How to compare broadband deals in the UK
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Quick answer: Compare broadband on total contract cost, download and upload speeds, contract length, mid-contract price-rise terms, installation fees and exit penalties — not headline monthly price alone. Full fibre (FTTP) suits heavy users; part-fibre (FTTC) may suffice for browsing and streaming.
Broadband is a major household bill and switching can cut cost when contracts end. Ofcom rules require providers to show annual price-rise amounts at sale. This guide explains how to quote fairly across fibre, cable and full-fibre products.
Skip this if: Skip a mid-contract switch if the exit fee wipes the saving, or if you need a guaranteed engineer date this week for a house move. Check social tariffs first if you claim Universal Credit or Pension Credit. This is not a live price list.
What speed do you actually need?
Browsing, email and HD streaming: 30–50 Mbps download is usually enough for one or two users. 4K streaming, gaming and home working: 100 Mbps+ download with reasonable upload (20 Mbps+) reduces buffering on video calls.
Full fibre to the premises (FTTP) offers more stable latency — check Openreach or CityFibre availability at your postcode. Upload speed matters for video calls and cloud backups — compare upload, not download alone.
| If this is you | Usually do this | Skip if |
|---|---|---|
| Out of contract on a loyalty price | Use One Touch Switch — the new provider cancels the old one | Exit fees on a live term wipe the saving |
| On Universal Credit or Pension Credit | Check a broadband social tariff (~£15–£20/month on many networks) | You assume a retail gigabit deal is always cheaper |
| Moving house this month | Ask about install dates before you sign | You need a guaranteed engineer slot this week |
How should you add price rises and exit fees to the quote?
Twelve- and twenty-four-month contracts dominate. Shorter deals cost more monthly but reduce exit-risk if you may move. Ofcom's transparency rules mean providers must state how much the price rises each April (or other fixed date) before you sign. Add those rises to total contract cost.
Early termination charges can exceed remaining monthly fees on some providers — check before signing if your tenancy or job is uncertain. Social tariffs are separate products with shorter contracts and no mid-contract rises on some networks.
What does One Touch Switch actually do?
One Touch Switch (since 2024) means your new provider handles the switch — you should not need to cancel the old service yourself in most cases. Installation may need an engineer visit for first-time FTTP — book early if you work from home.
Keep your old router until the new service is live if you rely on home broadband for work — a mobile hotspot is a backup.
Common questions
Is full fibre worth the extra cost?
If available at similar price to FTTC, usually yes — more stable speeds and better upload. If FTTP costs significantly more and your usage is light, FTTC may suffice.
Can I keep my landline number?
Often yes when switching like-for-like, but digital voice (VoIP) over broadband is replacing traditional copper landlines — confirm porting with both providers.
Do I need broadband social tariff paperwork?
Most providers verify benefit entitlement through data sharing or a short declaration. You do not usually need to post documents.