O2 Germany

The German O2 network is undergoing massive changes and a restructuring process in 2016-8 with the incorporation of the old E-plus network. Some base stations are switched off and the two networks will finally be one.

Note, that the newly merged O2 network often shows as "E-Plus" on many phones as they are using the old network ID code of E-Plus for their new network.

This change has lead to some shortcomings and angry users because of On the other hand they offer the lowest prices in the country and many customers are still satisfied with their service. Telefónica promises some improvements for 2017, but this remains to be seen. If you use it in a well covered area like one of Germany's population centers and can live with sporadic 4G/LTE and a reliable 3G coverage (often roaming on two networks), you will probably be OK with them as long as you don't need any customer support. Otherwise, better choose Telekom or Vodafone.
 * low 3G and 4G coverage in the countryside mostly below Telekom and Vodafone
 * quite variable 4G/LTE speeds down to a few kbps at certain hotspots due to overcrowding in metro areas like Berlin - 3G works fine in these places.
 * minimal hotline support due to long waiting times on line for all brands
 * suspension of all credit card payments for top-ups on their websites, use vouchers or prelado.de instead

Telefónica is just merging their two billing systems. Until now (summer 2017) you still need to use old E-plus vouchers or refill cards to top-up the old E-plus brands AldiTalk, WhatsApp SIM, NettoKOM, Norma mobil, Ay Yildiz and ''Ortel mobil. ''This may change in the future. So check locally.

The O2 network has currently the cheapest offers in the country, while the best rates are not sold by the operator, but some resellers led by Aldi Talk (see below).

O2 (by Telefónica Germany)
O2, owned by Telefónica, has now grown from Germany's smallest network to its biggest after the merger with E-Plus, what number of subscribers is concerned. The shops of E-Plus/Base have been rebranded and each customers can use also the both 2G and 3G networks nationwide and 4G/LTE. This gives a better coverage in the countryside, but still not as widespread as Telekom or Vodafone. 4G/LTE has been opened for prepaid in 2016 on its own brand and most of their MVNOs.

Like all network providers in Germany o2 charges higher rates than its resellers. O2's own prepaid product used to be called Loop, but they got rid of this name when they relaunched their prepaid portfolio in March 2017. It's now simply called O2 Prepaid.

EU roaming
LIke the other operators O2 has implemented EU roaming at domestic rates from June 2017 in the EU/EEA countries. The Channel Islands are included, the Isle of Man not and Switzerland has now been excluded from their home roaming zone and are charged higher.

O2 is the only provider in Germany that states a FUP. So permanent roaming outside the country can be surcharged after 2-4 months (at 9.70€ per GB). Note the the default rate stays high at 0.23 € per MB based on the domestic standard rate, but any packages become now much cheaper abroad.

Maximum transfer speed
2G up to EDGE, 3G up to HSDPA and 4G/LTE up to 21.6 Mbps. You should have a 800 MHz (band 20) capable phone for LTE, as o2 uses it mostly.

Availability
o2 likes to call its starter packs Freikarte (= free SIM card) because they are mathematically sold for free: Starter packs are sold online (to be sent to a German postal address), in o2-branded shops (locator), in many service stations, postal offices, supermarkets, electronic chain stores and kiosks. A triple size SIM card in mini, micro and nano is given out.
 * O2 Freikarte : without credit, only sold online and sent to a German postal address. If you have a German mail address (or know someone who has), you can get the SIM for free, that is already activated. Thus, you can skip registration process. It's on the Prepaid 9ct plan by default.
 * O2 Smart: with a Smart Plan (see below) included for 28 days: 9.99 € / 14.99 €

Top-up vouchers can be found there and many other places too for 15, 20 or 30 €. To add value, type *103* #. Alternatively, you can use a bank transfer, their app or a top-up agency like prelado. SIM card and credit stays valid for 6 months after the last recharge. Check balance by *101# and validity by *102#.

SIM card registration
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network. You can do it at the point of purchase in an O2 store or in certain electronics markets like MediaMarkt or Saturn. It's the place to go when you have been decline by another provider like Telekom. O2 is very open about all kinds of valid IDs from all nations.

