Throttling & Fair‑Use Policies: What “Unlimited” Really Means

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Throttling & Fair‑Use Policies: What “...

Throttling & Fair‑Use Policies: What “Unlimited” Really Means

30 Oct 2025

Networks
Throttling & Fair‑Use Policies: What “Unlimited” Really Means

Travellers love the promise of “unlimited data”, but networks define “unlimited” differently from how most of us use the word. In practice, unlimited plans almost always come with a Fair‑Use Policy (FUP) and speed management rules. Understanding these is the difference between smooth streaming in a hotel lobby and a surprise crawl when you really need maps, ride‑hailing, or boarding passes.

This guide explains unlimited data throttling fair use in plain English. You’ll learn how throttling differs from deprioritisation, the typical caps you’ll see at home and while roaming, how to spot what’s happening on your line, and practical ways to avoid slowdowns on the road. We’ll also flag common gotchas—like hotspot limits and video shaping—that often hide in the small print. Planning a trip? We’ll show you how to pick a plan or travel eSIM with the right fair‑use terms for your usage, whether you’re heading to the US, Spain, Italy or across Western Europe.

What “Unlimited” Really Means Today

“Unlimited” almost never equals “full speed, all the time, for everything.” Most unlimited plans give you:

  • A bucket of high‑priority or full‑speed data (often called premium data)
  • A separate, often smaller allowance for hotspot/tethering
  • A Fair‑Use Policy that applies especially when roaming

Once you hit a threshold—monthly, weekly, or even daily—your speeds may be managed in two distinct ways:

  • Throttling: your line is capped to a fixed, low speed (for example 128 kbps, 512 kbps, or 1–3 Mbps)
  • Deprioritisation: your line stays “unlimited”, but drops in priority behind others when cells are busy

Carriers use both to keep networks stable. For travellers, the impact varies enormously by location and time of day. Understanding unlimited data throttling fair use before you buy prevents surprises once you land.

Fair‑Use Policies (FUP) in practice

FUPs are there to stop unusual consumption that affects other users. Typical patterns we see:

  • Domestic unlimited: 30–100 GB of “premium” data before deprioritisation may kick in
  • Roaming FUP: 5–30 GB at full speed in a foreign country, then slower speeds or deprioritisation
  • Daily high‑speed passes: 1–5 GB per day, then 1–3 Mbps until midnight
  • Hotspot allowances: 5–50 GB at full speed; after that, tethering may be banned or throttled

These are ranges, not promises—always check the plan page. For region‑specific options, browse Destinations or see Esim United States, Esim Spain, Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Western Europe and Esim North America.

Hotspot and video shaping

Two limits people often miss:

  • Hotspot/tethering: Many “unlimited” plans only include a fixed hotspot allowance. After that, tethering may be slowed or blocked.
  • Video streaming: Some plans cap video at SD (480p) or HD (720p) using traffic shaping, regardless of your available bandwidth.

If you rely on hotspot for work or need HD/4K video, choose a plan that explicitly includes it.

Throttling vs Deprioritisation: Know the Difference

These terms are not interchangeable. Here’s how to recognise each and why it matters.

  • Throttling (speed cap)
  • What it is: A hard limit on your maximum speed once you hit a threshold.
  • When it triggers: After using your premium allowance, or after hotspot/video caps, or during traffic shaping rules.
  • How it feels: Consistently slow across locations and times—e.g., streams drop to SD, large downloads crawl, video calls struggle.
  • Typical numbers: 128–512 kbps for heavy throttles; 1–3 Mbps for lighter management.
  • Deprioritisation (queue position)
  • What it is: Your traffic moves lower in the queue only when the network is congested.
  • When it triggers: After a premium data threshold, or at busy cells (stadiums, stations, city centres at peak).
  • How it feels: Variable. Slow at busy times/places; normal or fast at quieter cells or off‑peak hours.
  • Typical signs: Speed tests vary widely by time and location; uploads may feel especially sluggish in crowds.

Why it matters: If you’re throttled, changing time or place won’t help much. If you’re deprioritised, moving one block, switching to a less loaded band/technology (e.g., 4G to 5G or vice versa), or waiting until off‑peak can restore high speeds.

Typical caps for travellers, by region

These are indicative ranges to help set expectations. Always review plan specifics on the product page.

  • United States / North America
  • Premium data on “unlimited”: commonly 30–100 GB before deprioritisation
  • Hotspot: 5–50 GB at full speed; then slower or disabled
  • Post‑FUP throttle: 128–512 kbps on some budget plans; others keep full speed but deprioritise
  • See Esim United States and Esim North America for travel‑friendly options.
  • Western Europe (EU/UK)
  • Domestic unlimited often very generous; EU‑roam FUPs of 5–35 GB are common
  • Daily unlimited passes: 1–5 GB/day at full speed then 1–3 Mbps
  • Hotspot limits vary; check if tethering is included in the FUP
  • See Esim Western Europe, plus country pages like Esim France, Esim Italy and Esim Spain.
  • Multi‑country trips
  • Regional eSIMs bundle fair‑use per country or per plan. Expect FUPs in the 5–30 GB range for short trips.
  • If you’re a power user, consider stacking plans or selecting tiers with higher premium data.

