When it comes to choosing a mobile network in the UK, two of the most popular options are EE and O2. Both networks have their strengths and weaknesses, and deciding which one is better ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of each network, comparing their coverage, speeds, plans, and features to help you make an informed decision.
Network Coverage
Network coverage is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a mobile network. You want to ensure that you have a reliable connection wherever you go, whether you’re in a bustling city or a rural area.
EE Coverage
EE boasts an impressive 99% 4G coverage across the UK, with over 150,000 square kilometers of 4G coverage. This means that you’re likely to get a strong signal in most areas, including rural locations. EE also has a strong 5G network, with coverage in over 100 towns and cities across the UK.
O2 Coverage
O2’s 4G coverage is slightly lower than EE’s, at around 98%. However, O2 has been working hard to improve its coverage, and it now offers 4G in over 90% of the UK’s landmass. O2’s 5G network is also growing, with coverage in over 60 towns and cities.
Network Speeds
Network speeds are another important consideration when choosing a mobile network. You want to ensure that you can stream, browse, and download content quickly and smoothly.
EE Speeds
EE is known for its fast network speeds, with average 4G speeds of around 30-40 Mbps. EE’s 5G network is even faster, with average speeds of over 100 Mbps. This makes EE a great choice for heavy data users who want to stream and download content on the go.
O2 Speeds
O2’s network speeds are slightly slower than EE’s, with average 4G speeds of around 20-30 Mbps. However, O2’s 5G network is still relatively fast, with average speeds of around 50-70 Mbps.
Plans and Pricing
When it comes to plans and pricing, both EE and O2 offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets.
EE Plans
EE offers a range of pay monthly plans, including SIM-only deals and handset plans. EE’s plans start at around £10 per month for a basic SIM-only deal, and go up to around £60 per month for a premium handset plan. EE also offers a range of add-ons, including extra data, minutes, and texts.
O2 Plans
O2 also offers a range of pay monthly plans, including SIM-only deals and handset plans. O2’s plans start at around £10 per month for a basic SIM-only deal, and go up to around £50 per month for a premium handset plan. O2 also offers a range of add-ons, including extra data, minutes, and texts.
Features and Perks
Both EE and O2 offer a range of features and perks to enhance your mobile experience.
EE Features
EE offers a range of features, including:
- EE TV: EE’s TV service, which offers a range of live and on-demand content.
- EE Music: EE’s music service, which offers a range of streaming options and exclusive content.
- EE Games: EE’s gaming service, which offers a range of games and exclusive content.
O2 Features
O2 also offers a range of features, including:
- O2 Priority: O2’s loyalty scheme, which offers exclusive rewards and discounts.
- O2 Refresh: O2’s tariff, which allows you to upgrade your phone at any time.
- O2 Travel: O2’s travel service, which offers a range of roaming options and exclusive deals.
Customer Service
Customer service is an important consideration when choosing a mobile network. You want to ensure that you can get help and support when you need it.
EE Customer Service
EE offers a range of customer service options, including:
- EE Website: EE’s website, which offers a range of support and troubleshooting options.
- EE App: EE’s app, which allows you to manage your account and get support on the go.
- EE Customer Service Number: EE’s customer service number, which is available 24/7.
O2 Customer Service
O2 also offers a range of customer service options, including:
- O2 Website: O2’s website, which offers a range of support and troubleshooting options.
- O2 App: O2’s app, which allows you to manage your account and get support on the go.
- O2 Customer Service Number: O2’s customer service number, which is available 24/7.
Conclusion
So, which network is better: EE or O2? Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for fast network speeds and a wide range of features, EE may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a strong focus on customer service, O2 may be the way to go.
| Network | Coverage | Speeds | Plans | Features | Customer Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE | 99% 4G coverage | Average 4G speeds of 30-40 Mbps | Range of pay monthly plans, including SIM-only deals and handset plans | EE TV, EE Music, EE Games | EE website, EE app, EE customer service number |
| O2 | 98% 4G coverage | Average 4G speeds of 20-30 Mbps | Range of pay monthly plans, including SIM-only deals and handset plans | O2 Priority, O2 Refresh, O2 Travel | O2 website, O2 app, O2 customer service number |
By considering the factors outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision about which network is best for you. Whether you choose EE or O2, you can be sure that you’ll get a reliable and feature-rich mobile experience.
What are the key differences between EE and O2 mobile networks in the UK?
