orange vs three

Im_just_careful

I've tried PAYG data over a few months for Vodafone, T-Mobile, "3" and Orange.

Based on 3G data use I've been most impressed with Vodafone and "3", T-Mobile are OK but Orange are worst (I've not tried O2).

On the other hand the Orange 2G (voice) network is fine.

Penetration of 3G into buildings seems noticably worse than 2G

To get the best from a smartphone you really need 3G coverage. Ideally try with a PAYG sim before you commit to a long trm contract.

matrix999

Im_just_careful wrote: »

I've tried PAYG data over a few months for Vodafone, T-Mobile, "3" and Orange.

Based on 3G data use I've been most impressed with Vodafone and "3", T-Mobile are OK but Orange are worst (I've not tried O2).

On the other hand the Orange 2G (voice) network is fine.

Penetration of 3G into buildings seems noticably worse than 2G

To get the best from a smartphone you really need 3G coverage. Ideally try with a PAYG sim before you commit to a long trm contract.

I agree re the Orange 2G service is good in most areas, forget it for 3G its pants! If its just calls and texts then I'd say Orange will be ok in most areas with the added bonus of T Mobile as back up.

WelshBluebird

I have just moved from Orange to Three and certainly have seen an improvement in coverage and in data speeds (up from at most 2Mbps with Orange to getting around 5Mbps with Three).

Minardi

3 certainly has the fastest and broadest data network, but since the 2G switch off this area has become patchy at best. Texts are delayed up to 24 hours as the signal is so poor it can't get through. No chance of a call. All I'm trying to say is it's no use having the best data network if you can't use it! Here, you can't. Other than that, I always had good service with 3, until I had to cancel my contract. Now with Vodafone and although 2G coverage is robust, everything else is worse!

Dr_B_2

Im_just_careful wrote: »

...

Penetration of 3G into buildings seems noticably worse than 2G...

I'm assuming they use a higher frequency, which would account for that. High frequencies are more likely to be absorbed by buildings.

For that reason, all things being equal, O2 and Vodafone are likely to afford better reception than Everything Everywhere and 3, regardless of nominal coverage. The former use lower frequency GSM bands. I think O2 uses a lower frequency UMTS band (3G) than the others too.