Last updated: March 2026 • Reviewed by Compare The Networks
Why Remote Workers Need the Right Business Mobile
The shift to remote and hybrid working has changed what businesses need from a mobile phone plan. Your team needs reliable connectivity anywhere — not just in the office. The right plan keeps remote workers productive with unlimited hotspotting, seamless VoIP integration, and a professional business number they can use from home.
Best Plans for Remote Workers
| Network | Data | Monthly (ex-VAT) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Three | Unlimited Best Value | £10.00 | Unlimited hotspotting |
| Vodafone | Unlimited | £16.00 | Best roaming for travel |
| EE | Unlimited | £19.00 | Widest 5G coverage |
| O2 | 100 GB | £14.00 | Generous allowance, flexible contract |
All prices ex-VAT, 24-month contracts. Annual RPI price increases apply.
Key Features for Remote Workers
Unlimited Data & Hotspotting
When broadband goes down, your mobile becomes your lifeline. An unlimited data plan with tethering means you can share your 4G/5G connection with your laptop instantly. Three’s £10/month unlimited plan is unbeatable for this use case.
eSIM Dual-Number Setup
Most modern smartphones support eSIM, allowing you to run two numbers on one phone — personal and business. This means remote workers do not need to carry two devices. Business calls ring on your business number, personal calls on your personal number.
VoIP Integration
Pair your mobile with a business VoIP system to get full desk-phone features on your mobile. Call routing, voicemail-to-email, conference calling and a professional reception line — all running through an app on your mobile phone.
Virtual Landline
A virtual landline number gives remote workers a professional local number (01/02/03) that forwards to their mobile. Customers see a business number, not a personal mobile number. From £5/month with no hardware required.
Remote Worker Mobile Checklist
When setting up mobile connectivity for remote or hybrid employees, make sure each team member has:
| Requirement | Solution | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Data for hotspotting | Unlimited data SIM only | From £10/mo |
| Professional business number | eSIM dual-number or virtual landline | From £5/mo |
| Video conferencing | 5G-capable handset + unlimited data | Included in plan |
| Secure company access | MDM-enrolled device with VPN | Included with most plans |
| Work-life separation | Separate SIM or eSIM business number | From £6/mo |
BYOD vs Company-Provided Devices
For remote teams, the choice between Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and company-issued phones impacts both cost and security:
BYOD (Bring Your Own Device)
- Pros: No upfront handset cost, employees use a phone they already know, add a business eSIM for work number
- Cons: Harder to enforce security policies, mixed personal/work data, GDPR considerations
- Cost: SIM only from £6/month per employee
Company-Provided Devices
- Pros: Full MDM control, consistent security policies, clean separation of work data, easier GDPR compliance
- Cons: Higher upfront cost, employees carry two devices (unless dual-SIM)
- Cost: iPhone contract from £31/month or mid-range Android from £15/month
Many businesses opt for a hybrid approach: BYOD with a company-paid SIM only deal and a clear BYOD policy covering data security and expense reimbursement.
Set Up Your Remote Team’s Mobile
We help businesses find the perfect mobile setup for remote and hybrid teams. Free comparison, no obligation.
Get a Free QuoteIs a business mobile tax-deductible for remote workers?
Yes. A business mobile is fully tax-deductible whether used at home or in the office. Limited companies can claim 100% of the cost; sole traders claim the business-use proportion.
Can remote workers keep their personal number?
Yes. Using eSIM or a separate SIM, workers can keep their personal number and add a business line to the same phone. Alternatively, a virtual landline gives a business number without needing a second SIM.
What is the best setup for hybrid workers?
A SIM only deal with unlimited data (from £10/month) paired with either an eSIM business number or a virtual landline. This gives them reliable hotspotting, a professional number, and the flexibility to work from anywhere.
Related: SIM Only Deals, Unlimited Data Plans, Small Business Deals.