Trying out new phone without sim card!

rodmac51

I'm on Vodafone but out of contract. I want to change my phone but the best deal available for model I want is on Orange.

I know from other users that we get temperamental reception on Orange at home so I'm reluctant to switch without trying it. Now it may be that the new phone has good reception, but without trying I won't know.

Now here's the problem: mobile suppliers won't accept a phone back for a refund if the sim has been used - so how can I check out the phones performance? If I do use the sim I'm then committed to a contract for a phone that might not work at home! They're effectively saying you can try the phone out for 14 days as long as you don't use it for what it was intended. Crazy :mad:

Firstly, are mobile companies within their rights to do this and secondly has anyone found a way round it?

bingo_bango

Can't you just borrow an Orange sim from someone and try it?

As long as you don't make any calls or download to it who's to know?

[Deleted User]

Or a freee Orange sim? http://freesim.orange.co.uk/

rodmac51

Thanks, using another sim is probably the best option.

I'm amazed though that mobile phone companies can supply a product that you can't use to see if it works properly (ie make and receive calls OK) without entering into a contract that can't then be cancelled! Doesn't quite fit with the distance selling regulations!

Buzby

rodmac51 wrote: »

I'm amazed though that mobile phone companies can supply a product that you can't use to see if it works properly (ie make and receive calls OK) without entering into a contract that can't then be cancelled! Doesn't quite fit with the distance selling regulations!

So would I be, if it was true.

You'll have between 7-14 days to ensure coverage is adequate for any NEW contract, (not upgrade). The online web checker coverage maps only shows OUTSIDE coverage, so nothing beats trying it directly yourself.

rodmac51

Buzby wrote: »

So would I be, if it was true.

You'll have between 7-14 days to ensure coverage is adequate for any NEW contract, (not upgrade). The online web checker coverage maps only shows OUTSIDE coverage, so nothing beats trying it directly yourself.

Both mobiles.co.uk and mobilephonesdirect.co.uk (two of the biggest suppliers) have told me if the sim is used they won't accept the phone back for a refund on a new contract. Can't say if that's the case with all suppliers though.