What is mobile broadband?
Mobile broadband, just like fixed broadband, provides access to the internet, but the connection is made via a provider’s mobile network instead of landlines and a fixed network. This means that mobile broadband is not tied to a specific address or location, but can be used anywhere the provider has network coverage.
Info! Since mobile broadband is wireless, many people use it interchangeably with WiFi, but it is not the same thing. Mobile broadband is a type of broadband that provides internet access via the network, while WiFi is a network standard that can offer multiple devices wireless access to a network. What’s more, the network can be both fixed and mobile.
Bill Pay plans are the most common option for mobile broadband, but some providers also offer Pay as you go data-only SIMs. The process works just like buying a Bill Pay plan or Prepay SIM for your phone, with the important exception that mobile broadband does not include minutes or texts – only data.
How mobile broadband works
When purchasing mobile broadband, you generally have the flexibility to choose how you want to get connected. Many providers offer the option to bundle your plan with a device (such as a router or portable hotspot), or to simply choose a SIM-only plan if you already have your own hardware.
Whichever option you choose, you will receive a SIM card to insert into your router, USB modem, or the device you wish to connect, such as a tablet or laptop. The SIM card contains all the key information including details about your plan, serving as the link between you and your provider.
Which solution is best for you depends on how you intend to use your connection. Below, we describe the various options in more detail.
Different options for mobile broadband
- Mobile broadband router: A mobile broadband router is a larger router that plugs into a standard power socket. This option is ideal if you want to connect multiple devices to the same network and primarily plan to use the connection at a fixed location, like your home or office.
- Mobile hotspot/Pocket WiFi: A mobile hotspot (sometimes called a MiFi or Pocket WiFi) functions like a standard router but is smaller, battery-powered, and portable. It creates a WiFi network that moves with you, making it easy to get online while travelling inside Ireland. This is the best option if you need to connect multiple devices on the go.
- USB Modem/Dongle: A dongle is a USB stick that houses the SIM card. You connect to the internet by plugging the dongle directly into a USB port on your laptop or computer. This is a good option if you want to provide internet access to a single device that does not have a built-in SIM card slot.
- SIM card only: If you already have a router or device with a SIM card slot, you can choose to order a data-only SIM for mobile broadband.
How to choose the best mobile broadband
Do you need a new device?
Before ordering mobile broadband, you need to decide whether you want to purchase the broadband with a device or if you prefer to order just the SIM card. If you don’t already have a router, dongle, or tablet to insert the SIM card into, it might be convenient to purchase one when you order mobile broadband.
With many providers, you can choose to pay for the device upfront or spread the cost over a Bill Pay contract of 12, 18, or 24 months. If you sign up to a Bill Pay contract, you will typically pay off the device during the contract period. You will also benefit from a discount when signing up to a broadband subscription.
Choose a provider with good network coverage in your area
To take full advantage of your mobile broadband data, the provider must have good network coverage in the location you access their network. On many providers’ websites, you can enter your Eircode to check the network coverage in your specific area.
Look for plan variety
When purchasing mobile broadband, the data allowances you can choose from will vary between different providers. Choose a provider that offers plans matching your needs and habits as closely as possible. This also makes it easier if you need to upgrade or downgrade your data allowance on your mobile broadband in the future.
Compare prices and value
The price of mobile broadband is mainly determined by your data allowance. The price level varies between different providers, with the larger providers generally being more expensive than the smaller operators. However, a lower-cost provider is not necessarily the best option for you; it’s important to weigh up the complete package for value for money. For instance, if you prioritise comprehensive support and a wider range of options, it might be worth paying extra. We recommend comparing various mobile broadband deals to find the right balance for you.
Which mobile broadband is the cheapest?
is the cheapest mobile broadband right now (checked on 19/09/2026). The cost is €/month when you sign a -month contract.
How does prepay mobile broadband work?
Prepay mobile broadband works much like a Prepay SIM for your mobile, except the plan includes data only, not calls or texts. Some providers simply call these Prepay top-ups ‘Data’, while others add more detail with, for example, ‘Prepay SIM for mobile broadband’ or ‘mobile broadband pay as you go’.
Is there mobile broadband with unlimited data?
Yes, many providers offer mobile broadband plans with unlimited data. This means you are free to use data with your mobile broadband each month within reason. Some providers may, however, impose limits (often called a Fair Usage Policy, FUP) if they notice that your usage is excessively high.
Unlimited data mobile broadband can be a good option if you don’t want to use or can’t access fixed broadband, and instead will use mobile broadband as your primary internet source. It can also be a good option if you need to use a large amount of data each month.
How fast is mobile broadband?
On the 5G network, average speeds for mobile broadband are around 200 Mbps, while average speeds on the 4G network are about 40 Mbps. However, the exact speeds may vary between different providers and your location.
Does mobile broadband support 5G?
Yes, several providers offer mobile broadband that supports 5G. If you want to access the 5G network with your mobile broadband, all the devices you use must support 5G. This applies to your phone, tablet, computer, router, or dongle. With several providers, you can choose between a 4G and a 5G router. If you purchase a device with 5G support, you may need to pay a higher monthly bill, but in return, you can enjoy data at higher speeds.
