You're considering Odido, but first want to know which network you'll end up on. Makes sense — the network determines whether you have coverage everywhere, how fast your internet is, and whether 5G is available. Odido (formerly T-Mobile) has its own network, but what does that actually mean for you?

Short answer: Odido uses its own network. It's no longer T-Mobile, but the infrastructure has stayed the same — only the name and strategy have changed. You call and browse on the Odido network, which is actively investing in 5G expansion.

Odido has its own network — what does that mean?

Odido isn't a virtual provider renting someone else's network. The company manages its own masts, antennas, and infrastructure. That makes Odido what's known as an MNO — Mobile Network Operator. In the Netherlands there are only three: KPN, Vodafone, and Odido.

Since the name change from T-Mobile to Odido in 2023, the technical foundation has stayed the same. The masts are still in the same locations, and the frequencies haven't changed. What did change: the focus on sustainability, transparency, and a fresher brand. For you as a user, that means: the same reliable coverage, but with a new name on your SIM card.

Also read: What should you pay attention to with Sim Only?

How good is Odido's coverage?

According to its own figures, Odido covers 99% of the Netherlands with 5G. In practice, that means: in cities, towns, and along highways, you'll almost always have coverage. In sparsely populated areas — think nature reserves, polders, or remote farms — coverage can be thinner. That, by the way, applies to all providers.

For everyday use, the coverage is more than sufficient. WhatsApp, Google Maps, YouTube, Spotify — it works everywhere you'd normally go. Do you often go camping in the Ardennes or hiking in Scandinavia? Then check the roaming coverage beforehand, because outside the EU there may be extra costs.

Having its own network has an advantage: Odido decides for itself where and when to invest in new masts. Virtual providers depend on the planning of their 'parent network'. Odido can respond faster to busy locations — think festivals, train stations, or shopping centers.

What role does 5G play at Odido?

Odido is actively investing in improving its 5G network. According to Odido, more than 99% of people in the Netherlands live within the 5G coverage area. New Odido Sim Only plans come with 5G access by default, but you do need a 5G-capable device and 5G coverage at your location.

With certain Odido plans, maximum speed can reach up to 1 Gbit/s. Other bundles have a lower maximum speed, such as Unlimited Start at 20 Mbit/s, Unlimited Basis at 400 Mbit/s, and Unlimited Plus at 700 Mbit/s. The speed you actually get depends on your bundle, device, location, network congestion, and whether you're indoors or outdoors.

5G is especially interesting if you stream a lot, download large files, or make frequent video calls. For WhatsApp, email, and normal browsing, 4G is still perfectly fine for most users. Is 5G unavailable or weaker at your location? Then your device falls back to 4G, as long as coverage is available there. So always check the Odido coverage map for your address.

How does Odido compare to other networks?

The Netherlands has three major networks: KPN, Vodafone, and Odido. Each has its own strengths. In independent network tests, KPN often scores slightly higher on coverage in rural areas. Vodafone invests heavily in 5G speed in cities. Odido sits in between: good urban coverage, solid rural coverage, and a growing 5G network.

Virtual providers like Simyo, Youfone, and 50+ mobiel use one of these three networks. Simyo, for example, runs on KPN, Youfone on KPN, and 50+ mobiel on Vodafone. The advantage of a virtual provider: often cheaper. The downside: you depend on the priority the parent network gives to those virtual customers. During busy periods, 'own' customers sometimes get priority.

Odido customers are directly on the Odido network — no intermediary, no priority difference. You notice this especially during busy moments: festivals, train stations during rush hour, shopping streets on Saturdays. Where virtual providers sometimes slow down, Odido stays stable.

Compare all Sim Only bundles via Welli →

Who is the Odido network suitable for?

The Odido network is suitable for almost anyone living in the Netherlands who regularly uses mobile internet. A few situations where it fits especially well:

  • City dwellers: excellent 4G and 5G coverage, high speeds, stable during busy periods
  • Commuters: good coverage along train lines and highways, reliable for email and video calls on the go
  • Streamers: 5G makes it possible to watch Netflix or YouTube in HD on the go without buffering
  • Business use: stable connection for video calls, cloud apps, and VPN access

Less suitable: if you often rely on mobile internet in rural areas, nature reserves, or places where coverage may vary. Odido has nationwide 4G and 5G coverage, and according to Odido, more than 99% of people in the Netherlands live within the 5G coverage area. Still, your reception can vary by location. In independent network tests, KPN often scores slightly higher, but the difference with Odido is small. Do you often rely on mobile internet at one specific spot, such as at home, at work, or in a rural area? Then always check the coverage map for that address first before choosing.

What if you're torn between Odido and a budget provider?

Odido sits in the mid-range segment: more expensive than virtual providers, cheaper than KPN. If budget matters, there are alternatives. 50+ mobiel, for example, scores highly with users: 44,000+ Trustpilot reviews with 4.5/5 stars. 50+ mobiel runs on the Vodafone network — similar coverage, but a lot more affordable. Good to know: 50+ mobiel is co-owned by the Home of the Brave holding.

The difference lies in priority and extras. Odido often offers more data, faster customer service, and extra options like entertainment bundles. Budget providers keep it simple: calling, texting, data — done. No frills, no extra costs, but also less flexibility.

Torn between Odido and a cheaper alternative? Ask yourself these questions:

  • Do you often need more than 10 GB per month? Then Odido's more generous bundles pay off.
  • Want fast internet? Check the internet speed at budget providers. Note! With budget providers, internet speed is usually a lot lower than with Odido.
  • How important is customer service? Odido has phone support, many budget providers offer only chat or email.
  • Do you often use entertainment apps? Odido sometimes offers discounts on Spotify or Netflix — budget providers don't.

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

Conclusion: Which network does Odido use?

Odido has its own network — no longer T-Mobile, but the same infrastructure with a new name and strategy. Coverage is solid (99% of the Netherlands with 4G and 5G), 5G is expanding quickly in cities, and you're directly on the network without an intermediary. That makes Odido reliable for everyday use, commuters, and streaming.

The network suits anyone who values stability, growing 5G availability, and direct access without a priority difference. Mainly looking for the cheapest option? Then virtual providers like 50+ mobiel are an alternative — same premium network (Vodafone), lower price, but with fewer extras.

Welli compares all providers and their networks in real time. Tell us your usage and Welli will show you which bundle and which network best suits you. Not the cheapest deal, but the best deal for you.