The other way and only option if you have bought the SIM somewhere else or online is through PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. It has the longest list of countries available that can be checked here, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Default data rate
Default rate outside packages on all tariffs is a "day flat" of 0.99 € per calendar day with up to 30 MB high speed data (up to 21.6 Mbps and 4G/LTE), beyond throttled to 32 kbps.

Data feature packages
These tariff lines are offered past 7/NOV/2017 with data up to 225 Mbps, but typically on average 12 Mbps: The large plan includes the very disputed "Datenautomatik": Having used up all data volume in Smart plan o2 automatically adds up to 3 "Datensnacks" ("data snacks") of 100 MB for 2 € each. To All-in plan up to 3 snacks of 250 MB for 3 € each are added. Only after the 3 added snacks or all balance are used up too, speed will be throttled to 32 kbps.
 * O2 Prepaid 9ct: no base rate, no included allowances, data at default rate
 * O2 Prepaid Smart 300: 9.99 € for 28 days including 1.25 GB data, 300 mins/SMS to all networks and unlimited to O2
 * O2 Prepaid Smart 600: 14.99 € for 28 days including 1.5 GB data, 600 mins/SMS to all networks and unlimited to O2

Add-on packages:
These add-on packages for more data are offered on all three plans valid for 28 days:
 * Data Pack S: 150 MB: 2.99 €
 * Data Pack M: 500 MB: 5.99 €
 * Data Pack L: 1 GB: 9.99 €

All add-on packages also renew automatically, if there is enough balance and they have not been stopped.
 * Data Pack XL: 2 GB: 19.99 €

Data-only SIM: o2 go
This SIM has only data, no voice and is aimed at tablets and modems. It is sold in a seperate starter pack called o2 go prepaid for 9.99 € with 500 MB valid for 6 months after activation. These packages can be activated for more data on up to 4G/LTE and 21.4 MBit/s: Activation is online through your o2 account. Having used up data quota, speed will be throttled to 64 Kbps.

More infomation

 * APN: it works with any
 * Tethering and VoIP are allowed or remain at least unblocked
 * Enable data roaming as better coverage is still made through free national roaming
 * More info (in German): http://www.o2online.de/ and for prepaid: http://www.o2-freikarte.de

Blau and Blauworld
Blau used to be a MVNO of E-Plus and made a relaunch in 2015. It's now a subsidiary of Telefónica. Furthermore, they sell the very similar looking brand of Blauworld. It's a different sub-brand of Blau aimed mostly at foreign workers. These SIM cards are often sold side by side and are easy to be mixed up.

Blau and Blauworld use the combined network of E-Plus/o2 which has a reasonable coverage nationwide and a good performance in the cities. Their 2G is up to EDGE, 3G is up to HSPA+ and 4G/LTE up to 21 Mbit/s. For free roaming on o2 network you may need to enable data roaming.

Availability
Blau and Blauworld starter packs can be found at a large number of retailers.. But their tariffs can't be changed between brands. Blauworld is sold for 9.95 € with 10 € preloaded: at many service stations, some supermarkets, the big electronic market chains and at most o2-branded shops too. Blau sells a variety of starter packs. The regular 9c Tarif for 9.99 € with 10 € credit like Blauworld, but also starters with Blau M, L, Allnet-L or Surf M pre-configured. Starter price is the first month included for free. Starter Pack with SIM card can be registered online with Blauworld (online available in English) and with Blau (online available in German only). When you buy it in an O2 store, let them do the activation.

At many places mentioned reload vouchers can be bought. Blau-branded or or any E-Plus voucher can be used. Check credit by *100#, to top-up type *104* #.

SIM card registration
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network. They offer two ways: PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked here, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, PostIdent in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Data feature packs
On Blau or Blauworld data by default outside of packages is for € 0.24 per MB in 10 KB units.

Their packages last for 28 days. High-speed data will be used up to the specified limit, after reaching it, there will be a downgrade to GPRS/EDGE speed. All packages must be booked through your personal account. They will auto-renew, if not stopped. Combo and data-only packs can't be mixed. The data-only packages can only be added to a Surf plan. Packages renew after 30 days. To stop them from doing so, dial 1155 -> 8-2.
 * on  Blau only :
 * on Blauworld only:
 * 1 GB: 9.90 €, activation: 1155 -> 8-1-5-1
 * 3 GB: 14.90 €, activation: 1155 -> 8-1-8-1
 * 5 GB: 19.90 €, activation: 1155 -> 8-1-4-1

EU roaming
For EU/EEA roaming Blau and Blauworld apply Roam like at Home principles on all plans and tariffs.

