Vodafone is one of Ireland's three network operators, known for reliable coverage and premium pricing. But with budget alternatives using the same network, is Vodafone worth the extra cost?
Vodafone at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | €20-€65/month |
| Network | Own infrastructure |
| 4G Coverage | 99% population |
| 5G Coverage | ~60% population |
| Budget Brand | Clear Mobile |
Vodafone's Plans
Bill Pay Plans
| Plan | Price | Data | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Complete | €65/month | Unlimited 5G | 24 months |
| Red Value | €46/month | 50GB | 24 months |
| SIM Only | €35/month | Unlimited | 12 months |
Note: Prices increase annually by CPI + 3%
Prepay Plans
| Plan | Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vodafone X Unlimited | €30/month | Unlimited 5G | 28 days |
| Vodafone X | €20/month | 50GB | 28 days |
The Good
1. Strong Coverage
Vodafone has invested billions in Irish infrastructure. Coverage is reliable in most areas, with 99% 4G population coverage.
2. International Brand
Vodafone's global presence means strong roaming partnerships across Europe. Roaming typically "just works" without issues.
3. Full Customer Support
Unlike budget networks, Vodafone offers:
- Phone support
- In-store support (nationwide)
- App-based support
- Social media response team
4. VoLTE and WiFi Calling
All Vodafone plans include VoLTE (HD voice) and WiFi calling for improved call quality, especially indoors.
5. Premium Experience
For users who want everything included and don't mind paying for it, Vodafone delivers a polished experience.
The Bad
1. Expensive
Vodafone is significantly more expensive than alternatives:
| Provider | Price | Data | Network |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vodafone | €35+ | Unlimited | Vodafone |
| Clear Mobile | €12.99-€14.99 | Unlimited | Vodafone |
Clear Mobile uses the exact same network for €20-50/month less.
2. Annual Price Increases
Vodafone increases prices annually by CPI (inflation) + 3%. Your €35 plan today could be €40+ in two years.
3. Contract Lock-In
Most bill pay plans require 12-24 month commitments. Breaking early incurs penalties.
4. Overpaying for Support
Most users never need phone support. If you're comfortable online, you're paying for services you won't use.
Who Should Choose Vodafone?
Vodafone makes sense if:
- Your employer pays (business accounts)
- You specifically need in-store support
- You've had coverage issues with other networks in your area
- You want a premium experience and don't mind paying
Vodafone doesn't make sense if:
- You're budget-conscious
- You're comfortable with online-only support
- You'd rather save €20-40/month
The Budget Alternative: Clear Mobile
Clear Mobile is Vodafone's budget brand. Same network, much cheaper:
| Feature | Vodafone | Clear Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Price | €35-65/month | €12.99-€14.99/month |
| Network | Vodafone | Vodafone |
| Data | Varies | Unlimited |
| Speed | Full | Capped at 5Mbps |
| Support | Full | Online only |
| Contract | 12-24 months | 30-day rolling |
The catch: Clear Mobile caps speeds at 5Mbps. This is fine for most use but limits HD streaming and fast downloads.
If 5Mbps is a dealbreaker, consider GoMo (Eir network) or 48 (Three network) for full speed at budget prices.
Verdict
Rating: 3/5
Vodafone delivers quality but at premium prices. Most users would be equally well-served by Clear Mobile (same network) or other budget options (GoMo, 48).
Choose Vodafone if: You need premium support or your employer pays.
Choose Clear Mobile if: You want Vodafone's network without the price tag (and can live with 5Mbps).
Choose elsewhere if: You want full speed at budget prices (GoMo €14.99, 48 €12.99).
Last updated: January 2026