Transferring your mobile number vs getting a new one

We’re going to let you in on an open secret when it comes to switching telcos. You don’t have to get a new mobile number. Still, there are reasons you might want a new number. Either way, it’s a cinch to keep your existing mobile number or nab a new one when switching to a SIM Only or Prepaid plan from a new telco.

Let’s dive into it.

We figure it’s safe to assume that most people want to hang onto their mobile number. After all, that’s the number friends, family, colleagues and telemarketers have saved to get in touch with you. Switching numbers on a whim means you’ll have to update your digits with the people who you want to call you.

Whether you transfer your number when shifting to a new plan with a different telco from your current/old one or opt for a new mobile number, these you-identifying digits are stored on the SIM card. Things are a little fancier these days with a range of newfangled smartphones that also support eSIMs. The physical or digital SIM will hold your number, but eSIM handsets have the added benefit of allowing you to install a physical SIM card, effectively making it a dual-SIM phone.

Regardless of how attached you may be to your mobile digits, there are some valid reasons to consider going for a new number. You may be looking to separate personal and business calls. Or you may be fed up with far too many spam calls (though you can block those these days). Alternatively, you may be looking to live out your best Bond fantasy as an international person of mystery. Whatever the reason, opting to transfer a number or nabbing a new one is incredibly straightforward.

While it’s incredibly easy to switch mobile telcos, the trick is not to cancel your existing plan when shifting to a new one. To save money, switch plans towards the end of a billing cycle, maybe allowing a couple of days for breathing space to ensure you don’t lose mobile service. When you sign up with your new telco, select the option to hang onto your existing digits, punch in that number, then follow the steps to transfer/port your mobile number.

Getting a new mobile number is arguably even easier than transferring your existing digits. It means you can order a SIM Only or Prepaid SIM from a telco and it will be ready to go with whatever 10-digit number your new telco has assigned to it. During the sign-up process, select the option for a new number so you don’t have to worry about potential additional steps for porting your number.

If you’re in the market for a new SIM Only plan, check out the popular picks below from our database:

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