How 5G mobile works in Ireland
The latest Apple and Samsung phones launched as 5G only, signalling ultra-fast speeds and improved reliability for all. But what is 5G and which networks have the best 5G coverage?
What is 5G?
5G is the next generation of mobile internet, offering faster speeds, less latency and more reliability than 4G technology could ever achieve.
5G simply means 5th generation and is the latest evolution in data connection. The last time there were such advances in data connectivity was in 2009 when 4G LTE revolutionised how we used our mobile devices.
This is a breakthrough for smartphones and other mobile devices that access the internet, but what difference will it make to how you use your phone?
Is 5G safe?
Yes, 5G complies fully with existing international Electromagnetic Fields exposure guidelines. These provide protection for everyone, including children, against all known health hazards.
These guidelines are regularly reviewed and issued by independent public health authorities and expert groups including The World Health Organisation (WHO).
You can find more information about 5G & Health on the EPA website.
What does 5G mean for you?
Any online activity that requires high internet speeds, quick downloads, low latency and reliable connections will be improved by 5G connectivity.
If you enjoy any of the following, you’re likely to get a much better experience with a 5G phone:
Which mobile phone is best for 5G?
Apple and Samsung have 5G ready phones available to buy from all major Irish mobile networks.
You can check out bill pay 5G phones on our iPhone and Samsung deal pages.
There isn’t much difference between them in terms of 5G connectivity. The main consideration when choosing a 5G mobile phone is to find out which networks offer 5G coverage in your area.
How fast is 5G?
Depending on network coverage and where you live, 5G can be about 10 times faster than 4G.
Downloading a movie will take just 6 seconds instead of 7 minutes, and it’s estimated you could save 3 hours downloading a Spotify library of 10,000 songs.
In theory, 5G can achieve speeds of up to 10Gbps but a more realistic speed estimate across Ireland is likely to average around 1Gbps.
Who has the fastest 5G network?
In 2023, Ookla named Three the fastest 5G mobile network in Ireland, with a median download speed of 192.13 Mbps.
But mobile internet speed can also depend on things like the hardware capability, network congestion and how many apps you might have running in the background.
What’s 5G coverage like in Ireland?
Most counties in Ireland are now covered by at least one 5G site and the main mobile networks in Ireland are quickly rolling out the 5G network to new areas.
As with 4G, rural and remote areas of Ireland are less likely to get decent 5G coverage but 5G networks are continuing to roll out across the country.
So, if you can’t get 5G now, it’s likely you’ll be in a 5G area within the next couple of years.
You can check this interactive 5G map of Ireland to find out whether 5G is available in your area.
Does 5G use more data?
No, although you can download and stream music and TV more quickly and smoothly, the data packets are the same size.
Most 5G data plans are unlimited, so you won’t have to worry about data allowances.
Which mobile networks offer 5G in Ireland?
These providers now offer 5G plans:
What about other mobile providers?
Although mobile phone operators like Virgin Mobile and many SIM-only providers use the three major networks to provide mobile services, they do not offer any 5G services in Ireland yet.
Are 5G mobile phones worth it?
It depends on how you use your mobile phone. If you mainly use your smartphone for calls, messaging and light surfing, it’s probably not worth paying extra for a 5G enabled phone.
Instead, you’re better off buying a cheaper handset if you are not that bothered about blisteringly fast downloads, low latency and rock-solid reliability.
However, if you use your mobile for
and live in an area with good 5G coverage, then it’s certainly worth paying the extra for one of the latest 5G enabled smartphones.
There is no doubt that 5G will eventually be the standard for data connectivity across Ireland, and may even replace the need for other wired and wireless technologies.
Can you get 5G on SIM-only plan?
If you plan to go SIM-only, check your phone is 5G ready. You’ll need a new SIM card with a 5G SIM-only data plan.
Your SIM-only plan will automatically connect to 4G when 5G isn’t available.
Compare the best SIM-only, 5G plans right here.
5G Mobile FAQS
Do 4G phones work on a 5G network?
Yes, 4G phones will still work if you are in a 5G coverage area, but your connection will only be 4G.
You can also get 4G using a 5G phone when there is no 5G connection available.
Unfortunately, you can’t get 5G on a 4G phone, even if you are in a 5G area or buy a 5G SIM card. Your phone needs to be 5G enabled to enjoy all the benefits of the 5G network.
Will 5G replace WiFi?
Not for a while. Although the 5G network won’t completely replace existing phone lines and cables, it will eventually reduce the need for them.
For people living and working in rural areas or remote parts of Ireland, it could provide a cost-effective alternative to fibre or satellite broadband. The likelihood of that happening will depend on the speed of the 5G roll-out in Ireland and investment in infrastructure.
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