1pMobile Review: Is it any good? Affordable Pay-As-You-Go Plans & EE Network Speeds

1pMobile Review: Budget-Friendly and Reliable PAYG Option with EE’s Coverage

Overview of 1pMobile
1pMobile has carved out a space in the UK market as a straightforward, low-cost mobile provider offering pay-as-you-go (PAYG) services. It’s known for simplicity and budget-friendly access to one of the best mobile networks in the country. Unlike traditional contract-based options, 1pMobile appeals to customers seeking flexibility with dependable coverage, without complicated pricing tiers.

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1pMobile is a UK-based mobile provider offering affordable pay-as-you-go plans with simple, transparent pricing at 1p per MB, minute, and text. Operating on EE’s network, it delivers reliable 4G and 5G coverage across the UK. Ideal for budget-conscious users, 1pMobile combines flexibility and quality without contract commitments.

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Network Performance and Coverage – Does 1pMobile Deliver?

1pMobile operates on the EE network, which is highly rated for both coverage and speed. EE provides 99% population coverage for 4G across the UK, and 1pMobile customers can access this extensive range, whether in urban centers, rural areas, or along major roads.

1pMobile’s access to EE’s 5G network is another key advantage, especially as EE rapidly expands its 5G footprint in high-traffic areas. EE has consistently topped UK network performance tests, and this extends to its MVNOs like 1pMobile. While peak times may occasionally lead to minor prioritization impacts on MVNO data speeds, EE’s network generally ensures solid speeds and a seamless experience across most areas.

Data Speeds – How Fast is 1pMobile?

One common question is how fast 1pMobile’s data speeds are, given it uses EE’s infrastructure. Based on independent speed tests from providers like Opensignal and Speedtest by Ookla, EE ranks as one of the fastest networks in the UK. This advantage largely benefits it’s users as well, with typical 4G download speeds averaging between 30 and 100 Mbps and 5G speeds often exceeding 150 Mbps in urban areas.

This speed range is more than adequate for daily tasks like browsing, streaming, and even HD video calls. While speed can fluctuate slightly depending on location, congestion, and device compatibility, they offer a strong option for those seeking a responsive, high-speed mobile experience without paying premium prices.

Is Unlimited Data Really Unlimited?

A frequently searched question is whether “unlimited” data with 1pMobile truly means unlimited. While 1pMobile’s data bundles include an “unlimited” option, it’s subject to a fair usage policy with a cap at 500 GB per month. This limit is intended to prevent excessive network strain from very high-usage activities. For everyday browsing, streaming, and gaming, 500 GB should cover nearly all needs. However, it’s worth noting for customers who rely heavily on data for tethering, frequent streaming in high definition, or other intensive tasks.

Does 1pMobile Offer eSIM?

As of today, 1pMobile does not support eSIM technology. This could be a limitation for those looking for the ease of digital SIM activation without the need for a physical card, especially as more providers add eSIM options. However, they may consider eSIM capabilities in the future as demand grows.

Key Pros and Cons of 1pMobile

Pros

1. Wide Network Coverage: Reliable EE network ensures extensive 4G and growing 5G availability across the UK.
2. Strong Data Speeds: High-speed data averaging 30–100 Mbps on 4G and reaching over 150 Mbps on 5G.
3. Flexible PAYG Options: Ideal for light to moderate users who don’t want the commitment of long-term contracts.

Cons

1. No eSIM Option: 1pMobile currently only offers physical SIM cards.
2. Fair Usage Limit on “Unlimited” Data: 500 GB cap for heavy data users, which may affect high-volume users.
3. No Dedicated App: Account management is through a web portal rather than a mobile app, which some users might find less convenient.

FAQ Section

• What network does 1pMobile use?
  1pMobile uses the EE network, known for its extensive coverage and dependable service quality throughout the UK.
• Is 1pMobile a good choice for data speeds?
  Yes, 1pMobile benefits from EE’s strong performance, with average 4G speeds around 30–100 Mbps and 5G often surpassing 150 Mbps.
• Does 1pMobile offer eSIM?
  Currently, 1pMobile does not support eSIM. Users need a physical SIM card to activate service.
• Is the “unlimited” data really unlimited on 1pMobile?
  The unlimited data option has a fair usage limit of 500 GB per month, which is more than enough for most users but could impact very high-data consumers.

Conclusion

1pMobile is a great fit for those seeking a simple, cost-effective mobile solution with access to the dependable EE network. With reliable coverage, high data speeds, and flexibility in PAYG usage, 1pMobile is a smart choice for users who prioritize affordability without sacrificing network quality. However, heavy users should be mindful of the 500 GB fair usage policy on unlimited data, and eSIM fans will need to wait for potential future support.