Up to 1 Mbps Data Rate
3 Networks EE, Vodafone & Three
Mobile Ready Supports Moving Devices
PAYG No Minimum Contract

What is CAT-M?

CAT-M, also known as LTE-M, is a low power wide area technology designed for IoT devices that need efficient connectivity without sacrificing mobility or responsiveness. It operates on LTE infrastructure and supports applications that require more frequent communication than NB-IoT.

Compared with NB-IoT, CAT-M offers higher data rates, lower latency and support for mobile devices. While it does not provide the same speed or latency as standard LTE, it is specifically designed for IoT deployments where power efficiency and reliable communication are more important than raw performance.

CAT-M vs NB-IoT at a Glance

Data rate Up to 250 kbps Up to 1 Mbps
Latency Higher Lower
Mobility support Static only Yes
Voice support No Yes
Best suited to Static sensors Mobile devices
NB-IoT CAT-M

When to Use a CAT-M SIM

A CAT-M SIM is best suited to deployments where devices:

  • Move between locations
  • Send data more frequently
  • Require near real-time communication
  • Need remote updates
  • Require a balance between power efficiency and performance

If your deployment requires more flexibility and responsiveness than NB-IoT can provide, CAT-M is often the better choice.

Key Features of Our CAT-M SIM

  • Low power connectivity for efficient IoT deployments
  • Suitable for mobile and moving devices
  • Supports more frequent data transmission than NB-IoT
  • Lower latency for faster communication
  • Compatible with EE, Vodafone and Three
  • Simple PAYG pricing for flexible usage

Common CAT-M SIM Use Cases

CAT-M deployments typically require consistent communication, mobility and reliable performance.

📍

Asset Tracking

Track the location and condition of assets that move between sites, depots or across the country — with regular position updates over LTE-M.

🚗

Vehicle Telematics

Fleet management, driver behaviour monitoring and vehicle diagnostics that require frequent data reporting and reliable mobile connectivity.

🔐

Mobile Security Systems

Portable alarm systems, lone worker devices and mobile CCTV that need dependable connectivity wherever they are deployed.

💊

Healthcare & Wearables

Patient monitoring devices, wearable health sensors and medical equipment that need to communicate reliably while in use or on the move.

📦

Smart Logistics

Parcel tracking, cold chain monitoring and supply chain visibility across distribution networks where assets move frequently.

🏭

Industrial Monitoring

Connected equipment and machinery that requires frequent status updates, remote diagnostics or moves between operational locations.

CAT-M SIM Coverage

KeySIM supports CAT-M connectivity across EE, Vodafone and Three, providing access to established UK LTE-based IoT coverage. CAT-M is well suited to deployments that require both reach and performance, particularly where devices move or communicate regularly.

CAT-M / NB-IoT / 4G / 5G
CAT-M / NB-IoT / 4G / 5G
CAT-M / 4G / 5G

CAT-M vs NB-IoT

Both are designed for low power IoT, but they suit different types of deployment. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right technology for each project.

CAT-M Best for mobile, responsive
NB-IoT Best for static, low data
4G / LTE Best for high data
Data rate
Up to 1 Mbps
Up to 250 kbps
High
Latency
Low
Higher
Low
Battery life
Good
Excellent
Moderate
Mobility support
Yes
Static only
Yes
Voice support
Yes
No
Yes
Indoor penetration
Good
Excellent
Standard
If your devices are static and send very small amounts of data infrequently, NB-IoT may be the better fit. Not sure which is right? Talk to KeySIM.

CAT-M Device Compatibility

CAT-M requires compatible hardware — devices must support LTE-M connectivity to use CAT-M SIMs. Many modern IoT modules and routers include CAT-M support, but it is important to confirm compatibility when selecting devices for your deployment.

If you need guidance on compatible hardware or are unsure whether your existing devices support CAT-M, our team can help you assess your options before committing to a deployment.

CAT-M SIM Pricing

Our CAT-M SIM pricing is designed to remain simple and flexible. With PAYG pricing, you only pay for the data your devices use, without being locked into fixed bundles.

Pay only for the data your devices actually use — no minimum contracts, no fixed bundles, no wasted spend.

Why Choose KeySIM for CAT-M SIM

KeySIM provides CAT-M SIM connectivity for IoT deployments that require mobility, responsiveness and reliable performance.

With support across EE, Vodafone and Three, competitive PAYG pricing and experience supporting real-world IoT applications, we help customers choose the right connectivity for each use case.

Multi-Network

EE, Vodafone and Three CAT-M support from a single SIM supplier.

PAYG Pricing

Costs match actual usage — no fixed bundles or unused allowances.

Mobile Support

Designed for devices that move — from single assets to large mobile fleets.

Scalable

From small pilots to large-scale rollouts across complex deployments.

Explore Other KeySIM Connectivity Options

Not sure this is the right fit? See how our other SIM types compare.

CAT-M SIM — Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about CAT-M connectivity and KeySIM's CAT-M SIM cards.

CAT-M, also known as LTE-M, is a low power wide area technology designed for IoT devices that need efficient connectivity without sacrificing mobility or responsiveness. It operates on LTE infrastructure and is suitable for applications requiring more frequent communication, mobility and lower latency than NB-IoT.

NB-IoT is best suited to static devices that send very small amounts of data infrequently and prioritise maximum battery life, with speeds up to around 250 kbps. CAT-M supports data rates of up to around 1 Mbps, with lower latency, mobility support and voice capability — making it better suited to applications that need more responsiveness. Read our full CAT-M and NB-IoT comparison.

KeySIM supports CAT-M connectivity on EE, Vodafone and Three in the UK. Coverage varies by location and network, so the right network choice will depend on your device, usage profile and where your devices are deployed.

Yes. CAT-M requires compatible hardware. Devices must support LTE-M connectivity to use CAT-M SIMs. Many modern IoT modules and routers include CAT-M support, but it is important to confirm compatibility when selecting devices for your deployment. If you are unsure, our team can help you assess your options.

CAT-M SIMs are ideal for asset tracking, vehicle telematics, mobile security systems, healthcare and wearable devices, smart logistics, industrial monitoring with frequent updates, and connected equipment that moves between locations.

Get Started with CAT-M SIM

If your deployment requires mobile, responsive and efficient IoT connectivity, speak to KeySIM about CAT-M SIM options and pricing.