What is the cheapest temporary SIM that you can use to port out and back in to the same network?

HaroldWhistler

Looking to stay with Lebara (currently on rolling). New customer deal is better price. Need to keep my number. 

I understand the method is to order a new Lebara SIM, port out my old number from my old Lebara SIM to a temporary SIM using a PAC code, and then after the number transfer finally port out my number to the new Lebara SIM using a second PAC code. 

The network coverage maps on the main networks are mixed for signal "inside the property". Definitely know that there is a strong 4G signal indoors with O2 or Vodafone. Three is spotty indoors though their coverage map claims good signal. EE's website map displays good signal indoors, but a lot of people around here claim poor signal indoors in the immediate vicinity. Generally when travelling, there is a good signal from all network providers outdoors with minor spotty coverage from Three or EE.

1. If the temporary SIM supports Wifi calling, then would the signal strength indoors actually matter?

2. What is the cheapest way to port my number over to the same network?*

At present I can see there is a Lyca MSE deal for a £0.45 a month SIM card. I have used them once before, but from what I understand on the forum, they have switched from the O2 to EE network. When I go to the main network provider websites, the 30 day rolling SIMs, or PAYG SIMs all seem tied to extremely high priced packs that are more than the cost of (or poor value for money versus) what my new Lebara deal would be!

Given I cannot use a Lebara SIM, is Lyca the way to go then? Or is there another MNVO SIM option?

* I have to port my number out and back in. There is no option in this case to apply the new deal to my existing Lebara account. 

Many thanks in advance. 

savergrant

Yes to question 1, so long as the network and phone both support wifi calling, but some handsets don't seem to work on some networks.
Question 2 depends on whether you could live with needing to call/text from a temp number for a few days. You could get a free sim and port in and out without topping up, ideally you would have a dual sim phone or a spare handset. Otherwise an intro offer from lyca for the month.

HaroldWhistler

savergrant said:

Yes to question 1, so long as the network and phone both support wifi calling, but some handsets don't seem to work on some networks.
Question 2 depends on whether you could live with needing to call/text from a temp number for a few days. You could get a free sim and port in and out without topping up, ideally you would have a dual sim phone or a spare handset. Otherwise an intro offer from lyca for the month.

Many thanks. Yes, I think Lyca sounds like the best bet at current prices.