Mobile Broadband Buyers Guide

Introduction

Mobile broadband has become an integral part of our connected lives, offering flexibility and convenience that traditional fixed-line broadband can’t match. As we move further into the future mobile broadband continues to evolve rapidly, with 5G technology leading the charge in revolutionizing how we access the internet on the go.

This guide aims to answer your questions about the world of mobile broadband, helping you navigate the complexities of technologies, plans, and providers to find the perfect solution for your needs.

What is Mobile Broadband?

Mobile broadband uses the mobile networks to provide internet access, much like how your smartphone connects to the internet. It’s designed primarily for use with laptops, tablets, and other portable devices, offering internet access wherever there’s mobile coverage.

Connection Methods:

  1. USB Dongle:
    • Plugs directly into a laptop’s USB port
    • Pros: Compact, doesn’t require charging
    • Cons: Limited to one device at a time
    • Best for: Individual users who primarily use one laptop
  2. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot:
    • A small device that creates a local Wi-Fi network
    • Pros: Allows multiple devices to connect, more flexible
    • Cons: Requires charging, another device to carry
    • Best for: Users who need to connect multiple devices or share internet with others
  3. SIM Card:
    • Inserted directly into a SIM-enabled laptop or tablet
    • Pros: No extra devices needed
    • Cons: Limited to devices with SIM slots
    • Best for: Users with SIM-enabled devices who don’t need to share internet
  4. 5G Home Broadband:
    • Uses 5G networks to provide home internet
    • Pros: Can be faster than some fixed-line broadband, easy setup
    • Cons: Dependent on 5G coverage, can be affected by network congestion
    • Best for: Areas with strong 5G coverage, users looking for an alternative to fixed-line broadband

Mobile Broadband Technologies and Speeds

5G

  • Theoretical Speeds: Up to 10 Gbps
  • Real-world Speeds: Typically 100-200 Mbps, but can exceed 1 Gbps in ideal conditions
  • Coverage: Rapidly expanding in urban areas, but still limited in rural regions
  • Latency: As low as 1ms, ideal for real-time applications
  • Example Use Case: Downloading a 4K movie (about 100GB) could take just 13 minutes on a 1Gbps 5G connection

4G/LTE

  • Theoretical Speeds: Up to 150 Mbps (standard 4G), up to 300 Mbps (4G+/LTE-A)
  • Real-world Speeds: Average of 30-40 Mbps in 2024
  • Coverage: Extensive across the UK, with most populated areas covered
  • Latency: Typically 20-30ms
  • Example Use Case: Streaming HD video requires about 5-8 Mbps, easily achievable on most 4G connections

3G

  • Speeds: Up to 7.2 Mbps (HSPA+)
  • Usage: Primarily as a fallback in areas without 4G/5G coverage
  • Latency: 100ms or more
  • Example Use Case: Basic web browsing and email, possible video streaming at lower qualities

Real-world Comparison: In central London, a 5G speed test might show 300 Mbps, while 4G in the same location might deliver 40 Mbps. However, in a rural village, you might only get 4G at 10 Mbps or even be limited to 3G speeds.

Who Is Mobile Broadband Suitable For?

  1. Frequent Travelers:
    • Use Case: A sales representative who visits clients across the country, needing reliable internet access for presentations and video calls.
  2. Remote Workers:
    • Use Case: A software developer working from various locations, using mobile broadband as a backup to ensure constant connectivity for coding and team collaboration.
  3. Students:
    • Use Case: A university student moving between campus, library, and home, needing flexible internet access for research and online classes.
  4. Rural Residents:
    • Use Case: A family living in a countryside cottage where fixed-line broadband speeds are poor, using 4G or 5G home broadband for faster internet.
  5. Temporary Accommodation:
    • Use Case: A contractor on a 3-month assignment in a different city, using mobile broadband instead of setting up a short-term fixed-line contract.
  6. Secondary Connection:
    • Use Case: A small business using mobile broadband as a backup to ensure continuity if their primary connection fails.

Benefits of Mobile Broadband

  1. Flexibility: Use internet anywhere with mobile coverage, from parks to cafes to remote work sites.
  2. No Landline Required: Ideal for those who don’t want or need a fixed phone line, saving on line rental costs.
  3. Quick Setup: Typically plug-and-play, with no engineer visits needed. Most devices work straight out of the box.
  4. Improving Speeds: 5G offers speeds competitive with many fixed-line broadband services, sometimes exceeding them in urban areas.
  5. Contract Options: Choose from long-term contracts, short-term plans, or pay-as-you-go to suit your needs and budget.
  6. Portability: Take your internet connection with you when you move house or travel, without any setup or transfer fees.

Potential Drawbacks

  1. Data Caps: Most plans have lower data allowances compared to fixed-line broadband. For example, a typical mobile broadband plan might offer 100GB, while many fixed-line plans are unlimited.
  2. Variable Speeds: Performance can fluctuate based on location, network congestion, and signal strength. You might get 200 Mbps in the morning but only 50 Mbps during peak evening hours.
  3. Higher Costs for Heavy Usage: Can be expensive for users needing large data allowances. A high-data mobile broadband plan might cost £50-£60 per month, compared to £30-£40 for an unlimited fixed-line plan.
  4. Battery Drain: Using a device as a hotspot can quickly deplete its battery. A typical smartphone might last only 3-4 hours when used as a hotspot.
  5. Coverage Limitations: Service quality can vary significantly between urban and rural areas, and even between different parts of a city.
  6. Latency Issues: While improving with 5G, mobile connections can still have higher latency than fixed-line broadband, which can affect real-time applications like online gaming or video conferencing.

