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1 in 4 customers could save from £188[1]

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[1] 29.43% of customers could save from £188.28 a year on their broadband only / landline contract. Annual savings based on an average monthly bill of £37.69 from a nationally representative sample (n=2000, reduced to n=367 following selection criteria for fairness) vs our cheapest headline cost for superfast broadband (>=50Mbs), £22/month headline price. Refreshed in April-24, with data correct as of Mar-24. All prices are subject to consumer price index (CPI) changes, refer to the individual provider T&Cs for more information.

Look out for this great broadband deal

We’ve chosen this deal as it has an exclusive or particularly strong special offer.

Please note that the monthly prices shown below may be subject to increase each April, in line with the Consumer Price Index rate of inflation. Check the terms of any deal carefully to understand how mid-contract price increases could affect your monthly payments.

Featured broadband deals

Our featured deals table promotes a diverse range of trusted providers and highlights an exclusive or particularly strong offer from each.

To compare broadband deals that could be available where you live, enter your postcode above. You can then sort packages according to your chosen criteria.

**Average speeds are based on the download speeds of at least 50% of customers at peak time (8pm to 10pm). Speed can be affected by a range of technical factors. You can check the estimated speed to your property before purchasing.

Top tips to compare broadband deals

  • To find broadband that works for you, think about what internet speeds your household needs and compare relevant deals to find the most reasonable price.
  • Make sure you’re happy with the contract length. You’ll usually need to pay an exit fee if you cancel early.
  • Watch out for any mid-contract price increases, especially those that are linked to inflation rates and might be hard to predict.
  • See if you could save money by packaging your broadband together with your home phone, paid TV subscription or both. 

Find out more about how to find the best broadband deals for your household in our guide.

What is broadband?

Broadband is a way of connecting to the internet. It allows information to be carried at high speed to your laptop, desktop computer, smartphone, smart TV or any other web-enabled device.

It’s supplied to your home by an internet service provider (ISP), such as BT or Virgin Media. You can shop around between different providers to find broadband deals that work for your household.

Broadband replaced the original dial-up internet connection, which was significantly slower than today’s technology. But not all broadband is created equal. There are a few different types of broadband connection, offering different speeds. Where you live also plays a big role in what broadband deals will be available to you.

We compare broadband deals from a range of trusted internet providers, including:

Find out more about the broadband providers we compare.

What types of broadband are there?

There are several ways you can get broadband, although some options may not be available where you live. The most common types of broadband are:

Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)

ADSL broadband works over the same line as your landline phone, but it’s on the way out. Openreach, the UK’s largest broadband network, is planning to retire the UK’s copper network on 31 January 2027 as it makes the switch to a fibre network.

However, for those who live in remote or rural areas, ADSL might still be the best broadband option for now. ADSL has the slowest average download speeds of around 11-12Mbps (megabits per second).

Fibre broadband

This offers speeds many times faster than ADSL, with a more stable performance, especially at peak times.

Fibre broadband is now the most popular choice for internet users and it’s ideal if you stream a lot of music and videos or enjoy online gaming. It’s also good for people who work from home or for families using multiple devices at the same time.

The download speeds you get with fibre broadband can vary a lot, depending on the type of connection and the deal you choose. Depending on what’s available in your local area, you may be able to get:

  • Superfast fibre broadband (minimum 30Mbps)
  • Ultrafast fibre broadband (minimum 300Mbps)
  • Gigabit-capable full-fibre broadband (possible download speeds up to 1,000Mbps

Cable broadband

Faster than ADSL, cable broadband uses the same wiring as a cable TV package. Virgin Media is the main provider of cable broadband in the UK. It also offers broadband without line rental.   

Cable broadband currently offers the fastest average download speeds in the UK, with an average of 270.6Mbps in the year to March 2023.

Mobile broadband (3G, 4G and 5G)

We don’t currently offer this type of broadband comparison. Mobile broadband is a service you can connect to at home and on the go. It’s convenient and doesn’t require a landline, but the speeds you could get depend on the strength of signal where you live.

You’ll typically use either a USB dongle, data SIM or wireless MiFi device to connect. A MiFi is a portable, battery-powered or rechargeable wireless device. It can tap into 4G or 5G mobile phone networks to create a mini broadband hotspot.

Satellite broadband

Satellite broadband is an option for people living in the few areas where a good ADSL, cable, mobile or fibre broadband connection isn’t available. We don’t currently compare satellite broadband deals.

How can I find the best broadband deals in my area?

Not every broadband internet deal is available in every part of the country. Some broadband networks aren’t yet installed in all areas. This makes it important to check which ones your home can get.

