A new 4G coverage heat map, compiled by wireless coverage mapping company OpenSignal, showcases strength of 2G, 3G and 4G signals available across the UK on key networks – EE, O2, Three and Vodafone.
The 4G coverage checker launched by retailer Mobiles.co.uk uses crowdsourced data from OpenSignal to give an accurate reflection of mobile connectivity across the world.
The heat map reveals that the average 4G speed in the UK is currently at 14.7Mbps, with the strongest signal recorded in the country’s largest cities inclduing London, Manchester and Leeds. Rural areas of Northern England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland are still far behind receiving weaker 4G signal with slower speeds.
Read More: UK 4G speeds have gone down by 50% this year, new report claims
According to Mobiles.co.uk, EE, which currently covers 75 per cent of the UK population in over 300 towns and cities, offers the best 4G coverage.It is also best in terms of overall performance.
“Despite a slow start, the UK has made significant progress in the provision and speed of 4G,” said Jay Karsandas, digital manager at Mobiles.co.uk.
Read More: Network congestion to blame for declining UK 4G speeds
“It is likely that the initially high price point of 4G dissuaded consumers from taking contracts that utilised the high-speed technology. With a range of flexible and competitive 4G plans on offer by major retailers, and a race to provide the most UK coverage, 4G will inevitably be the future of mobile connectivity.”
You too can check mobile connectivity in your area using the map by entering your location in the top bar, adjusting which networks are to be displayed, and choosing from 2G/3G/4G option, in the box at the bottom right. You can even zoom in far to check the extent of local coverage with your mouse wheel.