
Why choose 5G home broadband?
5G Home Broadband: the key facts
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If you're fed up with slow broadband or can't get a fixed-line connection, 5G could be the perfect alternative. It's fast, flexible and super easy to set up. It’s ideal for renters, shared houses or anyone needing reliable broadband without cables or engineer visits. There are also short-term options available for getting online without the long commitment.
What is 5G home broadband, and how does it work?
5G is the fifth generation of mobile networks – faster, more reliable, and ideal for heavy internet use. A 5G router connects to the mobile network and broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal around your home, just like traditional broadband.
Compare 5G broadband deals
Three 5G Home Broadband
- Average speed: 150Mb
- Unlimited data
- Rolling or 24-month contracts
- Prices from £19/month (annual price rises apply)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
See also:
EE 5G Home Broadband
- Average speed: 146Mb
- Setup fee up to £100
- Monthly cost: £21-£50
Vodafone 5G Home Broadband
- Average speed: 150Mb
- 14-day returns policy
- Unlimited or 200GB plans
- Prices from £30/month
- Setup fees: £45-£150, depending on plan (free on some options)
Can 5G broadband replace fibre?
Yes, especially if you're in an area with strong 5G mobile broadband coverage.
Expect:
- Fast speeds (100Mb+)
- No installation or engineer visits
- Connect multiple devices easily
But bear in mind: 5G isn't as consistent as full fibre, and performance can vary by location.
Shop with confidence – Three’s 5G deals come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, if you’re not satisfied with the service, you can request a full refund.
The Vodafone Gigacube comes with a shorter 14-day guarantee.
How do I know if I can get 5G broadband in my area?
To find out whether you can get a 4G or 5G connection in your area, you can use these coverage checkers:
- Three 5G and 4G coverage checker
- EE UK network coverage and status checker
- O2 5G and 4G network map
- Vodafone 5G Coverage and rollout
If you can’t get onto a 5G deal, you could opt for a 4G home broadband deal instead. Providers are normally open to allowing you to upgrade to a package with faster speeds without signing up to a new contract, if the rollout means your area gets improved network coverage.
Is 5G Wi-Fi safe?
Anxiety about radiation from mobile devices isn't new, but 5G has brought these fears back into the mainstream. However, there is no evidence that 5G or any other cell phone technology is harmful.
Studies are being done all the time and the advice may change in the future, but for now, there is no link between mobile phones and cancer, or any other disease.
Pros and cons of 5G broadband
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How to set up your 5G broadband router
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Plug it into a power socket
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Place your broadband hub near a window for best reception
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Test speed in different spots
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Connect your devices, and you’re good to go!
For more help with this, you can read our guide: 'where's the best place to put a Wi-Fi router?'
Test your broadband connection speed
5G vs 4G home broadband
Does our postcode checker show you can’t get Three 5G, but you’re seeing 4G options? Here’s a quick summary of the difference:
| Feature | 4G Home Broadband | 5G Home Broadband |
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| Average speed | 20Mb-30Mb | 100Mb+ |
| Setup | Plug and play | Plug and play |
| Coverage | Widely available | Still rolling out |
| Best for | Basic browsing | Streaming and gaming |
In perfect conditions, it's theoretically possible to get a download speed of 42Mb on a 4G connection. But in reality, most people won't achieve that.
A 4G home hub should achieve a slightly better speed than a mobile phone, thanks to the improved antenna.
FAQs about 5G home broadband
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Can I use 5G broadband for streaming?
Yes. 5G is ideal for streaming, gaming, and video calls, as long as you have a strong signal and a generous, or unlimited data plan.
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Is 5G better than fibre broadband?
It depends on your location. 5G can be faster than a standard fibre broadband service if you have limited options at home, but it isn’t always as consistent as full fibre broadband. It is also more likely to come with upfront costs.
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Can I get 5G at my address?
Try our postcode tool to see your broadband options. Broadband Genie currently lists Three 5G Home Broadband deals, available on both 1-month and 24-month plans.
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What’s the difference between a 5G dongle and router?
A dongle plugs into a single device (like a laptop). A 5G router connects your whole home and multiple devices.
Still unsure if 5G broadband is right for you?
- Try a rolling monthly deal to test 5G without long commitment
- Check Three 5G availability using your postcode
- Or explore other broadband options on Broadband Genie, such as 12-month deals.
Why shop 5G deals with Broadband Genie?
- Broadband Genie is rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
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- Exclusive offers and free gifts