Compare Mobile Broadband Deals

Mobile broadband, powered by 4G and 5G technology, is a convenient, plug-and-play solution for accessing the internet without the need for a landline or engineer visits. It’s ideal for those seeking flexibility and quick setup, as you can get online within minutes of receiving your router. When you subscribe to a mobile broadband plan, you’ll receive a router designed to provide reliable, high-speed connectivity. Simply insert the included SIM card, connect the router to a power source, and you’re ready to enjoy internet access wherever you have a mobile signal.

Mobile broadband, using 4G-LTE Advanced technology, can theoretically deliver download speeds of up to 300Mbps and upload speeds of 50Mbps under ideal conditions. However, in practice, most UK users experience average download speeds of around 25Mbps and upload speeds of approximately 7.5Mbps. While these speeds are lower than the average fixed-line broadband connection in the UK, which offers downloads of 82Mbps, mobile broadband can be a significant improvement in rural areas where traditional fixed-line broadband often falls short.

To enhance reliability and speed, particularly in areas with weaker 4G or 5G signals, installing an external aerial can be highly effective. Companies such as 4G Internet specialise in supplying and professionally fitting external aerials to improve signal strength. Alternatively, if you know the precise location of your local transmitter, you can install your own directional aerial for better performance. Suppliers like Broadbandbuyer offer a wide range of 4G and 5G aerials to suit various needs.

To check mobile broadband coverage in your area, Ofcom’s mobile broadband coverage checker is a valuable tool. It compares signal strengths from providers like O2, EE, Vodafone, and Three, helping you determine the best mobile broadband provider in your area.

Opensignal's September 2024 study reveals that the average 5G download speed in the UK is 131Mbps, accompanied by an average 5G upload speed of 15.5Mbps. These figures, based on a comprehensive comparison of data from the four major UK network providers—Three, EE, O2, and Vodafone—show a marginal improvement from the previous year, underscoring the urgent need for the UK to make significant strides in maximising its 5G potential. For context, take a look at the impressive 5G download speeds achieved globally: South Korea leads with 453.5Mbps, followed by New Zealand at 293.3Mbps, Singapore at 270.0Mbps, Malaysia at 236.5Mbps, and Sri Lanka at 227.4Mbps. These international benchmarks emphasise the gap between the UK's current 5G performance and the capabilities demonstrated by leading nations. Clearly, there is an opportunity for the UK to enhance its 5G infrastructure and move closer to the forefront of high-speed 5G connectivity.

Option 1: 4G Mobile tethering

Tethering is a quick and simple solution to sharing your mobile phone’s broadband connection. Other devices can share your data allowance by using your phone to create a WiFi hotspot. This solution is usually adequate for travelling, camping or ad hoc sharing. The Wi-Fi signal range will not be as powerful as a home router, so it’s unlikely to penetrate adjacent rooms.

Option 2: Mobile broadband device

Typically known as a ‘Mi-Fi’ or ‘Dongle’, these devices are usually a similar size to a small mobile phone and powered by either an internal battery or via USB. The device will create a Wi-Fi network, generally allowing up to 64 devices to connect simultaneously. The Wi-Fi range can be limited as they aren’t as powerful as a standard home broadband router.

Option 3: 4G/5G Sim enabled device

Some tablet devices, e.g. Apple iPads, have sim card slots and can connect directly to the internet without needing additional hardware or a Wi-Fi connection. A pre-loaded sim card is the most cost-effective solution. For more regular use, you may wish to consider a sim-only contract.

Option 4: 4G/5G Home broadband solution

With this option, a sim is placed in a 4G/5G enabled router, enabling up to 64 devices to connect to the broadband simultaneously. 4G / 5G home broadband is a growing trend driven by the increasing availability of unlimited data plans. 4G home broadband is particularly popular in rural areas where 4G broadband can be faster and more reliable than a standard broadband connection. One of the main benefits of this option is the absence of line rental fees. Sim contracts vary in data allowances and can be from 1-24 months in duration. For regular use, we would recommend an unlimited tariff. Compare mobile broadband