Ukraine has one of the most competitive and rapidly developing mobile telecommunications markets in Europe.
This guide will help you to choose the best mobile operator in Ukraine.
Table of Contents
I. List of Mobile Operators in Ukraine
Main Mobile Operators in Ukraine
Ukraine has three major mobile network operators that hold nationwide licenses and own and operate their own network infrastructure across the country:
- Kyivstar – The largest mobile operator in Ukraine with about 26 million subscribers as of 2022. Kyivstar has the best overall coverage across Ukraine. It is owned by VEON, an international telecom company.
- Vodafone – The second largest mobile operator with around 20 million subscribers. Vodafone Ukraine provides good coverage across most parts of the country. The company is fully owned by NEQSOL Holding.
- Lifecell – Known as Astelit, lifecell rebranded in 2015. It is the third largest operator with over 8 million users.
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Ukraine
Some notable MVNOs in Ukraine include:
- Lycamobile – An international MVNO offering cheap international calls and data packages.
- PEOPLEnet – One of the largest MVNOs in Ukraine focused on low-cost plans.
- InterTelecom – An MVNO with strong focus on mobile data services.
- TriMob – A full-service MVNO owned by Ukrainian IT company Triolan.
While MVNOs can offer competitively priced packages, coverage and speeds depend on the network capacities leased from parent mobile operators.
II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operator in Ukraine
Choosing the right operator in Ukraine depends on your specific requirements and priorities:
- Coverage – If you need wide coverage across all regions of Ukraine, Kyivstar and Vodafone tend to have the most extensive networks. lifecell also offers strong coverage in major cities.
- Data speeds – For fast mobile broadband, lifecell and Vodafone tend to provide better 4G speeds in urban areas and cities. But coverage and speeds vary across locations.
- Cost – For cheaper service plans, MVNOs like Lycamobile and PEOPLEnet offer more budget-friendly options. But verify coverage in your area first.
- Customer service – Kyivstar is regarded as having among the best customer service in Ukraine. Vodafone and lifecell have improved their service quality over the years.
It’s a good idea to see some reports from TeleGeography for first-hand recommendations on mobile operators with the best coverage and service quality in your specific location and usage needs. Also research latest operator reviews online from credible sources.
III. Best Mobile Operators in Ukraine – Detailed Comparison
Now let’s dive deeper into a detailed side-by-side comparison of the major mobile operators in Ukraine.
Mobile Operators in Ukraine
| Operator | Kyivstar | Vodafone Ukraine | lifecell |
| Coverage and speeds | Extensive nationwide 4G coverage including major cities and transport routes. Average speeds of 30-50 Mbps | Broad LTE coverage of most major population centers and main transport routes. Average speeds of 20-40 Mbps | Large 4G network footprint but slower rural speeds. Average speeds of 15-30 Mbps |
| English support | Limited English website and customer service | Some English menus and materials available | Minimal English support available |
| Prices and plans | Inexpensive prepaid and postpaid plans starting at $5-10. Data-focused eSIM options. | Slightly more expensive compared to alternatives. Wider selection of postpaid plans and bundles. | Cheapest provider but more limited network coverage areas. Basic data packages. |
| Other factors | Longest established operator with reliable service. International roaming available. | Mobile broadband and FTTH broadband services also available. | Owned by Turkish operator Turkcell so has international roaming through partner networks. |
Kyivstar’s large 4G footprint, affordable tourist-friendly plans, adequate English support and proven reliable network make it the best choice overall for travelers visiting Ukraine.
IV. Where to Buy SIM Card from Ukraine Mobile Operators?
Once you’ve picked an operator, you will need to purchase a SIM card to activate mobile service. Here are some tips on where to buy a Ukrainian SIM:
- The easiest option is to buy SIM cards directly from mobile carrier stores and booths located across airports.
- Major grocery store chains like Silpo, ATB and Auchan sell prepaid SIM packs from all leading operators at checkout counters.
- Gas stations like OKKO, WOG, and ANP often have small corner stores selling SIM cards.
- Alternatively, you can order a SIM for delivery from the operator’s website. This may require using a local delivery address.
V. Do Mobile Operators in Ukraine Offer eSIM?
Electronic SIMs (eSIMs) that don’t require a physical plastic SIM card are slowly being introduced by mobile operators worldwide. But availability of eSIM service in Ukraine remains fairly limited as of late 2022:
- Kyivstar has launched eSIM support for iPhone users. But eSIM activation requires visiting a Kyivstar shop for now.
- Vodafone has been trialing eSIM service for select users. But commercial eSIM offerings are still in early stages.
- Lifecell does not currently provide eSIM capabilities to consumers as of end of 2022.
Consider eSIM from third-party provider like Ukraine eSIM from GIGAGO. With an affordable prepaid eSIM data plan, Ukraine eSIM is a convenient and cost-effective solution for travelers who want to browse, chat and stream without worrying about big bills while exploring Ukraine.
Tips: Check eSIM-compatible devices list before purchasing your eSIM
VI. FAQs
What documents do I need to buy a SIM card in Ukraine?
You will need to show your valid passport when purchasing a prepaid SIM card in Ukraine from any mobile operator. Keep your passport handy when visiting stores.
Can I use mobile data while roaming in Ukraine?
Yes, Ukraine has good 4G coverage in most cities and towns allowing you to use mobile data through roaming. But it is very expensive without a local SIM. Purchase an affordable prepaid Ukrainian SIM with data instead.
Which operators have the cheapest data plans?
MVNOs like Lycamobile and PEOPLEnet have the cheapest basic data rates. But their data-only packs have tiny quotas. Among major operators, lifecell plans tend to include the most generous data.
Do operators offer unlimited data plans?
Unlimited data plans are uncommon in Ukraine. The major operators offer monthly plans with 20 – 50GB data allotments. You can add one-time data packs if needed. Some MVNOs may offer unlimited data deals.
VII. Conclusion
Choosing a mobile operator in Ukraine ultimately depends on where you’ll be located and your frequency of mobile data usage.
For widespread coverage, Kyivstar is hard to beat. Vodafone also combines competitive rates and strong 4G speeds. lifecell is great if you need lots of affordable data.
Hopefully this guide has provided the details necessary to select the best mobile operator in Ukraine tailored to your travel or living needs within this diverse market.
