Giffgaff is one of the most popular mobile networks in the UK, known for its affordable SIM-only plans, flexible goodybags, and contract-free services. But have you ever wondered which network Giffgaff actually uses?
The answer is simple: Giffgaff operates on the O2 network. This means that Giffgaff users get the same 4G and 5G coverage as O2 customers, but with Giffgaff’s unique pay-as-you-go and goodybag pricing.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into Giffgaff’s network, coverage, speed, reliability, and how it compares to other UK networks.
which network is giffgaff?
Giffgaff is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), which means that instead of running its own network infrastructure, it uses another provider’s network to offer services. In this case, Giffgaff runs on O2’s network, which is one of the UK’s largest and most reliable mobile networks.
Because Giffgaff is powered by O2, users enjoy the same coverage, call quality, and data speeds as O2 customers—but at lower prices and with more flexibility.
Key Benefits of Giffgaff Using O2’s Network
✔ Widespread Coverage – Over 99% population coverage in the UK.
✔ 4G & 5G Support – Access to O2’s fast and expanding 5G network.
✔ Reliable Network – Strong indoor and outdoor signal strength.
✔ EU Roaming – Free EU roaming in 30+ countries.
✔ No Contracts – Use O2’s network without being tied to a long-term plan.
How Good is Giffgaff’s Coverage?
Since Giffgaff uses O2’s infrastructure, it provides nationwide coverage, including rural areas where some other networks may struggle.
???? 4G & 3G Coverage
- Giffgaff’s 4G network covers over 99% of the UK population, ensuring smooth browsing, video streaming, and social media usage.
- 3G coverage is also widely available for older devices or areas where 4G is weaker.
???? 5G Coverage
- Giffgaff officially supports 5G in the UK.
- 5G is available in hundreds of cities and towns, and coverage is expanding rapidly.
- To access 5G, you need:
✅ A 5G-compatible phone
✅ A Giffgaff SIM card
✅ A 5G goodybag (£10 or higher)
✅ Be in a 5G-covered area
???? Check Coverage: You can check if your area has strong Giffgaff signal strength by using the Giffgaff coverage checker on their website.
How Fast is Giffgaff’s Internet Speed?
Giffgaff’s speed depends on O2’s network performance in your area. Here’s what you can expect:
???? 3G Speeds – Around 3-5 Mbps (basic browsing & messaging).
???? 4G Speeds – Between 15-50 Mbps (smooth streaming & downloads).
???? 5G Speeds – Up to 200+ Mbps (ultra-fast downloads & gaming).
How Does Giffgaff Compare to Other Networks?
| Network | Average 4G Speed | Average 5G Speed | Coverage (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Giffgaff (O2 Network) | 18-30 Mbps | 100-200 Mbps | 99%+ (4G) |
| EE | 35-70 Mbps | 150-300 Mbps | 99%+ (4G) |
| Vodafone | 25-50 Mbps | 100-250 Mbps | 99%+ (4G) |
| Three | 25-50 Mbps | 150-300 Mbps | 98%+ (4G) |
???? Giffgaff’s speeds are good for everyday use, but may be slightly slower than EE or Vodafone, which focus on premium speeds. However, Giffgaff’s plans are much more affordable!
Does Giffgaff Work Abroad? (EU Roaming & International Use)
Yes! Since Giffgaff runs on O2, it also offers EU roaming at no extra cost.
???? Free EU Roaming: Use your calls, texts, and data in 30+ European countries just like in the UK.
???? International Roaming: Outside the EU, you can still use your Giffgaff SIM, but at standard roaming rates.
???? Note: Giffgaff enforces a fair usage limit of 5GB per month for EU roaming. If you exceed this, extra charges apply.
Giffgaff vs O2: Which One is Better?
Since Giffgaff runs on O2’s network, you might wonder whether it’s better to get a Giffgaff SIM or stick with O2 directly.
Key Differences
| Feature | Giffgaff (O2 Network) | O2 |
|---|---|---|
| Contract Required? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (for most plans) |
| Unlimited Data? | ✅ Yes (£25 Plan) | ✅ Yes (£35+) |
| 5G Access? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Goodybag Flexibility? | ✅ Yes (No contracts) | ❌ No (Mostly contracts) |
| Roaming? | ✅ Free EU roaming | ✅ Free EU roaming |
| Customer Service? | ???? Online community support | ???? Call centres & stores |
???? Choose Giffgaff if: You want a cheaper, no-contract, and flexible plan with O2’s coverage.
???? Choose O2 if: You prefer traditional customer service & extra perks like free Apple Music.
Final Thoughts: Is Giffgaff’s Network Good?
✅ Giffgaff is powered by O2, meaning you get strong 4G and 5G coverage across the UK.
✅ Reliable speeds – While not the fastest in the UK, Giffgaff provides solid performance for streaming, browsing, and social media.
✅ Best for budget-conscious users – Giffgaff’s no-contract, pay-as-you-go model makes it one of the most affordable ways to access the O2 network.
✅ Great for travelers – Free EU roaming and international use make Giffgaff an excellent choice for frequent travelers.
???? Bottom Line: If you want a cheap, flexible, and reliable SIM-only plan with nationwide coverage, Giffgaff is an excellent choice!