Technical details

 * Tethering is allowed and VoIP is not blocked


 * APN: it works with any

More info

 * Blauworld website in English: http://www.blauworld.de/index-locale=en.php
 * Blau website in German: https://www.blau.de

ALDI TALK (a.k.a. MEDION mobile)
2G up to EDGE (220 Kbit/s), 3G up to HSPA+ and 4G/LTE at max. 21 Mbit/s. In 2016 Aldi changed from E-Plus to o2 and now uses the combined E-Plus/o2 network on 4G/LTE too, making it the most popular MVNOs in the country. For free roaming on o2 network you may need to enable data roaming on some devices.

In June 2017 the billing cycle was reduced to 28 days, rates lowered and you can use all allowances in the EU without surcharges making it one of the cheapest roaming offers.

Availability
Starter packs are exclusively available in any Aldi store, Germany's leading discount supermarket chain. They are not on display in the shops. You have to ask at the cash register (check-out) for it. SIM cards are available for 12.99 € with 10 € balance preloaded. Or order them online to be sent to a German postal address for the same price.

ALDI Talk starter packages (including those purchased at ALDI stores) come with a triple-combination SIM card in mini, micro and nano size cut-outs.

Reloads can be made with ALDI Talk vouchers from ALDI stores or any E-Plus vouchers widely available by typing *104*#. While usual E-Plus vouchers start at 15 €, you can find 5 € denominations only at Aldi stores.

SIM card registration
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network. They offer three ways: at the point of purchase only in Aldi Süd stores (those stores are in the southern and western parts of Germany market with the left logo shown on top). Alternatively, use PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked here, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Data feature packs
Default data rate is a high 0.24 € per MB. So add packages from the start. Activation is done online, by ALDI Talk app or dial *121*004# to activate, *123# to check status of activation, *122# to cancel data pack after the present plan expires. If you don't dial this code, ALDI will automatically try to activate a new data plan after expiration of the present one. 'Refill' in the table means that you can refill the same data allowance again for the running time of the package by calling 1155, online or using the ALDI Talk app at the given price.
 * Monthly packages (all valid now for 28 days, instead of 30):

Daily package
Their daily package used to be a good deal before Telefónica came and spoilt it. From 2016 AldiTalk requires to use their "Web Stick", an aged 3G USB-dongle to activate the dayflat. This USB stick is sold at 29.99 € in some of their stores with a free starter pack. You can also find it on eBay.de for around 10 € without the starter. After flashing it with the newest firmware (v.5 or higher) for Windows or Mac (see Anwendungen) you will be able to activate a day pack. It's still at 1.99 € for up to 1 GB within 24 hours of activation.

That's the only way now. Of course, you can take the SIM from the stick after activation and put it in a smartphone. Don't use the old APN tagesflat anymore. It has been disabled for the daily pack and as O2's new APN is dynamic, you will be surfing on the high default rate instead.

EU roaming
ALDI Talk applies EU roaming at domestic prices now. Their 5.5 GB for 15€ is the best roaming offer on the German prepaid market giving out domestic and roaming data at less than 3€ per GB. Even the dayflat can be used in EU roaming at domestic rates. Note that from their new roaming zone Switzerland has been excluded now.

They still offer this only add-on for data roaming outside of Germany in Switzerland included: for 500 MB in 7 days 4.99 € are charged. This package can be booked online or by ALDI Talk app. When expired (by volume or time) it doesn't automatically renew, but can be booked again.

Technical Settings

 * APN: it works with any
 * Enable data roaming for coverage of both o2 and E-Plus networks

More info

 * Both tethering and VoIP are allowed


 * More information (in German): www.alditalk.de

NettoKOM and Norma Mobil
Both Norma Mobil and NettoKOM are on the combined network of E-Plus/o2 that has a fair coverage nationwide and a good performance in the cities. Their 2G is up to EDGE, 3G is up to HSPA+ and 4G/LTE up to 21 Mbit/s. For free roaming on o2 network you may need to enable data roaming. Roam like home is added from June 2017.

