BestEuroTech

All UK residents are familiar with these four brands, the leading mobile networks. EE, O2, Vodafone & Three hold over 90% of market share. A mobile network is not something to make a sleeper pick on, as these four generally offer the best coverage. While in some ways it’s an illusion of choice, there are key differences between these to discuss.

Pricing

1. Three
   • Notorious for their low prices, Three offers attractive plans. When it comes to unlimited data, it’s unlikely that you will find a better combination of low price & quality coverage.
2. Vodafone
   • Slightly more expensive than Three, Vodafone makes up for it with their broad range of offerings. Whether unlimited data, a more generic package or even affordable SIM-only deals, you’re able to find whatever you’re looking for with them.
3. O2
   • O2 makes up for their higher pricing with added benefits like O2 Priority, as well as various discounts. While not expensive, it is not as cheap as the two before it.
4. EE
   • The most expensive of the bunch, EE is able to justify their pricing by having what most, including myself, would consider the highest quality network overall. In this sense, you get what you pay for.

Strength of 5G Coverage

1. EE
   • The leaders in both coverage and speed, EE has done the best job rolling out 5G. Their impressive coverage in more rural areas highlights how they do not leave any citizens behind
2. Three
   • If this article was published in 2022, Three might find themselves at the bottom of the list. However, their ambitious rollout plan has shot them up to the top half. Some reports of speed inconsistency hold them back from the top spot.
3. Vodafone
   • The most run-of-the-mill of the four when it comes to 5G, their coverage is very strong in more densely-populated urban areas. They continue to expand their offering of solid coverage & speed.
4. O2
   • Slightly slower in their rollout, O2’s coverage breadth lags behind their competitors. That being said, they are working towards catching up quickly and provide strong coverage in urban areas.

Ultimately, all four carriers are in the Big 4 for a reason. Millions of UK residents are happy customers of all of them. Each offer a balance between quality and price, depending on what you consider to be more important. I hope this helps you make a more informed decision!