Network vs network
Vodafone vs Three
Different masts, different deals. We compare price rises in pounds, roaming, credit checks and today’s cheapest SIMs on both.
bemobiles tips
Do they use the same masts?
No. Vodafone uses its own masts and Three uses its own masts. Check coverage at home and work for both.
Which one raises prices?
Vodafone: +£2.50 every April (Basics +£1.50). Three: +£1.80 to £2.30 every April by data.
Which is better abroad?
Vodafone: £2.75 a day in Zone B unless included. Three: Go Roam £2.75 a day unless included.
Vodafone£660
Three£801.60Cheapest SIM with 10GB or more × 24, plus April rises
Live prices; rises estimated for a plan starting this month.
Over 24 months, the cheapest 10GB+ SIM costs £660 on Vodafone and £801.60 on Three once April rises are added — Vodafone is £141.60 cheaper. Vodafone runs on its own masts; Three on its own masts.
Prices checked 28 October 2026 · facts checked monthly · How we compare
Vodafone vs Three, side by side
| Vodafone | Three | |
|---|---|---|
| Masts | Own masts | Own masts |
| Annual price rise | +£2.50 every April (Basics +£1.50) | +£1.80 to £2.30 every April by data |
| Roaming | £2.75 a day in Zone B unless included | Go Roam £2.75 a day unless included |
| Credit check | Hard check | Hard check |
| eSIM | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Calling | Yes | Yes |
| Ofcom complaints per 100k (Q1 2026) | 1 | 2 |
| Cheapest SIM, 10GB+ | £7 a month | £7 a month |
| Cheapest SIM, 30GB+ | £8 a month | £8 a month |
| Cheapest SIM, Unlimited | £26 a month | £12.42 a month |
Highlighted = better on that line. Facts from network terms and Ofcom; prices live.
Our verdict
On price, Vodafone comes out ahead for a typical 10GB+ SIM: £141.60 less over two years once April rises are counted (Vodafone rises add about £60, Three’s about £45.60).
Coverage differs: Vodafone uses its own masts and Three uses its own masts. Check both on the mast owner’s postcode checker for home and work before you decide.
Pick Vodafone if…
- You want the lower 24-month cost for a 10GB+ SIM
- Vodafone’s own masts are strongest where you live
Vodafone and Three SIM only deals, live
FAQ
Vodafone vs Three questions
Is Vodafone or Three cheaper?
Vodafone, today: the cheapest 10GB+ SIM costs £25 a month, and over 24 months with April rises the gap is £141.60.
Do Vodafone and Three use the same network?
No. Vodafone uses its own masts and Three uses its own masts.
Which has better roaming?
Vodafone: £2.75 a day in Zone B unless included. Three: Go Roam £2.75 a day unless included.
Can I switch from Vodafone to Three and keep my number?
Yes. Text PAC to 65075 from your Vodafone phone, give the code to Three, and the number moves within one working day.