Your complete guide to mobiles in Ireland
Whether you’re choosing a new mobile network, curious about 5G or want a refurbished phone, our complete guide to mobiles covers everything you need to know, including how to compare SIM-only deals and bill pay phones.
What’s in this guide?
Part 1
Ireland’s Mobile Market
A mobile network, or cellular network, is the wireless framework that connects our data and calls. Mobile networks cover most of Ireland and are owned and managed by companies called mobile network operators.
How many mobile networks are in Ireland?
There are three main mobile networks operating in Ireland: eir, Three and Vodafone. Other mobile brands either operate as mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), leasing access to a main network, or as sub-brands owned by one of these three operators.
In total there are 11 principal consumer mobile brands in Ireland:
Main Networks
Sub-brands
MVNOs
Mobile Coverage Map
ComReg (The Commission for Communications Regulation) has created an outdoor mobile coverage map that makes it easy to check coverage for:
- 2G (calls and texts)
- 4G (calls and data)
- 5G (calls and super-fast data)
See what the coverage is like wherever you use your phone the most - i.e. at home or at work.
Remember, results aren’t guaranteed and it’s based on outdoor coverage which may be different from inside your home or office.
Note:3G networks are being switched off on provider-specific timelines. Vodafone has completed its shutdown, while eir will begin phasing out 3G from 1 October 2026, also affecting GoMo and Lyca Mobile customers, so anyone using an older phone, SIM or 3G-only device should check with their provider.
What is 5G coverage like in Ireland?
5G, or fifth generation, is the latest leap in mobile internet. It offers much faster connection and download speeds than its predecessor, 4G, which is still more widely used in Ireland.
To get 5G, you’ll need a 5G-compatible phone and a contract with a network that offers it in your area.
5G is available in all 26 counties, although coverage varies by provider and location. As of August 2026, eir reports 99% population coverage and Three 97%, but rural, indoor and remote-area coverage may differ; check coverage where you use your phone.
Is 5G worth it?
5G can offer significantly faster speeds and more reliable connections than 4G, especially in busy areas. Unlike 4G, 5G allows large amounts of people to connect at the same time - so if you’re in a busy place with large crowds, you may enjoy smoother browsing.
Who has the fastest 5G network?
Opensignal’s January 2026 report ranked Three as Ireland’s fastest 5G network, with an average download speed of 198.9Mbps.
eir recorded the highest 5G availability, with eligible users connected to 5G for 85.1% of the time during the report’s October–December 2025 measurement period.
Mobile internet speeds also depend on factors such as your phone, signal strength, location and local network congestion, as well as your network plan.
Part 2
Types of mobile plans
Mobile plans differ based on price and the level of data and calls you receive each month.
You can pay for your plan via a monthly contract (bill pay plan) or upfront (prepay or pay as you go plan). You can also include a mobile phone, or purchase a SIM-only deal.
Cheapest SIM-only plans in Ireland now start from around €10–€15 per month
What is a SIM-only plan?
It’s a mobile phone contract that includes minutes, texts and data only. You don’t get a new phone with a SIM-only deal, so you’re only paying for airtime. SIM-only plans are cheaper than plans that include a mobile phone because you’re not paying to spread the cost of the new phone.
There are two ways to pay for a SIM-only deal.
- Bill pay: This can be a 12-24-month contract or a 30-day, no-strings-attached, rolling contract
- Prepay: This is also known as pay as you go and means you pay in advance for your calls, texts and data by topping up every 28 days.
Pros and cons of SIM-only plans
Pros
Cons
Get a SIM only deal with the calls, texts and data you need for less.
It only takes a few minutes to find a cheaper deal and start saving.
What are bill pay plans?
Bill pay means paying your bill via a monthly contract, as opposed to upfront or pay as you go.
If you want to upgrade your phone, you can choose a bill pay plan that comes with a handset. If you don’t need a new mobile phone, you can choose a SIM-only, bill pay plan. This is usually cheaper because you’ll just pay for airtime.
