Guide to 5G in the UK
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What is 5G? Ultimate Guide to: UK Coverage, Devices, and More

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The introduction of 5G technology is changing how we communicate and engage with the outside world. It is becoming increasingly important for both consumers and companies to utilise this latest generation of mobile technology as the UK continues to extend its 5G network. This in-depth UK 5G guide examines its coverage, devices that work with it, and how it differs from 4G.

What Is The 5G Network?

Simply put, 5G stands for 5th generation wireless technology. It doesn’t have quite the same ring to it, but it sure does make it clearer. In other words, it is an upgrade from our beloved 4G.  

Offering faster data download and upload speeds through greater use of radio spectrum, 5G allows for more devices to access mobile internet at the same time! 

But 5G technology is more than simply quicker data downloads for images, movies, and other types of content. The new network is designed to link a vast number of so-called Internet of Things (IoT) devices. These devices are expected to enable the development of smart cities, smart industries, and smart transportation because they will be constantly connected to the network, communicate with one another, and use algorithms based on Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Graphic of 5G data connecting across London city skyline

A massively improved network speed is always great, but no use if your phone is slowing you down! Learn why your phone is so slow & how to speed up your mobile here – or continue reading to discover the difference between 4G and 5G:

5G In the UK: Overview

The UK has led the way in the deployment of 5G, with both larger municipalities and rural regions progressively being connected to this cutting-edge network. In the UK, 5G deployment started in May 2019 and has gradually spread throughout the nation since that moment. Nevertheless, quality connections can be less likely if you move further away from urban areas.

5G data imposed over London's Big Ben in the UK

5G UK coverage is expected to grow, however, it will not completely replace the previous generations of mobile network technology. Instead, the new standard is going to become yet another ‘layer’. Once your device loses connection to 5G in the UK, it should automatically switch to 4G, 3G, or 2G networks. We believe it’s important to stay ahead of these trends, which is why we’ve created this guide to 5G in the UK.

Key Benefits of UK 5G Network Technology

There is no need to wear a tinfoil hat since the UK’s 5G network tech is as safe as it can be. What is more, this new standard offers its users a plethora of advantages, especially when compared to the earlier networks. Take a look at some of the most crucial 5G benefits for users based in the United Kingdom:

  • Enhanced Speed: 5G is 100 times faster than 4G, allowing you continuous streaming and speedy downloads.
  • Decreased Latency: lower latency improves real-time applications like video conferences and online gaming.
  • Better Connectivity: 5G is perfect for highly populated places since it can accommodate more devices at once without sacrificing performance.

These are the largest pros for day-to-day users. However, the new network technology offers a lot more. Its implementation is necessary when it comes to creating the so-called smart cities. Thanks to its connectivity to the Internet of Things (IoT), the tech highly improves how separate devices work together in a versatile environment, allowing them to exchange data between one another.

It is safe to say that the technology of tomorrow is already available today. And, in time, it will become even more widespread throughout the whole nation.

UK 5G Coverage In a Nutshell

In the UK, 5G is expected to become widely available in the upcoming years. However, availability may vary by area. Most urban areas already have the finest and most robust network infrastructure, while rural regions are still gradually catching up.

Furthermore, the specifics of where 5G is available in the UK, can vary between different network operators. Whether you use EE, Vodafone, Three, O2, or a different service provider, the actual 5G UK coverage might be slightly different.

5G UK Coverage In 2024: Cities and Towns of Great Britain

Let us compare the actual UK coverage of 5G in different areas, associating four of the largest British mobile network providers. Click the box below to expand

Country in the UKCity or townEE (plus BT, CMLink)Vodafone (plus ASDA, VOXI, Virgin, Lebara, Talkmobile)Three (plus iD Mobile, SMARTY)O2 (plus Sky, Tesco, Gifffaff, Lyca)
ScotlandAberdeen
Dumfries and Galloway
Dundee
Edinburgh
Falkirk and Stirling
Galashiels
Glasgow
Inverness
Kilmarnock
Kirkcaldy
Kirkwall
Lerwick
Outer Hebrides
Perth
EnglandBath
Birmingham
Bournemouth
Brighton
Bristol
Cambridge
Central London
East London
Gloucester
Ipswich
Leeds
Leicester
Liverpool
Manchester
North London
North West London
Nottingham
Portsmouth
Sheffield
South East London
South West London
Southampton
Warrington
West London
Wolverhampton
York
WalesCardiff
Llandrindod Wells
Llandudno
Newport
Swansea

