Quick Answer
Grameenphone is Bangladesh’s largest operator with 89 million subscribers, 75% rural 4G coverage, and the most stable uploads. Banglalink has 44 million subscribers and the fastest download speeds per Opensignal testing. Grameenphone has better coverage. Banglalink has faster raw downloads.
Side-by-Side Comparison
This table compares Bangladesh’s largest and third-largest mobile operators.
| Feature | Grameenphone | Banglalink |
|---|---|---|
| Subscribers | 89 million | 44 million |
| Parent | Telenor Group | VEON (formerly VimpelCom) |
| Rural 4G | 75% | ~50% |
| Download Speed | Good | Fastest per Opensignal |
| Upload | Most stable | Standard |
| Technology | 4G, 3G | 4G, 3G |
| Positioning | Coverage leader | Download speed leader |
Test Grameenphone speed | Test Banglalink speed
Speed Comparison
Banglalink delivers the fastest download speeds in Bangladesh according to Opensignal testing. In urban areas, Banglalink’s 4G network outperforms Grameenphone on raw download throughput. This makes Banglalink the pick for streaming and large file downloads.
Grameenphone counters with the most stable upload speeds in the country. Upload consistency affects video call quality, cloud sync, and file sharing. During peak hours, Grameenphone’s upload stays more reliable than Banglalink’s.
In rural Bangladesh, Grameenphone’s 75% 4G rate means faster real-world speeds because Banglalink often falls back to slower 3G connections outside cities.
Run a speed test to compare both networks at your location.
Coverage
Grameenphone covers more of Bangladesh than any other operator. Its 89 million subscribers span all 64 districts. The 75% rural 4G rate is unmatched. Telenor’s investment keeps Grameenphone’s rural towers operational even in flood-prone and remote areas.
Banglalink at 44 million subscribers covers all major cities well. Rural coverage is weaker, estimated at around 50% for 4G. Banglalink’s VEON parent company has invested in urban network density rather than rural expansion.
The coverage gap matters most in rural Bangladesh, which is still home to the majority of the population. Users outside Dhaka, Chittagong, and major cities will notice Grameenphone’s wider reach.
Which Should You Choose?
Grameenphone is the safe choice for most Bangladeshi users. Widest coverage, most stable uploads, and 89 million subscriber confidence make it reliable nationwide. If you travel across Bangladesh, Grameenphone provides the fewest dead zones.
Banglalink fits urban users who want the fastest downloads. If you live in Dhaka or Chittagong and mainly stream video or download files, Banglalink’s speed advantage matters. Banglalink also offers competitive data pricing.
Check Robi Axiata as a middle option with the lowest latency in Bangladesh.
Summary
Grameenphone wins on coverage (89M subs, 75% rural 4G) and upload stability. Banglalink wins on download speed (fastest per Opensignal). Two out of three criteria favor Grameenphone. Banglalink is the better pick only for speed-focused urban users.
Test your connection at Kencang speed test and see the Bangladesh internet overview for all operators.
Last Updated: March 28, 2026 Data Sources: Opensignal Bangladesh report, BTRC data, operator filings