After all, you wouldn’t want to end up disappointed if you see a WiFi deal advertising lightning-fast download speeds, only to find you can’t get it because of where you live.

To find out which of our broadband deals could be available to you, go to our broadband postcode checker. Simply enter your postcode and current broadband provider, if you have one. We’ll show you our deals, including price, speed, contract length and more, so you can easily compare what works for you.

Am I eligible for a broadband social tariff?

If you’re a low-income household and receive certain state benefits, you might qualify for discounted broadband deals. Eligible benefits include:

  • Universal credit
  • Pension credit
  • Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Income Support.

Some providers may also offer social tariffs to people who receive the Personal Independence Payment or Attendance Allowance. Check with your provider to see how they can help.

Most internet social tariffs offer superfast broadband speeds of over 30Mbps – fast enough to shop online or stream HD TV. Prices start from around £10 a month and won’t go up mid-contract as regular plans often do.

Some people have concerns that switching to a social tariff means they’ll get a poorer service, but this isn’t the case. Your broadband is delivered the same way as a regular contract, just without the perks and special offers.

Find out more about broadband social tariffs.

What broadband packages are available?

You can choose from a few different types of broadband package, depending on your needs:

  • Broadband-only packages
  • Broadband and phone packages
  • Broadband and TV packages
  • Broadband, TV and home phone packages
  • Broadband, TV, home phone and mobile packages.

If you pay for a home phone or a TV service, it’s worth considering a broadband package that includes these additional services. It could end up being cheaper and more convenient than separate deals.

A broadband package could be:

  • Cheaper than separate contracts
  • Easier to pay in one single monthly bill  
  • Handier for customer support as it’s all in one place.

Ultimately, you need to make sure the package suits your needs. A few factors to check are: 

  • The cost of monthly line rental  
  • The charges if you exceed your data or call allowance
  • Package features (for example: TV channels, anytime calls)
  • Exit fees if you leave your contract early.

What type of broadband package should I choose?

The right broadband package for you will depend on your individual needs and what services you use, as well as your budget. 

Broadband-only packages

A standalone broadband deal where you just pay for internet access could be right for you if:

  • You don’t make calls from your landline.
  • You’re happy to stick with Freeview TV or you tend to solely watch TV on streaming services like Netflix.
  • You want to save on monthly outgoings and keep it simple.

Broadband and phone packages

Getting a broadband and home phone package could be cheaper than paying for these separately. It could be the right package for you if:

  • You still use your landline for calls
  • Your internet connection is delivered through your phone line
  • You only watch Freeview TV or pay for streaming services like Prime Video or Apple TV.

Broadband and TV packages

Choosing a TV and broadband package could be right for you if: 

  • You like to watch pay TV channels like Sky Sports, TNT Sports, Sky Movies or Sky Atlantic.
  • You want the ease of paying for your broadband and TV in one bill.
  • You don’t use a landline for phone calls.

Broadband, phone and TV packages 

If you use all three services, you may find it simpler to arrange your broadband, phone and TV all in one bundle. In some cases, you can add a mobile SIM to the bundle too. You’ll often get a bundle discount, and it also makes your services easier to manage, with one point of contact.

It could be right for you if:

  • You still regularly use your landline for phone calls.
  • You watch pay TV channels like TNT Sports or Sky Atlantic.
  • You’d rather deal with one single provider.

What should I think about when I’m looking for a broadband deal

The main factors to think about when deciding between broadband providers and home broadband deals are:

Speed

You’ll need a broadband speed that can keep up with the online needs of your entire household. Fast broadband speeds can be crucial, especially if you stream content or you’re into online gaming. It’s also key if multiple members of your household will be using the internet at the same time.

Customer service

It’s worth checking the customer service ratings of a provider before you go ahead with a WiFi deal. By choosing a provider with consistently good reviews, you can feel more confident that they’ll be responsive if you suffer from lower-than-expected speeds or regular service outages.

Your budget

Is it the right price for you and does the package offer good value for money? How do the costs stack up against other providers offering a similar broadband deal?

As well as overall cost, don’t forget to compare the upfront cost for installation and/or a new router. Some deals won’t have any set-up fees.

Contract length

Broadband contracts typically run for 12, 18 or 24 months, although rolling monthly contracts are an option too. Always check the contract length so you’re not tying yourself into a longer deal than you want. This could make switching more difficult.

If you’re already in a contract, the first thing you should do is get in touch with the provider you want to switch to. They’ll be able to explain the process you need to follow.

