# Telecom in Austria (2026) > The best telecom providers in Austria for 2026: A1, Magenta and Drei networks compared, plus the top SIM, eSIM and home internet picks from €4.90/month. Updated: August 3 2026 · By Jules de Bruin · URL: https://www.how-to-austria.com/communication/telecom ## Top 5 Best Telecom Providers in Austria Rank byOur overall pick below is HoT, from From €1.90. ### 1. HoT (Hofer Telekom) 4.5Best for New Arrivals. Cheapest prepaid in Austria sold at every Hofer supermarket, on the Magenta network. [Get HoT](https://www.hot.at)Monthly priceFrom €1.90Data10 GB entry planNetworkMagenta (host)ContractNone, cancel anytimePrices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site. Pros - Sold at every Hofer supermarket, easy to buy - Activate online in minutes, passport only - Strong Magenta-network coverage and signal Cons - German-only customer support, no English help - No 5G access, 4G only Best for People who just arrived and need instant, affordable connectivity ### 2. A1 Telekom Austria 4.3Best Coverage. Broadest network coverage in Austria including 5G in rural areas and full FTTH availability. [Get A1](https://www.a1.net)Monthly priceFrom €9.90 / 4 weeksData50 GB entry planNetworkBestA1 (own network)ContractPrepaid or contractPrices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site. Pros - Best rural and Alpine coverage in Austria - English customer support available - 5G in major cities with the fastest speeds Cons - Most expensive of the five, premium pricing - Complex plan structure can be confusing Best for Residents in rural areas or anyone needing the most reliable nationwide coverage ### 3. spusu 4.4Best Value. Cheapest contract plans in Austria starting at €4.90/month on the Drei network. [Get spusu](https://www.spusu.at)Monthly priceBestFrom €4.90Data1 GB to 50 GBNetworkDrei (host)ContractNone, cancel anytimePrices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site. Pros - Cheapest plans, best value per gigabyte - Unused data rolls over each month - Transparent pricing with no hidden fees Cons - Drei network: weaker rural/Alpine coverage than A1 - German-only customer support Best for Data-heavy users who want maximum GB per euro with no surprises ### 4. Magenta Telekom 4.1Best Bundles. Best mobile + cable bundling and the strongest network in Vienna and major cities. [Get Magenta](https://www.magenta.at)Monthly priceFrom €14.90Data80 GB to unlimitedNetworkMagenta (own network)Contract24 months typicalPrices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site. Pros - Strong, reliable urban coverage - Triple-play bundles: mobile, internet, and TV - Cable internet up to **1 Gb**it/s Cons - More expensive than the budget MVNOs - Weaker rural coverage than A1 Best for Residents wanting an all-in-one bundle (mobile + internet + TV) ### 5. Drei (Hutchison) 4.0Best for Data. Most aggressive contract data allowances among the three Austrian network operators. [Get Drei](https://www.drei.at)Monthly priceFrom €6.90Data10 GB to unlimitedNetworkDrei (own network)ContractPrepaid or contractPrices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site. Pros - Unlimited-data plans at competitive prices - 5G home internet with same-day setup - No phone line needed for home internet Cons - Weakest rural/Alpine coverage of the three MNOs - Variable network performance in congested areas Best for Heavy data users and anyone needing instant home internet without a technician visit Based on coverage, value for money, ease of activation for newcomers, English support, and overall customer satisfaction, here are the top 5 telecom providers in Austria in 2026. ## How Is the Austrian Telecom Market Structured? Austria's telecom market is built on three physical network operators that own the mobile infrastructure, plus a growing number of MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) that resell access on those networks at lower prices. ### Network Operators (MNOs) - 1[A1 Telekom Austria](https://www.a1.net) The former state monopoly and still Austria's largest provider. Operates the most extensive network with the best coverage in rural and Alpine regions. Part of the América Móvil group. Also Austria's largest fixed-line and fiber provider. - 2[Magenta Telekom](https://www.magenta.at) (T-Mobile Austria) Part of Deutsche Telekom. Merged with UPC Austria (cable TV) in 2019, making it a major triple-play provider (mobile + internet + TV). Strong urban coverage and competitive pricing. - 3[Drei](https://www.drei.at) (Hutchison Drei Austria) Part of CK Hutchison. Known for generous data plans and aggressive pricing. Also offers 5G fixed wireless home internet as an alternative to cable or fiber. Good urban coverage, slightly less reliable in remote areas. ### MVNOs (Virtual Operators) MVNOs do not own network infrastructure but lease capacity from MNOs. They typically offer lower prices and no long-term contracts, making them popular with residents and budget-conscious users: - **HoT** (Hofer Telekom): On the [Magenta](https://www.magenta.at) network. Austria's most popular MVNO, sold at Hofer supermarkets. - **[spusu](https://www.spusu.at)**: On the Drei network. Known for flexible, high-data plans at very low prices. - **bob**: On the A1 network. A1's own budget brand, offering simplified plans. - **yesss!