Mobile broadband deals in Ireland
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5G InternalWhat is mobile broadband?
Mobile broadband connects you to the internet using a 4G or 5G mobile phone network.
You don’t need a landline, fibre connection or satellite dish, instead, a portable mobile broadband device picks up 4G or 5G signals and emits Wi-Fi. This allows you to get internet access on multiple devices at home or on the move.
How does mobile broadband work?
There are several ways to connect to a mobile network, but most providers offer a modem if you sign up for a contract.
Here are your three main options:
- USB Dongle: Plugs into the USB port of your desktop or laptop
- 4G or 5G data SIM card: Insert into your laptop or tablet for internet access on the go
- Mobile Wi-Fi modem: Connect multiple devices to 4G or 5G via a portable modem/router
What are mobile broadband speeds like?
The speed you get depends on your broadband provider’s coverage of the 4G or 5G network and the strength of your signal.
Mobile broadband runs on the same kind of connection as your mobile phone, so if coverage is poor in your location, mobile broadband from the same provider could be slow or patchy.
Here’s the latest median speeds in Ireland:
| Network | Average download speed | Average Upload speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile broadband | 42Mbps | 9Mbps | |
| Fixed broadband | 135Mbps | 47Mbps |
Based on Ookla Speedtest reports. This is subject to change and depends on locality.
Mobile broadband availability in Ireland
Three, eir and Vodafone all provide 4G and 5G mobile coverage in the cities and major towns across Ireland. Their 5G networks are constantly expanding.
Rural and remote areas of Ireland are less likely to get decent 4G and 5G coverage, but mobile networks are continuing to roll out across the country.
- eir offers 4G, 5G and MiFi 12-month and 6-month broadband plans for home and on the go
- Rural Wifi offers 4G and 5G unlimited mobile broadband plans on 24 month contracts
- Three offers 5G unlimited broadband plans for 24 months with discounts for existing mobile customers
- Vodafone offers 4G and 5G unlimited plans on 12 and 24 months contracts
How much does mobile broadband cost?
Mobile broadband costs are similar to fixed broadband costs.
Some broadband providers advertise reduced introductory rates, so check how long any discounts last and what the price will be thereafter. Also, check whether there are upfront costs like equipment or installation fees.
If you don’t choose an unlimited plan, make sure the data allowance is enough for your needs because you could be charged for exceeding the data limit.
What is the cheapest mobile broadband plan?
Use our broadband eircode availability checker to compare deals available in your area.
The best broadband deal is not necessarily the cheapest, so consider the type of bundle and features you need before switching. Remember that 5G availability will depend on your location.
What’s the difference between 4G and 5G broadband?
5G works in the same way as 4G mobile broadband but employs the 5th generation of data connectivity.
5G offers faster speeds, less lag and a more reliable connection than standard, 4G broadband.
On the whole, 5G provides a better mobile broadband experience than 4G. The quick speeds and low latency of 5G broadband will mean that many apps and games can achieve real-time connectivity with a rock-solid performance.
You’re likely to get a better experience with 5G if you’re:
How fast is 5G broadband?
5G can, theoretically, be up to 100 times faster than 4G, but real-world monitoring has found 5G to be about 10 times faster.
This means Ireland is likely to average 5G speeds between 500Mbps and 1Gbps. This is on par with the fastest fibre broadband in Ireland so could be a good solution if you can’t get fixed broadband in your home or business.
Is 5G faster than fibre-optic broadband?
It has the potential to be faster, with blistering speeds up to 10Gbps - but in reality, speeds are much lower. The fastest 5G speeds globally are in the United Arab Emirates, with a median of 749Mbps.
In reality, speeds are between 100Mbps and 200Mbps. If you’re choosing between fibre broadband and mobile broadband; fixed-line, full fibre broadband is typically faster, more widely available and can offer better value for money.
Which provider has the fastest 5G plan?
In 2023, Ookla named Three the fastest 5G network in Ireland, but mobile internet speed depends on things like location and coverage, hardware capability and how many apps you might have running.
Is 5G worth the extra cost?
5G can be a good option if you can’t get fibre or part fibre broadband.
Although 4G networks cover most towns and cities in Ireland, decent wireless broadband is sometimes limited by the number of connections and speeds on offer. 5G can solve this problem by providing super-high bandwidth for fast, reliable broadband with low latency and lag problems.
If you live in an area with good 5G coverage, it’s worth considering as a wireless alternative to fixed broadband. But bear in mind that if you have a 5G modem but no 5G in your area, you’ll only get 4G data speeds.
If you don’t have fibre or a landline, 5G broadband can help you access ultrafast, rock solid broadband comparable to fibre broadband without the hassle and installation costs of satellite broadband.
All the major mobile networks are rolling out high-speed 5G networks across Ireland, and it could one day be the dominant wireless broadband choice, just as 4G is widely used today.
Is mobile broadband a good option?
It depends on the quality of mobile coverage where you live and your internet needs.
If you’re unable to get fibre or part fibre, it’s worth considering. Here are some of the main pros and cons of using mobile broadband:
How to choose the best mobile broadband plan
There’s not as much choice for mobile broadband, so it’s worth taking time to compare what’s on offer to get the best deal for your circumstances.
Your checklist should include:
- Network coverage: Consider the performance, coverage and speed of 4G and 5G networks in your area. If you’re looking to get 4G, what’s the signal quality on your phone? If you’re considering 5G, check that 5G has been rolled out in your area.
- Price: Check the monthly cost after the discount period ends and how long the introductory price applies. Also, take into account equipment or installation charges. Some providers offer the modem/router for free, whilst others may charge.
- Data limits: Most plans are unlimited, but some data capped plans may be cheaper. If you stream movies or play games online regularly, opt for an unlimited plan because you could end up paying more if you exceed your data limit.
Mobile broadband FAQs
Can I get mobile broadband in Ireland without a contract?
Yes, some mobile broadband plans are pay as you go or prepay, so you don’t have to commit to a lengthy contract.
Can I watch Netflix with mobile broadband?
Yes, as long as you install the Netflix app and pay your subscription, you’ll be able to access Netflix on your internet devices.
You may experience buffering or poor quality HD viewing if you have slow speeds or latency issues using a 4G connection.
Can I keep my mobile broadband service when I move?
Yes, mobile broadband is very portable and you can take it with you wherever you go. Although if you move to a different area, the signal quality may change.
Does 5G broadband work differently to 5G for mobiles?
5G broadband uses the same airwaves as 5G mobile networks, which can be anything between 100MHz and 800MHz and will work off the same network.
The key difference is that 5G broadband works by integrating this technology into a broadband wi-fi hub instead of a smartphone. The hub (or router) will then connect all your devices via a wi-fi signal in your home or business in the same way as a standard broadband router.
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