Thinking about a Sim Only plan with Lebara? Then you'll naturally want to know if you'll have coverage everywhere. The question 'which network does Lebara use?' comes up a lot, and rightly so. The network determines how well you can call, message, and stream.

Short answer: Lebara uses the KPN network in the Netherlands. You get the same 4G and 5G coverage as KPN customers, but at a lower price because Lebara is a virtual provider.

Lebara runs on the KPN network

Lebara is what's known as an MVNO: a Mobile Virtual Network Operator. This means Lebara doesn't have its own transmission masts, but instead rents the network of a bigger provider. In the Netherlands, that's KPN.

What does this mean for you? You use the same network as KPN customers. Same masts, same coverage, same technology. The difference lies in the price, the service, and the internet speed: Lebara keeps costs low by not having physical stores and arranging everything online.

Read more about what to look out for with Sim Only when comparing providers.

Do you get the same speed as KPN?

No. As a Lebara customer, you do get access to the same 4G and 5G network as KPN customers, but your internet speed is limited. This means:

  • 5G: available in an increasing number of cities, with speeds up to 75 Mbps
  • Coverage: the KPN network offers nationwide 5G coverage, so you'll have signal almost everywhere

So there is a difference in speed. Lebara applies its own speed limit: by default, you download at a maximum of 75 Mbps (and upload at a maximum of 25 Mbps), with an option to upgrade to 150 Mbps. This isn't due to the KPN network, but to the limit Lebara sets itself. For everyday use like streaming, messaging, and video calling, that's more than enough.

How does Lebara compare to other budget providers?

Lebara isn't the only budget provider that rents a bigger network. Other well-known names:

  • Simyo and Budget Mobiel: use the KPN network
  • 50+Mobiel and Hollandsnieuwe: run on Vodafone
  • Ben and Simpel: use the Odido network

Which network is best depends on where you live and work. Vodafone generally scores well in cities and along highways. In rural areas, KPN (Lebara, Simyo) can sometimes provide slightly better coverage.

If budget matters most, 50+Mobiel scores high: over 44,000 Trustpilot reviews with a 4.5/5 rating. 50+Mobiel runs on the Vodafone network. Good to know: 50+Mobiel is partly owned by the Home of the Brave holding company; we compare all providers in the same, neutral way.

What are the advantages of the KPN network?

The KPN network has a number of strong points:

  • 5G as standard: KPN offers 5G by default with all sim only bundles (a 5G-capable device is required)
  • Good indoor coverage: the network performs well inside buildings and shopping centers
  • Stable connection: little downtime, reliable for business use

For everyday use (WhatsApp, Google Maps, Spotify, Instagram), you'll notice little difference in practice between Lebara and KPN. You just pay less because you're not paying a brand premium.

Are there any downsides to an MVNO like Lebara?

There are a few things to keep in mind:

Customer service: Lebara doesn't have physical stores. Everything runs through the app, website, or phone. For some people, that feels less personal. Others actually like that everything is arranged online.

Extra services: KPN sometimes offers extras, such as discounts when combining with home subscriptions. You won't get these with Lebara. You pay for mobile internet, calling, and texting, nothing more and nothing less.

Speed limit: Lebara caps the internet speed. By default, you download at a maximum of 75 Mbps, with an option to upgrade to 150 Mbps. For most uses, that's more than enough, but if you always want the maximum network speed, you're better off with KPN itself.

Also read: Cheapest Sim Only plan: find the best deal

Who is Lebara a good fit for?

Lebara suits you well if:

  • You want KPN coverage but want to pay less
  • You often call abroad (Lebara has competitive international rates)
  • You don't need physical stores or extra services
  • You're looking for a flexible plan without long contracts

Less suitable if:

  • You like getting personal advice in a store
  • You want to combine bundles with home internet or TV
  • You live in an area where Vodafone or Odido has better coverage (check this via coverage maps)

Compare Lebara with other providers via Welli →

Conclusion: Which network does Lebara use?

Lebara uses the KPN network in the Netherlands. You get the same 4G and 5G coverage as KPN customers. Only the internet speed is capped: 75 Mbps by default, with an option up to 150 Mbps. Beyond that, Lebara keeps costs low by not having physical stores and focusing on online service.

For anyone who wants KPN coverage at a lower price, Lebara is a logical choice. Especially if you often call internationally, since that's where Lebara excels. Not sure which provider to choose? Welli compares all bundles in real time and shows you which one matches your usage: not the cheapest deal, but the best deal for you.