How to spot slowdowns (and prove what’s happening)

Use this quick, repeatable process:

  1. Check your usage in the app/portal - Look for “premium data used”, “hotspot used”, or “FUP reached” messages.
  2. Run two speed tests - One at a busy time (e.g., 6–8 pm), one off‑peak (early morning). Note ping, download, and upload. - Deprioritisation usually shows big time‑of‑day swings; throttling stays consistently capped.
  3. Toggle network modes - Switch 5G to 4G (LTE), or vice versa. Sometimes a less crowded 4G band beats congested 5G.
  4. Move 100–300 metres - Try a different street corner or side of the building. Cell boundaries and load change quickly.
  5. Test with and without VPN - A VPN won’t fix volume‑based throttles, but it can neutralise app‑specific shaping. Compare results.
  6. Try another device or SIM/eSIM if available - If the second line flies, your original line is likely managed; if both are slow, it’s probably coverage or congestion.

Pro tips: - Record screenshots of usage counters and speed tests. It’s useful if you escalate with support. - If tethering is slow but on‑device usage is fine, you’ve likely hit a hotspot cap.

How to avoid or minimise slowdowns

Follow these steps before and during your trip:

  1. Choose the right plan tier - Prefer plans that advertise “premium data” amounts and explicit hotspot allowances. - For multi‑country trips with heavy usage, consider regional plans like Esim Western Europe or Esim North America with generous FUPs.
  2. Match the plan to your destination - In the US, capacity varies by city and carrier. Travel‑specific options on Esim United States are tuned for visitors. - In Europe, check country pages—Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain—for local FUP details.
  3. Keep hotspot usage intentional - Download large files over hotel Wi‑Fi. - If you must tether, reduce video quality and pause cloud backups.
  4. Optimise your apps - Turn off auto‑updates and background sync while on mobile data. - Pre‑download offline maps and playlists before you fly. - Set streaming apps to 480p/720p on mobile; switch back to higher quality on Wi‑Fi.
  5. Manage your radios - If 5G is patchy, force 4G/LTE to avoid sticky, congested NSA 5G cells. - If upload is critical (video calls), test at different times or locations to dodge deprioritised uplink.
  6. Carry a fallback - Add a second eSIM from a different network in your dual‑SIM phone. When one is congested, switch. - For teams, pooled or centrally managed data on For Business helps ensure reliable capacity.
  7. Read the small print - Look for words like “after X GB, speeds reduced to 1 Mbps,” “video streams at SD,” or “hotspot 10 GB”.

Pro tips: - City centres at lunchtime and early evenings are peak hours. Plan uploads and large downloads for mornings. - Rural areas may have excellent peak speeds but fewer carriers. Keep a secondary eSIM for redundancy.

Heavy‑use and business travellers

If you’re syncing large files, running live demos, or supporting a team:

  • Pick plans with stated premium data allowances and business‑grade hotspot limits.
  • Use dual connectivity: one line for primary data, another as a hot backup.
  • Consider centrally managed solutions via For Business for pooled data and support. Channel or travel partners can explore the Partner Hub.

Checklist: Before you buy an “unlimited” plan

  • Is there a premium data allowance before deprioritisation? How many GB?
  • What is the throttle speed after the FUP is reached?
  • How much hotspot/tethering is included at full speed? What happens after?
  • Is video streamed at a fixed resolution on mobile data?
  • Are the FUP and hotspot limits different when roaming?
  • Can I view real‑time usage counters in an app or portal?
  • What networks and bands are supported at my destination?
  • Does the plan suit my itinerary? Check regional options on Destinations.

FAQ

Q: What’s the difference between throttling and deprioritisation? A: Throttling is a fixed speed cap imposed after you hit a limit (e.g., 512 kbps). Deprioritisation only lowers your queue position during congestion; speeds can still be fast at quieter times or places.

Q: How many gigabytes can I use before I’m slowed on “unlimited” plans? A: It varies by plan and region. Common thresholds are 30–100 GB of premium data domestically, and 5–30 GB when roaming on travel eSIMs. Some plans throttle after that; others simply deprioritise.

Q: Does a VPN bypass throttling or deprioritisation? A: No for volume‑based throttling and deprioritisation—they apply regardless of encryption. A VPN may help only if the network is shaping specific apps (e.g., video), not if you’ve hit a usage cap.

Q: Why is my data slow even before I hit a cap? A: Likely congestion, weak signal, or sub‑optimal bands. Try another location, switch between 5G and 4G, and test at off‑peak times. Compare results to distinguish network load from policy limits.

Q: Is hotspot included in unlimited plans? A: Often in limited amounts (e.g., 5–50 GB). After the hotspot allowance, tethering may be throttled or blocked. Always check the hotspot line item separately from general data.

Q: Will 5G keep me safe from slowdowns? A: 5G can deliver higher peak speeds, but policy still applies. You can still be deprioritised on a busy 5G cell or throttled after hitting a FUP threshold.