The Best Network Providers for 5G In the UK

Although 5G coverage is quickly spreading throughout the UK, it is still vital to verify the precise coverage maps that network providers have supplied. You can check this coverage easily on their official websites.

And if you are new to the British network providers, here is a quick recap of the four largest companies on the 5G UK market:

  • EE: Frequently credited with possessing the most extensive 5G coverage, EE has spearheaded the fifth-gen network deployment. The company launched this service in May 2019.
  • Vodafone: Vodafone provides a wide range of 5G coverage, especially in big cities and well-liked tourist locations. This UK network provider started offering the new network standard in July 2019.
  • Three: Well-known for providing unlimited Internet plans, Three’s 5G network is spreading quickly throughout the United Kingdom. It was the last to introduce the tech to its customers, which took place in February 2020.
  • O2: With coverage in several cities and a strong emphasis on customer care, O2’s 5G network is expanding pretty quickly. The first clients were connected to the new network technology in October 2019.

Click on one of the network providers listed above to go directly to their official websites. There you will be able to check the network coverage for UK 5G connection, and also the earlier technology standards (2G, 3G, and 4G).

UK beach with cell phone tower next to giant 5G graphic

TOP Mobile Devices Compatible With 5G In the UK

The number of smartphones compatible with the 5G network in the UK is constantly growing. With a variety of Samsung, Apple, Google, and Nokia mobile phones to choose from, it might be a challenge to choose the right device. Thus, we recommend taking a closer look at some of the finest 5G mobiles for the UK in 2024. We have decided on the 5 bestselling 5G phones on the UK market right now.

P.S. The order is completely random, as every single smartphone is a great model. The final choice is entirely up to you!

1. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 represents the next stage in the development of Samsung’s flip phones.

The 3.4-inch Super AMOLED display has a resolution of 720×748 and a maximum brightness of 1600 nits. In practice, this means that the screen is visible in bright sunlight and many functions can be used without opening the flip.

The Galaxy Z Flip6 is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, which is a natural progression – previous Flips also used Qualcomm’s best SoC. Combined with 12 GB RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, it’s hard to complain about performance. In everyday use, everything runs smoothly and without any clipping.

The Galaxy Z Flip6 excels in terms of communication. In 5G on C-band, it delivers speeds of more than 1 Gbps and supports VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling without problems.

Overall, the latest Samsung flip phone is a great addition to its family of smart devices.

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

The latest version of the fold phone is quite similar to its predecessor, the Z Fold 5 model.

With a refreshed design, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. The smartphone also utilizes a stronger 3.39 GHz processor, i.e. the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy.

Furthermore, the mobile phone looks exceptionally elegant. The Korean manufacturer has built this device with attention to even the smallest detail. You get two panes of Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an aluminium frame. The change in the design of the smartphone also lies in the fact that it is now not only water-resistant but to some extent also dust-resistant, meeting the IP48 standard.

In terms of connectivity, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 offers its users the same set of standards as its predecessor. You can connect to the Internet efficiently and quickly via 5G or Wi-Fi 6E, Of course, there is also Bluetooth at your disposal, as well as NFC for contactless payment in shops.

This mobile is one of the UK’s favourites right now.

3. iPhone 15 Pro

There are countless reviews and opinions that try to convince us that iPhone 15 Pro is the best smartphone on the market. As a matter of fact, it is one of the bestselling models in the UK this year.

On the outside, this model is quite similar to its predecessors, i.e. the 13 Pro and 14 Pro models. With a titan frame, though, the whole design is a lot sturdier and more robust. However, one should not judge a book by its cover.

