Is 50+ mobiel owned by KPN?

The name 50+ mobiel sounds like it has something to do with KPN - solid, familiar, Dutch. But is that image accurate? More and more people are finding out, because sim only providers are in demand. By 2024, as many as 36% of Dutch people will have a sim only contract, according to research by the Authority Consumer & Market (ACM). And with the growth of alternative providers comes the question: is 50+ mobiel owned by KPN? In this article you'll get a clear answer to that.

What is 50+ mobiel?

Virtual provider with its own target group

50+ mobiel is a so-called “virtual provider.” This means that it does not have its own transmission towers, but uses the network of a larger party. The provider targets people aged 50 and older, with simple bundles, clear communication and helpful customer service.

Confusion over name and network

For many people, the name evokes associations with traditional providers such as KPN. Logical too, since KPN has a strong image among older users. But in this case, that doesn't hold true. 50+ mobiel has nothing to do with KPN.

Which network does 50+ mobiel use?

Vodafone as the underlying network

50+ mobiel runs on Vodafone's network. That means you call, text and internet through Vodafone's masts. This network has nationwide coverage and good performance in both cities and towns. So you get the same technical coverage as a Vodafone customer - just under a different label.

Is the network reliable?

Yes. Vodafone scores high on stability and coverage. Especially in urban areas you will be fine, but also in outlying areas the coverage is fine thanks to the use of low (800 MHz) and high (1800 MHz) frequencies. The network is also 100% climate neutral - a nice bonus if you value that.

Why do people think 50+ mobiel belongs to KPN?

Naming and target group choice

The target group (over-50s) is traditionally loyal to well-known brands like KPN. This quickly creates the idea that a name like “50+ mobiel” will belong to KPN. But it is an independent brand with its own proposition - separate from both KPN and Vodafone.

Differences between Vodafone and KPN

Although both networks score well on coverage and speed, there are minor differences. KPN scores slightly better in rural areas, Vodafone has the upper hand in urban areas. In practice, you usually don't notice much of this, unless you live in a border area.

What does this mean for you as a customer?

Coverage and speed

So as a customer of 50+ mobile, you just get Vodafone coverage. That means:

  • Stable 4G network in almost all of the Netherlands
     

  • Good indoor coverage
     

  • Simple switch without technical hassle

50+ mobiel does not have 5G yet, but it is good to know that this provider is working hard to offer this service from September 2025. Until then, they are focusing on a stable 4G+ connection.

Network performance in practice

In most speed tests, Vodafone scores between 70 and 150 Mbit/s at 4G. That's more than enough for apping, streaming, navigating and video calling. So in everyday use, you won't notice any difference from more expensive brands.

Read more about the coverage of 50+ mobiel

Climate neutral network

The Vodafone network is 100% climate neutral. For those who care about sustainability, that's a nice plus. It means that all power used is green, and CO₂ emissions are offset.

Frequently asked questions

Can I switch from KPN to 50+ mobiel?

Sure. You can simply take your number and switch to 50+ mobiel. The provider will take care of that for you. Count on a few days processing time. And you don't have to worry about double costs.

Is there a difference in coverage between KPN and Vodafone?

A little bit. KPN scores slightly better on average on rural coverage, Vodafone on urban speed. But for most users it makes little difference in practice. Do you live in an area of doubt? Then check Vodafone's coverage map for your zip code.

Conclusion: is 50+ mobiel part of KPN?

No, 50+ mobiel is not part of KPN nor does it use the KPN network. The provider runs entirely on Vodafone's network, with nationwide 4G coverage and good performance. The confusion is mostly due to the name and target audience, but in reality 50+ mobiel is an independent operator that focuses on simplicity, overview and service - separate from the big traditional brands. So if you're looking for a no-nonsense sim only contract without technical hassle, you're in the right place.

Weli helps you choose. Not the cheapest deal, but the best deal for you.