What is 3G?

The term 3G refers to the third generation of mobile phone standards, as set by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). 3G technologies allow mobile operators to offer more service options to their users, including mobile broadband. 3G offers greater flexibility and services by making more efficient use of mobile bandwidth than its predecessor 2G.

Compare 3G mobile broadband packages at uSwitch now.

The relationship between 2G and 3G is similar to that of dial-up and broadband, or terrestrial TV and digital TV. In all of the latter examples, greater spectral efficiency has enabled more consumer choice and a more effective service. Simply put, more data can be transmitted faster.

3G and mobile broadband

3G enables devices such as mobile phones and mobile dongles to deliver broadband speed internet. Most new, top-of-the-range mobile phones are 3G enabled, making it easy to check emails and browse the web on the go.

Mobile broadband via dongles and smartphones has taken off extremely fast. Mobile broadband allows customers to browse the internet, check email and download files, music and video clips from their laptops and PCs wherever there is coverage.

3G technology is made possible by two complementary technologies - HSDPA and HSUPA (high speed download and upload packet access, respectively). These technologies enable mobile broadband users to access download speeds of up to 21Mbps and upload speeds of up to 1.76Mbps via a mobile dongle, USB modem or MiFi.

Predecessors of 3G such as 2G and GPRS offered limited internet connectivity that was often costly and slow. Conversely, because 3G uses the airwaves more efficiently, it can offer greater speeds with prices start at around £10 per month.

Who offers 3G mobile broadband?

• Vodafone
• T Mobile
• Three
• Orange
• O2

Want to know more?

uSwitch have a number of guides to make understanding 3G as simple as possible.

• What is a mobile dongle?
• What is mobile broadband?