Mobile broadband deals in Ireland
Compare mobile broadband plans in Ireland and find flexible 4G and 5G broadband for your home or on the go. Check providers, speeds, prices and coverage to find a mobile broadband deal that suits you.
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Mobile broadband in Ireland provides fast, flexible internet using 4G or 5G mobile networks.
You don’t need a landline or fibre connection. Instead, a 4G or 5G router, portable WiFi device, dongle or data SIM connects to the mobile network and lets you get online.
It can be a useful option if you want flexible internet at home or on the go, particularly where fibre broadband isn’t available.
How does mobile broadband work in Ireland?
Mobile broadband connects your home to the internet using the same 4G or 5G networks as your mobile phone, without the need for a fibre or phone line.
Most home mobile broadband plans use a 4G or 5G router, which picks up the mobile signal and creates a WiFi network for your devices.
Other ways to use mobile broadband include:
- 4G or 5G home router: Connects several devices around your home using WiFi
- Mobile WiFi or MiFi: A small, portable router that creates a WiFi hotspot while you’re on the go
- USB dongle: Plugs into the USB port of a compatible desktop or laptop
- 4G or 5G data SIM: Can be used in compatible tablets, laptops or routers
The right option will depend on whether you need broadband mainly at home or while travelling, and the 4G or 5G coverage available in your area.
What are mobile broadband speeds like?
The speed you get will depend on your provider, whether you’re using 4G or 5G, and the strength of the mobile signal in your area.
Mobile broadband uses the same networks as your phone, so if coverage is weak where you live, your broadband connection may also be slower or less reliable.
Here are the latest median speeds in Ireland:
| Network | Median download speed | Median upload speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile broadband | 78Mbps | 10Mbps | |
| Fixed broadband | 206Mbps | 51Mbps |
Based on Ookla Speedtest Global Index, August 2026. Speeds are subject to change and will vary depending on location, coverage and network conditions.
Who offers mobile broadband in Ireland?
Three, eir, Vodafone and Regional Broadband offer 4G or 5G mobile broadband for home use in Ireland.
Coverage and plan availability vary by location, so it’s worth checking what each provider can offer at your address before signing up.
- eir offers 4G and 5G home broadband, with different contract options
- Three offers unlimited 5G home broadband, with self-install and professionally installed options depending on your location
- Vodafone offers unlimited 5G mobile broadband with a plug-in router and a choice of contract lengths
- Regional Broadband offers 4G and 5G home broadband using a plug-and-play router
Mobile broadband deals
Mobile broadband plans vary by provider, contract length and whether you choose 4G or 5G. Here’s how the main providers compare:
| Provider | Plan type | Contract length | Data allowance | Average 5G download speed* | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Three | Unlimited 5G home broadband | 12 & 24 months | Unlimited | 198.9Mbps | |
| eir | 4G & 5G mobile broadband | 30 days, 6 & 12 months | Varies by plan | 141.4Mbps | |
| Vodafone | Unlimited 5G mobile broadband | 3, 12 & 24 months | Unlimited | 139.8Mbps | |
| Regional Broadband | 4G & 5G mobile broadband | Varies by plan | Unlimited* | — |
*Average 5G download speeds for Three, eir and Vodafone are based on Opensignal’s Ireland Mobile Network Experience Report, January 2026. Regional Broadband does not have a directly comparable Opensignal 5G speed result. Speeds are not guaranteed and will vary depending on signal strength, device capability, location and network congestion.
Which provider has the fastest mobile broadband?
Three currently has the fastest average 5G download speed of the three main mobile networks in Ireland, according to Opensignal’s latest Ireland Mobile Network Experience Report.
Its average 5G download speed was 198.9Mbps, compared with 141.4Mbps for eir and 139.8Mbps for Vodafone.
Your own speed will still depend on coverage, signal strength, location and network congestion, so it’s worth checking performance in your area before choosing a provider.
What’s the difference between 4G and 5G broadband?
5G works in the same way as 4G mobile broadband, but uses newer technology to deliver faster speeds, lower latency and greater network capacity.
Both use mobile networks to connect your home or devices to the internet, but 5G can handle more data and more connected devices where coverage is strong.
Key benefits of 5G over 4G include:
You’re likely to get the most from 5G if you’re:
- Streaming or downloading HD movies, TV and music
- Online and multiplayer gaming
- Working from home or using video calls regularly
- Connecting several devices at the same time
How fast is 5G broadband in Ireland?
In theory, 5G can be up to 100 times faster than 4G, while real-world 5G speeds can be around 5 to 10 times faster in some networks and locations.
According to Opensignal’s latest Ireland Mobile Network Experience Report, average 5G download speeds ranged from around 140Mbps to almost 200Mbps across the three main mobile networks.
With a strong 5G signal, mobile broadband can offer speeds that compare well with some fibre broadband plans, making it a useful alternative where fixed broadband isn’t available.
Is 5G faster than fibre-optic broadband?
5G ,boil broadband can be very fast, but full fibre generally offers higher top speeds and a more consistent connection.
