can offer even lower monthly costs. This ability to reduce the monthly bill through longer-term commitments is a feature not commonly provided by many other cheap providers. Pay-monthly phone tariffs are also typically competitively priced. The provider's overall value is enhanced by the fact that it does not compromise on other areas, such as 5G speeds, roaming allowances, or plan extras. iD Mobile is often one of the cheapest mobile networks on the market, particularly for those open to long-term contracts. The provider's ability to offer low prices is partly attributed to its parent network, Three, which tends to be the cheapest of the big four UK mobile networks.
Beyond core mobile services, iD Mobile provides its customers with access to a programme of exclusive discounts, offers, and savings from other brands. These perks are accessible through the iD Mobile app and are live for current customers. To redeem an offer, a customer can simply tap the 'Get offer now' button within the app or email the offer to themselves for later use. There is no stated limit on the number of offers a customer can redeem, though some specific offers may be for one-time use, while others can be accessed repeatedly. The selection of available offers and participating brands is described as ever-changing and is regularly updated by iD Mobile. Brands that have been named as potential participants in this programme include Booking.com, The AA, Morrisons, and Disney, though the exact selection varies. This type of customer rewards programme is a common feature among mobile networks, with similar services offered by O2 (O2 Priority), Three (Three+), and Vodafone (VeryMe Rewards).
Customer service is another area where iD Mobile is noted for not skimping, in contrast to some other networks. The provider offers a 14-day return policy for online purchases, which provides customers with a degree of flexibility. Overall, iD Mobile receives a high rating, with one review scoring it 4.7 out of 5. The primary situation where iD Mobile might not be the optimal choice is for individuals living in extremely remote areas with concerns about 4G coverage, where an alternative network like 1pMobile might offer better service, albeit at a higher cost and with fewer roaming benefits.
Conclusion
iD Mobile presents a compelling option for UK consumers seeking a balance of value, performance, and customer perks. As an MVNO on the Three network, it offers fast 5G speeds and good coverage in most suburban and urban areas. Its standout feature is the generous roaming allowance, providing free inclusive roaming in 50 countries with a high 30GB fair usage limit, which is superior to many competitors. The provider's pricing is highly competitive, especially for longer-term contracts, and it includes useful features like data rollover and eSIM compatibility. Furthermore, iD Mobile enhances its value proposition through an exclusive perks programme accessible via its app, offering customers a regularly updated selection of discounts and offers from various brands. While coverage in very remote locations may be a consideration, for the majority of UK consumers, iD Mobile delivers strong overall value, combining reliable network service with tangible customer benefits.