Mid-contract price rises

Some broadband deals include mid-contract price rises. Previously, that meant broadband providers could increase the cost of your monthly broadband bill in line with Consumer Price Inflation (CPI) every April, on top of a standard percentage increase.

And because the inflation rate fluctuates, that meant you wouldn’t know how much you could end up paying later in your contract.

However, Ofcom have introduced new rules to make sure that broadband customers have transparency and certainty about any mid-contract price rises. From January 2025, when you search for broadband deals, providers will have to clearly and prominently detail:

  • When any prices rise will take place
  • How much your bill will increase by, in pounds and pence.

If you’re looking for a broadband deal before the new rules come into effect, check the terms to see what to expect.  

Exit fees/charges

You’ll usually be charged a fee if you cancel your existing contract before the minimum term has expired. And these fees can be substantial. In some cases, you may have to pay the value of any months remaining on your contract, less what the provider saves by not having to provide the service.

However, under Ofcom’s code of practice, you can leave your provider without being penalised if you’re not getting the minimum broadband speeds originally promised when you entered into the contract.

Hardware

Do you need any new equipment to change or upgrade your service? You may need a new router or fibre-optic cables installing.

Perks

You’ll find many broadband providers will use gifts and rewards to tempt you to choose their package. These can include free tablets or tech, cashback, vouchers or access to additional services. But a perk should be just that. First and foremost, you want to make sure the deal offered works for you.

Bundles

If you watch pay TV and/or still use your landline, you may be able to save money by combining your broadband with a paid TV subscription and phone package.

Availability

According to Ofcom’s latest Connected Nations report, 97% of the UK now has access to superfast broadband, while gigabit-capable connections are available to 80% of UK homes.

Check which speeds could be available in your area

Compare broadband in three easy steps

Look for broadband, phone and TV deals with Compare the Market.

Tell us your postcode and your current broadband provider. We’ll show you a full list of deals available in your area.

Choose what broadband speed, contract length and phone options you want. You can also opt to see bundled TV deals.

Pick the deal you’re interested in and check the details. If you like what you see, click ‘Visit now’ to go to the provider’s website.

What is the best broadband speed for my home? 

The speed you need depends on what you use the internet for and how many people in your household use it at the same time. The greater the speed, the quicker you can download files and the better the picture quality your streaming content will have.

Broadband speeds are usually measured in Mbps. This stands for ‘megabits per second’ and refers to the amount of data you can download or upload in a second.

Ofcom defines ‘decent broadband’ as a connection that can deliver download speeds of at least 10Mbps and upload speeds of at least 1Mbps. However, there are plenty of superfast and full-fibre connections available that easily exceed these speeds.

Here’s a quick guide to the speeds you might need depending on the size of your household and what you do online.

10-20Mbps

could be enough speed for:

20-30Mbps

could be enough speed for:

30-60Mbps

could be enough speed for:

60-100Mbps

could be enough speed for:

100Mbps+

May be needed for:

Smaller households of 1-2 people Smaller households of 1-2 people Households with 3 or 4 people Larger households of 4 or more people Larger households of 4 or more people

Light use (browsing, social media, online shopping, sending emails)

Streaming HD video content

Using multiple devices at the same time for tasks like checking the news or your social media, and sending emails

Using multiple devices at the same time

Serious online gamers

 

 

Streaming HD video content

Streaming HD video content on more than one device at the same time

Stream in 4K on multiple devices at the same time

 

 

 

Online gaming

One or more household member working from home (downloading large files or regularly attending conference calls)

Find out if your speed is fast enough for your needs with our broadband speed test.

What can affect your broadband speed?

Your broadband speed can be affected by the following:

Connection type 

This usually makes the biggest difference, with ADSL, fibre and cable broadband services offering different speeds.

In 2023, ADSL connections offered average speeds of under 12Mbps. Meanwhile, some full-fibre and cable broadband connections are now capable of delivering speeds of 1 Gigabit per second (that’s 1,000Mbps).

Fibre connections offer variable speeds, depending on the package you choose.

According to the latest research by Ofcom, customers with fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) connections got superfast average download speeds of 55.7Mbps in the year to March 2023. In the same period, full-fibre customers got average download speeds of 149.2 Mbps.

Distance from the cabinet/exchange 

If you’re on a fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) connection, the distance from your home to the street cabinet can make a big difference. While your broadband connection can still be fibre, a FTTC connection means that the fibre only runs to the cabinet.

The remaining connection to your home is run on the traditional copper phoneline. Copper phonelines lose speed the further they stretch, so you can expect slower speeds if you’re further from the street cabinet.

