Mobile Broadband Guide

Mobile broadband checkers

A mobile broadband checker will tell you the most important thing you need to know when you're looking for a mobile broadband package: does your chosen service actually work in your area?

Mobile broadband is a convenient alternative to having to use a fixed line connection to access the internet, allowing you to get online on the go, and you don’t even have to sign a monthly contract for it.

But it’s only as good as the connection you get, and some areas can suffer from poor reception. So how do you find out whether your chosen provider offers a good mobile broadband service where you live? Rather than travelling the country waving a dongle around, mobile broadband checkers can tell you what your connection will be like by postcode.

Why use a mobile broadband checker?

The UK’s mobile broadband services use the mobile phone networks to get you online. If you’ve ever lost reception on your phone in the middle of a call, you’ll know how frustrating it is, and the same thing can happen to your mobile broadband connection if you’re in an area that only receives a weak signal.

How to check mobile broadband coverage

To find out how well your chosen provider covers the area you live in, at a glance, check the maps in our mobile broadband coverage article.

Generally speaking, you’ll find that bigger cities receive a stronger or more consistent mobile broadband signal, and that Orange Mobile Broadband (www.Orange.co.uk) and Three (www.Three.co.uk) offer the best coverage overall.

For a check that’s more specific to a certain town or area, visit the website of your chosen provider and use their mobile broadband checker.

However, it’s important to note that many mobile broadband checkers only show you what your coverage will be like outdoors at your chosen postcode. The coverage and speeds you actually receive will depend on a number of factors, including your distance from the local mobile phone mast, the thickness of your walls and the time of day that you log on - peak times are busier, so connection speeds are often slower.

Once you've done your research, visit the Broadbandchoices.co.uk comparison service to shop around for the best mobile broadband deals.