Which Mobile Network is the Best in Pakistan? Latest Report Reveals the Top Performers

Pakistan’s top mobile networks have been ranked in the latest Opensignal report, with Jazz excelling in coverage and video experience, while Zong leads in download speed and reliability, providing key insights into the country’s mobile performance.

The study analyzes network experience using several key evaluation criteria, including video performance, download and upload speeds, coverage capability, operational availability, and reliability.

According to the analysis, Zong had the fastest average download speed of 17.3Mbps,  recording 17.3Mbps, followed closely by Jazz with a nearly 17.3Mbps gap. Meanwhile, Jazz surpassed Zong’s 5.5 Mbps upload speed benchmark by averaging 6.5 Mbps, thereby securing the top position in upload speeds.

Jazz granted the Videos Experience category distinction a 48.3 score out of 100, which classified it as “Fair” (48-58). Other Pakistani operators were classified as “Poor.” The research ratings analyzed Zong, Ufone, and Telenor as “Poor” performers, with a score of less than 48 points.

For the Reliability Experience metric, newly introduced in this report, Zong ranked highest, scoring 653 points on a 100-1000 scale, maintaining an 85-point lead over Ufone. This rating segment ascertains whether users can execute basic network-based operations and duties without encountering any complications.

Coverage and Availability Trends

Jazz secured the top position in the Coverage Experience category with a score of 6.7 points out of 10, which validates its robust network presence in densely populated areas.  Zong maintained its position as the leader in 4G Availability due to the fact that users spent 93.5% of their time connecting to 4G networks.

 Zong maintained its position as the leader in Consistent Quality, as evidenced by its 27.8% score, which indicates consistent reliability in critical network experience metrics.

Market Developments and Future Trends

The report also highlights ongoing industry changes. The acquisition discussions between PTCL and Telenor for the Pakistan operations are intended to result in a $400 million transaction.  Upon regulatory sanction for the acquisition, Ufone would acquire control of over one-third of Pakistan’s mobile market.

 In November 2024, Jazz discontinued operations on its 3G network in order to implement its “4G for All” initiative, which involved the redirection of spectral resources to enhance the performance of the 4G network.

The Report presents an overview of the four main operators including Jazz, Zong, Telenor, and Ufone, based on real-world mobile experience data collected over three months. While Jazz leads in upload speed, coverage, and video experience, Zong performs strongly in download speed, reliability, and consistent quality. The ongoing industry shifts, including network upgrades and potential mergers, could shape the future landscape of mobile connectivity in Pakistan.