New contract but staying with same network and keeping my number?

[gaffertape]

Hi,

A bit of a basic question, but not something I had to consider previously.

I've got my eyes on a new phone/contract combo that is significantly cheaper to get from phone4u/mobilephonedirect than it is through an 'upgrade' with T-mobile. So, my question is how do I go about doing this while keeping my number (I'm rather attached to it, it's only mobile number I've ever had)? T-mobile's retentions couldn't offer a better deal than already advertised on their website.

I read that you can't port over the same number on the same network between different contracts? If this is the case, the only thing I can think of is asking for a PAC, going over to a Tesco/02/Asda PAYG sim, and then going back to T-mobile? Will that work?

Also, how long is the process of getting a PAC going to take? Is there a minimum time I need to stay with the PAYG sim before going back?

Apologies for the basic questions - any help appreciated.

[Doctor_AB]

why do you need to stay with T Mobile? Can you not get the same phone and a better deal with switching networks?

If you have to stay with T mobile, you could use the path that you have described with a switch to PAYG and then a new t mobile contract, not sure of the minimum time. When you phone and ask for your pac code, they might offer you a better deal.

[miles safer]

Have you actually checked with P4U whether they can do what you want, as they are always so keen to get business they may be able to do it so you're on contract through them & they get paid. Although there is the possibility of a sales person promising what is not possible just to get you signed up.

My experience is with O2 but I went from contract to sim only with the same number no problem & my wife did the same with O2 through CPW.

Or this may be useless advice good luck anyway.