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 5G Technology?
Demonised in some circles, the fifth generation mobile network, or 5G for short, is the latest big thing in mobile connectivity. In the UK, 5G opens up new possibilities for everything from gaming and entertainment to healthcare and smart cities. This technology promises faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and a more dependable connection. Thus, it promises a great improvement in all sorts of mobile Internet experiences.
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).
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 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
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).
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.
Galaxy Z Flip6
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The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 folds for compact portability but unfolds for a business-friendly experience. With Flex Mode for hands-free video calls and multitasking, plus AI-powered features like Live Translate, it helps you stay productive on the go.
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.
Galaxy Z Fold6
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The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 unfolds business productivity with its expansive tablet-like screen. Run multiple apps simultaneously, view full documents in Microsoft Office Suite, and experience powerful AI features optimized for the large display.
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.
iPhone 15 Pro
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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.
Google Pixel 8a
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.
Samsung Galaxy S24+
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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.
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!
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. Want to learn more? See our full list of blog posts here. Otherwise, explore our latest offers for the best 5G phones in the UK!
