A Guide to Mobile Networks in the UK

Written by Robyn Hyde, Customer Director

8 Jan 2025 - Streaming, scrolling, texting, browsing — in today’s digital world, we use our phones for just about anything and everything. Did you know that we spend an average of four and a half hours every day on our mobile devices?

With phones being so important to our everyday lives, having a reliable network is super important. After all, nothing is more annoying than having no signal or data.

But with so many providers, buzzwords, and offers whizzing around, it can be hard to make heads or tails of it all.

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That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll take you through everything you need to know about mobile networks in the UK, including the major players, coverage, and how to select the right provider for your needs.

What is a mobile phone network?

First, let’s get the basics right. A mobile phone network is a telecommunications network that allows mobile phones to connect to the internet and make calls by transmitting signals through cell towers.

These networks operate on different frequencies and technologies, such as 3G, 4G, and 5G, enabling various levels of speed and connectivity.

Who are the biggest mobile network operators in the UK?

The UK has four major mobile network operators (MNOs) that provide the infrastructure and services most people use. Here’s a quick breakdown of their respective coverage, speeds and perks.

EE

Coverage: Widely regarded for having the best overall coverage in the UK.
Speed: Known for fast 4G and 5G speeds.
Perks: Offers features like Wi-Fi Calling, unlimited data options, and extensive 5G coverage.

O2

Coverage: Strong network with excellent coverage in urban areas
Speed: Reliable 4G speeds, expanding 5G network.
Perks: O2 Priority, which offers exclusive deals, early access to event tickets, and more.

Three

Coverage: Good coverage.
Speed: Competitive 4G and growing 5G network
Perks: Go Roam allows users to use their plan in many countries at no extra cost.

Vodafone

Coverage: Extensive coverage with a robust 4G and expanding 5G network.
Speed: Offers strong speeds on both 4G and 5G.
Perks: Vodafone Rewards, Global Roaming, and options for entertainment packages.

What about the smaller networks and carriers?

Aside from the ‘Big Four’ listed above, there are loads of other smaller networks and carriers, like UW Mobile. These will often have different (and sometimes more competitive) offers than the Big Four, whilst providing the quality of service of a major network. This is often referred to as piggybacking.

What is piggybacking?

This is when smaller networks use the network infrastructure (or, put simply, the signal) of one of the Big Four.

For example, UW Mobile piggybacks off the EE network, meaning you’ll get the same coverage and speeds as EE customers.

Smaller networks that piggyback from the Big Four get all the coverage benefits without having to foot the bill for maintaining or repairing the network. This sometimes means that they can offer more attractive mobile deals for their customers. And for the Big Four, they can make money by letting smaller providers pay to piggyback off their network.

What is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO)?

Providers who piggyback off the Big Four are called Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). Essentially, an MVNO is any company that provides mobile phone services but doesn't own the actual infrastructure. Instead, MVNOs rent access to one or more of the major networks.

For example, UW rents the network from EE. This means that UW customers can benefit from the same coverage and speeds as EE customers, but may take advantage of different deals and prices.

Because MVNOs often offer competitive pricing and unique perks, they are a popular choice for cost-conscious consumers.

Popular MVNOs in the UK:

EE network: Utility Warehouse (UW), BT Mobile, Plusnet Mobile
O2 network: Giffgaff, Tesco Mobile, Sky Mobile
Three network: iD Mobile, Smarty
Vodafone network: VOXI, Lebara, Talkmobile

What coverage do mobile networks have in the UK?

Coverage can vary significantly across different regions in the UK. Below is a summary table of the coverage provided by each of the major networks.

Network	4G Coverage	5G Coverage	Notable Strengths
EE	99% of the UK	150+ towns/cities	Best overall coverage and speed
O2	99% of the UK	75+ towns/cities	Strong urban coverage
Three	99% of the UK	100+ towns/cities	Growing 5G network
Vodafone	99% of the UK	100+ towns/cities	Extensive roaming options

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(Above figures correct as of August 2024)

Which mobile networks offer 5G?

All major UK networks now offer 5G, but availability is expanding at different rates:

EE: Extensive 5G coverage, continually expanding.
O2: Solid 5G rollout in urban areas, with ongoing expansion.
Three: Expanding 5G network.
Vodafone: Competitive 5G coverage, with a focus on big towns and cities.

How to choose a mobile provider

Everyone is different, but here are a few things to keep in mind when picking your mobile provider.

Price – This is number one for many people. Pay special attention to your data allowance, as this is what often dictates the overall price.
Contract type – Some deals might look great at first glance, but then tie you in for 18 months. You might prefer more flexibility with rolling monthly contracts.
Do you need a new device? – If the answer is no, you might be better off going for SIM-only deals.
Coverage -- Check which providers offer the best coverage in your area.
5G availability – If you want the latest in speed, ensure 5G is available in your region.
Features – Look for extra features like Wi-Fi calling, international roaming, data rollover, and special perks.

Frequently asked questions

Can I complain to my provider if coverage is poor

Yes, if you experience poor coverage, you can contact your provider’s customer service to report the issue. They may offer solutions like signal boosters or advise on your rights to exit the contract if the problem is unresolved.

How do I check if there’s a mobile network outage in my area?

Most mobile network providers have a service status page on their website where you can check for outages. Additionally, there are independent websites that track network issues based on user reports.

Find your perfect network

We hope our guide has been helpful – being clued up on mobile networks is crucial in today’s world!

And if you’re in the market for some great mobile deals that use the UK’s best network, check out our SIM-only, family SIM, and unlimited data plans and make the switch.

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