Although 5G connectivity has been around for years now, as with most new technologies, adoption can take a while. Although there is 5G coverage available to more than 99% of Singapore’s population, it’s estimated that only 55% are actually taking advantage.
We track 16 providers in our database, but all of them run on one of four networks: Singtel, StarHub, M1, or SIMBA (formerly TPG). Of those 16 providers, 12 offer 5G plans, while the rest stick with 4G, usually to keep prices low. If you’ve been considering trying 5G or simply want to see what’s on offer, we’re breaking down the best 5G network providers in Singapore for coverage, speed, and reliability.
Before we get into the best networks, here’s a look at the most popular 5G plans in our comparison engine right now.
Best 5G mobile network for coverage
Very few networks provide an exact coverage percentage, so we have to rely on third-party testing. According to OpenSignal, Singtel (which also includes GOMO, CMLink, VIVIFI, Zero1 and ZYM Mobile) boasts the best coverage with a 5G Coverage Experience score of 8.7 out of 10. Tied for second place is StarHub (on which Eight, Giga, and redONE also run) and M1 (which includes Maxx, Circles.Life, MyRepublic and Changi Mobile) at 7.7 out of 10, while SIMBA is in last place at 7.3.
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Best 5G mobile network for speed
Both OpenSignal and Ookla, another third-party network tester, came to the same conclusion about 5G speeds. Out in front once again is Singtel, with average 5G download speeds of 388.8Mbps (OpenSignal) and 331.7Mbps (Ookla). It’s closely followed by M1 at 377.1Mbps (OpenSignal) and 325.78Mbps (Ookla) and StarHub at 357.8Mbps (OpenSignal) and 310.61Mbps (Ookla). SIMBA lags far behind with a dismal 41.1Mbps (OpenSignal) and 35.58Mbps (Ookla)
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Best 5G mobile network for reliability
5G availability refers to the percentage of time that users with a 5G-enabled device and plan were actively connected to a 5G network. Interestingly, OpenSignal and Ookla testers reported vastly different results. To make it fair, we averaged both scores and found that M1 was the most reliable network for actually connecting to 5G, followed by Singtel and StarHub, which almost tie for second place, and SIMBA once again in last place by quite a margin.
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5G in Singapore FAQ
Which providers offer 5G in Singapore?
Currently, 12 providers offer access to 5G: Singtel, StarHub, M1, SIMBA, GOMO, MyRepublic, giga, CMLink, Circles.Life, ZYM Mobile, VIVIFI, and Zero1.
Who has the best 5G network in Singapore?
According to third-party testing, Singtel has the best 5G network for coverage and speeds. When it comes to reliability, however, testers were able to get and stay connected to M1’s 5G network for longer.
Is 5G worth it?
It depends. If you’re an avid mobile gamer or you love streaming videos on your phone, 5G is definitely worth the investment. If you’re a pretty light mobile data user, 4G should be sufficient.
Does 5G need a new SIM card?
No, as long as your phone is 5G-enabled and you’re subscribed to a 5G mobile plan, you’ll be able to access your provider’s 5G network.