Choosing the best provider for your trips in Austria?. This guide provides an overview of the top mobile operators in Austria.

Best Mobile Operators in Austria

I. List of Mobile Operators in Austria

1. Main Mobile Operators in Austria

  • A1: A1 is the largest mobile operator in Austria. It offers 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE and 5G coverage on its own network.
A1 - top mobile operators in Austria
A1
  • Magenta Telekom (T-Mobile): Magenta Telekom, formerly known as T-Mobile, is the second largest provider. It offers 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G services.
Magenta - on top mobile operators in Austria
Magenta
  • Drei: (styled as drei) is the third largest operator. It offers 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE and a growing 5G network.
drei - the best mobile operators in Austria
Drei

2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Austria

  • Yesss!: Yesss! uses the A1 network and offers prepaid plans only.
  • Bob: Bob provides unlimited data plans using the Drei network.
  • Spusu: Spusu offers affordable SIM-only plans on the Drei network.
  • Hot: Hot has prepaid plans on Magenta’s network.
  • HoT Hofer Telekom: Hofer Telekom offers discount prepaid and no-contract plans on Magenta’s network.
  • Lycamobile: Lycamobile is an international MVNO with affordable prepaid plans using the T-Mobile network.
  • Tarife.at Mobil: Tarife.at Mobil has flexible prepaid plans on A1’s network.

II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operators in Austria

When selecting a mobile operator in Austria, here are some of the main factors to consider:

  • Coverage and speeds: Check coverage maps to find providers with strong coverage in the areas where you’ll use your phone the most. Look at 4G and 5G availability as well as overall data speeds.
  • Prices and plans: Compare the costs of prepaid SIMs and postpaid plans across different operators. Look for discounts if you’ll use lots of data.
  • Contract terms: Prepaid plans don’t require contracts but postpaid plans usually have 12-24 month commitments.
  • Roaming rates: If you’ll travel internationally, compare roaming policies across providers. Some have affordable options.

By evaluating these aspects, you can find the right mix of coverage, speed, price, and features from an Austrian mobile operator based on how you plan to use your phone. Prioritize the factors that matter most for your personal or business needs.

Choosing Best Mobile Operators in Austria - Mobile Experience Awards
Austria Mobile Experience Awards. Source: Opensignal

III. Best Mobile Operators in Austria – Detailed Comparison

Let’s take a closer look at how the major mobile operators in Austria compare across some of the key factors:

Criteria A1 Magenta Drei
Coverage and Speeds Largest 4G network covering >99% of population. Offers 5G in major cities. Extensive 4G coverage at 98%. Rolling out 5G nationwide. Wide 4G network but smaller than competitors. Launching 5G services.
English Support Limited English support through chat/email. Websites available in English. Full multilingual support across all channels in key markets. Basic website content in English. Limited offline support.
Prices and Plans Offers full range of prepaid and postpaid plans. Higher average prices. Competitively priced plans with discounts for bundles. Young people plans. Affordable prepaid and data-focused plans. No contracts required.
Roaming Services EU and international roaming included in plans. Europe-wide roaming as standard. Global travel passes available. 100+ destination roaming packs. Cheaper daily rates for occasional usage.
Customer Service Various online and offline channels. Long opening hours. Live chat, call centers and shops nationwide. 24/7 emergency support. Smaller support network but online self-service portal.
Extras Device trade-in programs. Home broadband and TV packages. Rewards program for discounts. Cloud/office software bundles. No lock-in contracts. Device payment plans available.

Drei would likely be the best option for most tourists coming to Austria. As a visitor who only needs connectivity during a short trip, Drei’s affordable prepaid plans without long-term contracts provide great flexibility. 

IV. Where to Buy SIM Cards from Austria Mobile Operators

There are a few options to purchase SIM cards from Austrian mobile operators:

  • Operator stores and kiosks: The main operator brands have their own retail stores and branded kiosks located in shopping centers and airports where you can buy SIM cards.
  • Electronics stores: Stores like MediaMarkt and Saturn carry SIM cards for the major Austrian operators.
  • Supermarkets: Some supermarket chains like Spar and Billa sell prepaid SIM packs from select operators.
  • Online: You can order SIM cards for delivery through the websites of most providers. Some even offer eSIM activation.
  • Resellers: Various telecom resellers and corner stores also sell SIM cards from the major networks.

When purchasing an Austrian SIM, you’ll typically need to show ID such as a passport. Having the ID or address you used to register the SIM may also be required to recharge vouchers.

💡Tip: Ordering an eSIM online in advance can make getting connected faster and easier upon arrival in Austria vs. buying a plastic SIM card locally.

V. Do Mobile Operators in Austria Offer eSIM?

eSIM technology allows you to activate a mobile plan digitally, without needing to insert a physical SIM card. eSIM is becoming more common globally across smartphone brands and operators.

In Austria, the major operators offer eSIM services but rollout is still ongoing:

  • A1: Provides eSIM on iPhones and select Android phones like newer Samsung devices. Plans are available on prepaid and postpaid.
  • Magenta Telekom: Offers eSIM on iPhones and some Android models. Primarily for postpaid plans only for now.
  • Drei: Launched eSIM support on iPhones in 2022. Currently available on prepaid plans with postpaid support planned.

The eSIM process typically involves scanning a QR code during activation to configure your cellular plan securely on your device. This allows you to connect to the Austrian operator quickly without visiting a store.

One of popular eSIM providers is Austria eSIM, they offer prepaid data packages for the UK and over 200 countries. Plans are flexible with allowance amounts from 1GB.

Austria eSIM data plans
Austria eSIM data plans

VI. FAQs

What is the best mobile operator for tourists visiting Austria?

For tourists, we recommend A1 or Magenta Telekom. Both offer prepaid SIMs, English support and affordable short-term rates. A1 has better overall coverage while Magenta excels in cities. An eSIM from either provider maximizes convenience.

Which operator has the cheapest data plans in Austria?

If you need lots of data, mobile virtual network operators like HoT, Yesss! and Spusu offer the most affordable big data bundles starting under €20 per month. Their coverage uses the major networks.

Can I use my Austrian SIM in other European countries?

Most Austrian operators allow free EU roaming so you can use your SIM with no extra roaming fees across Europe. Some also offer travel packages or passes for affordable roaming in select countries outside Europe.

Are there any contract-free mobile plans in Austria?

Yes, all the major providers offer prepaid plans without contracts. Many also now have flexible no-commitment monthly plans. MVNOs like Hot and HoT are contract-free as well.

VII. Conclusion

Residents and expats living in Austria have great options as well. A1 is a standout for nationwide connectivity while Magenta excels with urban service and phone deals. Drei offers a viable alternative, especially in metro areas.

No matter your needs, you can find an Austrian mobile operator that offers the right combination of coverage, speed, price, and plan flexibility to keep you connected across Austria.