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Freedom from lock-ins
Ever signed a two-year phone bundle only to find you’re still paying for an outdated handset, plus a mystery “early recontract” fee if you leave? You’re not alone.
Many Singaporeans have shared stories on forums about S$350–S$800 penalties and phone numbers flipped to prepaid without warning. A no-contract phone plan ends that pain.
In this guide, you’ll see why Cinch’s 30-day subscriptions cost less than a regular 12-, 24- or 36-month telco bundle, and how you can make the switch.
Why Go Contract-Free?
Early termination fees and upfront costs are a huge problem for many, and consumers are starting to vote with their wallets. Interest in no-contract phones has jumped in the last year.
At the same time regulators are turning the screws: the 2023 IMDA Advisory caps contract length at two years and says exit fees must be “fair and proportionate to subsidies remaining”, and the Telecom & Media Competition Code 2022 forces full disclosure of penalties and notice periods.
In short, two‑year bundles no longer fit a world where devices can change in months.
Contract Phone Plans
- Hefty early termination fees – range from S$350–S$1200.
- Hidden up‑fronts – handset “subsidies” buried in the bill.
- Outdated Model – stuck with the phone model for 2 years
- Forced notice periods – 7‑day “cool‑offs” that still bill you an extra month.
Subscription Plans
- Zero up‑front – no big expensive upfront payment.
- Month‑to‑month freedom – upgrade, downgrade or switch plans.
- Transparent pricing – pay only for the phone you use.
- Consumer protection – less financial risk if your situation changes.
“Locked into 24 months and my phone’s outdated halfway through.”
— HardwareZone Forum Commenter
How Cinch Works
Your Tech, Your Terms
- Pick your device
An iPhone 15 (128GB) costs S$85 /mo* with damage protection included - Choose a 3/6/12-month subscription period
With an option to switch, upgrade or purchase your phone. - Check out in three taps
Once you’re verified by SingPass, get your phone delivered in 3-5 days.
*Valid on a 12-month subscription term.
Subscription vs Telco Contracts
Think a two-year bundle saves you money? Cinch’s no-contract phone plan rents an iPhone 15 (128GB) for S$85 a month, zero up-front, while StarHub’s Mobile+ 69 locks you in at S$69 a month plus a S$539 down-payment, a total of S$ 2,195 over 24 months.
Cinch tops out at S$2,040 over 24 months so you’re already S$155 ahead, and that’s before factoring in early-termination fees. The table below lays out every major telco side-by-side so you can see exactly where your dollar goes.
Cost with iPhone 15 128 GB
| Model | Montly Cost (Cinch) | Key Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 15 Pro | S$108/td> | Enhanced battery, triple-camera | Everyday reliability |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | S$131 | Advanced camera system, ProMotion display | Content creators, photographers |
| iPhone 15 Pro | S$84 | A18 Pro chip, improved battery, USB-C | Tech enthusiasts |
| iPhone 16 Pro | S$103 | Titanium build, Pro camera, USB-C | Professionals, premium users |
*Based on a 12 to 24-month scenario.
Cinch still wins by S$155 vs StarHub and S$240+ vs Singtel, and you’re free to walk away sooner. Plus, Cinch bundles 90 % accidental-damage cover, doorstep swap and free delivery nationwide, worth more than S$200 over two years.
FAQs: Switching to No-Contract Plans
- Which no-contract phone plan is cheapest in Singapore?
Cinch’s subscription start at S$63 / month for Galaxy S24, which is lower than comparable telco bundles. - Can I keep my number if I switch?
Yes. SIM activation includes free number porting. - Is device-only subscriptions really cheaper than 2-year contracts?
Our comparison shows up to S$643 saved over 24 months. - What happens if I break a phone contract early?
If you choose to end your subscription before your term ends, a standard S$250 termination fee applies. - Does Singtel have a month-to-month plan?
Only for SIM-only plans, their usual handset bundles remain at 24 months. - StarHub Star Plan vs Mobile+?
Star Plan needs full handset payment on exit; Mobile+ has early termination fees. - Is Cinch legit?
Yes—IMDA-registered and PCI-DSS compliant. - Phone rental vs buy-now-pay-later?
BNPL locks you to installments. Cinch lets you return your device after the end of your subscription term, as early as 30 days. You also have the option to purchase the phone once your subscription ends.
For more questions, visit our FAQ page.
Stop overpaying for outdated phones
Switch to Cinch’s 30-day flexible device subscription with free damage protection included.
*Savings based on April 2025 published plan rates; subject to change.
