Telekom Mobile Germany Review: Coverage, Cost, and Features

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Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of a person using a Turk Telekom payphone outdoors in Malatya, Türkiye.

Telekom Mobile Germany offers a wide range of plans to suit different needs and budgets.

Their coverage is extensive, with 4G availability in over 99% of Germany's population, making it one of the most reliable networks in the country.

With over 30 million customers, Telekom Mobile Germany is a well-established and trusted provider.

Their network is built on a robust infrastructure that ensures seamless connectivity and fast data speeds.

Coverage and Connectivity

Telekom's coverage in Germany is excellent, with over 98% of the population covered by its high-speed LTE/4G networks. This makes it a convenient option for travelers from Europe, who can enjoy free EU roaming with their Telekom plan.

Telekom offers several options for staying connected while traveling in Germany, including pocket WiFi, roaming with an international SIM, and purchasing a Telekom SIM card. The best option for most travelers is to purchase a Telekom SIM card or eSIM, which provides hassle-free connectivity at affordable rates.

According to the latest Mobile Network Experience Report, Telekom offers the fastest speeds in Germany, with an average download speed of 38.6 Mbps and an average upload speed of 13.1 Mbps.

Does Support?

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Telekom Germany supports eSIM, offering a convenient alternative to physical SIM cards. This means you can access their reliable network digitally from compatible devices.

No extra charge applies for 5G roaming in the EU with a German SIM card from Telekom. This includes the UK and Switzerland, as long as 5G is available in the partner network.

You can use your tariff at the same conditions as in Germany, including making calls and sending text messages. This is a great perk for travelers.

Telekom's eSIM access provides several benefits, including convenience, quick setup, and environmental friendliness.

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Coverage

Deutsche Telekom provides excellent coverage throughout Germany, claiming over 98% of the population is covered by its high-speed LTE/4G networks.

The company operates extensive infrastructure across the country, including in both urban and rural areas. This means tourists can stay connected whether they're in major cities or traveling along motorways connecting different towns.

Telekom customers also benefit from free EU roaming, allowing them to use call and data allowances when visiting other European countries at no extra cost.

Credit: youtube.com, WiFi 101: Coverage where you need it

According to the latest Mobile Network Experience Report (May 2020) by Opensignal, Telekom's download speeds average 38.6 Mbps, while upload speeds average 13.1 Mbps.

In terms of 4G/LTE availability, Telekom boasts 94% availability and 90.3% coverage across Germany.

Here's a comparison of the three main phone service providers in Germany:

The gap between the three networks seems to have significantly closed in the last few years, making it a decision between choosing Telekom, Vodafone, and O2, or opting for a reseller.

WiFi Calling for Mobile Customers

Deutsche Telekom has launched WiFi Calling service for its mobile customers in Germany, allowing them to make and receive calls/texts on their smartphones via any public or private WiFi hotspot in the country or abroad.

This service is expected to boost in-building mobile coverage, especially in underground or basement areas, allowing users to continue their calls without interruption.

The service comes without additional monthly charges and costs customers the same as calls and texts from Germany.

Activation and Setup

Credit: youtube.com, How to use my phone when I PCS to Germany: JDCOM Telekommunikation (Telekom) Grafenwoehr

To activate your Telekom eSIM, you'll need to scan the QR code, activate your eSIM, select the Telekom cellular plan on your phone's network settings, and check for network signal and internet connectivity.

You can also activate a SIM card in Germany by showing your ID through a video verification process, presenting a printed "Post Ident" document at a post office, or buying directly from a branded store like Telekom.

To activate your SIM card, you'll need a valid German address, in addition to your passport. If you're having trouble, consider visiting a "Handy" phone shop or electronics chain for assistance.

Here's a quick rundown of SIM card activation options:

Activating an eSIM

Activating an eSIM is a straightforward process. You'll need to scan the QR code, activate your eSIM, and select the Telekom cellular plan on your phone's network settings. Check for network signal and internet connectivity once you've completed these steps.

