What is mobile broadband?
Mobile broadband, just like fixed broadband, provides access to the internet, but the connection is made via a provider’s mobile network instead of landlines and a fixed network. This means that mobile broadband is not tied to a specific address or location, but can be used anywhere the provider has network coverage.
Please note! Since mobile broadband is wireless, many people use it interchangeably with WiFi, but it is not the same thing. Mobile broadband is a type of broadband that provides internet access via the network, while WiFi is a network standard that can offer multiple devices wireless access to a network. What’s more, the network can be both fixed and mobile.
Contracts are the most common option for mobile broadband, but some providers also offer pay as you go data only SIMs. In essence, the process is similar to purchasing a contract or pay as you go SIM for your mobile, with the important exception the mobile broadband does not include minutes or texts, only data.
How mobile broadband works
When ordering mobile broadband, you usually have the option to purchase the broadband with a router or dongle, or to use just the SIM card. Whichever option you choose, you will always receive a SIM card to insert into the router, dongle, or the device you wish to connect, such as a tablet or laptop. The SIM card contains all the key information including details about you and your contract or pay as you go SIM, and serves simply as the link between you and your provider.
Which solution is best for you depends on how you intend to use the mobile broadband. Below, we describe in more detail how the various options work.
Different options for mobile broadband
- Mobile broadband router: A mobile broadband router is a slightly larger router that needs to be plugged into a power socket. This option is ideal if you want to connect multiple devices to the same mobile broadband and plan to use the broadband only at home.
- Mobile WiFi (MiFI) router: A MiFi router (also known as a mobile hotspot) functions as a mobile broadband router, with the difference that a MiFi router is smaller and battery-powered. It is therefore easy to take with you when you are travelling. This option is best if you want to connect multiple devices but also easily require a more portable broadband set up.
- Dongle: A dongle is a USB stick where you insert the SIM card for the mobile broadband. You then connect after inserting the dongle into a USB port on the selected device. This is the best option if you want to use the mobile broadband on only one device, and that device does not have a built-in SIM card slot.
- SIM card only: If you already have a router or device with a SIM card slot, you can choose to order a data only SIM for mobile broadband.
How to choose the best mobile broadband
Decide whether to purchase an additional device or not
Before ordering mobile broadband, you need to decide whether you want to purchase the broadband with a device or if you prefer to order just the SIM card. If you don’t already have a router, dongle, or tablet to insert the SIM card into, it might be convenient to purchase one when you order mobile broadband.
With many providers, you can choose whether to pay the full cost of the device upfront, or if you want to sign a mobile broadband contract for 12, 18, or 24 months. If you sign up to a contract, you will pay off the device during the contract period. You will also benefit from a discount when signing up to a broadband subscription
Choose a provider with good network coverage where you live
To take full advantage of your mobile broadband data, the provider must have good network coverage in the location you access their network. On many providers’ websites, you can enter your postcode to check the network coverage in your area.
Decide on the amount of data allowance you need
When purchasing mobile broadband, the data allowances you can choose from will vary between different providers. Choose a provider that offers a selection matching your needs and habits as closely as possible. This also makes it easier if you need to upgrade or downgrade your data allowance on your mobile broadband in the future.
Compare prices and choose the best value mobile broadband based on your needs
It is the amount of data that determines the price of the mobile broadband. And the price level varies between different providers, with the larger providers generally being more expensive than the smaller operator. However, a lower cost provider is not necessarily the best option for you; it’s important to weigh up the complete package for value for money. For instance, if you prioritise comprehensive support and a wider range of options, it might be worth paying extra.
Which mobile broadband is the cheapest?
O2 TCL Dongle 4G is the cheapest mobile broadband right now (checked on 03/07/2025). The cost is £12/month when you sign a 24-month contract.
How does a pay as you go mobile broadband work?
Mobile broadband pay as you go SIMs works much like a pay as you go SIM for your mobile, except the plan includes data only, not calls or texts. Some provides simply call these pay as you go SIM top-ups ‘Data’, while others add more detail with, for example, ‘pay as you go SIM for mobile broadband’ or ‘mobile broadband pay as you go’.
Is there mobile broadband with unlimited data?
Yes, many providers offer mobile broadband plans with unlimited data. This means you are free to use data with your mobile broadband each month within reason. Some providers may however impose limits if they notice that your usage is excessively high.
Unlimited data mobile broadband can be a good option if you don’t want to use or can’t access fixed broadband, and instead will use mobile broadband as your primary internet source. It can also be a good option if you need to use a large amount of data each month.
How fast is mobile broadband?
In the 5G network, average speeds for mobile broadband are around 200 Mbps, while average speeds in the 4G network are about 40 Mbps. However, the exact speeds may vary between different providers.
Does mobile broadband support 5G?
Yes, several providers offer mobile broadband that supports 5G. If you want to access the 5G network with your mobile broadband, all the devices you use must support 5G. This applies to your phone, tablet, computer, router, or dongle. With several providers, you can choose between a 4G and a 5G router. If you purchase a device with 5G support, you may need to pay a higher monthly cost, but in return, you can enjoy data at higher speeds.
Frequently asked questions about mobile broadband
Mobile broadband is an excellent option if you want flexible broadband that you can take with you, or if you are unable to access fixed broadband at home. And with the expansion of the 5G network, mobile broadband can reach speeds of around 150-200 Mbps. However, we still recommend fixed broadband for home use, as it provides more reliable and consistent speeds.
Although mobile broadband has become faster in recent years thanks to the 5G network, fixed broadband still provides generally faster speeds. Mobile broadband is also more sensitive to external factors such as poor weather. If you plan to use mobile broadband, you also depend on the provider having good network coverage in your location.
If you want to connect multiple devices to the broadband, you need to have a router. However, if you only plan to use one device, you can insert the SIM card directly into the device, or alternatively use a dongle.
Yes, if you use a router or hotspot, you create your own WiFi network and you can connect multiple devices.
In most cases, you can choose whether to commit to a long-term contract or opt for a monthly contract. In most cases the monthly cost gets lower the longer you commit to a contract. If you choose a one-month contract you may need to pay the full cost for any router or dongle upfront.
Mobile broadband with unlimited data essentially gives you unlimited data for a month. If the provider notices that your usage is excessively high, they may restrict your data use, but you would need to reach very high levels for this to happen.
You can use your mobile broadband anywhere your provider has network coverage.
Some mobile broadband services work abroad while others can only be used within the UK. However, there may be additional charges for using the broadband in other countries. Check terms and prices for mobile broadband abroad with your provider.
