If you are finding Israel mobile operators, this guide is for you. Israel has some main networks, Pelephone, Cellcom, Hot Mobile, and Partner. They all provide good mobile service with high data speeds, many plan options, and reasonable pricing. It’s time to figure out which Israel mobile operator is best for your trip!

ISRAEL Mobile Operator

1. List of Israel Mobile Operators

There are several key mobile service providers serving customers across Israel. The list includes:

1.1. Main Mobile Operators in Israel

There are four major Israel mobile operators:

  • Cellcom: Cellcom is the incumbent and largest mobile operator in Israel. It was founded in 1994 and has around 2.8 million subscribers. They offer 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE networks presence across the country.
  • Partner: Partner is the second largest mobile operator in Israel with around 2.4 million subscribers with 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE coverage nationwide.
  • Pelephone: Pelephone is Israel’s first mobile network operator, having launched in 1986. It has around 2.4 million subscribers and provides voice services via 2G and 3G as well as 4G LTE data.
  • Hot Mobile: HOT Mobile offers a range of mobile services, and has options for both short-term visitors and long-term residents.

1.2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Israel

Rami Levy, Cellact, Home Cellular, Home Cellular, and 012 Mobile are Israel’s Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). They frequently offer lower prices compared to the main operators, but less extensive coverage in rural areas.

2. How to Choose the Best Israel Mobile Operators

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a mobile operator in Israel:

  • Coverage – Choose the operators who offer the best service for the areas where you are.
  • Data speeds – An operator with fast 4G LTE speeds like Partner or Pelephone is the best choice if you use a lot of data.
  • Services and Plans: Consider factors such as voice call quality, data speeds, messaging services, and international calling or roaming.
  • Pricing: Compare the pricing between mobile operators.
  • Roaming – If you travel abroad frequently, choose providers with inclusive EU roaming and international options.
  • Additional Services: Consider any additional services or features offered by the mobile operators, like content subscriptions, entertainment packages, or value-added services.

3. Best Mobile Operators in Israel- Detailed Comparison

The table below compares Israel’s main network operators’ key factors and gives you an overview of these networks’ providers.

Feature Cellcom Partner Pelephone Hot Mobile
Coverage/Speed Good, 4G/5G Good, 4G/5G Good, 4G/5G Major cities, 4G (5G coming)
English Support Limited Limited Limited Mostly Hebrew
Price More expensive Competitive Competitive Most affordable (data limits outside cities)
Other Bundles (TV, internet) Bundles (TV, internet) Bundles (TV, internet) Customer service focus

While all four operators provide reliable connectivity nationwide, Pelephone and Cellcom have a slight advantage in coverage and speeds. Hot Mobile is best for price, but network coverage in remote areas may be limited.

4. Where to Buy SIM Cards from Israel Mobile Operators?

Here are some places for you to buy a SIM Card in Israel:

  • Operator stores – You can visit an official retail store for major operators like Cellcom, Partner, and Pelephone to buy a SIM card and set up an account in person. Stores are located in most cities.
  • Kiosks – Many shopping malls have small kiosks for Israel’s mobile carriers where you can also purchase SIM cards. Kiosks offer added convenience.
  • Online – The websites of mobile operators like Partner and Golan Telecom allow you to order a SIM card for delivery to your address. Convenient but can take a few days to arrive.
  • Resellers – Independent phone shops and resellers often sell SIM cards for all the major operators. Look for signs advertising Cellcom, Partner, etc.
  • Supermarkets – Some supermarket chains and convenience stores have started to offer prepaid SIM card sales from Israeli mobile carriers.

Make sure to have your passport and other required documents when buying Israeli SIM Cards. You should buy an Israeli SIM Card before arriving in Israel to avoid long queues at airports. If you would like to use eSIM, you could buy it from eSIM sellers like esimisrael.net offers instant delivery.

pelephone mobile operator

Pelephone store for SIM Card

5. Do Israel Mobile Operators Offer eSIM?

eSIM technology that allows your phone service to be digitally embedded without needing a physical SIM card is slowly rolling out across Israeli mobile carriers:

  • Cellcom – As of 2022, Cellcom has introduced eSIM support for both its consumer and business subscribers. Availability may depend on specific phone models.
  • Partner – Partner does provide eSIM capabilities but primarily for business and enterprise accounts at this time. Consumer eSIM support is limited.
  • Pelephone – Pelephone does not currently offer any eSIM service for regular customers. It is only available for some business accounts.
  • Hot Mobile – HOT Mobile provides a variety of mobile services such as calling, texting, and data packages. They are renowned for their cost-effective plans and choices.

To sum up, the leading mobile carriers in Israel, namely Pelephone, Cellcom, Partner, and Hot Mobile, currently offer support for eSIM on smartphones.

Considering a journey to Israel?  Do not be concerned about obtaining a SIM card from the local area or incurring high charges for using roaming services. Get an eSIM plan from esimisrael.net and you’ll be able to use data, apps, and maps on your device across Israel.

esimisrael.net keeps you in touch, all over Israel
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6. FAQs

What are the best mobile operators for international roaming?

Partner tends to offer the most affordable and extensive international roaming packages while Pelephone has the most limited and expensive roaming. Cellcom and Golan Telecom are in the middle for decent roaming rates.

Which operators offer the best deals for iPhone models?

Cellcom and Partner regularly have some of the top iPhone sales and bundles if getting the latest device at sign-up. Golan Telecom offers cheaper BYOD plan pricing but less exciting device deals.

Is there 5G coverage and support in Israel yet?

5G networks have not been launched yet in Israel as of late 2022. The major operators are preparing 5G rollouts soon, but currently only 4G LTE service is available. 5G coverage should expand in 2023 and beyond.

Can tourists get prepaid SIM cards?

Yes, visitors can easily purchase prepaid SIMs from Pelephone, Cellcom, Partner, and Golan Telecom. You’ll need to show your passport. Prepaid plans do not require long-term contracts or commitments.

Do operators offer family and group plans?

Most Israeli carriers offer shared family plans or group accounts that allow combining multiple lines on the same account to receive discounts on monthly service. Great for households with multiple users.

7. Conclusion

Choosing the right mobile operator requires comparing coverage, speeds, plan pricing, and customer service between Cellcom, Partner, Pelephone, Hot Mobile, and other providers. For most Israelis, Partner and Cellcom offer the best overall service but aren’t always the cheapest. Hot Mobile appeals for budget usage with low rates but weaker coverage and congestion. Review your specific usage needs and preferences to determine the best operator for your smartphone or device.