If you buy a new phone with a bill pay contract, remember:
What is a prepay or pay as you go plan?
In Ireland, you can get prepay SIM-only and prepay phone plans.
A prepay or pay as you go (PAYG) mobile plan is paid for upfront, as opposed to a monthly bill. You’re not tied into a contract.
You add credit to your phone by topping up with a specific amount in return for a set allowance of data, calls and texts.
PAYG plans can be useful if you’re under 18 and don’t have a bank account, if you have a poor credit history or if you don’t want to be tied into a contract.
Prepay can also be a good option for those who use lots of data every day, and want to control their usage.
Considering the switch to a SIM-only deal?
What is data roaming?
Data roaming means using mobile data while travelling abroad. Under ‘Roam Like At Home’, you can use your allowance in the EU, EEA, Moldova and Ukraine at domestic rates, although fair usage limits may still apply.
Mobile add ons and bundles
An add-on is a bundle of minutes, texts, data, or combination, that can be bought and activated straight away, keeping you topped up for 30 days, or on an ongoing basis.
Mobile call charges
The phone plan you choose will affect the number of minutes you have and the type of calls you can make. Some plans include a set number of minutes e.g. 10,000 per month, while most are unlimited.
Part 3
Choosing a new mobile network
How do you find the best mobile plan for your needs?
The best mobile plan for you will depend on the type of contract you’re seeking, how much you use your phone, what you use it for and where you live.
Mobile providers in Ireland offer SIM-only and bill pay phone deals with varying minutes, data and roaming allowances.
Some providers may offer introductory prices, while others promote a ‘price for life’ deal or discounts if you are switching from another network.
While larger networks offer a choice of SIM-only and phone contracts with different payment methods, many MVNOs like 48, Clear Mobile, GoMo and more offer low-cost, flexible deals for those on a budget who don’t want to opt into a lengthy contract.
How to compare mobile networks
Once you’ve decided whether you’re opting for a SIM-only or phone contract, consider these factors when comparing deals:
Who has the best mobile coverage?
Vodafone, Three and Eir, offer up to 99% 4G population coverage in Ireland, but some people still struggle for a good mobile connection.
If you want to see what coverage is like in your area, you can use the ComReg coverage map or go to each website directly:
All the mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) run services using one of the three main networks:
| Mobile Operator | Main Network |
|---|---|
| 48 | Three |
| An Post Mobile | Vodafone |
| Clear Mobile | Vodafone |
| GoMo | eir |
| Lyca Mobile | eir |
| Sky Mobile | Vodafone |
| Tesco Mobile | Three |
| Virgin Mobile | Three |
These brands use main operators’ networks, but 5G access, speeds, coverage and features can still vary between providers and plans.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone, allowing you to connect to a mobile network without inserting a physical SIM card.
Instead, your plan is activated digitally, usually by scanning a QR code. Most major mobile networks in Ireland now support eSIM on compatible devices, including many newer iPhone, Samsung and Google Pixel models.
eSIM can make switching networks quicker and lets you store more than one mobile plan on the same phone, though availability may vary by provider and plan.
Compare mobile networks
Part 4
Choosing a new mobile phone
What is the best mobile phone to buy?
If you’re looking to buy the latest device, a bill pay phone could be an ideal option because you can own the latest technology and spread the cost. Consider these features:
The best Samsung Galaxy deals
Samsung is one of Ireland’s two most popular smartphone brands, alongside Apple.
The latest Samsung Galaxy series includes advanced camera, zoom and AI features, although performance varies by model and should be compared alongside battery life, price and storage capacity.
The best iPhone deals
Together with Samsung, Apple is one of Ireland’s most popular smartphone brands; both account for 85% of handsets.
iPhones are also known for their design, longevity and integration with products such as Apple Watch and AirPods.
Refurbished and preowned phones Ireland
A refurbished phone is a pre-owned handset that’s inspected, graded and tested and, where necessary, repaired according to the seller’s refurbishment process.
Some refurbished phones are like new, while others are older and have more obvious signs of wear and tear.
