Network review · Network operator
O2 review
O2 includes roaming in Europe on every plan, which makes it one of the simplest big networks for travellers.
O2 adds £2.50 a month every April (contracts from 23 October 2025); phone plans’ device payments are frozen. EU roaming is included on all plans with a 25GB fair use limit, then £3.50 per GB. giffgaff, Tesco Mobile and Sky Mobile use O2’s masts.
Facts checked 25 October 2026 · bemobiles editorial team · How we compare
O2 in numbers
| Masts | Own network (also used by giffgaff, Tesco Mobile, Sky Mobile) |
|---|---|
| Price rise | +£2.50 every April; device plan payments frozen |
| EU roaming | Included on every plan, 25GB then £3.50/GB |
| Credit check | Hard check on pay monthly |
| eSIM / Wi-Fi Calling | Yes / Yes |
| Ofcom complaints | 3 per 100,000 (Q1 2026, down from 7) |
Pick O2 if…
- You travel in Europe often
- You want a big network with roaming included
- You like splitting phone and airtime (device plan stays fixed)
Skip it if…
- You want no annual rise — giffgaff uses the same masts
- You rarely leave the UK and want the lowest price
O2 SIM only deals, live
Prices checked 28 October 2026.
Phones on O2
Sorted by total cost over the contract.
FAQ
O2 questions
Does O2 include EU roaming?
Yes, on every plan, with a 25GB fair use limit. Above that it costs £3.50 per GB.
How much is O2’s April rise?
£2.50 a month for contracts from 23 October 2025.
Is giffgaff the same as O2?
It uses O2’s masts, so coverage matches, but prices and policies differ.