Best SIM Cards in Germany

1. SIM.de

   Website: https://www.sim.de

SIM.de is known for its low-cost, high-data plans. Operated on the Telefónica (O2) network, it offers reliable coverage in cities and towns, though rural coverage may vary. Plans often start under €10 per month and include several gigabytes of data, unlimited texts, and calls within Germany. It’s an excellent option for students who want affordability and flexibility, especially with monthly cancellable contracts.

2. winSIM

   Website: https://www.winsim.de

winSIM also uses the O2 network and offers competitive pricing on both short-term and long-term plans. Students and young professionals will appreciate the low monthly costs and generous data allowances. Like SIM.de, winSIM features monthly rolling contracts and occasional bonus data promotions. International calling is not a core feature but may be added as an option.

3. Vodafone

   Website: https://www.vodafone.de

Vodafone is one of Germany’s largest providers, offering excellent nationwide coverage and fast LTE/5G networks. It is especially strong in urban areas and offers EU roaming as part of its standard packages. While Vodafone is generally more expensive than budget providers, it often includes perks like music streaming data and hotspot access. International calls are available in some premium plans, though not by default.

4. Telekom (T-Mobile Germany

   Website: https://www.telekom.de

If you're looking for top-tier coverage across all of Germany—including rural and mountainous areas—Telekom is the gold standard. Their prices are higher, but the service quality, speed, and reliability justify the cost. Telekom includes EU roaming and occasionally offers international calling bundles. This is the best option for those who prioritize connectivity above all else.

5. O2 – Solid Balance of Price and Coverage

   Website: https://www.o2online.de

O2 provides good coverage, particularly in urban zones, and its plans are generally more affordable than Vodafone or Telekom. With flexible contract lengths and decent data plans, O2 is a good compromise between budget and service. Some O2 plans include EU roaming and optional international calling features.

6. Lebara

   Website: https://www.lebara.de

Lebara specializes in serving international users, making it the ideal choice for students, expats, or travelers who need to call family abroad. Plans include international minutes to countries like India, Turkey, Pakistan, and many EU countries. It runs on the Telekom network, offering good coverage, and it’s prepaid—meaning no contracts and full control over your spending. EU roaming is also included.

7. Lidl Connect and Aldi Talk – Convenient and Prepaid

• Lidl Connect: https://www.lidl.de/c/lidl-connect/s10007717

• Aldi Talk: https://www.alditalk.de

These supermarket-backed SIM cards are among the most accessible options. Both use major networks (Aldi Talk uses O2; Lidl Connect uses Vodafone) and are sold at checkout counters. Their prepaid plans are ideal for travelers or temporary visitors. Plans include modest data, call minutes, and EU roaming. While they don't generally focus on international calls, they often feature seasonal deals and bonus data.

Which SIM Card Should You Choose?

• Best Budget Option for Students: SIM.de or Lebara. SIM.de offers unbeatable local rates and generous data, while Lebara includes international calling and flexibility—great for students with family abroad.

• Best for International Calling: Lebara. No other provider matches its international calling features within standard plans.

• Best Overall Coverage and Reliability: Telekom. Ideal if you're living in rural areas or need top-tier mobile performance.

• Best Balance of Price and Quality: O2. It provides good service at reasonable prices with EU roaming.

• Most Convenient Prepaid Options: Lidl Connect and Aldi Talk. Easy to purchase, set up, and recharge.

What About Connectivity and Roaming?

All major providers (Vodafone, Telekom, O2) offer EU roaming as standard—meaning you can use your German SIM across Europe without extra charges. Budget providers like SIM.de, winSIM, Aldi Talk, and Lidl Connect also include EU roaming, though data caps may apply. For travelers, this makes moving across EU countries seamless.

International calling is where Lebara shines. Others like Vodafone and Telekom offer it as add-ons or in premium plans, but Lebara includes international minutes even in its budget options.

Keep an eye out for holiday promotions and seasonal discounts across all providers—many offer bonus data, reduced rates, or free international minutes during major holidays and back-to-school seasons.

Final Tips:

• Check if your phone is unlocked before buying a SIM.

• Most SIMs can be ordered online and delivered to your address in Germany.

• Registration with a valid ID is required due to local regulations.

Whether you're a student on a budget, a frequent traveler, or someone who needs to stay in touch internationally, Germany has a SIM card that fits your lifestyle and budget.