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In the ever-connected world we live in, having a reliable mobile connection is crucial. Germany offers two main types of mobile contracts: prepaid and classic (postpaid). Each has its own advantages and practical differences to consider.
Prepaid vs. Classic Contracts
Prepaid plans are pay-as-you-go, providing no long-term commitment, and require buying credit or a prepaid package before use. On the other hand, classic contract plans are postpaid, billed monthly under a fixed-term contract, often 24 months, and include automatic monthly payment.
Eligibility and Paperwork
Prepaid SIM cards can be bought with minimal paperwork or even online/eSIM activation, making them accessible to tourists and people without a German bank account. In contrast, postpaid contracts require ID verification (German ID or passport) and often a bank account (SEPA mandate).
Cost Structure and Predictability
Prepaid offers strict cost control, as you only spend what you load, making it easier to avoid unexpected charges. Contract plans, however, provide predictable monthly billing and often better per-GB prices for heavy users but commit you to recurring fees and possible early-termination penalties.
Data, Minutes, and Features
Contracts typically include larger allowances, unlimited-minute/text options, tethering/hotspot allowances, and higher streaming/resolution tiers for comparable price points. Prepaid plans tend to offer smaller bundles and a top-up or add-on structure for extra data.
Device Subsidies and Upgrades
Classic contracts often let you buy or lease a handset at subsidised rates or spread its cost over the contract term. Prepaid users usually buy their own device outright.
Flexibility and Suitability
Prepaid is better for short stays, visitors, students, low or intermittent use, or when you want no commitment. Contracts suit long-term residents, heavy-data users, or users who want a new phone on instalments.
Roaming, International Calls, and Extras
Both prepaid and contract offers can include international bundles or roaming options, but contract plans often include more generous roaming or bundled extras (streaming, hotspot data) for a similar monthly price.
Activation and Management
Many modern providers offer eSIM and app-based activation for both prepaid and contract plans. Prepaid services emphasise instant activation and pause/no-commitment features, while contracts require signing and setup steps (bank mandate, ID) before service begins.
When to Choose Which
Choose prepaid if you want full control over spending, a short stay, no bank account/credit check, or occasional use. Choose a classic contract if you need predictable monthly service, large or unlimited data, a subsidised handset, or long-term stability.
Comparing German Prepaid and Contract Offers
To help you make an informed decision, we offer a prepaid comparison that allows you to compare current German prepaid and contract offers from specific providers (Telekom, Vodafone, O2, Lebara, Congstar, etc.) and shows typical monthly costs and data allowances.
In addition, the prepaid comparison offers various filters to refine the results list, such as action tariffs, special tariffs for young people, SMS flat rate, eSIM, number porting, and data automation.
Prepaid Annual Plans
Prepaid annual plans can help users save money by offering lower per-GB prices compared to monthly plans.
One-Time Costs and Additional Services
When choosing a prepaid plan, pay attention to the selection of the mobile network, included services like data volume or a phone flat rate, and additional services like 5G, which may be charged extra.
Maintaining Cost Control and Flexibility
Prepaid plans offer more flexibility with no long-term contract binding, and users have full cost control through credit top-ups.
Network Coverage
When selecting a mobile network, pay particular attention to network coverage in your region, as the D1 and D2 networks often provide better coverage in rural areas due to a larger number of transmitters than the E network from Telefónica and the 1&1 network.
Topping Up Credit and Switching Prepaid Tariffs
Most prepaid plans in the comparison offer LTE speeds of up to 25 Mbit/s, but some offers also support 5G, allowing speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s. When comparing prepaid plans, pay attention to the selection of the mobile network, included services like data volume or a phone flat rate, and additional services.
Even if you switch to a prepaid tariff, you can keep your existing phone number. Neither the activation of your prepaid tariff nor the top-up of your credit involves a credit check.
Prepaid SIM Cards: A Flexible Option
Prepaid SIM cards are worthwhile for everyone who wants to stay flexible with their mobile contract and doesn't want to commit to a provider for a long time. Users should base their choice of a phone and/or SMS flat on their usage habits.
A prepaid plan is suitable if you want to maintain full cost control for yourself or your children. Smartphones usually need to be purchased separately or the latest models may not be available in combination with the prepaid plan.
The Best Networks in Germany
The D1 network of Telekom came out on top in several tests by specialist magazines, while the D2 network of Vodafone came in second.
Activating Your Prepaid Tariff
When booking a prepaid tariff, you first need to activate the SIM card, which involves an identification procedure with your ID.
Sources: [1] Prepaid vs. Contract: What's the Difference? [2] Prepaid: The Best Prepaid SIM Cards in Germany [3] The Best Mobile Providers in Germany [4] What is a Prepaid SIM Card?
- In the realm of personal finance, considering a prepaid SIM card for lifestyle reasons could provide the flexibility to manage spending and adapt to changing needs, especially for individuals preferring no long-term commitment.
- Technology enthusiasts might find advantages in classic contract plans, as they often cater to heavy data users, offering better per-GB prices, subsidized devices, and generous roaming and streaming data options.
