Who runs on what

UK mobile networks compared

There are four networks that own mast infrastructure in the UK — EE, O2, Three and Vodafone. Everyone else (Giffgaff, Smarty, Voxi, Tesco Mobile and so on) is a virtual operator riding on one of those four, often for a lot less money.

3Three

Generous data allowances and unlimited plans at low prices. Coverage is thinner in rural areas.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage74%
Runs onOwn masts

8245 live deals

See Three deals
VFVodafone

Solid all-round coverage with good European roaming and family multi-SIM discounts.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage70%
Runs onOwn masts

7032 live deals

See Vodafone deals
O2O2

Wide 4G reach and strong indoor coverage in cities. Priority perks include early gig tickets.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage62%
Runs onOwn masts

4621 live deals

See O2 deals
EEEE

The UK's largest 5G network, owned by BT. Consistently tops independent speed tests, and priced accordingly.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage82%
Runs onOwn masts

0 live deals

See EE deals
MoMozillion

Marketplace for new and refurbished phones, with its own pay-monthly SIMs on EE's 5G network.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage82%
Runs onEE

2263 live deals

See Mozillion deals
TaTalkmobile

Vodafone's budget brand. Simple plans, no frills, Vodafone coverage.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage70%
Runs onVodafone

1614 live deals

See Talkmobile deals
iDiD Mobile

Three network via Currys. Data rollover and free capped spend as standard.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage74%
Runs onThree

1331 live deals

See iD Mobile deals
LeLebara

Vodafone network with generous international calling minutes built in.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage70%
Runs onVodafone

15 live deals

See Lebara deals
1p1pMobile

Pay-as-you-go on the EE network. Bundles or a 1p-a-minute tariff, no contract.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage82%
Runs onEE

9 live deals

See 1pMobile deals
VXVOXI

Vodafone for under-30s, with social media and video that doesn't count against your data.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage70%
Runs onVodafone

5 live deals

See VOXI deals
ChChattr

Flexible SIM-only plans on the O2 network with no credit check and no contract. Prices drop the longer you stay.

4G coverage99%
5G coverage60%
Runs onO2

4 live deals

See Chattr deals