The best 5G mobile plan in Ireland is usually an MVNO deal, not the network-owner brand. 48, Clear Mobile, and GoMo all deliver unlimited 5G at €12.99 on Three, Vodafone, and Eir radio respectively.
If you want direct MNO control, Vodafone Red Unlimited 15 and Three SIM Core are the named options, but they cost more than the top MVNO tier. Eir Connect looks cheap in month one at €14.99, then jumps to €29.99.
Cheapest 5G across each host network
The Irish 5G market is unusually clean right now. You can buy cheap unlimited 5G on each core network at the same price point through MVNOs.
| Host network | Cheapest unlimited 5G in our data | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Three radio | 48 Unlimited 5G | €12.99 |
| Vodafone radio | Clear Unlimited 5G | €12.99 |
| Eir radio | GoMo Mobile | €12.99 |
That is why host network coverage at your usual locations matters more than brand size in TV ads.
MNO 5G options: what is worth paying for
Vodafone Red Unlimited 15 at €15 is the strongest direct-MNO 5G value in our list. Three SIM Core at €20 gives you direct Three ownership with perks. Eir Connect at €14.99 is attractive only if you are willing to manage the €29.99 thereafter jump.
Three is the mast owner that 48 rides, but the direct Three retail route is dearer. Buy it for account features, not price.
5G plans that are not in this category
An Post Mobile is excluded from true 5G picks because its listed plans are 4G only (Vodafone radio). It can still suit convenience users, but not a 5G-first buyer.
Virgin Media is excluded for the same reason. Its €15 for life SIM rides Three radio and Virgin says its SIM-only plans currently operate on 4G. 48 sells unlimited 5G with eSIM on the same Three masts for €12.99 rolling monthly; Sky’s €12.99 12-month unlimited is 5G too, but on Vodafone radio.
Some student or light-data plans are also 4G even within 5G brands. Example: 48 Student 100 GB at €10.99 is great value, but it is not a 5G plan.
How we ranked 5G plans
Ranking is based on published plan data for August 2026: price, contract terms, data policy clarity, roaming allowances, and our editorial scores. We do not invent independent Mbps benchmarks on this page.
Need to change provider? See how to switch mobile. Need host-network context? See MVNO explained.
Keep reading
- Best mobile in Ireland: full ranking, intro vs thereafter.
- 48 vs GoMo vs Clear: the €12.99 unlimited three-way.
- How to switch mobile: keep your number, cooling-off, ETFs.
- MVNO explained: who rides which masts.
- Find your mobile: 30-second quiz.
