[3GScottishUser]

Tests by network specialist SIRODA comparing the data speeds of all five UK operators show that on average O2 had the fastest network over a 60-day period between October 2010 and January 2011, according to the operator.

SIRODA undertook 169 static test locations, measuring mobile data connection speeds at peak periods throughout the day.

O2 reported that the tests show that O2 offered the best data experience in 12 out of 13 cities. On average, web page access on the O2 network was delivered in 1.4 seconds, over three times quicker than the slowest operator.

Data performance was measured by testing the time to access a webpage and the speed of downloading a typical music file. Tests were conducted between 8am and 9pm Monday to Sunday, replicating genuine user patterns. Cities covered included London, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle and Sheffield.


http://www.mobiletoday.co.uk/News/11136/O2_claims_fastest_mobile_data_connection_speeds.as px

[miffed]

I have to say that is pretty much my experience of O2 (I.e. A full , strong , usable HSDPA signal wherever I go). - but reading around the various forums you'd think think I was deluded
I'd love to see a thorough test conducted and presented 100% independently , in a blind fashion

[Ben]

They could be the fastest network in the world; after my personal experience with the iPhone it'll be a few years yet before I'm prepared to give them another try!

[gorilla]

@Ben get yourself a giff gaff sim and see if there is any difference. When I get "H" my data speeds are good on O2. I rarely see basic 3G and they have edge everywhere else which is ok, certainly better than GPRS which is what you get on 3 when outside a 3G area.
That said, I wouldn't sign up to O2 on a contract anytime soon!