If you’re on a fibre to the premises (FTTP) connection (also known as full fibre), your speeds shouldn’t drop over distance. If speed is the most important thing to you, a FTTP connection could be the best broadband for you.

Location from your router  

To get the best broadband connection, make sure that your WiFi router is in a good location. If possible:

  • Have it in the room where most of your internet use takes place
  • Try not to block the signal by putting the router in a cabinet or hiding it behind furniture
  • Keep it away from electrical devices, especially those that emit wireless signals, such as baby monitors and cordless phones. They could disrupt the WiFi signal.

The number of devices you’re using 

Your internet connection is shared across the devices in your home that are using the internet at any one time. If you’re all using different devices online, the connection speed is likely to slow down. And that’s particularly true if you’re online gaming, streaming 4K or downloading large files. 

Time of day 

You may find that your internet slows during peak times, typically during the evenings. This is due to the increased traffic from other users. You should still keep an eye on your speeds, to check if they fall below any minimum speed guarantees. 

Check your broadband speed now with our speed test tool

What happens when you switch internet providers?

Switching broadband providers is normally a straightforward process. If you’re coming to the end of your contract, it’s worth seeing if you could get a cheaper deal – and potentially faster download speeds – by switching to another provider. 

Here’s what to expect when you switch:

  1. Check the terms of your current contract to see when you can switch. If you’re considering switching before the end of your contract, check what exit fees may apply and make sure they’re less than what you could save by switching.
  2. Compare broadband deals to find the right one for you. You can use our broadband postcode checker to see which of our deals are available where you live. 
  3. Once you’ve found the broadband deal you want, your new provider will normally handle all the details of the switch for you. That includes letting your old provider know that you’re leaving. 
Author image Matthew Brewer

What our expert says...

“When you compare with us, you’ll be able to filter your results to include deals with a landline, as well as TV packages. If you want to compare the difference between broadband packages and separate broadband-only deals, simply choose ‘Deals without landline’ in the filter options.”

- Matthew Brewer, Broadband and mobile expert

Why compare broadband deals with Compare the Market?

At Compare the Market, it’s all about keeping it simple. We can help you search for the right product for you at the right price. And you can trust us to be impartial – we make money when you switch or take out a new product, so it’s in our interests to help you make the right choice.

Join thousands of Trustpilot reviewers who save with Compare the Market

As of October 1st 2024, Compare the Market had an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 52,401 people who left a review on Trustpilot. The score 4.8 corresponds to the Star Label ‘Excellent’. Find out more

Frequently asked questions

What is the fastest broadband in my area?

It depends on what types of broadband connections are available where you live. Use our broadband postcode checker to see the average broadband speeds of the deals we compare that you could get at your address.

Do I need to cancel my broadband before switching?

In many cases, your new broadband provider will cancel your contract for you when you make the switch. You should get a confirmation from your new provider and your old provider, with details of any cancellation fees or charges you’re due to pay.\

Many broadband providers operate on the same Openreach network, so switching between them can be straightforward. However, if you switch to a different network, you may have to reach out to your current provider to cancel.

When is the best time to switch broadband provider?

Ideally, the best time to switch broadband is at the end of your current contract. That way you won’t have to pay any exit fees to end your contract early. 

Your provider should notify you when your contract is due to end. You can tell your new provider when you want your new deal to start, and they’ll normally arrange the switch for you. 

However, if your broadband is not reaching the minimum speeds you were promised, let your provider know. If their network is at fault and they can’t resolve the issue within 30 days, you can normally leave your contract early without paying a fee.

Can I switch landline provider and keep my number?

Yes, you can normally keep your landline number when you switch providers. That is, unless you’re moving house at the same time. 

Let your new provider know you want to keep – or ‘port’ - your number when you make the switch. They can explain what to do. 

You can request to keep your number even after you’ve cancelled your old service. You’ll just need to do it within 30 days of cancelling. 

Can I move my broadband when I move house?

Many providers will let you take your broadband with you when you move house, if they provide service at your new postcode. You may have to pay a fee to move your contract to a new address – check with your provider. 

It’s a good idea to give your provider as much notice as you can, so you’re not left without internet access when you move. Some providers may ask for at least a month’s notice.

It’s worth checking what broadband deals are available at your new address to see how your current deal stacks up. Depending on how much it costs to move your broadband, you may be able to save by switching to a new provider. 

Can I get a second phone line for my broadband?

You may be able to add a second line for your broadband, depending on your provider. Get in touch with them to find out. 

A second line could be useful if you work or study from home, and you want a dedicated line to use while the rest of your household is streaming or gaming. 

