The latest performance tests from Ookla have revealed that Three Mobile is leading the way in providing fast download speeds for mobile users in the UK. Three outperformed its major competitors, securing the top spot with an impressive average download speed of 214Mbps, which is significantly higher than its closest rival by over 80Mbps. This speed is also twice as fast as the average fixed-line broadband speed in the UK.
Vodafone claimed the second position in the rankings, followed by EE in third place, while O2 lagged behind with the slowest speeds across all categories. According to Ookla, Three has been recognized as the Fastest 5G Network in the United Kingdom for Q3–Q4 2025, based on its Speed Score that evaluates a network’s throughput and responsiveness.
Key results from Ookla’s tests include Three leading with an Overall Speed Score of 53.46, followed by Vodafone at 43.05, EE at 36.73, and O2 at 30.70. In terms of median download speeds, Three recorded 214Mbps, Vodafone 129.78Mbps, EE 97Mbps, and O2 78.92Mbps. For median upload speeds, Three achieved 13.8Mbps, Vodafone 10.78Mbps, EE 10.96Mbps, and O2 8.28Mbps.
While these results highlight Three’s strong performance, it is important to note that testing mobile networks can be challenging due to users’ constant movements and changing network conditions. Despite this, Three’s top ranking is evident, and its performance is expected to further improve following its merger with Vodafone, forming VodafoneThree. The merged entity aims to enhance the mobile network in the UK through a significant £11 billion investment.
Since the merger, VodafoneThree has initiated the integration of the two networks using “Multi-Operator Core Network” technology. This integration enables customers of both Vodafone and Three to seamlessly connect to each other’s networks at no additional cost, potentially enhancing coverage and performance nationwide.