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What Exactly is 4G Broadband?

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4G or Fibre?

Don’t be fooled by the name – 4G broadband is very different to your traditional home Wi-Fi!

In some cases, it might be a better option for you.

We’ll explain all the how’s, what’s and why’s you might have.

What is 4G Broadband?

4G broadband is a cutting-edge internet connection.

It’s often used as an effective substitute for regular broadband, and we’ve explained why.

Unlike standard phone-line-based arrangements, 4G broadband frees you from the constraints of wire.

How?

By delivering a smooth internet connection to households over the omnipresent 4G mobile network that spans the majority of the UK.

Why Not Just Use Wi-Fi?

In some areas, internet suppliers have limited infrastructure.

This means that some homes simply can’t access faster broadband because they don’t have fibre optic cables installed in their area.

People living in more rural towns might also find that they have limited choice of suppliers and consequently fewer deals to pick from.

Whilst fibre coverage is expanding every day, lots of people are understandably looking for alternative Wi-Fi solutions.

How do I Access 4G Broadband?

You can connect to 4G broadband in a few ways.

Our experts have covered the main three ways below:

‘Tethering’ – The ‘tethering’ feature on your smartphone effectively turns it into a Wi-Fi hotspot. You will be able to connect a small number of gadgets and devices, but your usage will be limited. You might also notice that your mobile data is quickly eaten up when you do this, so it’s key to review your contract terms.

A Mobile Broadband ‘Dongle’ – A mobile broadband ‘dongle’ is a small gadget with 4G or 5G capability. It connects your devices using Wi-Fi or a USB to give you internet access. Compared to ‘tethering’, you can access more data and at a faster speed with a dongle.

A Dedicated Router – By using a dedicated router, you can connect more devices and handle more traffic than you can with tethering or dongles. Most large mobile networks offer this type of router, as it gives you a strong connection wherever you go.

What are the Benefits of 4G Broadband?

There’s a lot of important benefits to 4G broadband.

Our experts rate the top five perks to be:

  • Reliable Speeds. 4G broadband is faster than the speeds you receive to your mobile phone, as it uses more advanced hardware.  This is what makes it comparable to broadband, rather than mobile data signal.
  • Widely Available. Because 4G is practically everywhere, it is an excellent choice for rural WiFi and other areas lacking cable infrastructure.
  • No Fuss Set-up. Installation is quick and simple, requiring little to no setup.
  • Portable. Certain routers can be transported with you when you travel, allowing them to deliver WiFi in a caravan, for example.
  • Flexible Packages. You are not usually locked in long term with 4G broadband, as flexible packages are more readily available. One of our suppliers even offers a 30-day rolling contract.

Are There any Drawbacks of 4G Broadband?

Despite all the benefits, there are a few factors to consider.

  • Limited Bandwidth and Speed: 4G networks can provide impressive speeds, but they still have limitations in terms of bandwidth compared to newer technologies like 5G. As more users connect to a 4G tower, the available bandwidth is shared, leading to potential slowdowns during peak usage times. This is especially the case in densely populated areas or during crowded events.
  • Signal Interference: 4G signals can be affected by physical obstacles such as buildings and trees. Interference can lead to weaker signals and reduced network coverage, particularly in rural areas.
  • Limited Coverage: We’ve already hinted at this one! While 4G coverage is widespread in many areas, it may not be available in more remote or rural locations. This is something we can help you identify.
  • Data Caps and Throttling: Many 4G broadband plans come with data usage limits and may impose throttling or reduced speeds once those limits are reached. This can be a concern for heavy data users who rely on consistent high-speed connections.
  • Security Concerns: 4G networks, like any wireless technology, can be vulnerable to security breaches. Unauthorized access to the network can pose risks to user privacy and data security.

What About 5G Broadband?

5G works the same as 4G – it’s just considerably faster!

5G broadband is still fairly new and therefore less widely available than 4G, but coverage is growing consistently.

Your supplier will let you know if you’re eligible for 5G, as this depends solely on their network.

It’s also worth noting that 5G is currently more expensive than 4G.

Should I Consider Getting a 4G Broadband Deal?

If you live in a rural area with limited internet availability, it could be a perfect solution for you.

4G and 5G broadband solutions are growing in popularity due to being flexible, fairly priced, and reliable.

However, if your area also struggles with flaky mobile signal, this could affect your service.

This is something our experts can help you decide.

Start searching for the latest deals in your area today and see which plan is best suited to you.

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SIM-Only Plans: Everything you Need to Know

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New to SIM-only plans?

Switching to a SIM-only deal for the first time can seem daunting – but it could also be a smart, savvy, and exciting move for you.

Not everyone needs the latest handset with an eye-wateringly priced contract.

In fact, most people don’t.

This is why we help sign up countless customers to a new SIM-only deal every day. If you’re happy with your current mobile device, it could be perfect for you too.

Read on to learn everything else you need to know.

What is a SIM-only deal?

A SIM-only deal does exactly what it says on the tin.

Rather than sticking with a long term, £30+ monthly contract to pay off the cost of a new device, you’re only paying for your usage.

Your usage includes texts, minutes, and data – not the handset itself.

Once you picked a suitable plan, you’ll receive a SIM card, which is a small and removable card you can put straight into your current mobile to activate it and connect you to the network.

A lot of people don’t realise when they’re out of contract, so they often end up overpaying for months when they already own the phone outright and could switch to a SIM for no-brainer savings!

Benefits to consider

Our experts have explained all the benefits of getting a SIM-only plan below.