Next step: Plan your trip with the right fair‑use and speed terms by browsing regional options on Destinations.

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Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Planning a south america itinerary 3 weeks through the high Andes? This route stitches together Peru’s Sacred Valley, Bolivia’s La Paz and Salar de Uyuni, Chile’s Atacama Desert, and northern Argentina’s quebradas or Mendoza wine country—often by long-distance bus and a couple of short flights. Connectivity is different at altitude: coverage is strong in cities but drops in high passes and salt flats; bus Wi‑Fi is patchy; border towns can be blackspots. The smart move is an eSIM with multi‑country coverage, backed by offline maps, offline translations, and a simple routine for crossing borders by bus without losing service. Below you’ll find a practical, connectivity-first itinerary; checklists to prep your phone, apps and documents; and on-the-ground tips for staying online where it matters: booking transport, hailing taxis, backing up photos, and navigating when the signal disappears.If you’re transiting via Europe or North America, you can also add a layover eSIM to stay connected door-to-door. Start with our country list on Destinations, then follow the steps, and you won’t waste time chasing SIM shops at 3,500 metres.The 3‑week Andes route at a glanceWeek 1: Peru (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu) - Fly into Cusco (or Lima then connect). - Base in Cusco; day trips to Pisac/Chinchero/Maras–Moray. - Train to Aguas Calientes; Machu Picchu visit; return to Cusco or continue to Puno/Lake Titicaca.Week 2: Bolivia and Chile (La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro de Atacama) - Bus/collectivo via Copacabana to La Paz. - Fly or overnight bus to Uyuni. - 3‑day Uyuni–altiplano tour ending in San Pedro de Atacama (Chile).Week 3: Chile and Argentina (Atacama to Salta or Mendoza/Buenos Aires) - Choose: - North: San Pedro to Salta/Jujuy by bus; fly to Buenos Aires. - Or South: San Pedro–Calama flight to Santiago; bus or flight to Mendoza; onward to Buenos Aires.Connectivity notes (quick): - Cities: generally strong 4G/4G+; 5G in major hubs (Santiago, Buenos Aires). - Altitude/rural: expect long no‑signal stretches (Uyuni, altiplano passes, Paso Jama). - Bus Wi‑Fi: often advertised, rarely reliable. Plan to be offline onboard. - Border regions: networks switch; a multi‑country eSIM avoids sudden loss.eSIM vs local SIMs for a 4‑country tripFor a route with multiple borders and remote legs, eSIM wins on time and reliability.What a multi‑country eSIM gets you: - One plan across Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina (check coverage per country on Destinations). - No passport/SIM registration queues at kiosks. - Keep your home number active on the physical SIM for calls/SMS codes. - Instant top‑ups if you burn data on photos or navigation.When a local SIM still helps: - Long stay in one country with heavy data use (e.g., a month in Buenos Aires). - Dead zones where a different local network performs better (rarely worth the hassle on a 3‑week pace).Practical approach: - Use an eSIM as your primary data line across all four countries. - If you find a specific local network far better in one region, add a cheap local SIM and keep the eSIM as backup.Device readiness checklist (before you fly)1) Check eSIM compatibility and SIM‑lock status on your phone.2) Buy and install your eSIM while on home Wi‑Fi. Keep a PDF/printed copy of the QR code.3) Label lines clearly (e.g., “eSIM Andes Data”, “Home SIM”).4) Turn on data roaming for the eSIM; leave roaming off for your home SIM to avoid charges.5) Set up dual‑SIM rules: data on eSIM; calls/SMS default to home SIM if needed.6) Download offline: Google Maps/Organic Maps for all target regions; language packs (Spanish at minimum); bus/air tickets; hotel confirmations.7) Cloud backups: set to upload on Wi‑Fi only; pre‑create shared albums for travel companions.8) Test tethering/hotspot with your laptop/tablet.If you’re transiting popular hubs, consider a short layover eSIM: - USA connections: add an Esim United States or a broader Esim North America.- Europe connections: Madrid/Barcelona? Use an Esim Spain. Paris or Rome? See Esim France and Esim Italy. Multi‑country layovers? Try Esim Western Europe.City‑by‑city connectivity notesCusco & the Sacred Valley (Peru)Coverage: Good in Cusco city; variable in high villages (Maras/Moray) and along Inca Trail approaches.Tips: Download Sacred Valley maps offline; pin viewpoints and ruins. most taxis use WhatsApp—save your accommodation’s number.Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes: Patchy to none at the citadel. Upload your photos later; don’t rely on live ticket retrieval.Lake Titicaca: Puno and CopacabanaPuno: Reasonable 4G; bus terminals crowded—screenshot QR tickets.Crossing to Copacabana: Expect a signal drop around the border; have directions saved offline.La Paz (Bolivia)Good urban 4G; the cable car network has decent signal but tunnels do not.Yungas/“Death Road” tours: Mountain valleys cause dead zones—share your emergency contacts with the operator, carry a charged power bank, and don’t plan remote calls.Uyuni and the Altiplano (Bolivia to Chile)Uyuni town: OK 4G; ATMs finicky—use Wi‑Fi for banking apps.Salt flats/lagunas: Assume offline for most of the 3‑day tour. Guides often carry satellite phones; agree a pickup time/place in San Pedro and preload your map route.San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)Town: Solid 4G; accommodations often have Wi‑Fi but speeds vary.Geysers, Valle de la Luna: Offline navigation essential; sunrise trips start before mobile networks wake up in some areas.Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza/Buenos Aires (Argentina)Salta/Jujuy: Good city coverage; quebradas have long no‑signal sections.Mendoza: City 4G/5G; vineyards outside town can be patchy.Buenos Aires: Strong 4G/5G; ideal for cloud backups and large downloads before you fly home.Border crossings by bus: step‑by‑stepThe big ones on this route: Peru–Bolivia (Puno/Copacabana), Bolivia–Chile (Uyuni–San Pedro via Hito Cajón), Chile–Argentina (Paso Jama to Salta or Los Libertadores to Mendoza).How to keep service and sanity:1) The day before:- Top up your eSIM data.- Confirm your plan includes both countries you’re entering/leaving.- Download offline maps for both sides of the border and your town of arrival.- Save bus company WhatsApp and terminal address offline.2) On departure morning:- Keep a paper copy or offline PDF of tickets, insurance, and accommodation proof.- Charge phone and power bank; pack a short cable in your daypack.3) On the bus:- Don’t count on bus Wi‑Fi. Keep your eSIM as primary, but expect drops near mountain passes.- If your phone supports it, enable “Wi‑Fi calling” for later when you reach accommodation Wi‑Fi.4) At the border posts:- Data may be unavailable. Keep QR codes and booking numbers offline.- After exiting one country and entering the next, toggle Airplane Mode off/on to re‑register on the new network.- If the eSIM doesn’t attach, manually select a network in Mobile Settings.5) Arrival:- Send your accommodation a quick WhatsApp when you’re back online.- Recheck your eSIM’s data roaming is on; confirm you’re on an in‑country network, not a weak roaming partner.Pro tips: - Dual profiles: If your eSIM allows, keep a secondary profile for a different network in the same country—helpful in border towns.- Cash buffer: Some border terminals don’t accept cards; download a currency converter for offline use.Offline survival kit (5‑minute setup)Maps: Download regions for Cusco, Sacred Valley, Puno, La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro, Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza, and Buenos Aires.Translations: Download Spanish for offline use; add phrasebook favourites (bus tickets, directions, dietary needs).Documents: Save PDFs of passports, tickets, hotel addresses; star them for quick access.Rides: Screenshots of pickup points; pin bus terminals and hotel doors.Entertainment: Podcasts and playlists for long bus legs, set to download on Wi‑Fi only.Altitude and your tech: what changesCoverage gaps lengthen: Fewer towers at high altitude; valleys can block signal. Assume offline on remote excursions.Batteries drain faster in cold: Keep your phone warm and carry a power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).Hotel Wi‑Fi may be congested: Schedule big uploads (photo backups, app updates) for big-city stays like Santiago or Buenos Aires.GPS still works offline: Your blue dot shows on offline maps without data—preload everything.Data budgeting for 3 weeksTypical traveller usage across this route: - Messaging/Maps/Bookings: 0.2–0.5 GB/day- Social and photo sharing: 0.3–0.7 GB/day- Occasional video calls/streaming: 0.5–1.0 GB/dayFor a mixed-use trip, plan 15–25 GB for 3 weeks. Heavy creators should double it and upload over hotel Wi‑Fi when possible. If you work remotely, consider a higher‑capacity plan and a backup eSIM; see our guidance on For Business.Practical route with transport and connectivity cuesDays 1–4 Cusco base: Strong city signal; day trips may be spotty—go offline-ready.Days 5–6 Machu Picchu: Expect no service at the ruins; sync tickets ahead.Days 7–8 Puno to La Paz via Copacabana: Border signal drop; re‑register networks after crossing.Days 9–11 Uyuni tour to San Pedro: Treat as offline; charge nightly; carry spare cables.Days 12–14 San Pedro: Stable in town; tours offline; top up data before Paso Jama.Days 15–17 Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza: Good urban 4G; rural patches are offline.Days 18–21 Buenos Aires: Strongest connectivity of the trip; clear your uploads and map downloads for the flight home.Partnering and stopover extrasHospitality and tour operators in the Andes: help your guests stay connected—explore co‑branded solutions via our Partner Hub.Transatlantic flyers: test your eSIM setup on a layover with an Esim United States or Esim Western Europe before hitting high-altitude blackspots.FAQs1) Do I need a local SIM in each country?No. A multi‑country eSIM covering Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina is simpler and works well for a 3‑week pace. Consider a local SIM only if you’ll spend longer in one country and want the absolute best regional coverage.2) Will my WhatsApp number change with an eSIM?No. WhatsApp is tied to your registered number, not your data line. Keep your home SIM active for voice/SMS (roaming off if you wish), and use the eSIM for data—WhatsApp continues as normal.3) Can I hotspot to my laptop or camera?Yes. Enable tethering on your eSIM. Mind your data: cloud backups and OS updates can burn gigabytes—set them to Wi‑Fi only or schedule in big cities.4) What if there’s no signal on the Uyuni/Atacama legs?That’s expected. GPS still works offline. Pre-download maps and translations, carry a power bank, and sync plans with your tour operator before departure.5) Will I get roaming charges at borders?If you’re using a multi‑country eSIM with coverage in both countries, you won’t incur extra roaming fees from your home carrier. Keep roaming off on your home SIM to avoid accidental use.6) I’m connecting via Europe or the US—worth getting a layover eSIM?Yes. It’s an easy way to test your setup and stay reachable. Try Esim North America or country options like Esim Spain, Esim France, or Esim Italy for common hubs.Next step: Browse South America coverage options and build your plan on Destinations.

