The current mobile network test sets clear new standards. The measurement methodology has been significantly expanded and is now even more closely aligned with the actual user experience.
Expanded QoS and QoE Measurements
A key focus lies on performance-related QoS measurements. The evaluation now also includes specific metrics such as DNS resolution times and response times from gaming servers.
In addition, user-centered QoE measurements—for example, the analysis of website loading times—provide a more accurate picture of how well the networks perform in everyday use.
Focus on Connection Stability
Another core element is the reliability of data connections over extended periods. The test assesses how consistently a connection can be maintained — a fundamental requirement for home office, streaming, and gaming without interruptions.
Cross-Network Voice Calls in Focus
Special attention is also given to cross-network voice telephony. The study examines how reliably transitions between mobile and fixed networks, as well as between different mobile networks, function. This aspect is especially relevant in professional contexts.
Measurement Concept and 24/7 Data Collection
The technical implementation is based on a network of stationary, regionally distributed measuring units, ensuring a geographically balanced data foundation.
For the first time, QoS and QoE measurements, stability tests, and cross-network voice telephony are recorded around the clock. This allows not only average values but also daily patterns and typical peak load times to be identified — a major step forward in achieving a realistic assessment of network quality.
Integration of Crowdsourcing Data
To provide a more complete picture of user experience, crowdsourced data from the Federal Network Agency’s broadband measurement has also been incorporated.
In addition, the results from the first nationwide Mobile Network Measurement Week (“Germany Checks Its Network”), with more than 195 million data points, were included in the evaluation.
Together, these form a solid and differentiated basis that accurately reflects the real user experience in everyday life.
The Results: Head-to-Head — But No Photo Finish
Although all four providers scored closely in terms of grades, the results reveal notable quality differences.
In the overall ranking, Telekom emerges as the winner with a rating of “very good” (grade 1.35). Vodafone also achieved “very good” (grade 1.47). In contrast, O2 Telefónica (grade 1.60) and 1&1 (grade 1.63) received the overall rating “good.”
What appears to be a tight field at first glance becomes more differentiated in the detailed module assessments (stability, voice, web services, streaming, data, and network availability).
All detailed results can be found at IMTEST.de. For further information about the test, please contact netztest(at)zafaco.de.