Full-fibre broadband plans in Ireland can offer speeds of up to 2Gbps, while current real-world 5G averages are much lower.
If full fibre is available at your address, it will usually offer the strongest fixed home connection. However, 5G mobile broadband can be a fast and flexible alternative where fibre hasn’t rolled out yet.
Find out more in our guide to fibre broadband.
Is 5G mobile broadband worth it?
5G mobile broadband can be a strong alternative if fibre or part-fibre broadband isn’t available at your address.
It offers faster speeds, lower latency and greater network capacity than 4G, making it well suited to streaming, gaming, video calls and working from home.
Whether it’s right for you will mainly depend on the quality of 5G coverage where you live. If your router can’t get a strong 5G signal, it may fall back to 4G speeds.
When 5G mobile broadband makes sense
5G mobile broadband could suit you if:
How much does mobile broadband cost?
Home mobile broadband plans typically start from around €25 to €30 a month on introductory offers, with standard prices usually higher once the discount period ends.
Current 5G home broadband plans from the main providers generally cost around €40 to €45 a month at non-discounted rates, depending on the contract and provider.
When comparing deals, check:
Mobile broadband usually needs less installation than fixed broadband, with many plans using a plug-in router that you can set up yourself.
What is the cheapest mobile broadband in Ireland?
Introductory 5G home broadband deals currently start from around €25 to €30 a month, although the cheapest option will depend on your address, provider and contract length.
When comparing deals, look beyond the introductory price and check what you’ll pay once the discount ends, as well as any setup or equipment costs.
A slightly more expensive plan may also offer better value if it includes unlimited data, faster 5G speeds or a shorter contract.
Use our broadband eircode availability checker to compare mobile broadband deals available in your area.
Is mobile broadband a good option?
Mobile broadband can be a fast and flexible alternative to fixed broadband, particularly if fibre isn’t available at your address.
The biggest factor is coverage. With a strong 4G or 5G signal, mobile broadband can support streaming, gaming, video calls and working from home, but speeds may fall if coverage is weak or the network is busy.
Here are some of the main pros and cons of using mobile broadband:
Which is better for remote areas, mobile broadband or Starlink?
Mobile broadband can be a good option if you have strong 4G or 5G coverage, while Starlink may suit more remote locations where mobile coverage is poor.
Mobile broadband is usually easier to set up and can offer lower latency, while Starlink is available more widely and can reach homes without reliable mobile or fixed broadband.
For more detail on satellite broadband, including providers, speeds, prices and installation, see our satellite broadband guide.
If you’re considering Starlink, see our Starlink provider page for current plans, prices, speeds and availability.
Mobile broadband vs Starlink
| Feature | Mobile broadband (4G/5G) | Starlink | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Homes with good 4G or 5G coverage | Remote homes with poor mobile or fixed coverage | |
| Speeds | Around 140–200Mbps average on 5G across the main Irish networks | 100Mbps, 200Mbps or up to 400+Mbps, depending on plan and location | |
| Latency | Generally lower | Higher than mobile broadband | |
| Equipment | 4G or 5G home router | Starlink dish and router | |
| Setup | Usually plug and play | Dish needs a clear view of the sky | |
| Availability | Depends on mobile network coverage | Available in most areas with suitable sky visibility |
How to choose the best mobile broadband plan
There’s less choice than with fixed broadband, so it’s worth comparing the plans available at your address to find the best deal for your needs.
Your checklist should include:
- Network coverage: Check the strength, speed and reliability of 4G and 5G networks in your area. If you’re considering 5G, make sure it has been rolled out in your area.
- Price: Compare the introductory rate, standard monthly price and any annual increases. Also check for equipment or installation charges.
- Contract length: Check how long you’re tied in for and whether a shorter contract is worth paying more for.
- Data limits: Most home mobile broadband plans are unlimited, but check for any usage limits or fair-use terms.
- Router and setup: Find out whether the router is included and if the service is self-install or needs professional setup.
- 4G or 5G: If you’re paying for a 5G plan, check that strong 5G coverage is available at your address.
Mobile broadband FAQs
Can I get mobile broadband in Ireland without a long contract?
Yes. Some mobile broadband plans are available on shorter contracts or rolling terms, although longer contracts can sometimes offer lower introductory prices.
Check the contract length, monthly price and any equipment costs before signing up.
Can I watch Netflix with mobile broadband?
Yes, a strong 4G or 5G mobile broadband connection can support Netflix and other streaming services.
For HD and 4K streaming, the quality of your connection will depend on speed, signal strength and network congestion.
Can I use mobile broadband as my main home internet?
4G and 5G home broadband can be used as your main internet connection if you have strong mobile coverage at your address.
It can be particularly useful where fibre or part-fibre broadband isn’t available.
Can I keep my mobile broadband service when I move?
In many cases, yes, although the quality of your connection may change if mobile coverage is weaker at your new address.
Check coverage with your provider before moving the service.
Does 5G broadband work differently to 5G for mobiles?
5G broadband uses the same mobile network as 5G smartphones, but the connection is delivered through a 5G router rather than your phone.
The router then shares the internet connection with devices around your home using WiFi.
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