The iPhone 15 Pro features a 6.1″ LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED panel with a 120 Hz refresh rate. It has an unusual resolution of 1179×2556, which translates into a pixel density of around 461 PPI.

At the heart of the iPhone 15 Pro is Apple’s new A17 Pro chip. This six-core unit has been made using 3nm lithography. It features two high-performance cores clocked at 3.78GHz and four energy-efficient 2.11GHz cores. There’s also a six-core Apple GPU, 8GB of RAM, and NVMe internal storage.

If you want performance, quality, and style – go for it; the new Apple iPhone has it all.

4. Google Pixel 8a

If you want to stand out from the crowd, Google Pixel 8a is a fine way to achieve your goals.

This weird-looking mobile almost resembles a children’s toy phone. Especially in its blue cover. It may look funny, but it sure handles itself pretty neatly. The Pixel 8a is 8.9 mm thick, so it is not a very slim device, but combined with the 6.1-inch screen, this results in excellent ergonomics. The smartphone feels great in the hand and it makes you want to use it.

Inside you will find the Tensor G3 chip (4 nm), co-developed by Google and Samsung. The same unit can be found in the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, so the smaller model is in no way inferior to them. The Tensor G3 consists of nine CPU cores, with the fastest Cortex-X3 accelerating to 3 GHz.

When it comes to UK 5G network compatibility, the model is a very good choice. You can fully enjoy high-speed 5G internet in the C-band. Furthermore, the device also utilizes VoLTE and WiFi Calling technologies for swifter connectivity.

For those looking for an affordable, yet innovative smartphone, this model is the perfect option.

5. Samsung Galaxy S24+

The flagship series of Samsung phones surprises its users year after year. The Samsung Galaxy S24+ is no different from its precursors.

It features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display measuring 6.7 inches. The S24+ utilizes a QuadHD+ (1440 x 3120 pixels) panel instead of FullHD+, like the Ultra version. The refresh rate ranges up to 120 Hz.

Within the phone lies its secret to faster responsiveness. The Exynos 2400, 3,10 GHz processor, together with 12 GB RAM and a 4900 mAh battery makes a difference. If you need even more reliability, then go for the Ultra model, in which you will find a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy, 3,40 GHz processor.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ is a smartphone worth recommending. Want some more suggestions? See our list of the Best Phones for Business of 2024.

Looking for a different device? Find your favourite from our Top 5+ Best Tablets for Business Work now!

The Different Levels Of 5G  – What is the difference between 4G and 5G?

Not all 5G is created equally. Like many things in tech, there are different levels to 5G.  

Firstly, we have the lower band which is 600MHZ. This one has the furthest range with the signal travelling through walls and buildings and reaching the most people both indoors and outside. It is around 20% faster than your standard 4G and is arguably the most beneficial.  

Secondly, we have a medium band of 2.5GHZ. This produces a mid-range signal and is 2-4 times faster than 4G.   

Finally, we have the highest band which is a millimetre wave. This is arguably the fastest, however can be easily blocked by even the smallest of things. This signal is affected by rain and even a piece of paper making it quite unreliable.

What is the difference between 4G and 5G

UK 5G vs. 4G: a Quick Comparison

5G in the UK has been a significant upgrade in terms of speed and latency. How does it compare to the widely accessible 4G network?

In terms of speed:

  • 4G: Average download speeds of 20-30 Mbps, peaking at 150 Mbps in optimal conditions.
  • 5G: Speeds exceeding the point of 1 Gbps, with potential upgrades in the future.

In terms of latency:

  • 4G: Latency around 50 milliseconds, which is enough for most activities online with only some delays.
  • 5G: Latency reduced to just 1 millisecond, allowing for a lag-free user experience when using apps online.

As you can see, 5G UK is far more effective. All you need to do, if you want to gain access to the new network standard, is grab a new 5G phone, and you are good to go!

