Movistar and O2 subscribers on 300 or 600 Mbps plans are unexpectedly enjoying faster internet speeds than those stated in their contracts. This is confirmed by a recent report from the National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC), which documents the actual performance of the fiber optic networks operated by both Telefónica brands. For many users, this means that standard speed limits are effectively lifted and connection quality has noticeably improved.
The CNMC report for the fourth quarter of 2025 provides precise figures: the average download speed for the 300 Mbps plan is 327 Mbps, while the 600 Mbps plan averages 632 Mbps. Upload speeds also exceed the advertised rates. This trend is seen not only with Movistar but also with O2, making the situation unique for the Spanish market. According to russpain.com, this practice benefits customers, who get more for the same price without having to modify their contracts.
Reasons for the speed boost
As BandaAncha points out, Telefónica is deliberately increasing synchronization speeds on network equipment so that actual bandwidth exceeds commercial specifications. This is an internal company decision aimed at boosting user satisfaction and reducing complaints about insufficient speed. As a result, customers enjoy a stable connection that does not drop below the stated rate, even during peak times.
However, the situation with the 1 Gb tariff is different. Although the network can deliver speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps, actual rates are limited to about 940 Mbps. The reason lies in the routers: most models installed at users’ homes simply cannot transmit more data. This is a technical limitation unrelated to the capacity of the fiber-optic line itself.
The impact of equipment
The router issue is especially relevant for those expecting to get the most from the 1 Gb plan. Even under ideal conditions, the network cannot deliver more than the device port allows. In the coming years, new router models supporting Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 may change the situation. Then, users will be able to take advantage of the full bandwidth their plan offers.
For the 300 and 600 Mbps plans, such limitations are not a concern: the equipment handles the load, and the speed margin prevents drops even when several devices work simultaneously. This is especially important for families and small offices, where connection stability is critical for work and entertainment.
Actual speeds and expectations
According to the CNMC report, tariff speed differences are minimal: even under the least favorable conditions, users on the 300 Mb plan receive at least 305 Mbps, and those on the 600 Mb plan get no less than 605 Mbps. For the 1 Gb plan, the lower limit is 921 Mbps. These results demonstrate the high stability and reliability of Movistar and O2 networks, setting them apart from several competitors in the Spanish market.
Users who choose mid-tier plans effectively receive premium service without extra cost. This may be a key factor influencing provider choice in the highly competitive telecommunications sector.
Movistar and O2 are brands owned by the Spanish telecommunications group Telefónica. Movistar leads the market in fixed and mobile services, while O2 is targeted at users who value simple, transparent plans with no hidden conditions. Both brands use the same infrastructure, allowing them to deliver high-quality service nationwide. In recent years, the company has actively introduced new technologies and upgraded equipment to meet growing customer demands for internet speed and stability.