There are lots of online retailers that sell different makes of refurbished phones, including iPhone and Samsung.
They include:
- BuyItDirect
- Creative IT
- DID Electrical
- GetTech
- Mint+
- refurbed
- Viberstore
- Swappie
Always check warranty, return policies and seller reviews before buying.
What are your rights when buying a refurbished phone?
If you buy a refurbished phone from a business, you have similar consumer rights to when buying new. It must match its description, be fit for purpose and meet the quality you could reasonably expect based on its price and condition.
These rights generally do not apply when buying from a private seller. If you buy online from a business, a 14-day cooling-off period will normally apply, and any warranty is additional to your legal rights.
Are refurbished phones worth it?
Yes. Refurbished phones are becoming more popular in Ireland as people look to save money and make more sustainable choices.
Recent data from refurbished marketplace refurbed shows just how quickly the market is growing. The company has now surpassed €3 billion in sales across Europe, and in Ireland alone has sold more than 400,000 devices to over 200,000 customers.
Refurbished phones are typically tested, repaired and cleaned before being resold, so they can work very well; similar to a new phone.
You can often save hundreds of euros compared to buying a brand-new phone, making them a great option if you’re on a budget.
They may also have a lower environmental impact In Ireland, with some refurbished devices having reduced CO₂ emissions, water use and electronic waste.
Find out more in our guide: Should you buy a refurbished phone?
Part 5
Switching your mobile network
Steps to switch and save
Whether your bill pay contract has ended and you’re looking for a cheaper deal, or you’re thinking of buying the latest bill pay phone, here’s all you need to know about switching to a new mobile network.
- Decide on the type of plan: Do you want a prepay or bill pay phone contract, or a SIM-only prepay or SIM-only bill pay plan?
- Check your usage: Check your current phone bill or plan to see how much data and minutes you use every month. This will help you choose the right package.
- Compare deals: Switcher.ie can help you compare the best mobile deals from Ireland’s top networks with our simple comparison tool.
- Choose your new plan: Once you pick your new plan, you’ll be taken to the mobile provider’s website. Follow the simple steps.
- Switch: While switching you may be asked whether you are moving from another network, or if you are a new customer. You may also be asked to fill out an online form, and receive a call to authorise your information.
- Transfer your old mobile number: Changing providers doesn’t mean losing your phone number. Let your new provider know you would like to keep your old number, and they will talk you through the steps of ‘porting’ it over.
If you leave your existing contract before it has expired, you may be charged for the remainder of the contract period. Make sure you don’t have any outstanding bills with your existing provider, so you’re not charged admin fees.
What to do with your old mobile phone
If you’ve chosen a plan with a new mobile phone, you might want to get rid of your old one. Here are few things you can do:
- Sell it: You can sell it yourself, on Facebook Marketplace, DoneDeal or Adverts. You can also sell it directly to a company like envirofone or GetTech.
- Recycle it: Mobile providers e.g. Three, Apple, and envirofone may give you some money if you do. You can also drop it to Civic Amenity Site or WEEE recycling point for free.
- Trade it in: Trading in an old phone means you can get money off a new handset, accessories or your monthly bill. Most network providers like Vodafone, and some mobile retailers let you trade in any phone on any network
Mobiles FAQs
Does home insurance cover mobile phones?
Your phone may be covered by contents insurance at home, while cover outside the home may require all-risks cover and remains subject to limits, exclusions and excesses. Compare home insurance deals on Switcher.ie.
How do I unlock my mobile phone?
If you find your phone needs unlocking, you’ve got two options:
- Use an online unlocking service
- Ask your phone provider
If you use an Irish phone unlocking service, you’ll be given a unique unlock code with instructions on how to enter it into your phone to unlock your device. The fee for getting your phone unlocked will vary.
If you’re happy to wait, you can contact your existing network to unlock your handset for free once you’re out of contract.
Get a SIM only deal with the calls, texts and data you need for less.
It only takes a few minutes to find a cheaper deal and start saving.