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.
Though 6G is already on the horizon, with an estimated launch of 2030, we are still very much in the age of 5G and the country-wide rollout is still ongoing.
5G 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?
What is the difference between 4G and 5G?
The biggest difference is the speed. 5G can be up to 10 times faster, with a much more consistent connection.
You might notice it while saying or streaming a movie in HD, and unlike 4G, 5G allows large amounts of people to connect at the same time - so you’re in a busy place with large crowds, you can enjoy plenty of lag-free browsing.
How do you get 5G?
To use 5G, you’ll need a 5G-ready device, with a network and mobile plan that provides 5G. You’ll also need to be in an area with 5G coverage.
If you’re unsure if your mobile plan supports it, it’s worth checking with your network provider.
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 2024, Ookla said Three remained the fastest 5G mobile network in Ireland in the first half of the year.
Despite Three’s lead, Eir recorded the highest 5G Availability, with 74% of its 5G users connected to its 5G network a majority of the time.
Remember, 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?
The 5G network is now available in 26 counties across Ireland, 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.
How do you know if 5G is in your area?
If you’re unsure if 5G is available in your area, check this interactive 5G map of Ireland to find out.
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.
How do you get 5G on an iPhone?
You’ll need an iPhone 12 or later, and on a mobile plan that supports 5G. If you’re unsure, you can check with your provider.
Though not all locations in Ireland support 5G, when you’re in an area with 5G coverage and your 5G mobile plan has been activated, you’ll see a 5G icon in the status bar of your iPhone.
Does 6G exist yet?
6G, short for the sixth-generation network, will be the next leap in wireless communication. Expected to be 100 times faster than 5G, it could reach 8,000 gigabits per second compared to 5G’s 10 gigabits.
We are still very much in the era of 5G though, with the transition from 5G to 5g Advanced expected in 2025, and a potential rollout of 6G not expected until 2030.
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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