About Me
Hi, I'm James. I've been living in Spain since 2022, and I've learned the hard way that choosing a mobile operator here isn't as straightforward as it should be.
My Story
I moved to Madrid in January 2022 for work. Like most expats, one of my first priorities was getting a Spanish phone number. I spent hours researching operators, comparing plans, and reading reviews. But everything I found was either marketing material from the operators themselves or generic comparison sites that didn't tell me what I actually needed to know.
So I did what anyone would do: I picked Movistar because everyone said it had the best coverage. And it did—but I was paying €52/month when I could have gotten similar service for €30/month with Orange. That's when I realized that "best" doesn't always mean "best for you."
Over the next three years, I tried all three major operators: Movistar for 14 months, Orange for 10 months (and currently), and Vodafone for 8 months. I've used them in cities, on beaches, in mountains, and in remote villages. I've dealt with customer service, navigated contracts, and experienced the good and bad of each network.
This website exists because I wish someone had told me what I'm telling you: the real differences between operators, what actually matters, and how to avoid the common mistakes.
What Makes This Guide Different
This isn't a sponsored site. I'm not paid by any mobile operator. I buy my own plans, test them myself, and write honest reviews based on real experience.
I focus on what actually matters:
- Real coverage experience: Not just coverage maps, but where I've actually used each network and what happened.
- Actual pricing: Including all the hidden fees and taxes that operators don't mention upfront.
- Customer service reality: How long you actually wait, how helpful agents are, and whether problems get solved.
- Who each operator is actually good for: Because there's no single "best" operator—it depends on your situation.
My Experience Timeline
Arrived in Spain
Moved to Madrid and signed up with Movistar. Spent 14 months with them, testing coverage across Spain during extensive travel.
Switched to Orange
Changed to Orange to save money. Discovered that for city living, the coverage difference didn't matter, but the price difference did.
Tried Vodafone
Tested Vodafone for 8 months, focusing on their data plans and 5G network. Impressed with speeds, less impressed with customer service.
Back with Orange
Currently using Orange again. For my usage and location, it offers the best balance of price, coverage, and service.
Why I Keep This Site Updated
Mobile operators change their plans, pricing, and policies regularly. What was true six months ago might not be true today. I update this site regularly based on:
- My ongoing experience with current operators
- Changes in plans and pricing
- Feedback from readers (which I genuinely appreciate)
- Official data from CNMC (Spain's telecom regulator)
If you notice something that's outdated or incorrect, please let me know. I want this to be the most accurate, helpful resource possible.
My Promise to You
I promise to:
- Write honest reviews based on real experience, not marketing materials
- Update information regularly as things change
- Be transparent about what I know and what I don't
- Respond to questions and feedback
- Never accept payment from mobile operators for positive reviews
This site is a passion project. I created it because I was frustrated by the lack of honest, practical information when I needed it. I hope it helps you make a better decision than I did initially.
Have questions or want to share your experience?
Get in Touch