Availability
NettoKOM starters are exclusively sold at Netto discounter markets (locator). Norma Mobil starters are only sold at Norma discounter stores (locator). At both chains you need to ask for the packs at the check-out.

Both chains sell their SIM card for 10 € with the same credit included. Default tariff line on NettoKOM is the "9 Cent Tarif" without any package attached. Don't take any other plan as you need a German bank account otherwise. On Norma Mobil a Smart M package (see below) is prebooked on their only starter and can't be stopped.

Their SIM card can be activated for After visiting their website, there are 3 steps for activation, after these steps SIM card is activated within an hour.At many places reload vouchers can be bought. Any E-Plus voucher can be used; while Aldi and o2 vouchers won't work. Check credit by *100#, to top-up type *104* #

SIM card activation
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network. For NettoKOM go online (in German only) for Norma Mobil online (go to "Freischalten" in German only). Then they offer two ways: PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked here, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Data feature packs
On NettoKOM or Norma Mobil data by default outside of packages is for € 0.24 per MB in 10 KB units.

Their packages last for 30 days. High-speed data will be used up to the specified limit, after reaching it, there will be a downgrade to GPRS/EDGE speed: All packages are auto-renewed at the end of the month. To stop call 1155 and dial 83.

Monthly bundles can be refilled in volume as often as you like within the running time of the package. When the initial traffic is used up, a SMS is sent out which needs to be confirmed with "JA" to double the initial volume.

EU roaming
They have adopted Roam like at home principles for EU/EEA roaming giving data at domestic rates. Be aware that Switzerland is not included.

Still, they offer an add-on for data roaming outside of Germany in all EU/EEA countries and Switzerland which only makes sense for Switzerland. For 500 MB in 7 days 4.99 € are charged. This package can be booked online or by entering 1155 -> 8-1-5-2. When expired (by volume or time) it doesn't automatically renew, but can be booked again.

Technical settings

 * APN: it works with any
 * Enable data roaming to have both o2 and E-Plus networks on 3G

More information

 * Tethering is allowed and VoIP is not blocked


 * NettoKOM website in German: http://www.nettokom.de/
 * Norma Mobile website in German: http://www.norma-mobil.de

Ay yildiz
This product with its Turkish name (meaning moon and star) is directed to the Turkish migrant market and the biggest immigrant group in Germany. Ay yildiz is a subsidiary of the now defunct E-Plus group (Telefónica) and uses the combined networks of E-Plus and o2. For free roaming on o2 network in 3G and 4G/LTE you may need to enable data roaming.

2G up to EDGE (220 Kbit/s), 3G up to HSPA+ with roaming on o2, 4G/LTE up to max. 21 Mbit/s.

Availability
Their starter pack contains a combined mini-/micro-/nano- SIM card. It's available from many kiosks at railway stations, service stations and can most often be found in small stores caring for Turkish migrants. It can also be ordered online to be sent to a German postal address. They charge 9.99 € for the package and give a starter credit of 7.50 € and another bonus of 2.50 €, if you top up by 15 € or more. You need to register and activate in online here.

Top-ups can be made almost everywhere. All E-Plus vouchers including Aldi talk codes can be used. Check credit by typing *100#, to top up, type *104* #.

SIM card registration
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network through here. Then they offer two ways: PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked on their linked site, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Data feature packages
They now offer only one tariff line called "aystar". Default data rate is a high 0.29 € per MB. So buy packages valid for 30 days:

Included calls in combo packages are to all German lines and Turkish landlines. When included volume is used up, speed will be throttled to 56 kbit/s. You can reset data volume for more high speed data for the given rates.

To activate a package, use their app, go to your personal account or call 1155 and follow instructions (that are only in German). All packages auto-renew after 30 days, if there is credit.

