How do I find the best cell phone network for where I live? In this guide, NextPit explains how to find out the network coverage of Telekom, Vodafone, o2 & Co. We also explain what you need to consider when deciding between a mobile operator and a discount provider.
Table of Contents:
The various network providers advertise with massive data volumes and a large network. However, the quality of these networks is not necessarily the same everywhere. Various factors play a role here, such as where you live or even the construction of your own house. You should also consider what access points are in your everyday life as well as at home.
Especially the selection of the supposedly best network provider is sometimes difficult. Because many pay more attention to the price and the volume of data available, and then get annoyed that the reception in small towns or even in the big city is not satisfactory. On the contrary, this should not mean that the most expensive rates are also the right one for you.
Daftar Isi
Check the network coverage in your place of residence
Most of you may have already heard of network coverage. It is, on the one hand, whether there are transmission masts in your area and, on the other hand, how many masts are installed for what number of users. Many network providers have maps ready for you on their websites, where you can see if you are in the catchment area or not. In the table below you will not only find the direct links, but also our fee summaries if you are interested in a specific provider and looking for deals.
NextPit Fee Summaries!
*SIMon uses Vodafone’s LTE network and does not offer its own network coverage map.
In addition to their own maps, there are always independent companies that thoroughly check the network coverage of mobile phone providers. Magazine “connect” it also performs an annual 4G and 5G network coverage test. On the previously linked page you will find the independent peer test.
On the map you will find the network coverage of the three largest providers! / © Connect
Of course, poor reception does not directly mean that the chosen network is not covered. Disturbances in the mobile network also often cause problems. You can find more information on this at alle disturbances.de. On the page you will not only find all current bugs, but you can also report them there at the same time.
Difference Between Network Operators and Discount Providers
The choice of different rates can be quite overwhelming. Of course, for many of us, the price we have to pay in the coming months is what counts most, and the duration of the contract. Discount providers, in particular, sometimes cut prices so low that one wonders why anyone should opt for O2, Vodafone or Deutsche Telekom. The answer is often hidden in the fine print of cheap fares.
Discount stores sometimes restrict ranges from the start of the contract. No matter how good the reception is, the speed of mobile Internet is simply not enough.
Discount providers also rent on the networks of major carriers. For example, on Saturn you have some offers from Mobilcom-Debitel, which operate on the Telekom network. However, the fact that Mobilcom only uses the networks can cause significant problems. This is because network operators give preference to their own customers and limit the scope of services for other users if the load is high.
Especially at big events like Google I/O there can be network issues! / ©Google
This means that you will experience interference and poor reception more often than Telekom customers. I am a Mobilcom-Debitel customer myself, but so far I have only seen my cell phone network suffer at major trade shows. So if you’re interested in a discount provider, be sure to take a closer look at network coverage ahead of time!
When in doubt, you’ll find monthly cancellable rates at almost all discount providers. This gives you the opportunity to test the provider first before committing to 24 months and then look down in terms of receiving.
You should definitely pay attention to this!
Of course, now the question arises what you should pay attention to if you want to get a new mobile phone contract. To make sure you don’t have any problems at home or on the way to work, you should first check the network coverage of your preferred provider.
Next, you need to consider other external aspects. For example, if you live in an older house with thick walls, your network may also suffer. So, it is advisable to place the smartphone near windows and doors to be able to make calls in peace. If that’s not an option, you can also use your WiFi to make calls using messengers like Facebook, WhatsApp, or Telegram. The mobile network is irrelevant if you are connected to a WLAN network.
It is also important that you pay attention to where and how fast you are moving. Of course, I don’t mean that you don’t run a marathon between the kitchen and your bedroom, but you certainly catch the train from time to time during your commute. Check network coverage maps to see if commonly used routes are covered, and note that reception tends to suffer at higher speeds.
That was the NextPit How-To, how you can find the riveter with the best cell phone reception for where you live. Do you have any other tips to improve your network at home? And what do you pay attention to when choosing a supplier? Tell us in the comments!