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- Calls: 5 hours
- Data: 5 GB
- SMS: Unlimited
- Setup fee: 0 DKK
- Contract: None
- Calls: 0.20 DKK / min
- Data: 1.4 DKK / MB
- SMS: 0.60 DKK
- Subscription: 19 DKK
- Setup fee: 0 DKK • Contract: None
- Calls: 5 hours
- Data: 3 GB
- SMS: Unlimited
- Setup fee: 0 DKK
- Contract: None
Finding the cheapest mobile plan in Denmark is a primary goal for many expats and tourists. The Danish market is highly competitive, dominated by Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that offer low prices by renting capacity on the main networks. This guide explains how to navigate the options to find a plan that fits your budget and needs.
Understanding the Danish Mobile Market Structure
The Danish mobile landscape consists of two types of providers: Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). Understanding the difference is key to finding the most affordable plans, as the cheapest options are almost always offered by MVNOs.
The Three Major Network Operators (MNOs)
Denmark has three physical mobile networks that own and operate the infrastructure, including cell towers and fibre connections. All other providers rent access from one of these three networks. They are the backbone of all mobile communication in the country.
- TDC NET: Historically the incumbent, TDC’s network is widely regarded as having the most comprehensive and robust coverage across Denmark, including in rural areas.
- Telia/Telenor (TT-Netværket): A joint venture between two major Nordic telecom companies. Their shared network is very strong, especially in urban and suburban areas, competing closely with TDC.
- 3 (Hi3G): The smallest of the three networks, 3 is known for its strong data performance in cities. Its coverage can be less consistent in remote parts of the country compared to the other two.
The Role of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)
MVNOs do not own their own network infrastructure. Instead, they buy wholesale access to one of the three MNO networks and resell it to consumers under their own brand. By avoiding the massive costs of building and maintaining a network, they can compete aggressively on price.
These “no-frills” providers are the source of the cheapest mobile plans in Denmark. They focus on simple, digital-first customer service and lean operations. Brands like CBB Mobil, Oister, and Lebara are all examples of successful MVNOs.
Types of Mobile Plans: Subscription vs. Prepaid
Your choice between a subscription and a prepaid plan will largely depend on the length of your stay and whether you have a Danish social security number (CPR number).
Mobile Subscriptions (Abonnement)
This is the standard for residents and long-term expats. A subscription is a recurring monthly plan that is automatically charged to your payment card or bank account. To sign up for a subscription, you will almost always need a Danish CPR number and a Danish address. These plans offer the best value for money, especially for data.
Prepaid Plans (Taletidskort)
Prepaid plans are ideal for tourists and short-term visitors. You buy a starter pack with a SIM card and a small amount of credit. When the credit or data runs out, you top it up online or by purchasing a voucher. No CPR number is required, making it a hassle-free option for non-residents. While convenient, prepaid plans can be more expensive per gigabyte than subscriptions if you are a heavy user.
Key Low-Cost Mobile Providers in Denmark
The majority of cheap mobile plans come from a handful of dominant MVNOs. They each use one of the three main networks, so the coverage you get is determined by their MNO partner.
CBB Mobil
Operating on the Telia/Telenor network, CBB Mobil is one of Denmark’s most popular low-cost providers. They are known for a wide range of plans that offer a good balance of data, talk time, and EU roaming. CBB often wins awards for customer satisfaction and has a user-friendly online self-service platform.
Oister
Oister, which uses the 3 network, is famous for its aggressive pricing, particularly on plans with large data packages. They often have promotional offers with extra data or discounted prices for the first few months. Oister is a strong choice for heavy data users who primarily stay within urban areas where the 3 network excels.
Lebara Mobile
Lebara operates on the Telia/Telenor network and is the go-to provider for users who need to make frequent international calls. Many of their plans include a significant number of minutes to the EU, USA, Canada, and other countries, in addition to a domestic data allowance. This makes them exceptionally popular among expats and foreign workers.
Greentel
Greentel also uses the Telia/Telenor network and positions itself as an environmentally-conscious choice. They offer a variety of plans, including some with very low data allowances for minimal users, as well as plans specifically for devices like GPS trackers or alarms. Their pricing is competitive and they appeal to users who value sustainability.
