Choosing the right mobile operator when visiting Turkey can be difficult with so many options to pick from. The country has 3 major operators – Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom, as well as several Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) like Bimcell and TurkNet. Read on to find out which Turkey mobile operator is best suited for your needs.
Table of Contents
I. List of Mobile Operators in Turkey
Let’s first look at the main mobile operators in Turkey, as well as some of the popular MVNOs:
1. Main Mobile Operators in Turkey
- Turkcell – The largest mobile operator in Turkey with 34% market share. It offers 3G, 4G/LTE, and 5G coverage across the country.
- Vodafone – The second largest provider with 27% market share. Vodafone has wide 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE networks.
- Türk Telekom – The third biggest operator with 20% market share. It provides 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE services nationally.
2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Turkey
Currently in Turkey, there are 2 active MVNOs:
- TurkNet – Rides on Turkcell’s infrastructure. Postpaid and prepaid plans.
- Bimcell – Uses Turkcell coverage. Prepaid plans.
II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operator in Turkey
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a mobile operator in Turkey:
- Coverage – Check network coverage maps to see which providers have the best coverage in your destination cities. Turkcell generally has the widest 3G and 4G reach.
- Speed – Turkcell and Vodafone tend to offer faster mobile internet speeds compared to other networks.
- Features/Benefits – Consider extra perks like roaming deals, free streaming, discounts, etc.
- Customer service – Pick a provider with good English support options.
- Phone compatibility – Ensure your phone works with Turkish networks (GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz).
- Length of stay – Prepaid SIMs are better for shorter trips. Longer visits may benefit from postpaid plans.
Analyzing these key aspects will help you determine the right Turkish mobile operator based on your specific requirements.
III. Best Mobile Operators in Turkey – Detailed Comparison
Let’s now look at a detailed overview of the top mobile operators in Turkey to see how they compare on key metrics:
| Operator | Coverage & Speeds | English Support | Prices & Plans | Other Factors |
| Turkcell | Extensive 4G coverage, especially in cities and along major highways. Average speeds of 25-40Mbps. | Basic English support available through call centers and some stores. | Competitively priced plans for data and calls starting from $10-15. Large data only plans available. | Largest network with most subscribers. Often first to roll out new technologies. |
| Vodafone | Wide 4G coverage in cities and major towns. Average speeds of 20-30Mbps. | English speaking staff available in key stores and priority lanes in call centers. | Mid-range pricing with plans from $15-25 offering balanced data and call bundles. | International roaming services. Partnerships for international caller/traveler services. |
| Turk Telekom | Strong 4G network in major cities but limited rural coverage. Higher average speeds of 30-50Mbps. | English online support and limited staff support. Some materials translated. | Higher priced premium plans with faster speeds and priority services. eSIM support. | Fiber Internet provider. Turk Telekom stores provide bundle subscriptions. |
In summary, their competition and scale have benefited Turkish consumers with affordable plans, new technologies, and improved quality of service over the years.
IV. Where To Buy SIM Cards from Turkey Mobile Operators?
You can easily purchase SIM cards from Turkish mobile operators at the following locations:
- Airports – All major airports have dedicated booths/stores for Turkcell, Vodafone, Turk Telekom, and some MVNOs. Check the guide about SIM cards in Turkey Airports to find out the detailed location.
- Shops – Provider stores and retail partners are available in all cities and most towns. Look for signs.
- Kiosks – Local street kiosks and convenience stores often sell SIM cards.
- Online – Major operator websites allow online purchase and delivery globally.
Purchasing locally is quick and easy. But order online in advance or purchase an eSIM for convenience upon arrival.
V. Do Mobile Operators in Turkey Offer eSIM?
eSIM allows using mobile plans without a physical SIM card. eSIM support in Turkey is currently limited but growing:
- Turkcell – Offers eSIM to postpaid customers only. Activated in-store. Limited phone compatibility.
- Vodafone – Does not currently provide eSIM, but may add support in the future.
- Türk Telekom – Adopter of eSIM and continues to actively offer eSIM plans and services
- MVNOs – Do not provide eSIM given reliance on host networks.
With great value bundles starting from as low as $5, Turkey eSIM is the worry-free way to stay connected while exploring all that Turkey has to offer. Let’s check our best plans:
eSIM tips: Check eSIM-compatible devices list before purchasing your own
VI. FAQs
Which is the best mobile operator in Turkey?
The top three mobile operators in Turkey are Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, and Türk Telekom. Their network coverage, data speeds, and customer service vary across different regions. It’s advisable to check reviews and compare plans based on your specific needs and location within Turkey.
What is the telecom provider in Turkey?
The main telecom providers in Turkey are Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, and Türk Telekom. These three companies dominate the mobile, fixed-line, and internet service provider markets in the country.
What network can I use in Turkey?
As a visitor to Turkey, you can use the networks of Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, or Türk Telekom by purchasing a local SIM card or using international roaming services from your home carrier. These three networks provide extensive coverage across Turkey.
Is Avea Türk Telekom?
Yes, Avea was the former brand name of Türk Telekom’s mobile subsidiary. In 2016, Türk Telekom rebranded Avea as “Türk Telekom” to consolidate their services under a single brand.
Who is the largest mobile operator in Turkey?
Turkcell is the largest mobile operator in Turkey, with over 37 million subscribers as of 2022, holding approximately 42% market share in the country’s mobile market.
Which is the best telecom company in Istanbul?
In Istanbul, the top telecom companies are Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, and Türk Telekom. Their performance and coverage may vary across different neighborhoods within the city. It’s recommended to check user reviews and compare plans based on your specific location and requirements.
Is 5G available in Turkey?
Yes, 5G networks are available in Turkey. All three major telecom operators (Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, and Türk Telekom) have launched 5G services in various cities across the country, including Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. However, the coverage and availability may still be limited in some areas.
VII. Conclusion
Choosing the right mobile operators in Turkey requires comparing coverage, speeds, prices, and benefits to match your travel requirements. Turkey eSIM offers the best overall performance for most tourists with excellent connectivity.