**: On the A1 network. Ultra-budget option with basic plans. - **LIDL Connect**: On the Drei network. Sold at Lidl supermarkets. Illustration of three signal towers of different heights, representing Austria's three mobile network operators A1, Magenta, and Drei. ## What Is Telekom Austria (A1 Group) as a Company? **Telekom Austria AG**, trading as the **A1 Telekom Austria Group**, is Austria's largest telecommunications operator, headquartered in Vienna. It is **majority-controlled by América Móvil** (the Mexican group behind Claro/Telcel), with the Austrian state holding **ÖBAG** as the second-largest shareholder. It is publicly **listed on the Vienna Stock Exchange (Wiener Börse) under the ticker TKA**. The A1 brand is its Austrian operating company. OwnershipAmérica Móvil holds roughly **51%** and ÖBAG about **28%**, the two running a shareholder syndicate; the rest is free float.Stock listingVienna Stock Exchange, ticker **TKA** (ISIN AT0000720008). Part of the ATX index of leading Austrian shares.SizeAround **24 million customers** across the group, roughly **€5.4 billion** in annual revenue and about **18,000 employees**.FootprintOperates in Austria plus several Central and Eastern European markets, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, and North Macedonia.Who owns Austria's three networks - **A1** → A1 Telekom Austria Group (América Móvil-controlled) - **[Magenta](https://www.magenta.at) Telekom** → Deutsche Telekom - **Drei (Hutchison Drei Austria)** → CK Hutchison Ownership percentages and financials are based on the group's most recent published figures and shift over time; the share price changes daily on the Wiener Börse. ## Should You Get an Austrian SIM or a Travel eSIM? If you live in Austria, an Austrian SIM or contract wins on a **local Austrian number**, cheaper large-data plans (around **100 GB for under €10**), and easier registration for **banking and contracts**. If you are only visiting for days or weeks, a travel eSIM activates instantly with **no Austrian ID** and no shop visit. For stays under about one month or pure tourism, use a travel eSIM like [Airalo](https://airalo.pxf.io/MK2VZP) (instant, no paperwork). For moving or long-term stays, get an Austrian SIM once you can register. Many residents do both: a travel eSIM on day one, then an Austrian SIM after arrival. See our [best mobile network guide](/communication/best-mobile-network) to compare coverage before you choose. Illustration of a physical SIM card, a swap arrow, and a phone with an embedded eSIM, comparing an Austrian SIM with a travel eSIM. ## How Does Network Coverage Compare Across Austria? All three network operators provide excellent 4G coverage in urban areas (Vienna, Graz, Linz, Salzburg, Innsbruck). The key differences emerge in rural and mountainous regions, and in 5G rollout progress. | Feature | A1 | Magenta | Drei | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 4G population coverage | ~98% | ~97% | ~96% | | 5G population coverage | ~75% | ~70% | ~65% | | Rural/Alpine coverage | Best | Good | Moderate | | Fixed-line internet | Fiber + DSL | Cable + Fiber | 5G wireless only | | EU roaming | Included | Included | Included | ### Check before you commit Coverage can vary block by block, especially for 5G. Use the coverage maps on each provider's website to check your specific address. The [RTR coverage map](https://www.rtr.at/TKP/was_wir_tun/telekommunikation/spectrum/procedures/Netzabdeckung/netzabdeckung.en.html) offers an independent, provider-neutral overview.Illustration of a signal tower, alpine peaks, and signal-strength bars, showing mobile coverage across Austrian cities and the Alps. ## What Do Telecom Services Cost in Austria? Austria's telecom prices are competitive within Western Europe. Here is what you can expect to pay in 2026. For a full budget breakdown, see our [cost of living guide](/living/cost-of-living). | Service | Budget | Mid-range | Premium | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Mobile (prepaid) | 5 – 8 EUR | 10 – 15 EUR | 20 – 30 EUR | | Mobile (contract) | 10 – 15 EUR | 20 – 30 EUR | 35 – 60 EUR | | Home internet | 20 – 30 EUR | 30 – 45 EUR | 45 – 60 EUR | | Triple play (mobile + internet + TV) | N/A | 50 – 70 EUR | 70 – 100 EUR | All prices per month including 20% VAT. See our [VAT guide](/taxes/vat) for how Austrian taxes work. Illustration of a coin stack, a price tag, and rising plan tiers, showing budget, mid-range, and premium telecom prices in Austria. ## How Is Telecom Regulated in Austria? The Austrian telecom market is regulated by the [RTR (Rundfunk und Telekom Regulierungs-GmbH)](https://www.rtr.at) and the [TKK (Telekom-Control-Kommission)](https://www.tkk.gv.at). Key consumer protections include: - **SIM registration**: Since 2019, all SIM cards must be registered with a valid passport or EU ID. This applies to both prepaid and contract SIMs. - **EU roaming**: Under EU regulations, you can use your Austrian SIM in any EU/EEA country at no extra charge ("Roam Like at Home"). - **Number portability**: You can switch providers while keeping your phone number. Porting is free and takes 1–3 business days. - **Contract transparency**: Providers must clearly state minimum contract terms, cancellation policies, and total costs. The [Arbeiterkammer](https://www.arbeiterkammer.at) offers free consumer advice if disputes arise. - **Net neutrality**: Austria follows EU net neutrality rules. Providers cannot throttle or prioritize traffic for commercial reasons. Illustration of a shield with a check, a contract document, and a regulator building, for Austrian telecom consumer rights and the RTR. ## What Should Residents Know About Austrian Telecom? - 1Start with a prepaid SIM on day one Buy a HoT or [spusu](https://www.spusu.at) SIM at any Hofer or Spar supermarket. You only need your passport. See our [SIM card guide](/communication/sim-cards) for detailed comparisons. - 2Wait for your Meldezettel before signing contracts Contract plans and home internet require proof of address ( [Meldezettel](/living/vienna-registration)) and usually an [Austrian bank account](/banking/open-bank-account) for direct debit. - 3Check coverage at your specific address Coverage varies significantly between buildings in the same neighbourhood. Use provider coverage checkers and ask neighbours which provider works best. - 4Consider bundling for savings A1 and [Magenta](https://www.magenta.at) offer discounts when you combine mobile, home internet, and TV. Savings of 5–15 EUR per month are common. - 5Keep your Austrian number Your Austrian phone number becomes tied to banking, digital ID (ID Austria), and many services. Porting between providers is free if you switch. Illustration of a suitcase, a SIM card, and a phone showing signal, for setting up mobile service as a newcomer in Austria. ## Official Sources - [RTR: Austrian Telecom Regulator](https://www.rtr.at) - [TKK: Telekom-Control-Kommission](https://www.tkk.gv.at) - [Arbeiterkammer: Consumer Protection & Telecom Disputes](https://www.arbeiterkammer.at) - [BMF: Austrian Federal Ministry of Finance (broadband strategy)](https://www.bmf.gv.at) ## Related Guides [### Compare SIM & eSIM Plans in Austria Master 27-plan price comparison across A1, Magenta, Drei and MVNOs](/communication/mobile-plans)[### Best SIM Cards in Austria Detailed prepaid vs. contract comparison with provider pricing](/communication/sim-cards)[### Internet Providers in Austria Fiber, cable, DSL, and 5G home internet compared](/communication/internet)[### Vienna Registration Guide You need a Meldezettel for contract plans. Here is the step-by-step](/living/vienna-registration)[### Cost of Living in Austria See how telecom fits into your monthly budget](/living/cost-of-living)> What's your situation? Jump straight to the answer. [CheapestHoT €1.90→](#provider-hot)[Best Valuespusu €4.90→](#provider-spusu)[Best for DataDrei €6.90→](#provider-drei)All 10 sections Getting Started - [1Top 5 best telecom providers in Austria](#top-5-providers) - [2How is the Austrian telecom market structured?](#market-overview) - [3Telekom Austria: company facts](#company-facts) Coverage & Pricing - [4Should you get an Austrian SIM or a travel eSIM?](#sim-or-esim) - [5How does network coverage compare across Austria?](#network-coverage) - [6What do telecom services cost in Austria?](#pricing) Rules & Tips - [7How is telecom regulated in Austria?](#regulation) - [8What should newcomers know about Austrian telecom?](#expat-tips) Help - [9Official sources](#official-sources) - [10Related guides](#related-guides) Ask the author ## Have a question this guide did not answer? Send it to Jules. Questions shape what gets written next, and the most common ones become new sections on this page. Goes straight to Jules by email. No newsletter, no spam. Replies are best effort within a few days. --- Source: https://www.how-to-austria.com/communication/telecom Last updated: Updated: August 3 2026 Format: LLM-readable Markdown twin (.md) of the canonical HTML page.