Quick Answer
MTS is Russia’s largest operator with 80 million subscribers, 31% market share, and 15.6 Mbps average download. T2 (Tele2) is the fourth operator with 48 million subscribers and a budget-first strategy. MTS offers more services and wider coverage. T2 costs significantly less.
Side-by-Side Comparison
This table highlights the key differences between Russia’s market leader and its budget alternative.
| Feature | MTS | T2 (Tele2) |
|---|---|---|
| Subscribers | 80 million | 48 million |
| Market Share | 31% | ~17% |
| Avg Download | 15.6 Mbps | 10-13 Mbps |
| Technology | GPON, FTTB, 4G LTE, 5G | 4G LTE, 3G |
| Services | Mobile, fiber, IPTV, VoIP | Mobile only |
| Fixed Broadband | Yes (fiber) | No |
| Positioning | Full-service premium | Budget mobile-only |
Test MTS speed | Test T2 speed
Speed Comparison
MTS averages 15.6 Mbps download across Russia. T2 typically delivers 10-13 Mbps in independent tests. MTS has a consistent 3-5 Mbps edge on mobile speeds.
The speed gap widens for fixed broadband. MTS offers GPON fiber up to 1 Gbps in cities. T2 has no fixed-line product at all. If you need home internet, MTS is the only choice between these two.
MTS also leads on 5G with active service in Moscow. T2 has no 5G network and no announced timeline.
Run a speed test to measure your current connection speed.
Coverage
MTS covers more of Russia than any private operator. Its 31% market share reflects infrastructure across all 85 federal subjects. Remote Siberian towns and Arctic settlements often have MTS as their only mobile option.
T2 focuses on profitable urban and suburban areas. Coverage drops sharply outside cities. T2 does not operate in several remote Russian regions. Users who travel frequently across Russia will hit T2 dead zones that MTS covers.
In major cities, both networks work well. T2’s urban coverage is adequate for Moscow, St. Petersburg, and regional capitals.
Which Should You Choose?
MTS fits users who need a single provider for mobile, home internet, and TV. Its bundled packages save money compared to buying services separately. Frequent travelers across Russia need MTS for reliable coverage.
T2 fits budget-focused users in cities who only need mobile service. T2’s tariff plans cost 25-40% less than MTS for similar data allowances. Students and light users benefit from T2’s aggressive pricing.
If speed matters most, neither is the fastest. MegaFon leads Russia at 20.1 Mbps average download.
Summary
MTS and T2 serve different market segments. MTS is the full-service operator with 80 million subscribers, fiber broadband, IPTV, and the widest mobile coverage. T2 is the budget mobile operator with 48 million subscribers and the lowest prices. Choose based on whether you need broad services or just cheap mobile data.
Test your connection at Kencang speed test and review the Russia internet overview for market context.
Last Updated: March 28, 2026 Data Sources: Opensignal Russia report, GSMA Intelligence, operator filings