EU and Turkey roaming
In June 2017 EU roaming was introduced at domestic prices. AyYildiz also offers the cheapest roaming in Turkey. You can use their SIM in Turkish roaming at special rates: These packages can be activated multiple times online and skip Turkish censorship.
 * 500 MB in Turkey for 30 days: 4.99 €
 * 1.5 GB in Turkey for 90 days: 9.99 €

More information

 * Tethering is allowed, VoIP is officially banned, but works anyway


 * APN: it works with any


 * Website (in German and Turkish only): http://www.ayyildiz.de

Ortel Mobile
Ortel Mobile is a product of the defunct E-Plus Group aimed at the ethno market competing with Lebara and Lycamobile.

2G is up to EDGE, 3G up to HSPA+ and 4G/LTE up to 21 Mbit/s on the combined E-Plus/o2 network.

Availability
Ortel mobile is the only SIM card in Germany, that is easily available and heavily marketed at major airports like Frankfurt. A hybrid standard/micro/nano SIM is sold.
 * online from Ortel to be sent to a German postal address only (normally takes 2-3 working days)
 * for free: without credit
 * for 9.95 €: with 10 € credit and another 10 € bonus on the first top-up
 * at their vending partners in Germany like Shell service stations or "real" supermarkets, o2-branded stores and generally in inner cities at small shops targeting immigrants and migrant workers for 9.95 € with 7.50 € credit. Take care, there are two starter packs: one with a smartphone option pre-booked and the other without. Take the one without.

To top-up use E-Plus vouchers that are sold everywhere. Online top-ups by credit card or PayPal have been disabled, but can be made through agencies.

SIM card registration
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network through here. Then they offer two ways: PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked on their linked site, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Data feature packs
Default rate is the usual overpriced 0.25 € / MB (in 10 KB units). These packages are available for 30 days: For activation, text code to 55300. VoIP is officially only allowed with the 5 GB pack, but possible on other packs too. When included volume is used up, speed will be throttled to 56 kbps. 'Data Reset' means that you can have the same data allowance again at the reduced price for the rest of the running time of the base package. All allowances are valid all over the EU.

All packages don't include SMS. All monthly packages auto-renew if there is credit and not stopped. This can be done online on your account.

EU roaming
Roam like home with roaming at domestic rates in EU countries was introduced in June 2017,but excludes now Switzerland.

Technical details

 * APN: it works with any
 * Enable data roaming to get both Eplus and o2 3G networks

More info

 * Website mostly in English (only your account is in German only): http://www.ortelmobile.de/

Tchibo mobile
Tchibo mobile is one of the oldest MVNOs in Germany. It started in 2004 on the O2 network. As they still have a prepaid product line and a day flat it has been re-added to the list, even if their rates are not so competitive anymore. They operate on the O2 network in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE up to 21.6 MBit/s with a good coverage in cities and less on the countryside.

Availability
The SIM cards are exclusively sold in Tchibo stores, Germany leading coffee roaster chain, not in other stores, where there may be a Tchibo section too. In this store locator, you need to look for own branded Tchibo stores, indicated by a golden coffeebean on a blue background.

You need to buy a starter set in Prepaid Tarif, not in Smartphone Tarif or Tablet Tarif as for the two latter you need to have a German bank account. Triple-cut SIM are given out. Only the prepaid tariff stays prepaid all the time and you can add all packages later. Starter price is 7.99 € without credit which is pretty high. You should do a recharge rightaway at the point of purchase.

To top-up you can use Tchibo vouchers from 15 € sold in some shops or O2 cards (often called Loop) sold in many more places. Enter code by *103*#. Check balance by *101#.

SIM card registration
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network. This can be done at the point of sale, when they can handle your ID. Alternatively, they offer two ways online: PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked here, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Default rate
Starting with the Prepaid Tarif you are on the default rate with a high 0.24 € per MB for data. That's why the first thing you should do is to add a package.

Day rate
Tchibo is one of the few providers that still offers a day rate. 1 GB for one calendar day from midnight to midnight is sold at 2.95 €. To activate text 'START TAGFLAT' to 7777. You will get a message in reponse that you need to confirm by 'JA TAGFLAT' to 7777. Only after activation has been confirmed, you should switch on data. Tchibo won't send you a reminder at midnight, so watch out. For overuse, data is throttled to 64 KBit/s.

