4G and 5G mobile coverage

Mobile coverage indicates how strong a mobile signal can be expected at a given place. The Czech Telecommunication Office (ČTÚ) publishes it in its VPortal map portal as a coverage simulation for the three operators with their own networks (T-Mobile, O2 and Vodafone) and for 5G, 4G (LTE) and 2G (GSM).

How the simulation is made

ČTÚ calculates coverage with a signal propagation model based on International Telecommunication Union recommendation ITU-R P.1812. The model analyses the terrain between transmitter and receiver in detail and uses data on base stations supplied to ČTÚ by the mobile operators. Besides the simulation, VPortal also shows field measurements by ČTÚ staff (for example on motorways and rail corridors) and user measurements made with the ČTÚ-NetTest tool.

How to read the figure

The simulation distinguishes several signal levels, from no coverage to a strong signal. For a buyer it is useful when the signal is strong for all three operators: then it does not matter which provider they use. ČTÚ also evaluates coverage by small statistical areas of a municipality; an area where all three operators have a signal below the limit for 4G and 5G can be classed as a so-called white spot.

Mobile signal is only part of connectivity. For working from home it is worth checking fixed options too: fibre internet or xDSL and FWA connections. The signal figure is one of the inputs from which the location analysis builds a picture of connectivity at the address.

What to watch out for

• It is a calculation, not a measurement in a particular flat. Indoors the signal may be weaker depending on walls, windows or floor level.
• The simulation is based on operators' data as of a certain date; newly built transmitters appear with a delay.
• Signal strength does not tell you how fast mobile internet will be. Speed also depends on network load.

Frequently asked questions

How can I check the signal on site?

The surest way is to try your phone during the viewing, in different rooms and by the windows. Connection speed can be measured with the free ČTÚ-NetTest tool run by ČTÚ.

Why does 5G coverage differ from 4G?

Each technology uses different frequency bands and transmitters, so coverage at the same place can differ. VPortal can show each technology, band and operator separately.