Your complete guide to mobiles in Ireland

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 networks operating in Ireland. eir, Three, and Vodafone. Mobile virtual networks operators (MVNOs) are companies that lease space from the main networks to deliver their mobile services.

Unlike main operators, they don’t own the infrastructure they use. In total there are 10 mobile service providers in Ireland:

Mobile plans differ based on price and the level of data and calls you recieve 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.

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.

There are two ways to pay for a SIM-only deal.

• Bill pay: This is a 30-day, no-strings-attached, rolling contract.
• Prepay: Means you can pay upfront. This is also known as pay as you go.

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.

Whether you want to improve your coverage or just save money on your bill, here’s some things to consider before choosing a new mobile network.

How to compare mobile networks

When you’re comparing networks and plans, think about:

• Price: Although some plans are cheaper to start with, consider any increased cost when an initial offer period ends.
• Unlimited or capped: Unlimited deals allow you to call, text and download as much as you like. Capped deals are cheaper, but you’ll get a set number of minutes, texts and data and be charged if you go over.
• Coverage: You can check the coverage map to see if a provider covers your area, and if they offer 5G there. If you opt for an MVNO, it’s worth seeing which main network they use.
• Contract length: Most SIM-only deals now have 30-day rolling contracts, so you’re free to leave whenever you like. Longer contracts with tie-ins are normally cheaper.

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 coverage map or go to each website directly:

• Three’s coverage checker
• eir’s mobile network checker
• Vodafone’s coverage

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
Lycamobile	Three
Tesco Mobile	Three
Virgin Mobile	Three

As all MVNOs use the same networks as the main operators, they’re likely to offer the same level of coverage.

Which is the best mobile phone plan in Ireland?

Many networks offer SIM-only and bill pay phone deals with varying levels of minutes, data and roaming. Some providers may offer further discounts if you are switching from another network.

Finding the best SIM-only deal. can depend on how much internet you use, your budget, and where you live.

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 in to a lengthy contract.

What is the best mobile phone to buy?

If you’re looking to buy the latest device, a bill pay phone could be a good option. Finding the best bill pay phone depends on what you value. Consider:

• Camera: If you want high quality pictures, you might want to consider features like a wide-angle lens and a camera with more megapixels.
• Battery life: If you need your phone battery to really last, make sure it has plenty of video playback hours - e.g. over 20.
• Screen size: Consider a larger screen size if you need your phone for reading or gaming, or a small screen if you need something pocket-sized.
• Budget: Many new bill pay devices come with a hefty price tag. Try to budget the monthly cost alongside any upfront price, and remember refurbished phones, too.
• 5G: If you’re looking for 5G coverage, you should also check the device has 5G enabled.

Refurbished phones Ireland

A refurbished phone is a pre-owned handset that’s undergone repairs. It has to pass a set of tests to prove it’s in working order.

Some refurbished phones are like new, while others are older with 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
• refurbed
• Swappie

Are refurbished phones worth it?

Yes. Global sales in refurbished devices increased by around 5% in 2023, as consumers become more cost-conscious and sustainable aware.

The refurbished process usually includes rigorous testing, repairing and restoring, so many refurbished phones can operate like-new.

You could also save over €370 opting for a refurbed phone vs a shiny new device.

Whether your bill pay contract has ended and you’re looking for a cheaper deal, or you’re thinking of a buying the latest bill pay phone, here’s all you need to know about switching to a new mobile network.

Before switching, you should check to see if you have any outstanding bills with your existing provider. If you leave your existing contract before it has expired, you may be charged for the remainder of the contract period.

Steps to switch and save:

1. Choose a mobile deal: Based on the information above, decide if you want a prepay or bill pay deal, SIM-only or bill pay phone.
2. 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.
3. Compare: Switcher.ie can help you compare the best mobile deals from Ireland’s top networks with our simple comparison tool.
4. Choose your new plan: Once you pick your new plan, you’ll be taken to the mobile provider’s website. Follow the simple steps.
5. 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.
6. 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.

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, Done Deal or Adverts. You can also sell it directly to a company like Cash Gadget Exchange, 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