Choosing a Mobile Broadband Plan

Factors to Consider:

  1. Data Allowance:
    • Light Use (email, web browsing): 10-20GB/month
    • Medium Use (some streaming, social media): 20-50GB/month
    • Heavy Use (frequent streaming, downloads): 100GB+/month
    • Example: Streaming Netflix in HD uses about 3GB per hour, so a 50GB plan would allow for about 16 hours of streaming per month.
  2. Speed Requirements:
    • Basic browsing and email: 4G is sufficient (10-40 Mbps)
    • HD streaming and video calls: Good 4G or 5G (40+ Mbps)
    • 4K streaming, large file transfers: 5G recommended (100+ Mbps)
  3. Contract Length:
    • 1-month rolling contracts: Most flexible, good for testing or short-term use
    • 12-month contracts: Balance of commitment and value
    • 24-month contracts: Usually the best value but longest commitment
    • Example: A 24-month contract might offer 100GB for £25/month, while a 1-month contract might charge £35/month for the same allowance.
  4. Coverage:
    • Use provider coverage maps to check signal strength in your area
    • Consider all locations you frequently visit (home, work, travel routes)
    • Remember that indoor coverage may be weaker than outdoor
  5. Price:
    • Compare total costs over the contract period, including any upfront fees for devices
    • Look out for introductory offers, but consider the price after any promotional period ends
  6. Bundle Deals:
    • Some providers offer discounts when combining mobile broadband with other services
    • Example: You might save 20% on mobile broadband if you also have a mobile phone contract with the same provider

Popular UK Providers (as of 2024):

  • EE:
    • Strengths: Extensive 4G and 5G coverage, fast speeds
    • Weaknesses: Can be more expensive than some competitors
    • Unique Offering: 5G Wi-Fi devices with long battery life
  • Three:
    • Strengths: Competitive pricing, often generous data allowances
    • Weaknesses: Coverage can be patchy in rural areas
    • Unique Offering: “Go Roam” feature for use abroad in many countries
  • Vodafone:
    • Strengths: Strong business offerings, growing 5G network
    • Weaknesses: Customer service ratings have been mixed
    • Unique Offering: Entertainment packages bundled with some plans
  • O2:
    • Strengths: Good coverage, flexible plans
    • Weaknesses: 5G rollout has been slower than some competitors
    • Unique Offering: O2 Priority app with exclusive offers and perks

International Usage

As of 2024, roaming regulations in the EU have changed post-Brexit. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Most UK providers now charge for roaming in the EU, typically a daily fee (around £2-£5 per day)
  • Some providers offer specific travel passes or add-ons for international use
  • For frequent travelers, look for plans with inclusive roaming or global data allowances
  • Always check the specific terms for the countries you’re visiting, as they can vary widely

Example: Three’s “Go Roam” allows use of UK allowances in many countries worldwide, while EE offers a “Roam Further” pass for a daily fee in certain destinations.

5G Home Broadband: A New Alternative

5G home broadband is becoming an increasingly viable alternative to traditional fixed-line broadband:

  • Speeds: Can match or exceed many fibre broadband services, with some providers offering average speeds of 100-200 Mbps
  • Installation: Simple self-setup, no engineer required. Typically just plug in and connect.
  • Flexibility: Can be moved easily, ideal for renters or those who move frequently
  • Limitations: Availability limited to areas with strong 5G coverage
  • Cost Comparison: Often priced similarly to fixed-line broadband, e.g., £30-£40 per month for unlimited data

Real-world Example: In parts of central Manchester, 5G home broadband users report consistent speeds of 300 Mbps, outperforming some fibre connections in the area.

How to Compare and Choose

  1. Use comparison websites to view multiple offers side-by-side. Look for tools that allow you to filter by data allowance, contract length, and price.
  2. Check provider coverage maps for your area. Enter multiple postcodes for places you frequently visit.
  3. Read user reviews for real-world experiences with different providers. Look for recent reviews specific to your area.
  4. Consider future needs – will your data usage increase? If you’re starting a new job or moving house, factor in potential changes in your internet habits.
  5. Look for special offers, but be wary of short-term discounts with long-term commitments. Calculate the total cost over the entire contract period.
  6. If unsure, consider a short-term or pay-as-you-go plan to test the service before committing long-term. Many providers offer 30-day rolling contracts for this purpose.
  7. Use online data calculators to estimate your monthly usage based on your internet activities.

Final Tips

  • Test Before Committing: Many providers offer money-back guarantees or short trial periods, typically 14-30 days. Use these to ensure the service meets your needs in various locations and times of day.
  • Check Fair Usage Policies: Even “unlimited” plans may have restrictions. For example, some might reduce speeds after 650GB of monthly usage.
  • Consider Device Compatibility: Ensure your devices support the latest technologies (e.g., 5G) to get the best performance. An older 4G device won’t benefit from 5G speeds.
  • Monitor Your Usage: Use provider apps or tools to track data consumption and avoid unexpected charges. Set up alerts when you’re nearing your limit.
  • Understand Traffic Management: Some providers prioritize certain types of traffic. This could affect your experience if you frequently use services that might be de-prioritized during peak times.
  • Look for Multi-device Options: If you need to connect multiple devices, ensure your plan allows for tethering or comes with a multi-device capable router.
  • Consider Signal Boosters: If you’re in an area with weak signal, some providers offer signal boosters that can improve your connection quality indoors.

Remember, the best mobile broadband deal for you depends on your specific needs, usage patterns, and location. Take time to assess these factors carefully before making a decision. Don’t hesitate to contact providers directly with specific questions about their services in your area.