Smartphone showing active eSIM plan held outdoors, blurred city background.
Credit: pexels.com, Smartphone showing active eSIM plan held outdoors, blurred city background.

To activate your eSIM, simply follow these steps:

  1. Scan QR code
  2. Activate your eSIM
  3. Select the Telekom cellular plan on your phone’s network settings.
  4. Check for network signal and internet connectivity.

If you're having trouble, don't worry – it's easy to get help. You can visit a Telekom store or ask a friend for assistance.

Buying a Postpaid

Buying a postpaid SIM card in Germany can be a great option if you're planning to stick around for a while. Telekom stores have numerous branded stores located throughout Germany where you can purchase a postpaid SIM card directly from staff in-store.

If you're traveling through, this option might not be for you. You can find Telekom stores at major airports like Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin, which is a good option for arrival.

Postpaid SIM cards often offer better value, especially if you're looking for more data and unlimited calls and texts. In Germany, resellers like winSIM offer better value, even compared to postpaid plans from major carriers.

To get the best deal, be sure to read the fine print! You can order a SIM card online at Telekom.de for home delivery or pickup at a later date.

Cost and Options

Credit: youtube.com, Best SIM Card in Germany [Mobile Options Explained]

Germany is quite stingy on the amount of data they provide on their plans, so be prepared to pay for what you need. O2 is the most generous provider, but it's all about how much you're willing to spend.

Resellers like winSIM often offer better value than postpaid plans, even when compared to contract deals. I've found winSIM to be a great option with 1GB, 3GB, 6GB, and 10GB data options, plus unlimited calls and texts.

The middle plans (3GB and 6GB) typically offer the best value on winSIM, and they often run sales to sweeten the deal. If you're looking for a reliable option, winSIM is a great choice.

Where to Buy

You can buy a Telekom SIM card or eSIM in Germany or before your trip through various options.

Telekom has numerous stores located throughout Germany, where you can purchase a SIM card directly from staff in-store, and many stores also offer assistance with setup.

Urban portrait of three women in Ankara using Türk Telekom phone booths.
Credit: pexels.com, Urban portrait of three women in Ankara using Türk Telekom phone booths.

Major airports like Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin have Telekom shops located before passing through security, making it a good option for arrival.

You can also order a SIM card online at Telekom.de for home delivery or pickup at a later date.

Resellers like winSIM, which account for over 40% of market share in Germany, offer better value than the main networks of Telekom, Vodafone, and O2.

Here are some options to consider:

  • Telekom Stores
  • Airports (Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin)
  • Online at Telekom.de

eSIM Purchase Options

You have several options to purchase a Telekom SIM card or eSIM in Germany or before your trip. This gives you flexibility and convenience when it comes to getting started.

You can buy a Telekom SIM card or eSIM from various sources, as mentioned in the article. This includes purchasing it in Germany or before your trip.

If you're planning to buy a Telekom eSIM, you'll need to follow the activation process, which involves scanning a QR code and selecting the Telekom cellular plan on your phone's network settings.

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Credit: pexels.com, Side view of cheerful young bearded Hispanic male in TWS earbuds using mobile phone while standing near modern urban building in sunny day

Here are some options to purchase a Telekom SIM card or eSIM:

After purchasing, you'll need to activate your eSIM by scanning a QR code, selecting the Telekom cellular plan, and checking for network signal and internet connectivity.

How Much Are?

winSIM offers a range of data options, including 1GB, 3GB, 6GB, and 10GB, with unlimited calls and texts.

For the best value, consider the middle plans, 3GB and 6GB, which typically offer the best deals.

My pick for the best value would be winSIM due to their competitive pricing and generous data options.

Vodafone and O2 do provide nano SIM options, but it's not explicitly stated if they are available at all their outlets.

The extra charges for winSIM are not specified in the article, but it's recommended to check their website or shop for the most up-to-date information.

There are O2 outlets at the Tegel Airport Berlin, making it a convenient option to purchase a SIM card for internet use, such as for Uber.

