Sky Mobile vs Virgin Mobile: which mobile network is better in 2021?

As two of the largest telecoms companies in the UK, Sky and Virgin Media offer very similar propositions, including when it comes to their mobile networks.

But what sets them apart, and how do they fare on measures such as customer service and technical support? We take a look at the deals from both providers to see what's on offer.

Find out how Sky Mobile and Virgin Mobile customers rated their provider in our guide to the best and worst mobile networks for 2021, or browse the best Mobile Phone and Sim-only deals

Who is Sky Mobile?

Sky Mobile is the mobile arm of the telecoms giant Sky and is a virtual network that uses O2's signal.

Sky Mobile offers both Sim-only and bundled contract deals with some of the latest smartphones available, such as the iPhone 12 and the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G.

Sky Mobile benefits

Sky Mobile customers get to roll over any unused data at the end of the monthly billing period into a 'Piggybank'. It will be saved there for up to three years, and can be used to top up your bundle if you're running short, share with other Sims or exchange for rewards and discounts towards phones.

Sky Mobile customers also enjoy unlimited streaming of Sky apps such as Sky Go (which needs a Sky TV subscription), as well as Sky Store and Sky News among other Sky apps.

Find out how customers rate its service in the latest satisfaction survey in our review of Sky Mobile.

What are the best Sky Mobile Sim-only deals?

Sky Mobile has a range of deals starting from £6 for 2GB to £30 for 60GB.

In the table below, we've listed all the deals currently available. All Sky Mobile deals listed below come with unlimited calls and texts, and are on 12-month contracts.

Select the data allowance below to view the deal, or browse all Sky Mobile Sim-only deals on Which? Mobile Switch.

Find out what coverage is like with Sky Mobile's O2 connection, or Virgin Mobile on Vodafone, using our mobile network coverage map.

Who is Virgin Mobile?

Virgin Mobile is owned by Virgin Media and launching in 1999, it was the world's first virtual network. Despite recently merging with O2, Virgin Mobile actually uses Vodafone's signal to carry its network.

Virgin Mobile benefits

Like Sky Mobile, Virgin Mobile also offer mobile contract deals as well as Sim-only deals, including deals on the iPhone 12 and the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G.

Virgin Mobile customers can also message on WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and Twitter without eating into the data allowance - although, voice and video calls aren't included.

Find out how customers rate its service in our Virgin mobile review.

What are the best Virgin Mobile Sim-only deals?

Virgin Mobile deals start from £6 and include a smart cap for out-of-bundle charges. All Virgin Mobile deals listed below come with unlimited calls and texts, and are on 12-month contracts unless specified.

Select the data allowance below to view the deal, or browse all Virgin Mobile Sim-only deals on Which? Mobile Switch.

How to switch mobile provider

Switching mobile provider is easier than it has ever been, yet many people still remain loyal when they could be getting better value elsewhere.

If you're out of contract, there's a good chance that you could switch and save. And if you opt for 30-day contracts with providers such as Sky and Virgin, this gives you even more flexibility to move around as your situation changes.

Our in-depth guide on how to switch mobile provider offers advice whether you're in or out of contract, and on how to make sure you get a good signal with a new provider.

Check out the best Sim-only deals from Lebara and Smarty, to see how the new kids on the block fare against the bigger names.