Quick Overview
EE (BT Group) and Vodafone are both major independent UK network operators with their own mast infrastructure. Vodafone is one of the world's largest telecoms companies and was the first UK operator to launch a 5G commercial network in May 2019. EE launched 5G the same month and has since built the widest 5G footprint in the UK.
| Category | EE | Vodafone |
|---|---|---|
| Parent company | BT Group | Vodafone Group |
| 5G launch | May 2019 | May 2019 |
| 5G locations (approx.) | 150+ | 100+ |
| 4G population coverage | ~99% | ~99% |
| APN | wap.vodafone.co.uk | wap.vodafone.co.uk |
| Major MVNOs | BT Mobile | VOXI, Lebara, Talkmobile, UW |
| Roaming | Smart Benefits (EU incl.) | Roam-Free (EU incl. on eligible plans) |
Coverage & 5G
EE holds the largest 5G footprint in the UK by number of locations covered, including strong rural towns and transport corridors. Its spectrum portfolio — covering 700 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2.6 GHz and 3.4 GHz bands — gives it significant capacity in both urban and rural environments.
Vodafone has expanded rapidly since its 2019 5G launch, covering 100+ UK towns and cities. Its 5G uses 3.4–3.8 GHz (n78) spectrum acquired in Ofcom auctions. For indoor coverage, Vodafone's 800 MHz band (Band 20) provides strong building penetration on 4G. In major city centres, Vodafone 5G performance is competitive with EE.
Data Speeds
Both networks deliver 25–50 Mbps average on 4G nationwide. EE consistently scores higher in independent UK speed tests due to its wider spectrum and more densely deployed 5G. In cities, EE 5G often averages 150–300 Mbps download; Vodafone 5G typically achieves 100–250 Mbps in the same areas. Upload speeds are broadly similar — 10–20 Mbps on 4G, 30–70 Mbps on 5G.
Plans & Pricing
EE SIM-only plans range from approximately £10/month (10 GB) to £35/month (unlimited with streaming perks). EE's premium tiers include bundled Apple TV+, Amazon Prime or BritBox, making them good value if you already pay for streaming.
Vodafone SIM-only plans are comparable in price — around £10–£30/month depending on data tier. Vodafone's Unlimited Lite, Unlimited and Unlimited Max tiers offer clearly differentiated speed caps and hotspot capabilities. Budget users can access Vodafone's network at a lower price through the VOXI MVNO (unlimited social data from £10/month).
APN Settings Compared
| Setting | EE | Vodafone |
|---|---|---|
| APN | wap.vodafone.co.uk | wap.vodafone.co.uk |
| Username | wap | wap |
| Password | secure | wap |
| MCC / MNC | 234 / 30 | 234 / 15 |
| MMSC | http://mms/pict | http://mms.vodafone.co.uk/servlets/mms |
| MMS Proxy | 149.254.201.135 | 212.183.137.012 |
| MMS Port | 8080 | 8799 |
Full guides: EE APN settings · Vodafone APN settings
Roaming
EE includes EU roaming on most pay-monthly plans, letting you use your UK data, calls and texts allowance in 47 EU and EEA countries. Non-EU add-ons cover the US, Australia and popular holiday destinations.
Vodafone's Roam-Free benefit is included on most plans and covers EU countries plus some additional destinations. Vodafone's global roaming reach is extensive — useful for frequent international travellers. Both networks use the same domestic APN when roaming in the EU.
MVNOs on Each Network
EE's MVNO ecosystem is smaller, with BT Mobile being the primary consumer-facing option. Vodafone hosts several popular MVNOs: VOXI (unlimited social/streaming), Lebara (international calling), Talkmobile, and Utility Warehouse. If you prefer an MVNO for lower cost while staying on good infrastructure, Vodafone's roster gives more options.
⭐ Verdict
EE wins on 5G breadth and rural coverage. Vodafone counters with competitive pricing, a strong international roaming package, and a wider MVNO selection. Power users and rural dwellers should lean EE; city-based users and international travellers may prefer Vodafone's offer.