Choosing the best mobile operator in Poland can be challenging with so many options available. This guide helps you navigate Poland’s mobile networks, comparing major providers like Orange, Play, Plus, and T-Mobile. Discover the best choices for coverage, speed, pricing, and perks, whether you’re a local or a visitor. Find out about eSIM options and how to purchase SIM cards to stay connected effortlessly.
Table of Contents
I. List of Mobile Operators in Poland
There are several main mobile network operators in Poland along with some smaller mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that lease network access from the main providers.
1. Main Mobile Operators in Poland
The three major mobile network operators in Poland are:
- Orange – Orange Polska is the largest telecommunications provider in Poland with over 14 million subscribers. They offer 3G and 4G LTE services.
- Play – P4 Sp. z o.o. operates under the Play brand name. Launched in 2007, they now have over 15 million subscribers. Play offers 3 G, 4G LTE, and 5G services.
- Plus – Plus (or Polkomtel Sp. z o.o.) is the third largest mobile operator in Poland with around 11 million subscribers. They offer 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G services.
- T-Mobile – T-Mobile Polska is the smallest of the major Polish networks, with around 6 million subscribers. Nevertheless, they provide fully inclusive 3G, 4G/LTE, and 5G options.
2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Poland
Secondly, there are MVNOs in Poland that offer the service by leasing access from the larger networks above. Some popular MVNO options include:
- Premium Mobile – Uses Plus’s infrastructure. Prepaid packages but no contracts.
- Virgin Mobile – Uses Play’s network. Targeting low-cost, no-contract plans.
- nju mobile – Orange capacity lease. Features affordable prepaid options.
- Heyah – Prepaid sub-brand of T-Mobile.
II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operator in Poland
There can, however be an uphill decision-making process in deciding on a suitable operator since there are too many choices. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a mobile operator in Poland:
- Coverage – Review coverage maps to verify that the operator services your home, workplace, and travel destinations. Play and Orange tend to enjoy the widest coverage at the national level.
- Speeds – If you are into streaming a lot of content, then you should opt for the operators who have speedy 4G/LTE and 5G like Play or Plus.
- Pricing – Compare prices and plans offered by different operators to get the best deal for data and calling needs. Consider also discounts for bundling mobile with home broadband.
- Perks/Extras– some providers give such extras as free Spotify Premium, HBO GO access, extra data, or calling allowances as a deciding benefit.
- Customer Support – Ensure that the operator provides acceptable customer service and quick turnaround time if you have an issue.
Prepaid plans of MVNO that are without any long-term contracts, if you need flexibility go for it.
III. Best Mobile Operators in Poland – Detailed Comparison
We provide a detailed comparison of the major mobile operators in Poland, highlighting their market share, coverage, and pricing to help you choose the best option for your needs:
| Operator | Coverage | Speed / Network | Prices & Plans | Foreigners’ Support | Best For |
| Orange Poland | Reliable coverage nationwide (strong 4G/5G) | Good balance of speed & stability | Affordable prepaid & postpaid; flexible contracts; competitive data packages | Website & support in English | Overall best coverage & balanced plans |
| T-Mobile Poland | Widest 4G coverage (98% population) | Fast 4G, good eSIM options; strong in entertainment bundles | Tourist-focused prepaid; month-to-month flexibility; data-only eSIM | English support available | Tourists needing flexible eSIM & streaming deals |
| Plus | Excellent nationwide coverage (99%) | Best 5G network in Poland (2023) | Very affordable prepaid; great value for calls & SMS | Menus & support in multiple languages incl. English | Travelers needing calls/SMS + strong 5G |
| Play | Reliable in cities/towns, weaker in rural areas | Best data allowances; data packages don’t expire | Budget-friendly prepaid, large data offers | Customer service in English & other languages | Heavy data users on a bud |
Orange Poland has the largest market share, broadband capacity, and network coverage but is the most expensive. Play, Plus and T-Mobile Poland are cheaper but have smaller networks. Choose based on needs – Orange if coverage is the priority, others if budget is a concern.
IV. Where to Buy SIM Cards from Polish Mobile Operators?
Once you’ve chosen an operator, you will need to purchase a SIM card to activate the service. Here are some options to obtain SIM cards in Poland:
- Official operator stores – Visit branded stores run by Play, Orange, Plus to buy SIM cards and get help choosing plans.
- Large retailers – Get SIMs at electronics stores/convenience stores like MediaMarkt, Relay, or Auchan as well as convenience store chains like Żabka.
- Small phone shops – Visit independent phone repair shops, which often sell SIM cards. Look for phone signage near you.
- Newsstand kiosks – Many Ruch kiosks and newspaper stands around Poland sell prepaid SIM cards.
- Airports – Major airports like Warsaw Airport have Poland airport SIM card vending machines and booths in arrivals areas.
When purchasing, have your passport ready to register the SIM card. Some proof of address in Poland may also be required for long-term service plans.
V. Do Mobile Operators in Poland Offer eSIM?
Most mobile operators offer eSIM, but it’s currently not available for prepaid users.
Here are the major mobile operators with eSIM availability:
- Play – Supported for both prepaid and contract plans. Available to private and business customers.
- Orange – eSIM available but primarily targeted at business users.
- Plus – Limited eSIM rollout. Not offer an English version for foreigners.
- T-Mobile – eSIM support is still limited. Running the test eSIM card.
For travelers and visitors to Poland, a convenient option is the Poland eSIM offered by polandesim.com. This eSIM is specifically designed for tourists, business travelers, and short-term visitors to Poland. Consider our Poland eSIM plans below:
VI. FAQs about mobile operators in Poland
What is the best mobile operator for roaming in other countries?
Orange and Play generally have the best roaming packages. Both allow using a set amount of calling, texting, and data in the EU at no extra cost on some plans. Plus also includes some EU roaming.
Which operator has the cheapest plans?
For low cost, Virgin Mobile prepaid plans are affordable and flexible. Of the major networks, T-Mobile’s Heyah brand offers very cheap no-contract deals. Orange and Play also have competitive prepaid options.
Who has the best mobile coverage in cities?
Play and Orange are tied for best overall coverage in major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław. T-Mobile can offer better speeds in some urban areas thanks to its 5G rollout.
What is the fastest network in Poland?
Play has fastest average mobile data speeds, topping independent network tests. They have rapidly expanded 5G availability which is 10 times faster than 4G. Plus also has very quick network speeds leveraging 5G.
Do operators offer deals for seniors or students?
Yes, operators like Orange and T-Mobile offer discounted plans for students and senior citizens in Poland. These can include discounted monthly rates or extra data allowances. Students also get access to exclusive perks and freebies.
VII. Conclusion
Choosing a mobile operator in Poland ultimately depends on your coverage needs, data usage, budget, and desire for perks or flexibility. Play is the best all-around 4G/5G network, while Orange excels for rural coverage. Plus and T-Mobile also combine fast speeds with value. For prepaid, Virgin Mobile leads among virtual operators. Compare services across providers to find the right mobile operator in Poland for your needs.
