What's Three Mobile Broadband Like?
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Keeping connected to the world is something of increasing importance for us all. With Three mobile broadband, this dream becomes a reality by bringing a WiFi connection with you wherever you go! What is mobile broadband, how much does it cost, and is it any good? Read on to find out.
How Does Three Mobile Broadband Work?
Whereas traditional broadband relies on a router and modem being physically connected to the broadband network, mobile broadband operates without the need for a physical link. Instead, the mobile broadband hub/router picks up 3G, 4G and 5G signals (in the same way that your mobile does), and then re-emits these signals as WiFi.
Each mobile broadband modem contains a SIM card, like a normal phone, and has a designated “phone number”. It is this that identifies the signals broadcast from local network towers and allows the device to retransmit those signals again as a form of hotspot.
This enables you to move your router around the house to find the best signals without lengthy cables getting in the way, or even take your WiFi connection on the road with you.
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Why Should I Use Three Mobile Broadband?
As we have briefly touched on, by getting rid of the reliance on fixed-cable connections, you are able to bring a reliable broadband connection with you wherever you go. This is ideal for holidays, those who work away from the office or on the go, and homes that do not have a traditional network connection. A few further benefits of mobile broadband are:
- No phone line rental
- Freedom of movement
- Various plan lengths
- Faster than DSL/ADSL connections
- Supports connections of up to 64 devices
- An interchangeable SIM card allows you to change providers with the same device
In short, mobile broadband offers a greater degree of flexibility than that of fibre, ADSL, satellite, and even dongle plans, both in terms of portability, plan type, and simplicity.
How Good Is the Three Mobile Broadband Speed?
Of course, having a direct physical connection to the broadband network will generally always be superior to that of wireless connections in terms of speed. Wireless signals are more prone to interference such as competing signals, the volume of devices connecting, and also simply the physical obstacles such as buildings and hills that wireless signals must navigate around.
That is not to say that Three mobile broadband or any of their competitors such as Eir or Vodafone have a weak speed, however, but sacrificing superfast speeds for portability is a necessary exchange for those who need broadband on the go. Typically mobile broadband experiences the following speeds.
| 5G | 100 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| 4G | 20 Mbps | 9 Mbps |
| 3G | 6 Mbps | 1.6 Mbps |
Two of the biggest factors that will dictate the type of speeds you can get are the type of signals that are available in your area, and your device's capabilities. For example, if you purchase a 5G router, but live in an area where 5G is not commonly available, then your service will be downgraded to the next available signal type. Likewise, if you purchase A 4G router and live in a 5G ready area, you could avail of even faster speeds than you currently have.
How fast is your broadband? Take our free internet speed test to find out if you are getting what you pay for.
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What Is the Three Mobile Broadband Network?
Three broadband Ireland claims to have the most extensive mobile network in Ireland, with a total 4G population percentage coverage rate of 99%. While 5G continues to be rolled out, it is still largely currently present within heavily populated areas such as cities and large towns. If you are interested in seeing what type of Three mobile broadband signals you can avail of, check out their interactive coverage checker.
With this simple tool, you can find out exactly where 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G signals are strongest, which will help you to decide which package to go for and if mobile broadband is really the right choice for you.
What Are the Three Mobile Broadband Reviews Like?
Three mobile broadband is one of the main offers of mobile broadband in Ireland. Although Three customers usually talk about their experiences with the Three mobile contracts, Three mobile broadband has had it's ups and downs as well according to reviewers. Overall, on Trustpilot, Three is rated 1.4 out of 5 from 993 reviews. Many customers have complained about the lack of customer service and the slow speeds they have experienced with Three mobile broadband. However, there are many customers who have been happy with the service.
What Are the Three Mobile Broadband Ireland Plans?
Now for the important bit, what plans and prices they offer. What is important to note, is that for plans which do not have an internal battery, you will be required to connect to a power source in order for your router to function. Additionally, all plans include an unlimited data allowance.
| Three Mobile Broadband Plan | Price Per Month | Plan Duration | Signal Type | Internal Battery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Three Broadband Unlimited | €29.99 | 24 Months | 4G | Yes |
| Three Unlimited Broadband SIM Only | €29.99 | 30 Day Rolling | 4G | Yes |
| Three Broadband Unlimited 5G | €39.00 | 24 Months | 5G | No |
| Three Broadband Unlimited 5G | €54.99 | 12 Months | 5G | No |
Last Updated: 21/07/2023
The 5G plans come with a Three 5G HUB ZTE MC801A router as standard, however, the 4G plans come with a choice of a Huawei B535-333 for €109.99, a Huawei E5576-322 for €59.99, or the option to use your own router at no additional cost.
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Can I Get Three Mobile Broadband for Business?
Of course! Professionals who need to jump between sites need not worry about losing connectivity with one of the four Three mobile broadband plans currently available.
| Three Mobile Broadband Plan | Monthly Price Ex VAT | Data Limit | Appropriate For | Internal Battery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Three Business Mobile Broadband 3 GB | €7 | 3 GB | Light Use | Yes |
| Three Business Mobile Broadband 15 GB | €15 | 15 GB | Moderate Use | Yes |
| Three Business Unlimited | €25 | Unlimited | Heavy Use | No |
| Three Broadband Unlimited 5G | €54.99 | 12 Months | 5G | No |
Last Updated: 21/07/2023
If you are interested in taking out a Three mobile broadband Ireland deal for your business, you will need to contact Three broadband directly, as their business packages are not available to order over their website.
Curious about how people feel about Three Broadband Ireland? Check out our broadband review guide to find out how they rate compared to other providers.
Three Mobile Broadband Frequently Asked Questions
Where Can I Find My Mobile Broadband Number?
Your Three mobile broadband number can be found in your order confirmation email and your package information. You may need this for certain account management tasks.
Your Three mobile broadband number can be found in your order confirmation email and your package information. You may need this for certain account management tasks.
Is Three Mobile Broadband Better Than Fibre?
Mobile broadband offers mobility but sacrifices speed. Wireless broadband is unlikely to be as strong or stable as fixed-line connections.
Mobile broadband offers mobility but sacrifices speed. Wireless broadband is unlikely to be as strong or stable as fixed-line connections.
Does Mobile Broadband Work Anywhere?
So long as your device can pick up signals, it should work. Very remote locations or areas that are not conducive to viable signal strength will struggle to maintain a connection.
So long as your device can pick up signals, it should work. Very remote locations or areas that are not conducive to viable signal strength will struggle to maintain a connection.
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