Comparing Popular Low-Cost Plans
Prices and data allowances change frequently due to intense competition. The table below provides a snapshot of typical entry-level and mid-range plans from popular low-cost providers. Always check the provider’s website for the most current offers.
| Provider | Network | Example Plan Data | Included EU Data | Approx. Price (DKK/mo) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oister | 3 | 30 GB | 10 GB | 89,- |
| CBB Mobil | Telia/Telenor | 40 GB | 15 GB | 119,- |
| Lebara | Telia/Telenor | 100 GB | 12 GB | 99,- |
| Greentel | Telia/Telenor | 20 GB | 10 GB | 99,- |
Note: Prices and plan details are indicative and subject to change. Check the provider’s website for current information.
What “Cheapest” Really Means: Factors Beyond Price
The plan with the lowest monthly fee is not always the best or most economical choice for your specific situation. To find true value, you must consider several factors.
Data Allowance
The most significant variable in plan pricing is the amount of data included. Before choosing, estimate your monthly usage. If you only use maps and messaging, a plan with 10-20 GB might be sufficient. If you stream video, use social media heavily, or work remotely, you should look for plans with 50 GB or more.
Network Coverage
While all three Danish networks are excellent by international standards, there are regional differences. The TDC network generally offers the most reliable coverage in rural and coastal areas. The Telia/Telenor and 3 networks are very strong in cities. If you plan to travel extensively outside major towns, choosing a provider on the TDC network (like YouSee or eesy) might be worth a slightly higher price for better service.
EU Roaming Data
All Danish subscriptions include “Roam Like at Home” in the EU/EEA. However, this does not mean you can use your entire Danish data allowance abroad. Providers apply a “fair use policy” that limits the amount of data you can use while roaming. This limit is usually stated clearly in the plan details and is a critical factor if you travel frequently to other EU countries.
Tip: Check the EU Data Fair Use Limit
The amount of data you can use while roaming in the EU is not your full domestic allowance. Providers calculate this limit based on the plan’s price. A cheap plan of 99 DKK might offer 100 GB of data in Denmark but only 12 GB in the EU. Always look for the specific “Data i EU” amount before choosing a plan if you travel often.
Contract Length (Binding)
A major advantage of the Danish market is the lack of long-term contracts. Most low-cost providers have no “binding” period, or at most a 1-month notice period. This gives you the freedom to switch providers easily if you find a better deal or are unhappy with the service. Some premium plans from MNOs may have a 6-month binding period, often in exchange for a discounted phone.
Getting Your SIM Card: Physical vs. eSIM
Once you’ve chosen a provider, you need to get a SIM card. You have two options: a traditional physical SIM or a modern eSIM.
Traditional Physical SIM Card
Physical SIM cards are available everywhere. For prepaid plans, you can buy a starter pack in supermarkets (like Føtex, Netto), 7-Eleven kiosks, or electronic stores. For subscriptions, the SIM card is typically mailed to your Danish address after you sign up online.
eSIM: The Digital Alternative
An eSIM is a digital SIM that is embedded in your phone. It allows you to activate a mobile plan without a physical SIM card. This is incredibly convenient for tourists and expats, as you can often buy and activate a plan online before you even arrive in Denmark, giving you instant connectivity upon landing.
An increasing number of Danish providers, including many low-cost ones like CBB and Oister, offer eSIM. You simply scan a QR code provided by the operator to install the mobile plan on your phone. Ensure your smartphone is eSIM-compatible before choosing this option.
The Practical Steps: Registration and Activation
The process of getting a mobile plan up and running varies based on the plan type.
The CPR Number Requirement
As mentioned, a Danish Civil Registration (CPR) number is a prerequisite for most mobile subscriptions. This is used for identity verification and credit checks. If you are an expat who has registered with the authorities and received your CPR number, you can sign up for any plan online.
Activating a Prepaid Plan
For tourists, a prepaid plan is the simplest path. You can purchase a starter kit in a store. In some cases, especially at dedicated telecom shops, you may be asked to show a photo ID (like a passport) for registration. However, starter packs from supermarkets often require a simple online activation that does not require ID.
Understanding Common Danish Mobile Terms
When browsing provider websites, you will encounter several Danish terms. Knowing these will help you compare plans accurately.
- Abonnement: Subscription. A recurring monthly plan.
- Taletidskort: Prepaid card. You top up as you go.
- Oprettelse: Setup fee. A one-time charge for creating your account. Many providers waive this during promotions.
- Binding: Contract period. Most low-cost plans have “ingen binding” (no contract period).
- Data: Data. The amount of gigabytes (GB) included in your plan.
- Tale: Talk time. The number of hours of calls included.
- Fri tale: Unlimited talk time within Denmark.
- Netværk: Network. Refers to the MNO (TDC, Telia/Telenor, or 3) that the provider uses.