How to Choose a Mobile Network in the UK (A Complete Guide)

Choosing a mobile network in the UK can be a daunting task. There are so many factors to consider, such as coverage, speed, price, customer service, and more. How do you know which network is best for your needs and budget?

In this post, I will guide you through the process of choosing a mobile network in the UK. I will explain the different types of networks, the pros and cons of each, and the best ways to compare and switch networks. I will also answer some of the most common questions that people have when choosing a mobile network in the UK.

By the end of this post, you will have a clear idea of how to choose a mobile network in the UK that suits your preferences and lifestyle. Let’s get started!

Types of Mobile Networks in the UK

The first thing you need to know is that there are two types of mobile networks in the UK: mobile network operators (MNOs) and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs).

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)

Mobile network operators are the companies that own and operate the physical infrastructure of the mobile network, such as the masts, towers, antennas, and spectrum. There are four MNOs in the UK: EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone.

These MNOs offer their own mobile services, such as voice, text, and data plans, as well as sell their network capacity to other companies, such as MVNOs. MNOs tend to have the widest coverage, the fastest speeds, and the most advanced features, such as 5G, VoLTE, and Wi-Fi calling. However, they also tend to be more expensive and less flexible than MVNOs.

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)

Mobile virtual network operators are the companies that do not own or operate the physical infrastructure of the mobile network, but instead use the network of one or more MNOs to provide their own mobile services. There are dozens of MVNOs in the UK, such as giffgaff, Tesco Mobile, Sky Mobile, BT Mobile, Virgin Mobile, and more.

These MVNOs offer their own mobile plans, often with lower prices, more flexibility, and better customer service than MNOs. However, they also depend on the network quality and availability of the MNOs they use, and may not have access to all the features and benefits that the MNOs offer, such as 5G, VoLTE, and Wi-Fi calling.

How to Compare Mobile Networks in the UK

Now that you know the difference between MNOs and MVNOs, how do you compare them and find the best one for you? Here are some of the main factors to consider:

Coverage

Coverage is the most important factor to consider when choosing a mobile network in the UK. You want to make sure that you can get a reliable signal wherever you go, whether it’s in the city, the countryside, or abroad.

To check the coverage of a mobile network, you can use the online coverage checker tools that each network provides on their website. You can enter your postcode or location and see the map of the signal strength and availability for voice, text, and data services. You can also see if the network supports 4G, 5G, VoLTE, and Wi-Fi calling in your area.

However, keep in mind that these coverage checker tools are not always accurate or up-to-date, and may not reflect the real-world experience of using the network. Therefore, it’s also a good idea to ask your friends, family, neighbours, and colleagues about their experience with the network you are considering, especially in the places where you spend most of your time, such as home, work, school, etc.

Speed

Speed is another important factor to consider when choosing a mobile network in the UK. You want to make sure that you can get fast and consistent data speeds for browsing, streaming, gaming, and downloading on your mobile device.

To check the speed of a mobile network, you can use the online speed test tools that measure the download, upload, and latency of the network. You can also check the average speed and performance of each network in your area using independent reports and surveys from organisations such as Ofcom, OpenSignal, RootMetrics, and Speedtest.

However, keep in mind that these speed test tools and reports are not always representative or reliable, and may vary depending on the time of day, the location, the device, the network congestion, and other factors. Therefore, it’s also a good idea to test the speed of the network yourself using a free SIM card or a trial period before committing to a long-term contract.

Price

Price is another important factor to consider when choosing a mobile network in the UK. You want to make sure that you get the best value for your money and pay only for what you need and use.

To compare the price of a mobile network, you need to look at the different types of mobile plans that each network offers, such as pay monthly, pay as you go, SIM only, and contract. You also need to look at the different features and benefits that each plan includes, such as data allowance, calls and texts, roaming, extras, and perks.

To find the best deal for you, you need to consider your usage habits and preferences, such as how much data, minutes, and texts you use per month, whether you travel abroad frequently, whether you need any additional services or benefits, etc. You can use online comparison tools and websites, such as uSwitch, MoneySuperMarket, Compare the Market, and more, to compare the prices and features of different mobile plans and networks.