The Previous Generations: 1G, 2G, 3G, and 4G

Let us take you down memory lane with the predecessors of 5G: 

Firstly, we have 1G. The first-ever implementation of the mobile network with the delivery of analogue time. 1G supports voice-only calls with a maximum speed of 2.4Kbps.  

Then we have 2G, the introduction of a digital voice. This tech introduced call and text encryption, along with SMS, picture messages and MMS. The general speed of 2G was 50Kbps.  

3G which is the implementation and mass usage of mobile data. This meant you could use your phone in more data-demanding ways such as video calling and mobile internet access. The maximum speed of 3G was estimated to be around 2 Mbps for non-moving devices and 38Kbps in moving vehicles.  

And finally, 4G. An enhancement to the era of mobile broadbands. Released in 2008, 4G supported mobile web access like 3G, as well as gaming services, HD mobile TV, video conferencing, and other features that require high speeds. Max speed of 4G when the device is moving is 100Mbps, and 1Gbps when stationary or walking.  

5G FAQs

When Did 5G In the UK Come Out?
5G in the UK was formally introduced in May 2019. EE was the first network operator to deploy the service. Later that year, other big providers did the same, and the network has been growing ever since.
What UK 5G Networks Are the Best?
The answer depends on your personal preferences and your current location. UK 5G coverage may vary in different towns and cities. Compare the network’s accessibility in EE, Vodafone, Three, and O2, the four largest providers in the country.
What Is the Cheapest UK 5G Phone?
Consumers on a tight budget may choose from several reasonably priced 5G smartphones in the UK. The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 5G are well-liked choices that provide decent performance at an affordable cost.
Are 5G Phones Worth It?
Purchasing a 5G phone is becoming more and more worthwhile, particularly if you want to retain your phone for many years or reside in a region with strong 5G service. Considering the advantages of increased connection, reduced latency, and quicker speeds, 5G phones in the UK are a wise investment.
Is 5G Safe For My Health?
Yes, 5G is safe for your health. Extensive studies by institutions such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Public Health England (PHE) have shown no evidence that 5G causes health concerns. Radiation levels from 5G are considerably below safety standards, as are those from existing mobile networks.
What are the benefits of 5G?
5G offers several key advantages for businesses and everyday users. The most noticeable benefit is faster data speeds. This allows for smoother video calls, quicker downloads, real-time collaboration, and more reliable cloud access. Another major benefit is lower latency. This means devices respond more quickly, which is important for applications such as remote work tools, video conferencing, IoT sensors, fleet tracking, and any service that depends on real-time communication. 5G also supports far more devices at once, making it ideal for busy workplaces, large teams, and organisations that rely heavily on mobile connectivity. This added capacity reduces congestion and keeps performance consistent, even during peak usage.
Why Do We Need 5G?
The world is going mobile with more and more data being consumed every single day. With the streaming of videos and music, the existing spectrum bands are unable to take all this new traffic. This congestion is leading to breakdowns in the service especially when many people are trying to connect in one area. 5G is able to handle the high demand more effectively, therefore providing the optimal service.

5G In the UK: Conclusion

5G is not just a catchphrase; it is a game-changing technology that is changing the British digital environment. Knowing what 5G in the UK has to offer is crucial, regardless of where you reside. Now is a wonderful time to research your options and get ready for the future of connection if you want to upgrade to a 5G gadget.

Thanks for reading our guide to 5G in the UK. Prefer using WiFi? Here’s how to get Free London Underground WiFi for EE, Vodafone, Three, and O2 customers!

Otherwise, discover our breathtaking business mobile plans & packages and business SIM only deals now!explore our latest offers for the best 5G phones in the UK!

Need a fixed number for your workplace? Learn how to get a UK business number for free now!

Picture of Jacob Williamson
Jacob Williamson
Jacob Williamson is a technology enthusiast, writer, and Marketing Executive for BusinessMobiles.com. With over four years in the B2B telecoms sector and 6+ years reviewing and testing emerging tech, from eBikes and new cars to cryptocurrency, Jacob is passionate about innovation and connectivity. Outside of work, he enjoys travelling, training martial arts, practicing guitar, and relaxing by the beach.

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