Eir operates Ireland's original mobile network infrastructure, now with the country's largest 5G footprint. But with GoMo offering the same network at half the price, when does Eir direct make sense?
Eir at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | €15-€50/month |
| 4G Coverage | 99%+ population |
| 5G Coverage | ~70% (largest in Ireland) |
| Strength | Rural coverage |
| Budget Brand | GoMo |
Eir's Plans
Bill Pay Plans
| Plan | Price | Data | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited 5G | €50/month | Unlimited | 24 months |
| Complete | €30/month | 20GB | 24 months |
| SIM Only | €20/month | Unlimited | 12 months |
Note: Prices may increase annually
Prepay Plans
| Plan | Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Limits 5G | €20/month | Unlimited | 28 days |
| €15 Top-Up | €15 | 10GB | 28 days |
The Good
1. Largest 5G Network
Eir has rolled out 5G to 70% of Ireland's population—more than Three or Vodafone. If 5G coverage matters, Eir leads.
2. Best Rural Coverage
Eir inherited Telecom Éireann's infrastructure. This historical investment means better coverage in rural Ireland than competitors.
3. Comprehensive WiFi Calling
Eir's WiFi calling is the most feature-complete:
- Works for calls and texts
- Works while roaming internationally
- Available on most plans
4. Strong Motorway Coverage
Eir's network along major roads is consistently reliable.
5. Improving Customer Service
Eir's customer service has historically been criticised, but has improved significantly since the Iliad/Xavier Niel takeover.
The Bad
1. GoMo Is Much Cheaper
Eir's budget brand GoMo uses the exact same network:
| Provider | Price | Data | Network |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eir | €30-50/month | Varies | Eir |
| GoMo | €14.99/month | 120GB 5G | Eir |
Why pay double for the same coverage?
2. Price Increases
Bill pay contracts may include annual price increases.
3. Contract Requirements
Most Eir plans require 12-24 month commitments.
4. Customer Service History
While improving, Eir's reputation for customer service lingers. GoMo sidesteps this with minimal support interaction.
Who Should Choose Eir?
Eir direct makes sense if:
- You want phone and in-store support
- You're financing a phone through them
- You're an existing Eir broadband customer (bundle discounts)
- Your employer pays
Eir doesn't make sense if:
- You want the best value (GoMo is cheaper)
- You're comfortable with online support
- You don't need bundle discounts
The Budget Alternative: GoMo
GoMo is Eir's budget brand. Same network, much cheaper:
| Feature | Eir | GoMo |
|---|---|---|
| Price | €20-50/month | €14.99/month |
| Network | Eir | Eir |
| Data | Varies | 120GB 5G |
| Support | Full | Online only |
| Contract | 12-24 months | 30-day rolling |
For most people, GoMo is the better choice. You get Eir's network—including 5G and rural coverage—for €14.99/month with no contract.
Eir vs Three vs Vodafone
| Factor | Eir | Three | Vodafone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rural Coverage | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
| 5G Coverage | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Urban Speed | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Customer Service | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Budget Brand | GoMo €14.99 | 48 €12.99 | Clear €12.99 |
Eir Broadband Bundles
If you have Eir broadband, mobile bundles can offer savings. The "Eir Complete" bundle combines broadband, TV, and mobile.
However, do the maths:
- Eir broadband + GoMo separately might still be cheaper
- Bundle discounts aren't always as good as they seem
- You lose flexibility to switch mobile providers
Verdict
Rating: 3.5/5
Eir has excellent network infrastructure—arguably the best rural coverage and largest 5G network in Ireland. But GoMo offers the same network for €14.99/month.
Choose Eir direct if: You want bundles with Eir broadband or need full customer support.
Choose GoMo if: You want Eir's network at a fraction of the price (most people).
Choose elsewhere if: Three coverage works in your area and you want the cheapest option (48 at €12.99).
Last updated: January 2026