Exploring Internet Options at the Airport: Cellular vs. Wi-Fi

Imagine this familiar scenario: you're at the airport, waiting for your flight, and you wish to stream a movie, engage in online gaming, or download apps using your smartphone. Your initial thought might be to tap into the airport's Wi-Fi, but that might not be your best choice. Have you considered using your mobile network?

Cellular Networks Triumph Over Wi-Fi

According to research conducted by Ookla, cellular networks can outpace Wi-Fi. During their study of Speedtest user data, Ookla compared the median download speeds at 50 leading U.S. airports for the first half of 2025, evaluating Wi-Fi against mobile network giants AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

The findings were clear: cellular networks provided an average download speed of 219.24 Mbps, whereas Wi-Fi lagged behind at 101.39 Mbps.

A Look at Major Network Providers

Verizon led the pack, delivering faster speeds than Wi-Fi at 34 airports, with two ties. T-Mobile followed closely, with advantages in 32 airports. AT&T outpaced Wi-Fi in 28 locations, including one draw.

In certain airports, the cellular advantage was stark. Chicago's Midway Airport recorded median speeds of 944.01 Mbps on AT&T compared to 122.53 Mbps on Wi-Fi. Similarly, Sacramento International saw T-Mobile achieve 726.19 Mbps versus 107.84 Mbps via Wi-Fi. At Indianapolis International, Verizon reached a staggering 1,267.05 Mbps, overshadowing Wi-Fi's 51.35 Mbps.

Variability Across Airports

While cellular speeds were generally superior, Wi-Fi did outshine certain carriers at roughly a third of the airports. However, when assessing against all top mobile providers, Wi-Fi was faster in only five locations.

Houston's George Bush International, for example, saw AT&T deliver just 4.77 Mbps compared to Wi-Fi's 21.36 Mbps. Oakland International had T-Mobile at 28.58 Mbps, whereas Wi-Fi delivered 194.23 Mbps. Orlando International recorded 27.35 Mbps on Verizon against 102.38 Mbps via Wi-Fi.

The State of Airport Wi-Fi

Examining JFK Airport, my typical choice in New York, reveals variable results. Airport Wi-Fi clocked in at 148.38 Mbps. Verizon, however, was faster at 172.59 Mbps, while T-Mobile and AT&T were slower at 97.85 Mbps and 80.17 Mbps, respectively. The best choice for Verizon users is clear, unlike those on T-Mobile or AT&T networks.

Why Is Airport Wi-Fi Often Sluggish?

While often heralded as faster, Wi-Fi at airports can be notably slow. According to Ookla, several factors contribute.

One reason is the outdated technology in use; 70% of airport Wi-Fi setups still utilize Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), introduced back in 2013. Upgrading such a vast network is far more complex and costly than replacing a home router.

Moreover, airports prioritize stable connections and the ability to serve many users over outright speed.

For airport travelers, here's the essential takeaway: "Don't assume the complimentary airport Wi-Fi is your optimal choice," Ookla emphasizes.

"This isn't to disparage Wi-Fi's generally adequate performance, which remains free (though often ad-supported). For travelers who prioritize mobile data, using already-paid cellular is essentially cost-free as well. Remember, both options are viable; using Speedtest will help determine the better choice on the spot."