Network vs network
EE vs giffgaff
Different masts, different deals. We compare price rises in pounds, roaming, credit checks and today’s cheapest SIMs on both.
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Do they use the same masts?
No. EE uses its own masts and giffgaff uses O2’s masts. Check coverage at home and work for both.
Which one raises prices?
EE: SIM only +£2.50, phone plans +£4, every 31 March. giffgaff: No annual rise.
Which is better abroad?
EE: £2.72 a day unless included. giffgaff: EU included, 5GB.
EENo deal
giffgaff£240Cheapest SIM with 10GB or more × 24, plus April rises
Live prices; rises estimated for a plan starting this month.
EE runs on its own masts; giffgaff on O2’s masts.
Prices checked 28 October 2026 · facts checked monthly · How we compare
EE vs giffgaff, side by side
| EE | giffgaff | |
|---|---|---|
| Masts | Own masts | O2 |
| Annual price rise | SIM only +£2.50, phone plans +£4, every 31 March | No annual rise |
| Roaming | £2.72 a day unless included | EU included, 5GB |
| Credit check | Hard check | None |
| eSIM | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Calling | Yes | Yes |
| Ofcom complaints per 100k (Q1 2026) | 1 | 1 |
| Cheapest SIM, 10GB+ | None today | £8 a month |
| Cheapest SIM, 30GB+ | None today | £8 a month |
| Cheapest SIM, Unlimited | None today | £25 a month |
Highlighted = better on that line. Facts from network terms and Ofcom; prices live.
Our verdict
One of the two has no SIM only deal in our feed today, so compare on the facts below.
Coverage differs: EE uses its own masts and giffgaff uses O2’s masts. Check both on the mast owner’s postcode checker for home and work before you decide.
Pick giffgaff if…
- You want a price that doesn’t rise every year
- You want to avoid a credit check
- O2 signal is strongest where you live
EE and giffgaff SIM only deals, live
FAQ
EE vs giffgaff questions
Is EE or giffgaff cheaper?
Prices change daily — see the live table above.
Do EE and giffgaff use the same network?
No. EE uses its own masts and giffgaff uses O2’s masts.
Which has better roaming?
EE: £2.72 a day unless included. giffgaff: EU included, 5GB.
Can I switch from EE to giffgaff and keep my number?
Yes. Text PAC to 65075 from your EE phone, give the code to giffgaff, and the number moves within one working day.