EE mobile deals

EE review 2026

EE is the UK's largest mobile network by both subscribers and coverage reach, and is part of BT Group. It consistently ranks as the UK's best-performing network in independent testing by Ofcom and RootMetrics, with the most extensive 4G and 5G footprint of any UK operator. EE is the premium option in the UK mobile market — plans cost more than most rivals and annual price rises apply — but it offers coverage and reliability that competitors cannot match in many parts of the country, particularly rural and remote areas where other networks can be unreliable.

Coverage

EE covers more of the UK than any other mobile network. Its 4G network reaches around 99% of the UK population, and its 5G network is the most extensive of any UK operator, with strong coverage across most major cities and expanding into towns and suburban areas. For users in rural Scotland, Wales, northern England or other remote areas where Three or Vodafone can struggle, EE is typically the strongest choice. Ofcom's network quality reports consistently place EE at or near the top for both geographic breadth and call and data reliability.

Pricing

EE's plans sit at the premium end of the market. SIM only prices are generally higher than those from networks including O2, Three and Vodafone for equivalent data allowances — and significantly higher than MVNOs on the same network such as BT Mobile. EE applies an annual mid-contract price rise linked to CPI inflation plus an additional percentage, typically each April. Over a 24-month contract, this can add meaningfully to total cost. The premium reflects EE's coverage leadership, particularly outside cities, and its customer service infrastructure.

Roaming

EE's EU roaming is not included as standard on most plans. Instead, EE offers a paid daily roaming option — the Roam Away pass — which allows you to use your existing UK allowance in EU and selected other countries for a fixed daily fee. If you travel regularly in Europe, factor this into your cost comparison. Check EE's current roaming page for the specific rates and covered destinations, as terms have evolved since Brexit.

Key features

Customer service

EE offers one of the more comprehensive customer service setups among UK mobile networks. Support is available via high street stores across the UK, by phone, through live chat and via the EE app. As part of BT Group, EE has significant resources behind its customer operations. Customer satisfaction ratings for EE are generally above the industry average, reflecting a support infrastructure that is more developed than most smaller networks.

Who should choose EE?

EE is the right choice if coverage is your highest priority — particularly if you live or regularly travel in rural or remote areas where other networks can be unreliable. It's also a strong option for anyone who values a comprehensive support setup with stores and a phone helpline.

Verdict

EE is the default recommendation for anyone who needs the best possible UK coverage — whether that's a rural location, frequent travel across the UK, or simply wanting the most reliable signal available. The 5G network is the fastest in the UK by independent testing, and the 4G footprint reaches areas where other networks lose signal. The trade-off is clear: EE is the most expensive major network, applies annual price rises, and charges separately for EU roaming on most plans. For city dwellers with good coverage from multiple networks, the premium is hard to justify. For anyone outside major cities who needs confidence in their signal, EE is consistently the strongest choice in 2026.

Frequently asked questions