Explore further: Virgin Media O2

EU Roaming and Networks

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EU roaming policies have made it easier for travelers to stay connected abroad. As of June 2017, the "roam like home" policy applies to all networks, allowing you to use your prepaid plan anywhere in the EU/EEA zone without additional charges.

However, it's still recommended to limit roaming usage to data only, as some companies have interpreted this law as using "credit" for national calls, which are only valid within Germany. This means you should be mindful of your data usage when making calls or sending texts abroad.

Switzerland is an exception to the EU rule, as it operates in a political grey area, affecting phone companies' roaming policies.

Telekom customers can surf the 5G network of partner companies within the EU, including the UK and Switzerland, at no additional charge, as long as their German SIM card is used in a 5G-capable smartphone.

Here's a quick rundown of the main phone service providers in Germany:

With coverage percentages getting closer every year, it's hard to go wrong with any of the three main providers. But if you're looking for the best value, O2 might be the way to go.

Alternatives and Return

Credit: youtube.com, Deutsche Telekom Review: Honest User Experience & Comprehensive Guide

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are alternatives to Telekom's prepaid SIM card. Vodafone offers reliable coverage, including high-speed 4G/5G, and is slightly cheaper than Telekom.

You can also consider O2, which has nationwide coverage and competitive pricing. Both prepaid and contract plans are available, and their budget-friendly prepaid options make them a great choice.

If you're not set on Telekom, here are some alternatives to consider:

XI. Alternatives

If you're not sold on Telekom's prepaid SIM pricing, there are some great alternatives to consider. Vodafone offers reliable coverage with high speed 4G/5G, and it's slightly cheaper than Telekom.

O2 is another option with nationwide coverage and competitive pricing. They offer both prepaid and contract plans, making it a great choice for those who want budget-friendly options.

If you're planning to use an eSIM, be sure to check the compatible device list before making a purchase.

Return

If you're not satisfied with your current carrier, you can consider returning to Deutsche Telekom, the former market leader in Germany. Their coverage is hard to beat, especially in rural areas.

Low angle of young African American female student in casual clothes and earphones browsing mobile phone on street
Credit: pexels.com, Low angle of young African American female student in casual clothes and earphones browsing mobile phone on street

Deutsche Telekom offers great coverage, including the best regional coverage in Germany. This makes it a top pick for those who need reliable service in these areas.

However, keep in mind that Deutsche Telekom is also the most expensive option, even on reseller plans. So, if budget is a concern, you may want to explore other alternatives.

If you do decide to return to Deutsche Telekom, be aware that some reseller plans may exclude 4G/LTE connectivity. This is something to watch out for in the fine print, especially if you rely on fast data speeds.

Here are some popular resellers that use the Telekom network:

  • Congstar
  • Lebara mobile
  • ja!mobil
  • Penny Mobil

Final Thoughts

Telekom Mobile Germany offers a wide range of plans to suit different needs, from basic to premium options.

One of the most notable features of their plans is the inclusion of international roaming, which allows customers to stay connected while traveling abroad.

Their premium plans come with a generous data allowance, with up to 100GB of data available on some options.

Photo Of Woman Using Mobile Phone
Credit: pexels.com, Photo Of Woman Using Mobile Phone

This can be a game-changer for heavy data users, who can enjoy seamless streaming and browsing without worrying about running out of data.

Their customer service is also highly rated, with a dedicated team available to assist with any issues or concerns.

With a wide range of plans and features to choose from, it's no wonder that Telekom Mobile Germany is a popular choice among German mobile users.

Their plans are also competitively priced, with options starting from under 20 euros per month.

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Angie Ernser

Senior Writer

Angie Ernser is a seasoned writer with a deep interest in financial markets. Her expertise lies in municipal bond investments, where she provides clear and insightful analysis to help readers understand the complexities of municipal bond markets. Ernser's articles are known for their clarity and practical advice, making them a valuable resource for both novice and experienced investors.

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