Should I always go for a cheap broadband deal?

While the cost of broadband is an important consideration, it shouldn’t be the overriding factor. Speed also matters. If you can get a faster connection for a few pounds more, it could be worth paying the extra, depending on what you use the internet for.

You should also consider contract lengths and how long you want to be tied into a contract. And you may want to see if it’s more cost-effective to bundle your TV and phone together with your broadband.

Can I get fibre broadband?

Nearly everyone in the UK can now get superfast fibre broadband. And with more providers offering fibre broadband deals, it’s much more affordable than it used to be.

Fibre offers faster download speeds and greater reliability. That said, if you live in a remote or rural area, you may be one of the remaining 3% of households who still can’t get a reliable broadband service.

To find out what’s available in your area, enter your details in our broadband postcode checker, select your current provider (if you have one) and click on 'Find deals'.

How do I claim my vouchers on broadband packages?

If you compared with us and signed up for a broadband package that included extras like vouchers as part of the deal, our help centre can help you find out how to claim.

Can I get broadband without a phone line?

Yes, you can get certain types of broadband without a phone line. For example, you could get full fibre, cable, mobile and satellite broadband without paying for line rental.

Technology is changing rapidly and there are a growing nError! Hyperlink reference not valid number of providers, including Virgin Media, BT and EE, who now offer offer broadband without a phone line.

You may find there’s a smaller pool of deals available, but it’s worth comparing broadband deals to find the right one for you. 

Am I guaranteed the advertised broadband speed?

Your broadband provider should give you a guaranteed minimum speed for your broadband when you sign up to a deal. If you find that your speeds don’t match this, get in touch with your provider

If it’s a fault on their network, they normally have 30 days to put it right. If they don’t, you have the right to leave your contract without paying a penalty.

Broadband providers should also give you a realistic estimated speed, which you’re likely to get during busier times of the day.

Under rules set by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), at least 50% of broadband customers should be able to achieve a deal’s advertised speeds during peak times. Ofcom defines peak hours as between 8 and 10pm.

Does broadband have data-usage limits?

Most broadband now comes with unlimited data as standard. This is the case for all broadband deals available through Compare the Market.

Unlimited data means you won’t need to constantly monitor your usage to avoid exceeding your data cap. An unlimited broadband deal is particularly useful if there are many of you in the house, and you all like to browse social media, stream music, TV and films, or game online.

Can I switch broadband at any time?

You can switch your broadband provider whenever you like. However, that doesn’t mean you should.

If you’re still tied into an existing contract, you’ll usually have to pay an early exit fee to switch to a new provider. Make sure you check the potential saving against any early exit fees, to see if the switch is still worth it.

If you’re looking to switch because your existing provider isn’t giving you their minimum guaranteed speed, you should be able to avoid any exit fees. This could also apply if the price of your broadband has gone up by more than what’s agreed in your contract.

Get in touch with your provider if this is the case.

How do I know if I am out of contract?

You can check the status of your broadband contract by asking your provider or by logging into your account online.

Ofcom states your broadband provider has to tell you if you’re still under contract, and they must warn you between 10-40 days before your contract ends by text, email or letter. You might also be able to find the date your contract ends on your provider’s app or by checking a recent bill.

What happens after my contract ends?

After your broadband contract ends, your provider could automatically continue your service. But you may no longer qualify for the rate you were offered when you signed up to the deal. And that could mean you’re paying more than you need to.

Your broadband provider must send you an end-of-contract notification between 10 and 40 days before your contract is about to end, either by letter, email or text. It should tell you what you’ll pay after this date and give details of their best deals available – including those reserved for new customers.

If you’re coming to the end of a deal, it’s a good time to see what else is available. You could save money by getting a new contract with your existing provider or switching to a new supplier.

Will I lose connection when I switch broadband provider?

In many cases, you should be able to switch broadband provider with little or no service interruption. However, activation may take longer if you’re switching to a provider that runs on a different network.

On the day of your switch, your new provider should advise if you’re likely to lose your connection. It shouldn’t normally be down for any longer than an hour though. Under Ofcom rules, if you lose your connection for more than one working day, you’re entitled to compensation from your provider.

Are there any set-up costs when switching broadband?

There might be installation costs involved when switching to a new broadband connection. That’s why it’s important to check for set-up costs on the deals you like the look of, to make sure you’ll still be saving overall.

When you compare broadband deals with us, set-up costs are clearly shown in all the deals we list. These costs typically include paying for a router to be delivered, installation and activation fees.

Page last reviewed on 11 OCTOBER 2024
by Matthew Brewer