Mobile broadband vs fibre broadband
Fibre broadband is ideal if you want unlimited data at home and need to share your connection with the family, while mobile broadband may be better suited if you want to access the internet outside the home and are looking for a more flexible broadband solution. However, not everyone can choose between fixed and mobile broadband, which we will discuss further on this page. We also outline the pros and cons of each option and offer tips on what to consider to help you make the best possible choice.
Not everyone can choose between fibre and mobile broadband
You can’t always assume that everyone has the option to choose between fibre and mobile broadband. Broadband providers have increasingly switched to fibre, but this does not mean that all households have access to a fibre network.
But if we assume that you do have the option to choose between fixed and mobile broadband, you should base your decision on how flexible you want your broadband to be, how many people will be sharing the connection, and your (or your household’s) data habits.
When is fibre broadband the best option?
If you’re looking for a broadband connection the whole family can share, where you never have to worry about your data suddenly running out, fibre is the best choice. Fibre broadband can also be suitable if you live alone and use the internet for activities that consume larger amounts of data and require high data speeds.
As fibre is tied to a specific address, it can ‘only’ be used at home, but there are several advantages that make up for this lack of flexibility. We’ve listed the top options below.
Pros of fibre broadband
- Generally offers higher speeds than mobile broadband.
- Is stable and resistant to external factors such as weather and wind.
- Unlimited data is always included, no matter which plan you choose.
- Has greater capacity to handle multiple users and devices simultaneously.
Cons of fibre broadband
- Provides connectivity only at home.
- It can be expensive if you have to install fibre yourself.
- Not available to everyone.
- Prices (for the same plan) vary depending on where you live.
When is mobile broadband the best option?
Mobile broadband may suit you if you’re looking for a more flexible broadband solution that isn’t tied to your home. You can use your mobile broadband anywhere the provider has good network coverage.
Please note! As mobile broadband relies on the provider’s network coverage, it’s important to keep this in mind when choosing a provider. On many providers’ websites, you can enter your postcode to check the network coverage in the area where you plan to use broadband the most.
Mobile broadband can also be ideal if you need a temporary connection at certain times of the year, for example when you’re on holiday or at your summer cottage. With some providers, you have the option to choose pay as you go data only sim, making it even more flexible.
Pros of mobile broadband
- Easy to get and install.
- Can also be used outside the home (provided there is network coverage).
- Available in virtually the entire country.
- Costs the same no matter where you live.
Cons of mobile broadband
- Dependent on the provider’s network coverage.
- More sensitive to external factors, such as thick walls, weather and wind.
- Not always available with unlimited data.
- Often has lower speeds than fixed broadband.
Both fibre and mobile broadband can be used by multiple users
You might think that only fibre broadband can connect multiple users and devices at the same time, but that’s not the case. Even with mobile broadband, it’s possible to share your connection, provided you have a router.
However, fibre broadband often has greater capacity to handle multiple users at the same time, provided the speeds are sufficient for the number of people sharing and the types of internet activities they are engaged in.