31 Oct 2025
Coverage Expansion: 5G in Key Tourist Cities (Q4 2025)

Coverage Expansion: 5G in Key Tourist Cities (Q4 2025)

Simology’s Q4 update brings wider, faster 5G to the places travellers actually go. This simology 5g coverage expansion focuses on key tourist cities across North America and Western Europe, boosting peak and average speeds, improving indoor reach, and smoothing handoffs between busy cells. Whether you’re streaming maps, uploading reels, or tethering a laptop, you should feel the difference in airports, old towns, stadiums, and along major transit corridors. Expected real‑world speeds typically range from 100–600 Mbps on mid‑band (n77/n78) with bursts above 1 Gbps in favourable spots. As always, results depend on device support, local spectrum, and network congestion.Below you’ll find the city lists now covered on our 5G partner footprints, what speeds to expect, device band notes (so you can check compatibility before you buy), and quick steps to get set up. We’ve added practical checklists and pro tips, plus links to our eSIMs by region so you can pick the right plan. If you care about the numbers, we regularly publish real‑world results in our Speed Tests category and will keep updating as new cells light up.Where 5G just got faster: key tourist cities (Q4 2025)We’ve expanded 5G access on our partner networks across high‑traffic destinations. Coverage and speed are strongest in dense urban cores and around landmarks, with improving indoor penetration on mid‑band.United States highlightsGood news if you’re heading to the US—expect stronger mid‑band and more consistent 5G in:New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn waterfronts, Midtown transit hubs)Boston, Washington DC, PhiladelphiaMiami, Orlando, TampaChicago, Detroit, MinneapolisLas Vegas, Phoenix, DenverLos Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco Bay AreaSeattle, PortlandHonolulu tourist corridorsTypical experience: - Mid‑band 5G (n41/n77): 200–600 Mbps; lower latency vs 4G. - mmWave (n260/n261) pockets in dense zones: 1–3 Gbps bursts at short range. - Sub‑6 indoor coverage improving in malls, convention centres and airports.Planning US travel? Compare regional options via Esim United States or bundle routes with Esim North America.France highlightsUrban 3.5 GHz coverage (n78) continues to mature across:Paris (central arrondissements, business districts, key RER/Metro interchanges)Nice, Cannes, MarseilleLyon, Toulouse, BordeauxLille, Strasbourg, NantesTypical experience: - n78 mid‑band: 150–500 Mbps, often higher outdoors. - n1/n3 anchors assist indoor coverage; expect 5G to hold in large stations and shopping areas.See plans for city breaks and TGV routes via Esim France.Italy highlightsTourist corridors and historic centres see broader 5G overlays in:Rome (Termini area, Trastevere edges, Vatican surrounds)Milan (Duomo, Navigli, business districts)Florence, Venice, Naples, BolognaTurin, Verona, PalermoTypical experience: - n78 mid‑band in city centres: 150–450 Mbps. - n1/n3/n7 support improves handoffs; dense stone architecture can still limit indoor reach—step near windows for best results.Plan your itinerary with Esim Italy.Spain highlightsStrong city coverage and coastal hotspots in:Barcelona (Eixample, Gothic Quarter edges, Sants)Madrid (Sol, Castellana, Atocha, Chamartín)Valencia, Seville, Málaga, BilbaoBalearic tourist zones see seasonal boostsTypical experience: - n78 mid‑band: 150–500 Mbps. - Stadiums and transport hubs may throttle at peak; off‑peak is significantly faster.Compare Spanish coverage with Esim Spain.Western Europe multi‑countryIf your trip spans multiple countries, our regional profile is the simplest way to roam on 5G with one eSIM:Common city pairs: Paris–London–Brussels, Milan–Zurich, Barcelona–Nice, Amsterdam–Berlin corridorsStrongest in major capitals and intercity rail hubsTypical experience: - n78 mid‑band where available: 150–500 Mbps - Fallback to LTE‑Advanced where 5G is thin; you’ll still see lower latency vs legacy roaming.Browse itineraries on Esim Western Europe and explore more city guides via Destinations.Expected speeds and what affects themOutdoors on mid‑band (n77/n78): 200–600 Mbps is common in North America and Western Europe urban cores.Indoors: 80–250 Mbps depending on building materials and proximity to windows.Busy events: 5G may still outperform 4G, but congestion and deprioritisation can mute speeds. Try side streets or step outside large venues.mmWave in the US: Great for short, line‑of‑sight bursts near stadiums, squares and certain transit hubs. Expect 1–3 Gbps, but coverage is highly localised and falls back quickly.Remember: your device’s supported bands and firmware matter as much as the local tower.Device band notes (check before you fly)Most recent flagship devices support the right mix of bands, but it’s worth verifying to maximise 5G.United StatesKey bands: n5 (850), n41 (2.5), n66 (AWS), n77 (C‑Band), n260/n261 (mmWave)iPhone 12 and newer: strong Sub‑6; US models also support mmWave.Pixel 6 and newer; Galaxy S21 and newer: good mid‑band; mmWave support varies by model/region.France/Italy/Spain/Western EuropeKey bands: n1 (2100), n3 (1800), n7 (2600), n28 (700), n78 (3.5 GHz)iPhone 12 and newer: excellent n78 support.Pixel 5 and newer; Galaxy S20 and newer: typically support n78 plus low/mid anchors.Tips: - Imported phones may lack local bands. Double‑check your exact model number. - Dual‑SIM: set your Simology line as “Primary” for data and enable 5G Auto/5G On. - Keep device software up to date to ensure the latest carrier settings.How to get 5G on Simology (step‑by‑step)Pick your plan - Single‑country or regional: try Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain, or Esim Western Europe. Multi‑country travellers should consider Esim North America or Western Europe for seamless roaming.Install your eSIM - Scan the QR code or use activation codes in your order email. Keep Wi‑Fi on during install.Set Simology as your data line - On iOS: Settings > Mobile Data > Default Voice Line/Data > choose your Simology eSIM. Turn on 5G Auto/5G On. - On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > turn on Mobile data for Simology. Select 5G preferred.Check APN if prompted - Most profiles auto‑configure. If needed, follow the APN values in your confirmation email.Restart and test - Give your phone 30–60 seconds on reboot to register on 5G. Run a quick speed test near a window or outdoors.Before‑you‑fly checklistConfirm your phone’s 5G band support for your destination.Update iOS/Android and carrier settings.Turn off Low Data Mode/Data Saver for best performance.Enable VoLTE/Wi‑Fi Calling for reliable voice (when available).Download offline maps just in case indoor coverage is patchy.Bring a small power bank; 5G can use more battery in weak‑signal zones.Pro tips to maximise speed and stabilityMove 5–10 metres: stepping outside or towards a window can double your throughput.Avoid crowd hotspots during events; a nearby side street may give better quality.Toggle Airplane Mode for 5–10 seconds if you lose 5G after leaving the metro or a tunnel.Prefer mid‑band: if your phone shows “5G” but feels slow, you may be on a low‑band 5G NR carrier layer. A quick cell reselection (Airplane Mode toggle) can lock you onto faster mid‑band.Tethering: use the 5 GHz hotspot band for cleaner spectrum, especially in apartment blocks and hotels.Numbers nerd? Check our Speed Tests category for live results and city‑by‑city notes.For teams and partnersBusiness travel managers: consolidate connectivity across regions with pooled data and central billing via For Business. We can pre‑stage eSIMs for conferences and seasonal deployments.Travel partners and resellers: integrate our regional plans and city‑level coverage updates through the Partner Hub.How we measure performanceWe combine crowd‑sourced session analytics (latency, throughput, packet loss) with in‑city walk tests near airports, major stations, popular attractions and conference venues. We prioritise real‑world traveller routes over lab peaks. You’ll see the methodology and raw screenshots in our Speed Tests posts. Expect ongoing updates as new spectrum is lit, additional small cells come online, and stadiums add capacity.FAQsWill I get 5G everywhere in these cities?No network offers 100% 5G. Expect strong mid‑band in central areas and along major transport, with occasional fallbacks to LTE indoors or in narrow streets. Our profiles roam across partner networks to keep you on the best available layer.Do I need a specific phone model for this update?Any 5G‑capable, eSIM‑compatible device with the right bands will benefit. iPhone 12+/Pixel 5+/modern Galaxy flagships are safe bets. Check your exact model’s band list against the notes above.Can I use mmWave in the US?In select dense spots, yes—if your device supports n260/n261 (US‑sold iPhones and certain Androids). mmWave coverage is hyper‑local; think stadium plazas and parts of downtown blocks. Most of your day‑to‑day will be fast Sub‑6 mid‑band.How do I check coverage for my itinerary?Start with our regional plan pages (Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain, Esim Western Europe, Esim North America) and city notes on Destinations. We also post recent real‑world numbers in our Speed Tests articles.Is tethering allowed on Simology 5G plans?Yes on most plans, within fair‑use limits. Performance depends on your device radio and signal quality. Use the 5 GHz hotspot band for best results and keep the phone near a window for steadier mid‑band.What if speeds feel slow?Try: move a few metres, toggle Airplane Mode, ensure 5G Auto/Preferred is on, switch off Low Data Mode/Data Saver, and check for pending OS/carrier updates. If issues persist, contact support with your device model, location and a screenshot of your network status.What this means for your next tripIn short: you’ll see faster uploads and more consistent streaming in the places visitors actually spend time—downtowns, transport hubs, and major sights—across the US, France, Italy, Spain, and wider Western Europe. If you travel for work, pooled data and easy provisioning via For Business make multi‑city trips simpler. If you’re a partner, the Partner Hub has rollout notes and assets.Next step: browse city‑by‑city options and pick the right eSIM for your route on Destinations.

