Internet comparison for expats
By Linus Palmqvist, Head of Operations Reviewed by Simon Nilsson Last reviewed There is no single 'best' provider. The right one depends on your exact address, your documents, and whether you need English support. Here is an honest comparison, plus the best pick for each situation.
Start with the problem you are trying to solve. Then check the exact address before treating any provider as the answer.
MovistarOwns the biggest network; in our experience the most likely to reach your address.
VodafoneReal English phone line and WhatsApp.
DIGIIn our experience the cheapest fast fibre where its own network reaches, on a short contract.
OrangeConverged package with multilingual support.
MásMóvilCheap bundles from a big network, Spanish-first.
Prices change too often to publish responsibly here, so we use three broad tiers: budget, mid and premium.
Choose in this order, not by a headline price or a fake national winner.
Can they install at your exact address? Check coverage first - it varies street to street.
Do you have a Spanish ID number (NIE) and a Spanish bank account? Without them, some providers are much easier than others.
Do you need help in English? In our experience Vodafone and Orange handle it best.
Do you need to reach your home network from outside (security cameras, remote access)? DIGI shares one address by default (changeable for a small fee).
Is it a second home or a rural address? Coverage and the best option can change a lot.
Coverage is address-specific. If you are buying or renting in one of these cities, read the local guide before choosing a provider.
ValenciaA city where fibre coverage is rarely the issue, but old buildings, portals and landlord permission can decide the install.Read city guide
AlicanteCity flats are usually straightforward, but Costa Blanca villas and urbanisations nearby can still need air-fibre or a local operator.Read city guide
TorreviejaCoverage is rarely the issue. Second-home flexibility, English support and seasonal setup are the real questions.Read city guide
MarbellaTown coverage looks strong, but villas, gated communities and hillside urbanisations make the exact plot decisive.Read city guide
MálagaCity flats are usually easy, while old-centre buildings and province villas need exact-address checks.Read city guide
BarcelonaOne of Spain’s easiest markets on paper, but old buildings, rental logistics and exact risers still decide the install.Read city guide
Tell us where the home is and what you need, and we will compare the practical options in English.
Still have questions?
Written by
Head of Operations at Settlewell
Linus moved from Sweden to Málaga in 2021 and set his own home up here, so most of this he has already done the hard way once. Before Settlewell he spent years at Workwide, the cross-border recruiter that has helped over 10,000 people into jobs abroad, latterly as its Head of Recruitment and Operations. He speaks Spanish, lives in Málaga with his partner, and spends his days on the phone to Spanish providers.
This comparison uses Settlewell provider-facts research, official provider pages and Settlewell operational contracting requirements. Settlewell is independent and is not affiliated with the providers listed here. Settlewell may receive a commission when you choose an offer; this does not create a single ranked winner.