Monthly rates
Furthermore, Tchibo offers combo or data packages valid for 28 days: Data beyond the included allowance will be throttled to 64 KBits/s. Activation through the app, your online account or by *104#. Data upsizes can be made up to three times per month and will run until the month is over. You can upsize your data for the time of the running base plan by app or call center:
 * 100 MB: 2.95 €
 * 300 MB: 4.95 €


 * 1 GB: 6.95 €

EU roaming
All allowances can be used all over the EU/EEA at domestic rates.

More info

 * Tethering and VoIP is allowed
 * To use 3G of E-Plus network enable data roaming
 * APN: it works with any
 * Website in German only: http://www.tchibo.de

K-Classic mobil
K-Classic mobil is a MVNO on the O2 network by the retail chain Kaufland that started in 2012. It works on the same O2 platform in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE up to 21.6 MBit/s as Tchibo mobil with slightly lower prices, but without a daily option.

Availability
K-Classic mobil is sold exclusively in Kaufland megamarkets. These are often located out of town in industrial areas. So they might not be so convenient, if you are on a city trip, but remain an option if you have a car: store locator.

As with Tchibo stay with a starter in Basis Tarif and add packages later for prepaid. The starter is sold at 9.99 € with a 10 € credit pre-loaded.

New SIM cards need to be registered over the phone 0176 88854545 or online here to be activated. There you have to enter phone number, Freischaltnummer written on your SIM tray and a German postal address. Activation may take 2-3 hours.

You can top-up your SIM by vouchers sold at Kaufland starting from 5 €. Alternatively, you can take any O2/Loop or Tchibo voucher too starting from 15 €. Enter code by *103*#. Check balance by *101#.

SIM card registration
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network here. Then they offer two ways: PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked here, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Data feature packages
Default rate is 0.24 €/MB. So better add a monthly data package from the start. All allowances can be used at the same rate for roaming in the EU: Activation of packages and reload by texting 'START ' to 54540. Beyond the included volume, speed will be throttled to 64 kbit/s. You can make a reload valid for the rest of the running time of the base package. The base plan auto-renews, the reloads not. Stop by texting 'STOP to 54540.

EU roaming
They have adopted Roam like at home for EU/EEA roaming giving data at domestic rates. As Switzerland is not included anymore, they offer an add-on misleadingly called 'EU-Surf Pack' which now only makes sense for data roaming in Switzerland. For 500 MB within 7 days 4.95 € are charged. This package can be booked online or by texting 'START EUSURF' to 54540. it doesn't automatically renew, but can be booked again. This can be a good deal for a light roaming data volume or if you need Switzerland included.

More info

 * Tethering and VoIP is allowed
 * To use 3G of E-Plus network enable data roaming
 * APN: it works with any
 * Website in German only: http://www.k-classic-mobil.de

Yourfone prepaid
Yourfone is a brand of the Drillisch group, a major reseller of the O2 network in the country. While they focus on contracts, they offer good and flexible data packages on prepaid too, but with a few strings attached. Data is on 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE networks of E-plus/O2 in up to 21.6 Mbps speeds with good coverage in the cities and some gaps on the countryside.

Availability
Their SIM cards are not so easy to find. They are sold at some petrol stations or in all of their rather limited selection of shops (store finder) for 9.95 € with 10 € credit preloaded in all 3 sizes. You can also order them online for free, if you have a German postal adress for delivery.

Top-up vouchers may also pose a problem as Yourfone is rarely sold. You can use prelado online with credit card or check their top-up locator here by clicking 'Prepaid-Ladestation ' to find a store that sells Yourfone vouchers as O2 vouchers don't work.

SIM card registration
Activation is somewhat tricky as it's not done in the shops and you need to register first to their Servicewelt and all pages are in German only. Then they offer two ways: PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked here, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Data feature packages
Default rate is rather low 0.08 €/MB. Better add one of their monthly data packages: Activation is through your online account. Having reached the data quota, you can buy a reload valid for the rest of the base package or will be throttled to 32 kBit/s. All base plans, not the reloads auto-renew after one month if there is credit and you haven't stopped them before on your account.

EU roaming
All allowances can also be used in the EU at domestic rates. Note that Yourfone as one of the few provider in Germany actually states a FUP. So some restrictions can apply, if you roam permanently.