30 Oct 2025
Coverage Metrics Decoded: RSRP, RSRQ, SINR in Plain English

Coverage Metrics Decoded: RSRP, RSRQ, SINR in Plain English

A full set of signal bars doesn’t always mean fast data, and a single bar doesn’t always mean you’re stranded. The real story sits behind the scenes in three radio metrics used by 4G LTE and 5G: RSRP, RSRQ and SINR. If you’re a traveller juggling maps, ride‑hailing, translation, streaming, or hotspot sharing, these numbers can tell you whether moving closer to a window, switching to LTE, or trying a different network will help. This guide goes beyond jargon to give you rsrp rsrq sinr explained in plain English, including practical thresholds for “good/OK/poor”, how buildings and city streets skew each value, and quick steps to read them on iPhone and Android. We’ll also show how to act on what you see—useful if you’re bouncing between countries in Esim Western Europe, the Esim United States, or wider Esim North America.RSRP, RSRQ, SINR explained (really simply)RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power): Think “how loud is the tower’s voice at your phone”. It’s pure signal strength from the cell, measured in dBm (negative numbers; closer to zero is stronger).RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality): Think “how clearly you can hear that voice in a crowd”. It mixes strength with how busy the channel is, measured in dB (negative numbers; closer to zero is better).SINR (Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio): Think “signal versus all the junk around it”. A higher positive number is cleaner. This drives your top speeds and stability.Used together: - RSRP tells you if you’re near/far or shielded by walls. - RSRQ and SINR tell you if interference, reflections, or congestion are ruining quality.Units and signs at a glanceRSRP: dBm, typically −65 (excellent) to −120 (very poor). Less negative is better.RSRQ: dB, typically −3 (excellent) to −20 (very poor). Closer to 0 is better.SINR: dB, typically −10 (unusable) to 30 (excellent). Higher positive is better.What counts as good, OK, or poor?These are practical, field‑tested thresholds for everyday travellers on 4G LTE and sub‑6 GHz 5G. mmWave behaves differently and is extremely sensitive to blockage.RSRP (signal strength)Excellent: −80 dBm or strongerGood: −80 to −90 dBmFair/OK: −90 to −100 dBmPoor: −100 to −110 dBmUnreliable: weaker than −110 dBmRSRQ (signal quality)Excellent: better than −10 dB (e.g., −3 to −9)Good: −10 to −12 dBFair/OK: −12 to −15 dBPoor: worse than −15 dBSINR (clean signal vs. junk)Excellent: > 20 dBGood: 13–20 dBFair/OK: 0–13 dBPoor: < 0 dBQuick mental model: - High RSRP + high SINR = best speeds and stability - High RSRP + low SINR/RSRQ = close to a cell but lots of interference/congestion - Low RSRP + decent SINR/RSRQ = further away; may be stable but slowerPro tip: When speeds are the goal (video calls, uploads), SINR is the star metric. RSRP is necessary, but SINR unlocks higher modulation and throughput.How buildings and streets change the numbersWhy your metrics change from street to lobby to lift:Walls and windows reduce RSRP (strength)Typical losses: modern glass 2–10 dB; brick 10–20 dB; reinforced concrete 20–40 dB; metal/low‑E coated glass up to 30+ dB.Sub‑6 GHz 5G and 4G at lower bands (700–900 MHz) penetrate better than higher bands (1800–3500 MHz).Urban “canyons” hurt SINR and RSRQ (quality)Reflections from glass and metal create multipath. Your phone hears the same signal arriving slightly out of sync, increasing interference.You may see decent RSRP but poor SINR/RSRQ on busy downtown corners.Elevation helps—sometimesHigher floors near a window often improve RSRP and SINR by clearing street‑level clutter.Deep inside high‑rise cores or basements, both RSRP and SINR usually drop.5G specificsSub‑6 GHz 5G (most of Europe and many US deployments) behaves like 4G but usually offers more capacity.mmWave 5G (pockets of the Esim United States) is extremely fast outdoors, but a single wall or even your hand can drop RSRP and SINR to unusable.How to see RSRP/RSRQ/SINR on your phoneNot every phone/carrier exposes every value. Try these:iPhone (Field Test Mode)Make sure mobile data is on and you have reception.Dial 3001#12345# and press call. This opens Field Test Mode.Look for menus labelled “LTE” or “NR-NSA/NR” (5G Non‑Standalone).Find entries called RSRP, RSRQ, and SINR (sometimes “RS-SINR”).If you can’t find them, back out and explore “All Metrics” or “Serving Cell Meas”. Availability varies by iOS version and network.Pro tip: If you’re on 5G NSA, measurements may appear under LTE (for control) and under NR for 5G data. Check both.Android (varies by brand)Pixel (and many stock Android phones): 1. Settings > About phone > SIM status. 