  • Money savings. As you’ll have guessed it, SIM-only plans are considerably cheaper than handset contracts. Our SIM-only deals start from just £5 per month, whereas the average contract is at least £30 per month.
  • Personalised usage. Not only will your bill be cheaper, but you’ll find that SIM-plans can be a lot more generous too. In a few quick clicks, we’ll help you find a deal that gives you all the minutes, texts and data you need.
  • Freedom and flexibility. A lot of networks will offer you 30-day rolling contracts, Pay -as-you-go, or short term SIM-only plans. Given that the average contract length is 24 months, a short-term SIM would be perfect if you don’t want to be tied down. What’s more, a lot of deals give you the freedom to change or end your plan whenever you want – as long as you give a bit of notice.
  • Travel-ready. If you’re going abroad, a SIM-only plan gives you the freedom to use minutes and data internationally, without it costing you a fortune.

Are there any disadvantages of a SIM-only plan?

The only resounding difference between a contract and a SIM-only plan is that you don’t get a new mobile included with your deal. This means you’ve got to own a device beforehand, which might not suit every customer.

Networks may also be less likely to throw in freebies and perks with a SIM-only plan, due to their competitively low prices.

However, if you’re looking to save up money (perhaps for a new device?), a SIM-only plan helps you do just that, without any long-term commitments.

How do I set up a SIM card?

Once you have your new SIM card, you’ll need to activate it.

This typically involves calling your carrier or visiting their website to input your SIM card information and set up your account. Make sure you have your phone’s IMEI number handy, as well as any other information your carrier requires to activate your account.

Once your account is set up and your SIM card is activated, your new phone is ready to go!

If you’re switching carriers, you may need to transfer your contacts and other data from your old phone to your new one. This can be done using a cloud service or through a USB cable.

Regardless of what deal you choose; our experts will guide you through the whole switching process and explain everything you need to know.

Will a SIM-only plan affect my credit score?

Unlike a pay monthly mobile contract, signing up for a SIM-only doesn’t involve a credit check.

Making regular-timed payments every month for your SIM deal helps you to build a positive payment history, which will boost your credit score over time.

This makes a SIM-only deal more attractive if you’ve had issues with your credit rating in the past and want to build it back up.

What is an eSIM?

eSIMs are still a fairly modern invention, but they’re set to take off in the near future. Rather than having a separate SIM card to put into your phone, your phone will have one prebuilt into the device.

When switching network carriers, eSIMs can be reprogrammed with ease, making them a popular choice for users with multiple phone numbers with one device.

Find your new SIM-only plan in seconds

Switching to a SIM-only plan is simple when you do it through our experts.

You tell us a few quick details, and we’ll find you a new plan that’s guaranteed to save you money.

You’ll never go without usage and you’ll notice you’re saving more money every month from the get-go.

If you like the sound of that, we suggest you take the plunge and switch to a SIM-only deal today!

Still not sure if SIM-only is right for you?

Read our blog explaining four key reasons why a SIM-only plan might suit you.

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Here’s Why you Need to Embrace 5G

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You may have noticed some tall masts in your area.

Sure, we know they’re a bit of an eye-sore.

But if you rely heavily on mobile internet, you’ll soon realise you’re actually in luck!

5G is set to change the way the entire world communicates, so here’s our expert deep dive.

First there was 3G – now we’re on another level

It was 10 years ago when 4G networks started taking over from 3G.

Fast forward 7 years to 2019, when 5G was first introduced by mobile networks EE and Vodafone.

5G was designed to be up to 10X faster than 4G.

Using smaller wavelengths and higher frequencies, this means that more users can connect simultaneously – without sacrificing speed.

This means the average mobile user connected to 5G could download nearly an hour of Netflix content in less than 20 milliseconds!

The issue of availability

You might be thinking, if 5G is so great, why aren’t we all connected to it?

There are two main issues preventing this being from being the case.

The issue of availability is still prevalent, with some more rural parts of the UK yet to see any developments.

New areas are becoming eligible every week, and 5G is expected to be available nationwide by 2025.

There’s also the issue of price – seeing as a lot of networks need you to buy their latest model.

This can quickly become off-putting if you compare alone, which is why we’ve made it easy to see every deal in one place.

Which networks offer 5G currently?­

EE, O2, Sky, Three, Vodafone and Tesco Mobile currently boast the most 5G coverage across the UK.

What’s more, major phone makes including Samsung, Apple and Huawei all offer 5G compatible models – and the list is always growing.

Why don’t you check your eligibility for free today?

What about 5G broadband?

5G broadband is already on the way. However, 4G broadband has been popular for years – and it’s not going away any time soon.

With 4G broadband, you essentially use a mobile router, which relies on air waves instead of a wired signal.

If you have strong mobile service where you are (but maybe not the best Wi-Fi options), this could be the solution for you.

Currently, EE, Three, Vodafone and Neatley, an independent supplier we’re proud to support, all offer 4G broadband deals.

If your network already offers 5G and mobile broadband, you’ll get the best of both worlds!

Will 5G replace 4G for good?

As previously mentioned, 5G isn’t predicted to be used across the UK until 2025.

Until then, 4G remains the go-to in a lot of areas.

This doesn’t mean incredible developments aren’t in the works every day. Plans for 5G use include high-tech bus shelters, street/traffic lights and modernised healthcare, just to include a few.

It also has the power to improve energy sustainability across the UK, with large businesses looking to invest.

Ready to upgrade?

Have we caught your attention?

It’s understandable – who wouldn’t want the fastest mobile speeds possible?

Regardless of how you plan on using 5G, we’ll make sure you get the right deal.

Before diving headfirst into plans and providers, you should compare with our friendly experts to ensure you find the right price.

 

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