However, keep in mind that the price of a mobile network is not always the most important factor, and sometimes you may need to pay more for better quality, coverage, speed, or customer service. Therefore, it’s also a good idea to read the reviews and ratings of each network from other customers and experts, and check the terms and conditions of each plan carefully before signing up.

Customer Service

Customer service is another important factor to consider when choosing a mobile network in the UK. You want to make sure that you can get the support and assistance you need whenever you have a problem or a question about your mobile service.

To evaluate the customer service of a mobile network, you can look at the different ways that each network provides to contact them, such as phone, email, chat, social media, forums, and more. You can also look at the opening hours, response time, and resolution rate of each network. You can also check the customer satisfaction and complaint statistics of each network from organisations such as Ofcom, Trustpilot, Which?, and more.

However, keep in mind that the customer service of a mobile network is not always consistent or reliable, and may depend on the individual agent, the issue, and the situation. Therefore, it’s also a good idea to test the customer service of the network yourself by asking them some questions or raising some issues before joining them.

How to Switch Mobile Networks in the UK

If you have decided to switch to a different mobile network in the UK, you may be wondering how to do it without losing your number, your service, or your money. Here are some of the steps you need to follow:

Get Your PAC Code

A PAC code is a porting authorisation code that allows you to transfer your existing mobile number to a new network. To get your PAC code, you need to contact your current network and request it. You can do this by calling them, texting them, or using their online service. You will receive your PAC code within minutes, and it will be valid for 30 days.

Choose Your New Plan

Once you have your PAC code, you can choose your new mobile plan from the network you want to switch to. You can do this by visiting their website, calling them, or going to their store. You will need to provide your personal details, your payment details, and your PAC code. You will also need to choose a SIM card size that fits your device.

Activate Your New SIM Card

Once you receive your new SIM card, you need to activate it by following the instructions that come with it. You may need to insert it into your device, call a number, or visit a website. You will also need to set up your voicemail, your PIN, and your APN settings.

Complete the Switch

Once you activate your new SIM card, your switch will be completed within one working day. You will receive a confirmation text from both your old and new networks. You will also receive a final bill from your old network, which may include any outstanding charges or fees. You will also start paying for your new plan from your new network.

FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about choosing a mobile network in the UK:

Which mobile network has the best coverage in the UK?

According to the latest Ofcom report, EE has the best overall coverage in the UK, followed by O2, Vodafone, and Three. However, coverage may vary depending on your location, device, and plan. Therefore, it’s always advisable to check the coverage of each network in your area before choosing one.

Which mobile network has the fastest speed in the UK?

According to the latest OpenSignal report, EE has the fastest overall speed in the UK, followed by Vodafone, Three, and O2. However, speed may vary depending on your location, device, plan, and network congestion. Therefore, it’s always advisable to test the speed of each network in your area before choosing one.

Which mobile network has the cheapest price in the UK?

The cheapest price of a mobile network in the UK depends on the type and features of the plan you choose, as well as the network quality and customer service you get. Generally speaking, MVNOs tend to offer cheaper prices than MNOs, as they have lower overhead costs and more flexibility. However, some MNOs may also offer competitive prices, especially if you bundle your mobile service with other products, such as broadband, TV, or landline.

To find the cheapest price of a mobile network in the UK, you need to compare the prices and features of different plans and networks, and find the one that matches your usage and budget. You can use online comparison tools and websites, such as uSwitch, MoneySuperMarket, Compare the Market, and more, to compare the prices and features of different mobile plans and networks.

Which mobile network has the best customer service in the UK?

The best customer service of a mobile network in the UK depends on the quality and availability of the support and assistance you receive when you have a problem or a question about your mobile service. Generally speaking, MVNOs tend to have better customer service than MNOs, as they have more focus and attention on their customers and their needs. However, some MNOs may also have good customer service, especially if they have a large and loyal customer base.

To evaluate the best customer service of a mobile network in the UK, you need to look at the different ways and channels that each network provides to contact them, as well as the response time, resolution rate, and customer satisfaction of each network. You can also check the customer reviews and ratings of each network from other customers and experts, as well as the customer complaint statistics of each network from organisations such as Ofcom, Trustpilot, Which?, and more.