Quick Answer
Viettel is Vietnam’s largest operator with 110 million subscribers, 226.27 Mbps 5G download speed, and the 3rd highest global speed score at 82.56. VNPT operates the VinaPhone mobile brand and fixed broadband, ranking 2nd globally for 5G speed score at 78.11. Viettel has faster 5G and better rural coverage. VNPT leads on 4G upload speeds.
Side-by-Side Comparison
This table compares Vietnam’s two largest telecom groups on speed, coverage, and global rankings.
| Feature | Viettel | VNPT |
|---|---|---|
| Subscribers | 110 million | ~50 million (group) |
| 5G Download | 226.27 Mbps | 157.17 Mbps (VinaPhone) |
| Global Speed Score | 82.56 (3rd) | 78.11 (2nd for 5G) |
| 4G Download | 82 Mbps | ~60 Mbps |
| 4G Upload | Standard | Leader (38 Mbps) |
| Technology | 4G, 5G, FTTH | FTTH, XGSPON, 4G, 5G |
| Strength | 5G speed, rural coverage | Upload speed, fiber |
Test Viettel speed | Test VNPT speed
Speed Comparison
Viettel’s 5G network delivers 226.27 Mbps average download, the fastest in Vietnam. On 4G, Viettel hits 82 Mbps download. These speeds placed Viettel 3rd globally in Opensignal’s speed score ranking at 82.56 points.
VNPT (through VinaPhone) delivers 157.17 Mbps on 5G and leads Vietnam on 4G upload speed at 38 Mbps. Faster uploads benefit video callers, cloud storage users, and content creators. VNPT’s 5G speed score of 78.11 ranks it 2nd globally.
Both operators rank among the world’s top mobile networks. Vietnam punches well above its weight in global speed rankings.
For fixed broadband, VNPT has a large fiber network using XGSPON technology. Viettel also offers FTTH fiber. Both deliver up to 1 Gbps for home users.
Run a speed test to measure your actual speeds.
Coverage
Viettel has the widest mobile coverage in Vietnam. Its 110 million subscribers reflect strong reach across all 63 provinces, including rural and mountainous areas. Viettel built infrastructure in areas other operators avoided.
VNPT’s coverage is strong in urban Vietnam and has decent rural presence through its VinaPhone mobile brand. VNPT’s fiber broadband network also covers most Vietnamese cities.
For travelers across Vietnam, Viettel provides the most reliable signal in remote areas like the Central Highlands, northern mountain provinces, and Mekong Delta.
Which Should You Choose?
Viettel fits users who want the fastest 5G speeds and the widest coverage. The 226.27 Mbps 5G download is unmatched in Vietnam. Rural travelers and users outside major cities need Viettel for reliable connectivity.
VNPT fits users who prioritize upload speed and want fiber broadband bundled with mobile. The 38 Mbps 4G upload leadership makes VNPT better for video calling and cloud-heavy workflows. VNPT’s XGSPON fiber is strong for home broadband.
Compare MobiFone as a third mobile option with competitive urban coverage.
Summary
Viettel leads on 5G speed (226 vs 157 Mbps), subscriber count (110M), and rural coverage. VNPT leads on upload speeds and ranks impressively at 2nd globally for 5G. Both are world-class networks. Choose Viettel for speed and coverage. Choose VNPT for uploads and fiber bundles.
Test your connection at Kencang speed test and check the Vietnam internet overview for full market data.
Last Updated: March 28, 2026 Data Sources: Opensignal Vietnam report, GSMA Intelligence, operator filings