Large-Scale Performance Test Reveals Little Difference Between UK’s Mobile Network Operators and Third-Party Operators
London, UK – In a recent large-scale performance test conducted by Spectrum policy experts PolicyTracker, it was determined that the UK’s four main mobile network operators (MNOs) – Three, O2, Vodafone, and EE – offer a slightly better service than the cheaper third-party operators using their networks. However, for the average customer, this difference is unlikely to be noticeable.
The test, which was carried out using the SignalTracker mobile app, involved 40,000 tests across a variety of urban, suburban, and rural locations in the UK. The purpose of the test was to compare the performance of MNOs against mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that use their infrastructure.
The results showed that in the urban and suburban areas tested, all networks consistently achieved download speeds of over 20 Mbps, which is considered sufficient for everyday usage. This means that for the average consumer, there is unlikely to be a noticeable difference between MNOs and MVNOs in terms of download speed.
However, when it comes to reliability, MVNOs were found to be more likely to experience failed tests compared to MNOs. This means that while their download speeds may be similar, MNOs offer a more consistent and reliable service.
One notable difference was seen between the performance of Three and its partner MVNO, iD Mobile. In the suburban tests, Three averaged 105 Mbps download speed, while iD Mobile only achieved 26 Mbps. A similar difference was seen between O2 and its MVNO, giffgaff, with O2 consistently outperforming giffgaff in terms of speed.
The report also analyzed the mobile bands used by network operators and their MVNOs, but found that this did not significantly impact performance in most cases. However, it was noted that iD had slower speeds compared to Three due to its lack of access to certain mobile bands.
While MVNOs may offer generally better value for consumers, the report also highlighted the advantage of MNOs when it comes to 5G standalone (5G SA) – the ultra-fast service offered by EE, Vodafone, and O2. Currently, no MVNOs have access to 5G SA, and when these results were factored into the comparison, it was found that average download speeds could reach over 100 Mbps.
This makes 5G SA a significant advantage for customers who require high-speed internet for tasks such as streaming, gaming, and downloading large files. However, for the average consumer, the difference between MNOs and MVNOs may not be significant enough to justify the higher cost.
To learn more about the findings and methodology of the test, interested parties can read the full report by completing a form on the PolicyTracker website.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.