How do unlimited mobile broadband plans work?
Unlimited mobile broadband refers to mobile broadband with unlimited data. It works in basically the same way as mobile broadband with a fixed data allowance, but with the difference that you can use a lot of data without the risk of it suddenly running out.
If you regularly use large amounts of data on the internet, and have a high average data usage each month, a mobile broadband with unlimited data may be more cost-effective than a broadband with a generous data allowance.
Can you use data freely with unlimited mobile broadband?
No, even if it is called “unlimited mobile broadband” or “mobile broadband with unlimited data”, you cannot assume that you can use as much data as you like. Most providers have a specific limit on how much data can be used per day. If the provider considers usage to be excessive and not ‘normal’ or suspects misuse, they may suspend the broadband or reduce the speed until further notice.
The exact limit for what constitutes ‘normal’ data usage can vary between different providers, so please check with your future provider for any such conditions. You can easily find the particular terms and conditions for reasonable usage in the contract or via the provider’s website. You can also contact their support for guidance.
But regardless of which provider you choose, you must reach very high data amounts for the usage to be considered unreasonable and raise suspicions of misuse.
Cases where mobile broadband with unlimited data might be a good choice
- If the mobile broadband will be your primary internet source
- If multiple people are sharing the connection
- If you consume a lot of data every month (at least 100 GB)
Calculate if you need unlimited mobile broadband
It might be difficult to determine whether you need mobile broadband with unlimited data or if a fixed, high data allowance will cover your needs. For a mobile broadband with unlimited data to be value for money, your usage should be around 100 GB or more per month.
Use the function below to calculate how much data corresponds to your average data usage.
Which mobile broadband with unlimited data is the cheapest?
Vodafone 5G Mobile Hotspot is the cheapest mobile broadband with unlimited data right now (checked on 13/08/2025). The cost is £20/month when you sign a 24-month contract.
Things to consider before getting an unlimited mobile broadband
- In most cases, there is still a certain limit on how much data you can use per day.
- Not all mobile broadband with unlimited data can be used abroad. With some providers, you may need to pay extra if you want to use the broadband in other countries.
- For unlimited data to be cost-effective, your usage should exceed 100 GB per month.
Do you need a router for unlimited mobile broadband?
If you want to share the mobile broadband with multiple users and devices, you need to have a router. There are several different types of routers for mobile broadband, including portable, stationary and 4G or 5G routers. If you mainly use the mobile broadband on the go, a portable router is your best choice, whereas if you plan to use the broadband at home, you might opt for a stationary one (which generally has greater capacity).
If you purchase a mobile broadband with 5G, you will also need a router that supports 5G to connect to the network and use data at 5G speeds.
You need a router if your device lacks a SIM card slot
A router is required even if the device you intend to use does not have a SIM card slot. You then slot the provider’s SIM card into the router. If the router lacks a built-in modem, you will need a USB dongle in which you place the SIM card and then connect it to the router.
If you plan to connect just a single device to the mobile broadband, such as a tablet, you can use a dongle. You then insert the SIM card into the dongle, and then plug the dongle into the device.
Frequently asked questions about unlimited mobile broadband
Yes, there are mobile broadband options with unlimited data that support 5G.
You can often choose whether you want a contract or not on the mobile broadband. If you purchase the broadband together with a device, such as a router or dongle, it is more likely that the subscription will have a contract. But in some cases, you have the option to opt out of a contract even if you purchase a device.
Yes, some providers offer unlimited mobile broadband with a dongle.
Some mobile broadband with unlimited data works abroad. However, there may be a limit to how much data you can use while travelling. With some providers, you may also need to pay extra to use the broadband abroad.
Yes, if you have a router, you can share the connection with other users and devices.