More info

 * Tethering is allowed, VoIP is banned, but works anyway
 * To use 3G of E-Plus network enable data roaming
 * APN: it works with any
 * Website in German only: http://www.yourfone.de

Saturn and MediaMarkt offers
Finally, the two German electronic house chains Saturn and MediaMarkt offer own prepaid plans too. They are identical and only sold in their stores. Most of them operate in the O2 network in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE. Here are their offers: For all these plans go to a MediaMarkt or Saturn store only. MediaMarkt and Saturn sell other brands and networks too.
 * Einsteigertarif: SIM card is for free, you have to top-up. 500 MB for 30 days up to 21.4 Mbps are sold at 9.99 €. Speed will be throttled to 64 kBit/s after. A refill of 300 MB is sold at 3 €.
 * Smartphone Basis: This is the only plan not on O2, but on Vodafone through Mobilcom-Debitel. Starter is 9.99 € with 750 MB and 300 mins/SMS. The monthly renewal is 8.99 €. Unlike O2, on this plan included allowances can be used for roaming in the EU without surcharges.
 * Smartphone Plus: Similar to Basis, but on O2 without roaming. Starter is for 9.99 € with 300 MB and 400 mins/SMS for 30 days. That's the monthly renewal price too. 300 MB refill is for 3 €.
 * Smartphone Flex: For 24.99 € you get 1000 mins/SMS or MB or any mixture of it for 3 months. You can only renew the same package ahed of time.
 * Daten-Tarif Basis: This is a postpaid contract and you need a German bank account. So it's not mentioned any further.
 * Daten-Tarif Flex: For 24.99 € you get a data-only SIM with 3 GB preploaded valid for 3 months. Speed is up to 21.6 Mbps and will be throttled to 7.2 Mbps with 0.24 € per MB for overuse. This package doesn't auto-renew, but can be extended for the same time and price again.

SIM card registration
Saturn and Media Markt are two chain stores that can be recommended for SIM cards to be registered at their point of purchase. But beware, that they can't handle all IDs there. So ask before purchase. They will only registered starter packs sold in their market.

Netzclub
Netzclub is a free ad-sponsored SIM card with a 100 MB high speed volume per month without any charge. As a subsidiary of o2, Netzclub uses the o2 network, which is good in performance especially in populated areas.

Speed is up to 7.2 Mbit/s on 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE. After reaching 100 MB a throttle is activated at 32 kbit/s (= half GPRS speed).

Netzclub is based on the Freemium model. A basic allowance is given out for free in the hope that you purchase more for pay. We don't normally add online-only operators, but make exceptions for Freemium offers. The free allowance can also be used for EU roaming, all other EU roaming consumptions are at the domestic rate.

Availability
Order and registration are only done online, because this SIM isn't sold offline in any stores. It will be sent to a German address free of charge within 5 - 7 days. You need to have a German postal address to get the offer. They will only send out one SIM per person and a maximum of 3 SIMs per household (same last name and address). The SIM sent out by mail is a hybrid mini-, micro-, and nano-SIM. Change the option from bank transfer to top-up using vouchers (Aufladung mit o2 Guthabenkarte) during the registration process to order the card without a bank account and without a mandatory first payment.

You'll have to be willing to accept some ad mails to the given email account and some advertisement SMS will be sent to your number as well. This can amount to 30 SMS or mails per month but is normally much less. You can influence this a bit through the type and number of interests you select in your ad preferences. This is how this service is paid for after all. If you don't want junk ads, consider other offers instead.

SIM card registration
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network here. There they offer two ways: PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked here, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Recharge and upsize
There is no need to have credit to use the free 100 MB data per month. To top up use o2 vouchers called "Loop" from 15 € or Tchibo cashcards from 10 €. To use bank transfer (from 0,01 €), see this site (in German).

When the 100 MB free data quota is used up, you can continue to use the 'flatrate' at a slower speed (32 kBit/s) for free or add one of these options: Take care, if you choose surfpacks with auto-renewal. This may be a bad deal in the long term: the monthly Surfpack renews every month as long you have enough credit and overrides the free data allowance in the next month. To discontinue you have to call customer service 0176 888 93939 (for 9c per min) or simply be low on credit to prevent auto-renewal.