EE and O2 are two of the largest mobile network operators in the UK, each offering a range of services and features to their customers. One key difference between the two is their network coverage and speeds. EE boasts the fastest 4G speeds in the UK, with an average download speed of 32.5 Mbps, while O2’s average download speed is 15.1 Mbps. Additionally, EE has a wider 4G coverage area, with 99% of the UK population covered, compared to O2’s 98% coverage.
Another significant difference is the pricing and plans offered by each network. EE tends to be more expensive than O2, especially for its high-end plans with large data allowances. However, EE also offers more premium features, such as free access to BT Sport and Apple Music, which may be attractive to some customers. O2, on the other hand, offers more affordable plans with smaller data allowances, making it a better option for those on a budget.
Which network has better coverage in rural areas?
Both EE and O2 have made significant investments in improving their rural coverage in recent years. However, EE still has a slight edge in this area, with 99% of the UK population covered by its 4G network, including many rural areas. EE has also partnered with the UK government to provide 4G coverage to 95% of the UK’s landmass by 2025, which will further improve its rural coverage.
O2 also has a strong rural coverage, with 98% of the UK population covered by its 4G network. However, some rural areas may experience slower speeds or patchier coverage compared to EE. It’s worth noting that both networks offer a range of solutions for customers in rural areas, including signal boosters and community-led initiatives to improve coverage.
What are the benefits of choosing EE over O2?
One of the main benefits of choosing EE over O2 is its faster 4G speeds and wider coverage area. EE’s network is also more reliable, with fewer dropped calls and better overall performance. Additionally, EE offers a range of premium features, such as free access to BT Sport and Apple Music, which may be attractive to some customers.
EE also offers a more comprehensive range of plans and tariffs, including high-end plans with large data allowances and international roaming. EE’s customer service is also highly rated, with a range of support options available, including online chat, phone, and in-store support. Overall, EE is a good option for customers who want a fast, reliable, and feature-rich mobile network experience.
What are the benefits of choosing O2 over EE?
One of the main benefits of choosing O2 over EE is its more affordable pricing and plans. O2 offers a range of budget-friendly options, including SIM-only plans and pay-as-you-go tariffs, which can be attractive to customers on a budget. O2 also offers a more flexible approach to data usage, with the ability to roll over unused data to the next month.
O2 also has a strong focus on customer service, with a range of support options available, including online chat, phone, and in-store support. O2’s customer service is highly rated, with a reputation for being friendly and helpful. Additionally, O2 offers a range of perks and rewards, including exclusive discounts and offers, which can be attractive to customers who want to get more value from their mobile network.
Can I keep my existing phone number if I switch from EE to O2 or vice versa?
Yes, you can keep your existing phone number if you switch from EE to O2 or vice versa. Both networks offer a number porting service, which allows you to transfer your existing phone number to your new network. This process is usually straightforward and can be completed online or in-store.
To port your number, you’ll need to request a PAC (Porting Authorization Code) from your existing network, which will be valid for 30 days. You can then provide this code to your new network, who will transfer your number and activate your new service. It’s worth noting that number porting can take a few days to complete, so you may experience a short period of downtime during the transfer process.
Do EE and O2 offer any international roaming options?
Yes, both EE and O2 offer international roaming options, allowing you to use your phone abroad. EE offers a range of roaming add-ons, including a “Roam Further” pass, which allows you to use your data, minutes, and texts in over 50 countries. EE also offers a “Roam Like Home” service, which allows you to use your phone in the EU and other European countries at no extra cost.
O2 also offers a range of roaming options, including a “Big Bundle” tariff, which includes international roaming in over 40 countries. O2 also offers a “Roam Like Home” service, which allows you to use your phone in the EU and other European countries at no extra cost. Both networks also offer a range of pay-as-you-go roaming options, which can be more cost-effective for occasional travelers.
How do I choose between EE and O2 for my business needs?
When choosing between EE and O2 for your business needs, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the size and type of your business, as well as your specific mobile needs. EE may be a better option for larger businesses or those with complex mobile requirements, as it offers a more comprehensive range of business plans and tariffs.
O2, on the other hand, may be a better option for smaller businesses or those on a budget, as it offers more affordable pricing and plans. Both networks also offer a range of business-specific features, such as mobile device management and security solutions, which can be attractive to businesses with specific needs. It’s worth comparing the plans and tariffs offered by each network, as well as their customer service and support options, to determine which is the best fit for your business needs.