Mobile broadband is wireless access to the internet using a mobile phone network via 3G, 4G, and 5G. You can gain access using a dongle, USB modem or MiFi – and no cables means it’s easy to use. As long as you are in an area with coverage, mobile broadband gives you online access on-the-go.
Author: Rob Baillie, Mobiles & Broadband Expert
Mobile broadband works through connecting your laptop or device to the internet through 3G, 4G or 5G technology, and is accessed using a dongle or MiFi - aka mobile Wi-Fi. Once you have chosen your provider and plan, you connect your dongle or MiFi to your device via Wi-Fi, and away you go!
Depending on your chosen plan and network, you will be able to access the internet using 3G, 4G or 5G networks - 3G delivers data at slower speeds, while 4G is faster; 5G is the best around, although not available across the entire UK. If you can get it, sometimes it’s even faster than a home broadband connection.
Another way of getting online if you’re not within range of a Wi-Fi network is by setting up a Personal Hotspot, which allows you to share the data connection of your smartphone. However, not all network carriers support Personal Hotspot technology, while some have data limits.
This kind of flexibility really suits people who always need access to the internet, even when they are on the go. It can also be appealing to people who don't want to commit to a long term fixed line broadband deal. For more information, read our mobile broadband guide.
Or, you can check your area to see what home broadband deals are available.
How does mobile broadband work?
Mobile broadband works by using a 3G, 4G or 5G signal to connect to the internet. 5G is the fifth generation of mobile phone technology and allows providers to offer speeds as fast as home broadband in major towns and cities. This means that you do not need a fixed line connection to get on the internet. Most new mobile phones are 5G enabled and mobile broadband dongles, MiFi gadgets, and home routers use the same technology. The 5G SIM cards in dongles can also use 3G and 4G networks to get you online, but be aware these speeds are far lower than 5G.
When you plug your USB dongle into your computer it will be able to access broadband through mobile phone signals, which results in you having the option of accessing the web anywhere, as long as there is a mobile signal.
Plans are usually available on 12, 24, 36, or one-month contract lengths. There may be an upfront cost to pay, especially if you're going for a device such as a MiFi.
You can also get data-only SIM cards to use in your personal hotspot or directly in a tablet.
When this technology was in its infancy there were criticisms of the download speeds that mobile broadband offered. Now, you can get speeds above 100Mbps from a 5G dongle, faster than your average fibre to the cabinet at home broadband.
Which providers offer mobile broadband?
The following mobile networks offer mobile broadband:
- EE
- O2
- Vodafone
- Three
- Virgin
EE offers the best coverage across the UK when it comes to 5G, while Three’s speeds are the snappiest. Vodafone also offers impressive 5G mobile broadband, as does O2.
Each provider serves up 4G alternatives, which deliver wider coverage but slower speeds. These are more affordable, though, so if you need mobile broadband that doesn’t break the bank, they’re a good options.
Why should I use mobile broadband?
There are many reasons to use mobile broadband these days. The main reason is that it is the most convenient and flexible way to access the internet. With your fixed line connection you will have to be within a certain radius of your modem in order to use your broadband. With a mobile dongle you will have access to broadband services almost anywhere - which can be handy if you're travelling or away on a family camping trip.
Many people have lifestyles that mean they cannot risk being without the internet for any length of time. You may have a long commute to work in the morning, and with mobile broadband you would be able to send and receive emails on your laptop or tablet while you are travelling.
Another advantage on offer is pay-as-you-go mobile broadband which makes this service even more flexible. This is great for occasional broadband users who feel that they do not use the internet enough to warrant paying a fixed price each month. With a pay-as-you-go service you can simply pay for the exact amount of data that you use each month.
Getting a home router that uses mobile broadband rather than fixed-line internet is also a great option if you’re in a temporary or precarious housing situation. It’s also perfect if your home can’t connect to fixed lines – such as boats, rural properties, or some HMOs.
Can I get unlimited data with mobile broadband?
Yes. Three, Vodafone and O2 all offer unlimited data options with mobile broadband. However, these are 4G offerings. 5G mobile broadband is available with hefty data allowances, which should be more than enough for long work sessions while out on the road.
What’s the fastest mobile broadband available?
According to OpenSignal, as of October 2022, Three’s 5G download speeds of 228.4Mbps were the best available. EE and Vodafone each offer speeds over 100Mbps via 5G. That’s way beyond even the average fibre home broadband speeds - it’s no surprise that 5G is now being used in home routers too. EE and Vodafone each offer speeds over 100Mbps.
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