Validity and refund
As long as you receive advertisement mails and SMS' your unused credit has an unlimited validity, which is unique for German prepaid SIM cards. If you choose not to use the card anymore, you can have the outstanding credit transfered to a SEPA bank account.

EU roaming
All allowances can be used in EU roaming too at domestic rates, even the free sponsored rate.

APN and more information

 * Tethering and VoIP are not allowed in the T&Cs, but not actively blocked.


 * APN: pinternet.interkom.de
 * more info (in German): https://www.netzclub.net

WhatsApp SIM
WhatsApp SIM is joint venture between Telefónica (former E-Plus) and the most popular social messenger app WhatsApp. It's mainly targeted at messenger users as it gives (almost) free data at slow speeds.

Speeds are in 2G up to EDGE, 3G up to HSPA+ and 4G/LTE up to 21 Mbit/s. WhatsApp SIM uses the combined network of E-Plus/o2. For free roaming on o2 network in 3G and 4G/LTE you may need to enable data roaming.

Availability
The starter pack is available online to be sent to German postal address or offline at many outlets or post offices for 10 €. The starter packs include a first data package of 10 € which can be discontinued before start and 5 € bonus credit, giving a total of 15 € credit. Combined mini and micro SIMs as well as nano SIMs are available.

The WhatsAll plan for 10 € is preconfigured in all starters. For topping up, any E-Plus voucher widely available can be used. You'll need to top-up at least 5 € every 6 months to keep the SIM card alive.

SIM card registration
Their SIM needs to be registered and activated before it connects to their network here. There they offer two ways: PostID on video or Post Ident in a postal agency. They have the longest list of countries available that can be checked here, which way you need to go. For PostID you need a stable internet connection and a device with camera. It's offered around the clock in 5 languages including English. Alternatively, Post Ident in a postal agency is offered only at business hours and takes longer to activate your SIM.

Default rate
Consumption and allowances are in units that can be used for data, calls and texts. 1 unit = 1 MB of data, 1 minute of voice or 1 SMS.

The free allowance without having booked a plan, is now only 10 MB per month. Take care, that the 10 € plan (see below) is set by default and you have to reset it to the free basic allowance before use. Beyond 10 MB data won't be shut off but stays at throttled 32 kbps. That's why this SIM card is very suitable for messenger users who only need a slow speed for free.

Data feature packs
They sell two packages in which flexible "units" can be used for data, voice or SMS or any mixture of it. EU roaming is included at domestic rates: All packages last for 30 days. There is no way to upsize this package. For overuse, speed will be throttled to 32 kbps. WhatsApp use is still possible, but no VoIP calls and video messaging.
 * WhatsAll 300: € 5 = 300 units in MB, minutes and/or SMS
 * WhatsAll 1000: € 10 = 1000 units in MB, minutes and/or SMS

Packages can be booked on your personal account or by calling 1155. They will auto-renew, if there is credit and not stopped on your account or by calling 1155.

EU roaming
All allowances can be used for EU roaming at domestic rates.

More info

 * APN: it works with any


 * Tethering is allowed
 * Website in German: http://www.whatsappsim.de/

FONIC (with FONIC mobile, formerly known as LIDL mobile)
FONIC used to be a major prepaid brand of o2. But lately they have been retracted from all shops and are only sold online anymore. As online-only operators are not allowed to be listed in this Wiki as they've proven to be impractical for travellers, Fonic has been taken off the list for now. Other providers sold locally are added instead. If you can still find their offer, check their website mentioned below.

FONIC Mobile (formerly known as LIDL Mobile)
In 2015 LIDL changed partners. All old LIDL mobile SIM cards sold in their stores until Sept. 2015 are rebranded into FONIC mobile. The old tariffs have grandfathering and remain similar to regular Fonic rates. Top-up vouchers are still sold, but no Fonic starter packs at Lidl's anymore. From now on you'll have to choose a FONIC top-up voucher, not a LIDL-branded voucher for topping up their old SIM cards. We don't list FONIC Mobile anymore as SIM cards are only available online to be sent to a German postal address. To see their rates, check their updated pricelist. The new Lidl offer is now called LIDL Connect (see above) operating on the Vodafone network instead.

More info

 * It works with any APN
 * Tethering is allowed
 * Websites (in German): www.fonic.de and http://www.fonic-mobile.de/