How to Find the Best Network for Calls and Internet in Your Location
Choosing a mobile operator based only on ads or plan price can backfire fast. Many users in India port their number or buy a new SIM only to discover that the signal is weak, the data is unusable indoors, or video calls keep failing.
If you’re planning to change your network or buy a new SIM, here’s how to check mobile network coverage in your area the right way before you commit.
1. Why You Should Check Coverage Before Buying or Porting
Even in 2025, coverage isn’t consistent across India not even within the same city. You might get strong 5G outside your building, but struggle to load a basic website inside your room.
Porting your number or getting a new SIM without checking can lead to:
- Weak or no indoor signal
- Internet working only near windows
- Dropped calls, missed OTPs, and unreliable video calls
- Wasting money on data you can’t use
- A 90-day lock-in after porting no turning back
A little checking now can save weeks of regret later.
2. The Smartest First Step – Ask the People Around You
Start with those closest to your situation. Ask:
- Neighbors in the same building or street
- Colleagues in your office
- Local shopkeepers, security staff, or delivery agents
- Friends or family who visit often
What to ask:
- Which network do they use?
- Does it work well inside rooms, especially where you’ll use it most?
- Any issues with data speed, dropped calls, or network outages?
🛈 Don’t assume one good experience means it’s best ask multiple users with different phones.
3. Use These Free Tools to Double-Check Network Quality
These apps and maps let you see real-world signal data, not just what the operator claims.
TRAI MyCall App
- Shows call quality ratings based on user feedback in your area
- Helps you know if a network struggles with voice calls
- Free to use, maintained by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India – Download from Play Store
nPerf Coverage Map
- Shows live coverage and download/upload speeds tested by users
- You can zoom in on your exact neighborhood
- Visit nPerf Map
OpenSignal App
- Maps nearby mobile towers and their signal strength
- Lets you see signal variation across a room or building – Download OpenSignal
Try these while standing in the actual place you plan to use your phone like your bedroom or study.
4. Check Indoor vs Outdoor Signal – It’s Not the Same
Just because your phone shows 4G or 5G doesn’t mean your data will work smoothly indoors.
Here’s how to test it properly:
- Run a speed test (not just look at signal bars)
- Test upload speed too important for video calls and WhatsApp uploads
- Try the same test near windows vs in closed rooms
- Test at different times of day some networks slow down during peak hours
If your work or classes depend on reliable internet, indoor signal matters more than anything.
5. Try a Trial SIM Before Porting Your Number
If you’re unsure, don’t port right away. Instead:
- Buy a low-cost recharge (₹99-₹199) on a new SIM
- Use it in your phone’s second SIM slot or in a backup device
- Test speed and call quality for 2-3 days
- Check especially during evening hours, when many networks slow down
Porting is final for 90 days always test before you commit.
6. When to Avoid Porting or Buying a New SIM
| Situation | Better Option |
|---|---|
| You’re not sure about coverage at home | Test with trial SIM or ask around |
| You need strong internet for remote work or classes | Do speed test at your desk, not outside |
| You’re switching phones soon | Wait until you have your new device |
| You already ported recently | Wait 90 days before another port |
| You travel often between cities | Choose a network known for national coverage, not just local speed |
Avoid rushing into a new SIM just because a plan looks cheaper coverage matters more.
7. Don’t Regret Your SIM Choice
In India, mobile network quality can vary across buildings, towers, and even floors. Before porting or buying a new SIM:
- Ask local users
- Use free tools to test
- Try a trial SIM for a few days
- Check actual speed, not just signal bars
