In Malta, mobile operators play a significant role in providing cellular services to both consumers and business. Currently, there are three main mobile network providers competing in this small island nation – GO, Melita, and Vodafone. With attractive plans and bundles, reliable coverage areas, and excellent customer service, choosing the best mobile operator can be a difficult decision.
This article seeks to provide an overview of the key mobile operators in Malta and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses to help determine which one might be the best overall choice for tourists.
Table of Contents
I. List of Mobile Operators in Malta
There are currently three main mobile network operators providing cell phone and mobile internet services in Malta:
GO:
GO is the largest mobile network operator in Malta, with a market share of around 50%. It has over 400,000 subscribers. GO operates on a 4G/LTE and 5G network that covers over 99% of the population indoors and outdoors across Malta and Gozo.
Melita:
Melita is the second largest operator with a market share of approximately 30%. It has around 250,000 subscribers. Melita runs on a 4G/LTE network that provides nationwide coverage across Malta and Gozo, with speeds of up to 1Gbps.
Epic:
Epic is the smallest operator with a market share of around 20%. It has around 130,000 subscribers. Epic operates its 4G/LTE network on the 800MHz frequency band, providing coverage to over 95% of the population indoors and outdoors in Malta and Gozo. Speeds reach up to 300Mbps.
II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operator in Malta
When deciding which Malta mobile operators to choose, there are several key factors to consider:
- Coverage: Evaluate the network coverage of the mobile operators in the areas you plan to visit or reside in Malta. GO and Epic have the best coverage across Malta being the main providers.
- Pricing and Plans: Compare the pricing structures and available plans offered by different operators. Consider your data, calling, and messaging needs, and choose a plan that offers a suitable balance of affordability and sufficient allowances.
- International Roaming: If you are a frequent traveler or if you plan on using your mobile services while outside of Malta, check the international roaming options and rates provided by the operators.
- Customer Service: Look into the quality of customer service provided by the mobile operators.
III. Best Mobile Operators in Malta- Detailed Comparison
Digging deeper into a detailed comparison of Malta mobile operators across some of the key evaluation criteria:
- Market share: GO has a large portion of the market in Malta, while Epic and Melita also have substantial market shares.
- Network Bandwidth: All of three Malta mobile operators provide high-speed internet connectivity.
- Coverage: GO, Epic and Melita offercwide coverage across Malta.
In general, each of the three service providers enables individuals to maintain a dependable network connection throughout the entire nation.
| Criteria | Epic | Melita | GO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage and speeds | Nationwide 4G coverage reaching average speeds between 30-100 Mbps. Rolling out 5G network. | Nationwide 4G coverage reaching average speeds between 30-70 Mbps. No 5G yet. | Nationwide 4G coverage reaching average speeds between 30-80 Mbps. Rolling out 5G network. |
| English support | Excellent English customer support available via phone, chat and online. Apps and websites available in English. | Good English customer support available via phone and online. Apps and websites available in English. | Excellent English customer support available via phone, chat and online. Apps and websites available in English. |
| Prices and plans | Affordable plans starting from €10 with decent data allowances. Unlimited plans from €30-40. | Low-cost plans starting from €7 with basic data. Unlimited plans from €25-35. | Competitive plans starting from €15 with good data. Unlimited plans from €30 upwards. |
| Other factors | Well-established on the market. Focuses on reliability and coverage. Large number of stores. | Uses Melita cable network to boost speeds. Limited to areas with cable access. Fewer stores. | Aggressive with promotions. Known for good customer service. Wide retail presence. |
Therefore, while all operators are solid choices, Epic and Melita stand out as the mobile providers best equipped to accommodate the needs of English-speaking tourists visiting Malta through their broad coverage, value-for-money plans and multi-lingual support.
IV. Where to Buy SIM Card from Malta Mobile Operators?
Here are the main mobile operators in Malta that offer SIM cards and their purchasing options:
- Mobile Operator Stores: Visit the official retail stores of the major mobile operators in Malta, such as GO, Epic, and Melita. These stores are located in major towns and cities throughout the country.
- Authorized Resellers and Distributors: These resellers often have dedicated sections or counters where you can purchase SIM cards and top-up vouchers.
- Airport: Upon arrival at the Malta International Airport, you can find kiosks or stores that sell SIM cards.
V. Do Malta Mobile Operators Offer eSIM?
Yes, eSIM support is growing among Maltese carriers as more phones add eSIM capabilities. Here are insights on eSIM availability:
- GO – GO does make eSIM service available now on compatible iPhone and Google Pixel models. Supported GO monthly mobile plans can be digitally activated on eSIM through store personnel or their web support.
- Melita – Similar to GO, Melita has rolled out eSIM support for iPhone and Android phones with eSIM functionality. eSIM activations are handled through their stores and customer service channels.
- Epic – Offer eSIM options for travelers visiting Malta. With an Epic eSIM, you can get data, voice, and SMS services without the need for a physical SIM card.
Alternatively, esimmalta.com offers a convenient solution with digital eSIM plans that are instantly delivered to your email. It gives tourists fast and affordable connectivity through partnerships with Melita and Epic, the largest mobile networks on the islands. With data packages starting from just $3.50 for 3 days, you can stay connected during your entire trip without worrying about roaming fees or excess data charges.
Go Beyond Borders with esimmalta.com
VI. FAQs
Which mobile operator has the best coverage in Malta?
GO tends to have the best overall mobile coverage across Malta given its close association with Epic networks. Independent testing shows GO leading for both rural reach and urban data speeds at this stage. But Melita continues making strong coverage expansion strides.
Which is cheaper between GO and Melita?
The pricing between GO and Melita is highly competitive. Melita tends to offer better upfront discounts more often to attract switchers while GO incentivizes with device bundles. But longitudinal pricing ends up similar. Epic generally has the lowest regular rates but more limitations on data use.
Do all Malta operators offer 5G service?
5G rollout is still early in Malta with pockets of availability. GO has hotspot 5G in a few key zones as does Melita while Epic lacks owned infrastructure. Widespread 5G service remains a couple years away. The 4G LTE networks are still the primary technology for Maltese mobile customers now and perform well on capable devices.
Can tourists get prepaid SIM card in Malta?
Yes, tourists can easily obtain prepaid SIM cards from a host of retail outlets across Malta without any registration required. Local prepaid accounts do not expire so the SIM card credit remains valid for future trips as well. Just top-up when minutes get low. Convenience stores, supermarkets and independent dealers all sell tourist SIMs.
Does Malta require registering SIM card?
Maltese law does require residents to register purchased SIM cards in their name now for security purposes and fraud prevention. So locals need to register cards within 30 days by providing photo ID. But tourist SIM cards purchased from ‘Welcome’ packages require no registration, only ID verification when acquired.
VII. Conclusion
Finding the right Malta mobile operators that matches your coverage, usage, and budget needs is key. Malta residents have quality options but some analysis is required with competitive dynamics at play between GO, Melita and Epic. For travelers and tourists visiting the islands, signing up for an eSIM data plan with esimmalta.com provides seamless connectivity on both the Melita and Epic networks.
