Mobile network coverage map

Use the mobile coverage checkers to compare major networks EE, O2, Three and Vodafone, plus the smaller providers that piggyback on them. 

Once you've found the network with the best signal in your area, browse the best and worst mobile phone networks in the UK to see which providers have the most satisfied customers.

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Mobile network coverage maps

Use these links to check coverage directly from the telecoms regulator Ofcom and mobile network websites. If you're interested in a virtual provider, scroll down to see which of the big four networks it uses, and check the coverage map for that provider. For example, if you're looking for Giffgaff coverage, use O2's coverage map.

• Ofcom mobile coverage checker
• EE coverage and network status checker
• O2 coverage checker 
• Vodafone network status checker
• Three coverage checker

Which networks do virtual providers use?

Our table shows the four main networks – EE, O2, Three and Vodafone – and the virtual networks that use their infrastructure:

Why do mobile providers using the same network get different performance?

Our survey found that the most common issues mobile customers have are constantly poor phone signal and continuous brief network dropouts. 

We also ask mobile users to rate network reliability. No network in our survey received a five star rating for network reliability, and only four of the 16 managed a four-star rating. 

While this is a subjective rating based on customer’s experiences and perceptions, technically the experience with a virtual network and the network it uses should be almost identical. 

High satisfaction with the overall service could create a more positive opinion of the network’s technical performance.

That’s why using a signal quality map to see how each of the big four networks perform in your area can be a good first step to picking a new provider – particularly in the case of 5G coverage, which is slowly expanding but isn’t available everywhere. 

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, you can shop around for a provider on that network that offers you the best package for your needs. 

The reality of connectivity is that it varies significantly around the country, and quirks of particular areas can impact different users. 

If you struggle with your current network, try switching to a provider on a different network with a one-month Sim deal, and see if it’s an improvement. 

If not, try a different network, until you find performance you are happy with. Switching is so easy now and can be done with just a text message, rather than calling your provider, so there’s no reason to put up with connection issues.

Are you with the best provider? Check our guide to the best and worst UK mobile networks, based on feedback from real customers. You can also read about the best and worst broadband providers.