UK Mobile Networks Compared: Which Is Best?
Compare O2, EE, Vodafone, and Three to find the best UK mobile network for your needs. Coverage, speeds, pricing, and honest pros and cons.
Note: This is an independent comparison. Prices and coverage may vary. Always check the latest offers directly with each network.
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Based on reader feedback and our own testing, here's what you need to know about the UK's major mobile networks.
Quick Network Comparison Table
| Feature | O2 | EE | Vodafone | Three |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4G Coverage | 99% UK population | 99% UK population | 99% UK population | 99% UK population |
| 5G Coverage | 450+ towns & cities | 500+ towns & cities | 400+ towns & cities | 350+ towns & cities |
| Average 5G Speed | 100-150 Mbps | 150-200 Mbps | 100-150 Mbps | 80-120 Mbps |
| Starting Price (SIM Only) | From £10/month | From £12/month | From £11/month | From £8/month |
| EU Roaming | 25GB included | Varies by plan | 25GB included | 12GB included |
| Best For | Priority rewards | Speed & coverage | Entertainment bundles | Budget-friendly |
| Overall Rating | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
Detailed Network Reviews
O2
O2 is one of the UK's largest mobile networks, now part of Virgin Media O2. Known for reliable coverage and the popular O2 Priority rewards programme, O2 offers competitive plans for both Pay Monthly and Pay As You Go customers.
Pros
- O2 Priority rewards and offers
- Virgin Media O2 Volt benefits
- Good 4G coverage nationwide
- Flexible O2 Refresh contracts
- 25GB EU roaming included
Cons
- 5G rollout slower than EE
- Not the cheapest option
- Annual price rises apply
- Customer service wait times
EE
EE consistently ranks as the UK's fastest mobile network with the widest 5G coverage. Part of BT Group, EE is known for premium speeds and excellent network reliability, though this comes at a higher price point.
Pros
- Fastest 5G speeds in UK
- Widest 5G coverage
- Excellent network reliability
- Apple Music/BT Sport bundles
- Good customer service ratings
Cons
- Most expensive network
- EU roaming charges on some plans
- Annual price rises above inflation
- Contract flexibility limited
Vodafone
Vodafone offers solid coverage and attractive entertainment bundles including YouTube Premium and Amazon Prime. With competitive pricing and good international roaming options, Vodafone sits in the middle of the market.
Pros
- Entertainment bundles included
- Good international roaming
- Competitive mid-range pricing
- VeryMe rewards programme
- Good business offerings
Cons
- 5G coverage behind EE
- Mixed customer service reviews
- Complex pricing structure
- Annual price increases
Three
Three is the budget-friendly option among the big four UK networks. Known for unlimited data plans and competitive pricing, Three appeals to heavy data users who want value over premium speeds.
Pros
- Cheapest unlimited data
- Good value for money
- Go Roam destinations
- No speed caps on 5G
- Flexible 30-day contracts
Cons
- Weakest indoor coverage
- Slower 5G speeds
- Customer service issues
- Rural coverage gaps
Which Network Is Right for You?
Choose O2 if you...
- Want O2 Priority rewards for free tickets and offers
- Have Virgin Media broadband (for Volt benefits)
- Need reliable coverage without paying premium prices
- Travel to the EU regularly (25GB roaming included)
Choose EE if you...
- Want the fastest 5G speeds available
- Live in an area with good EE 5G coverage
- Are willing to pay more for premium service
- Want entertainment bundles like Apple Music
Choose Vodafone if you...
- Want entertainment perks like YouTube Premium
- Need good international roaming options
- Prefer a balance of price and performance
- Run a small business
Choose Three if you...
- Want the cheapest unlimited data
- Are on a tight budget
- Use a lot of mobile data
- Live in an urban area with good Three coverage
Still Unsure? Get Personalised Advice
Check our detailed network coverage guide to see which networks work best in your area.
Written by the AtlasMobile Team
Independent UK Mobile & Broadband Experts
Our editorial team combines over 25 years of experience in UK telecommunications. We research, test, and verify all information to provide accurate, unbiased guidance for consumers.
Last reviewed: January 2026