2. Look for “Signal strength” (dBm). Some builds also show RSRP/RSRQ; others show RSSI/ASU only.Samsung: 1. Settings > About phone > Status information > SIM card status for signal strength. 2. Advanced readouts may be available via ServiceMode codes like *#0011# (not guaranteed; depends on carrier/region).If native menus don’t show RSRP/RSRQ/SINR, reputable network diagnostic apps can help. Install before you travel.Accuracy tips: - Readings refresh as you move; give them 10–20 seconds after relocating. - Hold the phone naturally—don’t cover the top edge or antenna bands.Make sense of the trio: common scenariosStrong RSRP, poor SINR/RSRQYou’re near a cell or indoors with strong reflections. Expect inconsistent speeds, buffering, or call drops in crowds.Try: move a few metres, face a window, or step outside. For stability, temporarily switch to LTE if 5G is flapping.Weak RSRP, decent SINRRural edge or deep indoors. You may get steady but moderate speeds—fine for maps and messaging.Try: higher floor, near a window, or a different room. Low‑band cells travel further; your phone may prefer LTE in these spots.Good metrics but slow speedsNetwork congestion. Quality is fine; capacity is saturated (stadium, rush hour).Try: force a different band/tech (LTE vs 5G), reselect the cell (Airplane Mode toggle), or switch network via a local eSIM.Traveller checklist: quick wins to improve your metricsMove three ways before anything else: 2–5 metres, nearer a window, or up/down one floor.Place your phone on a window ledge or table rather than in your pocket or bag.Toggle Airplane Mode for 10 seconds to reselect a potentially better cell.If 5G is unstable indoors, try LTE temporarily; if LTE is congested, try 5G where available.Turn on Wi‑Fi Calling for voice if data is OK but calls drop.Hotspot positioning: put the hotspot/phone by the best‑signal window; connect your laptop from inside.Consider a local or multi‑network eSIM so you can switch to whichever carrier gives better SINR/RSRQ in your area:Touring several countries? See Esim Western Europe.City‑hopping across the US and Canada? Check Esim North America and the country‑specific Esim United States.Planning Paris, Rome or Barcelona? Compare Esim France, Esim Italy and Esim Spain.Travelling as a team? Centralise connectivity choices with For Business.Pro tips for faster, steadier dataPrioritise SINR for throughput. A jump from 8 dB to 18 dB can boost real‑world speeds dramatically, even if RSRP hardly changes.Low bands (700/800/900 MHz) penetrate buildings best; mid bands (1800/2100/2600/3500 MHz) are faster but need clearer paths. Indoors, aim for the lowest‑band cell you can catch reliably.If your phone or hotspot supports it, enabling LTE/5G carrier aggregation and keeping battery above 20% can maintain higher‑order modulation under marginal SINR.Roaming doesn’t inherently worsen radio metrics; it’s about which network you’re on. Having multiple profiles lets you pick the cleanest signal locally via Destinations.Partners and travel providers: help your guests connect first time by sharing these thresholds and stocking multi‑region eSIMs via our Partner Hub.FAQWhat is a “good” RSRP for 5G?Aim for −80 to −90 dBm for consistently fast 5G. 5G can still work down to around −100 dBm, but speeds and stability depend heavily on SINR and band.Which metric matters most for speed: RSRP, RSRQ or SINR?SINR. It reflects how clean the signal is and determines the modulation your phone can use. RSRP provides the foundation; RSRQ hints at network loading and interference.Why do I have 4 bars but slow data?Bars often reflect signal strength (RSRP) but not quality (SINR/RSRQ) or cell congestion. Good strength plus poor quality or heavy load = slow.Is RSSI the same as RSRP?No. RSSI is a broader received power measurement including noise and interference. RSRP isolates the reference signal and is the standard metric for LTE/5G coverage assessments.Do buildings affect 4G and 5G differently?Yes. Both are attenuated by walls, but higher‑frequency 5G bands lose more signal indoors. mmWave 5G struggles through most materials; sub‑6 GHz 5G behaves more like 4G.Will switching to LTE help if 5G is flaky indoors?Often, yes. LTE on a lower band can deliver steadier SINR indoors, even if peak speeds are lower. Try LTE for calls and uploads; switch back to 5G outside for capacity.The bottom lineUse RSRP to judge if you have enough raw signal, RSRQ to sense network cleanliness, and SINR to predict real speeds. Small moves (window, floor, angle) can add 5–20 dB where it matters. When a network’s quality is poor where you are, the fastest fix is often switching to a different carrier via an eSIM with regional coverage.Next step: Compare country and regional options on Destinations.

30 Oct 2025