If your broadband price has crept up or your speeds lag at busy times, now is the right moment to compare deals and switch. With a simple postcode search you can see live prices at your address, pick a plan that fits your home, and move over with minimal hassle. Start by checking broadband deals by postcode, confirm your current line with a quick free speed test, then right-size your plan with the Fair enough, what do you actually need? questionnaire.
Why compare now
- Switching is simpler. The gaining provider now handles most of the process so you usually only need to place an order with the new provider.
- Price clarity in new contracts. From 17 January 2025, new contracts cannot include inflation-linked or percentage-based mid-contract price rises. Any scheduled increase must be shown up front in pounds and pence so you can budget properly.
- Potential savings through social tariffs. If your household receives certain benefits, you may qualify for a cheaper package. Check which providers serve your area in the ISP Directory and look for social tariff options.
The 3 step plan to your best deal
Step 1. Right-size your speed before you buy
Most homes do not need gigabit speeds. As a quick guide:
- 30 to 60 Mbps suits singles or couples streaming in HD
- 100 to 200 Mbps suits families or shared homes
- 300 to 500 Mbps suits busy 4K streamers and large downloads
- 900 Mbps and above suits creators, multi room 4K and heavy uploaders
Confirm your baseline by running a speed test at a busy time, then use the RightSpeed questionnaire to choose a package that fits what you actually need.
Step 2. Run a postcode search and shortlist three options
Enter your postcode to see live availability and prices at your address on the UK broadband deals page. Shortlist at least three options that match your preferred speed and contract length. Want to check providers you have not tried before? Browse the ISP Directory for a quick overview.
Step 3. Do the deal maths once
For a fair comparison, look at the total first year cost:
total cost = monthly price × 12 + setup or delivery fees − bill credits or vouchers
If a contract shows a pound and pence rise inside the first year, include it in your total. Pick the best overall value, not just the lowest introductory price.
Contract lengths made simple
1 month rolling
The ultimate flexibility. Ideal for renters, students and short stays. Expect slightly higher monthly prices in exchange for the freedom to cancel with notice. See all UK broadband one-month deals.
12 month contracts
The popular middle ground. Often lower monthly prices than rolling deals, with the freedom to review again in a year. See all UK broadband twelve-month deals.
18 to 24 months
Usually the lowest monthly price and the biggest incentives, but a longer commitment. This can work if you are settled and happy to lock in. See all UK broadband deals here.
A note for renters and short term lets
Choosing broadband in a rental does not need to be a headache. Filter for zero contract options, 12 month deals, or even plug in 4G or 5G home broadband that requires no drilling and no landlord involvement. There is a renter first guide here: broadband for renters.
Moving from old landlines to all digital
The UK is retiring the old analogue phone network. BT currently plans to complete the PSTN switch off by January 2027, which means more homes will use digital voice and full fibre or cable broadband rather than copper phone lines. If your service still relies on a traditional line, check full fibre options at your address when you compare.
FAQs
Will I have downtime on switch day?
Your new provider coordinates the handover. In many cases downtime is brief. Cross network moves may need an engineer visit, but the gaining provider still leads the process.
Can my price go up mid contract?
New rules ban inflation linked or percentage based mid term rises in new contracts from 17 January 2025. If there is any rise, it must be set out in pounds and pence at the point of sale. Check your order summary.
What speed do I really need?
Use the quick bracket guide above, then confirm with a peak time speed test and the RightSpeed questionnaire. That way you are not overpaying for unused capacity.
Who can get a social tariff?
Households receiving Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits may qualify for cheaper packages, often saving around £200 a year. Check provider availability at your address on the deals page and review options in the ISP Directory.
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