RootMetrics has released its latest UK mobile performance report based on more than 600,000 tests carried out in the second half of 2023.
The analysis evaluates real-world user experience across the UK, its constituent nations, and 16 major metropolitan areas. Below is a clear summary of how the main operators—EE, Three, Virgin Media O2, and Vodafone—performed over the testing period.
EE maintains overall dominance
For the 21st consecutive report, EE won the UK Overall RootScore Award, reaffirming its position as the country’s leading network. EE took every nationwide award as well as the top spots in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
The operator delivered median download speeds that were nearly double those of its closest rivals and scored highest for reliability. EE also recorded strong 5G availability and performance, underlining its leadership in the UK mobile market.
Three overtakes EE in 5G
Three showed marked improvement and secured the second-highest number of Metro Area RootScore Awards. Notably, Three edged past EE to claim the Best 5G award for the second half of 2023.
With increased 5G availability and competitive speeds, Three is strengthening its position as a significant competitor in the UK market.
Virgin Media O2 shows progress
Virgin Media O2 recorded clear gains across major cities, achieving faster median download speeds and wider 5G availability.
The operator continued to excel in text performance, winning or sharing text awards in 12 of the 16 cities tested, and demonstrated measurable improvements in 5G metrics—an encouraging sign as its network development continues.
Vodafone’s strong performance
Vodafone delivered a solid showing, improving its 5G performance and increasing speeds. Distinctively, Vodafone was the only operator to post 5G median download speeds above 100 Mbps across all 16 tested cities.
The report highlights Vodafone as a powerful contender that consistently secures awards while offering enhanced 5G experiences.
UK-wide performance highlights
Across nationwide testing, EE’s dominance was clear, taking all seven UK RootScore categories for the fifth consecutive period. At the same time, 5G availability continued to expand for every operator.
Measured 5G availability during nationwide testing showed Three at 57.6 percent, Virgin Media O2 at 54.5 percent, EE at 52.3 percent, and Vodafone at 41.9 percent.
EE recorded the fastest median 5G download speed at 174.1 Mbps, followed by Three at 165.7 Mbps and Vodafone at 158.3 Mbps. Virgin Media O2 posted a median 5G speed of 68.7 Mbps.
All operators are investing to increase 5G availability nationwide and to deploy mid-band spectrum acquired last year. RootMetrics expects these rollouts to deliver a more consistent and faster experience for users in more locations over time.
(Photo by Nicolas Peyrol on Unsplash)
See also: CMA launches Vodafone-Three merger investigation
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