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 14 providers in our database, but all of them run on one of four networks: Singtel, StarHub, M1, or SIMBA. Of those 14 providers, 13 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 cheapest 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 9.1 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 8.2 out of 10, while SIMBA is close behind at 8.1.
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Best 5G mobile network for speed
Out in front for 5G download speeds with a snappy 362.3Mbps (per OpenSignal) is M1. It’s closely followed by Singtel at 355Mbps and StarHub at 344.9Mbps. SIMBA lags far behind with a dismal 45.2Mbps.
Upload speeds are quite tight between StarHub, Singtel and M1 at 32.2Mbps, 31.1Mbps and 30.1Mbps, respectively, followed far behind by SIMBA at 8.6Mbps.
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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. According to OpenSignal, M1 was the most reliable network for actually connecting to 5G 52.9% of the time, followed by StarHub (48.1% of the time) and Singtel (41.5% of the time), and SIMBA once again in last place by quite a margin (23% of the time).
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5G in Singapore FAQ
Which providers offer 5G in Singapore?
Currently, 13 providers offer access to 5G: Singtel, StarHub, M1, SIMBA, GOMO, MyRepublic, giga, CMLink, Circles.Life, Maxx, 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. When it comes to download speeds and reliability, however, M1's 5G network came out on top.
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.
Georgia Dixon
Managing Editor
