Is there 5G in Hungary?

Published: June 08 2023

It's no secret that 5G is the next big step in wireless connectivity, promising significantly faster download speeds, lower latencies, and improved network efficiency. As the global rollout of 5G technology continues, many people are keen to know about the availability of 5G in specific countries, one of which is Hungary. In this blog post, we'll cover the current state of 5G in Hungary and what the future holds.

Yes, there is 5G in Hungary! Hungarian telecommunications companies began rolling out 5G services in 2020. As of now, the major mobile network operators, including Magyar Telekom, Vodafone Hungary, and Telenor Hungary, have all launched their 5G services, albeit on a limited scale.

Magyar Telekom, the largest mobile network operator in Hungary, launched its 5G services in April 2020. The initial rollout was limited to selected areas of Budapest and Zalaegerszeg. Since then, the company has been progressively expanding its 5G network coverage, reaching more cities and towns across the country.

Vodafone Hungary began its 5G rollout in July 2020, focusing primarily on the capital, Budapest. The company's 5G network is based on dynamic spectrum sharing, allowing for simultaneous use of the 4G and 5G networks. Vodafone has been working on expanding its 5G coverage across the country, aiming to cover more locations and offer better connectivity.

Telenor Hungary launched its 5G services in October 2020 with coverage in selected parts of Budapest, including the city centre and busy areas such as Deák Square and Nagy Lajos Király Road. The network has expanded since then, with the company promising gradual nationwide coverage.

Although 5G has indeed arrived in Hungary, it is currently limited in terms of coverage and availability. The rollout of 5G services is still in its early stages and will take some time to reach a nationwide scale. Mobile network operators in Hungary are working to expand their 5G networks, with the goal of providing better connectivity to their customers.

It is also worth mentioning that in September 2020, Hungary's National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH) held a successful auction for 5G frequencies. The auction generated a total revenue of approximately HUF 128.5 billion ($431.4 million), with the three major operators taking part. This auction was crucial for the ongoing development and expansion of 5G infrastructure in Hungary.

In conclusion, while 5G is available in Hungary, it is still in the early stages of deployment with limited network coverage. The major Hungarian mobile network operators, Magyar Telekom, Vodafone Hungary, and Telenor Hungary, have all launched their 5G services and are working diligently to expand coverage across the country. Supported by the government's investment in 5G frequency auctions, Hungary is on track to experience wider 5G availability and better connectivity in the coming years.