How Do I Get a Better Broadband Deal?

Switching broadband
June 25th, 2025
How Do I Get a Better Broadband Deal?

Content in this article

Why Should You Review Your Current Broadband Plan?

Many UK customers are overpaying for broadband without realising it. Some people stick with the same plan for years, even though their usage has changed or better deals are available. Whether your contract term is ending, your monthly price has increased, or you’re just curious about options, now is a great time to compare broadband deals.

Use a service like Free Price Compare to explore new broadband deals tailored to your postcode. It’s a great way to make big savings and find a plan that gives you better value.

James Ford Broadband Deals Reviewed by James Ford, TV and Broadband Expert

5G Home Broadband

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Pay as you goCalls
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500Mbps Fibre Broadband - 12 months

  • New customers only
550Mb average* speed
Unlimited Downloads
£0.00 Setup costs
12 Month contract
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or call 0800 977 5741

500Mbps Fibre Broadband

  • New customers only
550Mb average* speed
Unlimited Downloads
£0.00 Setup costs
24 Month contract
Pay as you goCalls
£20.00per month
Buy Now
or call 0800 977 5741
View All Broadband Deals

Can Switching Providers Save You Money?

Switching broadband providers is often the best way to get a better deal. If you’re out of contract, you’re free to move to a different provider offering faster speeds, lower monthly bills, or extra perks.

Important Steps Before Switching

  • Check your current contract for early exit feesM
  • Use a broadband speed guide to test your current internet connectionM
  • Compare speeds, monthly price, setup fees, and contract termsM
  • Consider whether you want to keep your home phone lineM

Remember: if you’re still tied to your provider, the cost of switching may outweigh the benefits. But if you’re eligible to switch, it’s often the best way to secure a new broadband deal with better features and speed.

How Can You Haggle With Your Current Provider?

If you’d prefer to stay with your current broadband provider, it’s possible to negotiate a better rate.

Tips to Haggle Successfully

  • Research deals from different providers to use as leverageM
  • Highlight issues like slower speeds or frequent outagesM
  • Ask to speak to the retention team, not customer serviceM
  • Point out your long customer historyM
  • Use polite silence to encourage better offersM

In many cases, broadband customers save up to 20% or more just by asking. You might also receive perks like an upgraded router, faster internet, or free broadband bundles.

What Kind of Broadband Is Best for Your Needs?

There are several types of broadband available in the UK, depending on where you live:

Type of Broadband

Speed Range

Best For
ADSL (Standard) Up to 17 Mbps Light browsing and email
Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC) 35–80 Mbps Families and streaming
Full Fibre (FTTP) 100 Mbps–1 Gbps+ Large households, online gaming, 4K TV
Cable Broadband Up to 1 Gbps Urban users wanting ultrafast speeds
Mobile Broadband Varies (up to 300 Mbps) Rural users or temporary setups
Satellite Broadband Varies (10–50 Mbps) Remote areas with no other coverage

Choose the right package based on your activities. If you watch Netflix in HD, game online, or have smart devices, a full fibre connection or cable broadband may offer the best value.

What Should You Look for in a New Broadband Deal?

When comparing broadband, focus on these factors:

  • Monthly price: The cost over 12 or 24 months, including any discountsM
  • Setup fees: Some providers charge for installation or equipmentM
  • Speed: Look at average download speed and wide range of speeds availableM
  • Contract price rises: Some increase by the Consumer Price Index plus 3–3.9% annuallyM
  • Extras: Check for sign-up rewards, like vouchers or techM
  • TV and Phone Bundles: See if a broadband bundle suits your habitsM
  • New broadband connection: Some plans include free router delivery and activationM
  • Average speed: Always compare the realistic expected speed for your postcodeM

Always check the provider’s website for full details and contract terms.

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What If You’re On a Budget or Claiming Benefits?

Many UK broadband providers now offer social tariffs to customers on benefits like Universal Credit. These plans offer lower prices, shorter contracts, and may avoid credit checks.

Examples of Social Tariffs

  • BT Home Essentials: 36 Mbps for £15/monthM
  • Virgin Media Essential: 15 Mbps for £12.50/monthM
  • Vodafone Essentials: 38 Mbps for £12/monthM

These plans help you stay connected during the cost of living crisis and avoid falling behind.

Can You Get Broadband Without a Phone Line?

Yes! Some providers now offer broadband-only options without needing a copper phone line. These often include mobile broadband or full fibre installations.

No landline means no landline services cost – ideal if you only use your mobile.

What About Regional or Smaller Providers?

While major names like Virgin Media or BT dominate, regional providers like Hyperoptic or smaller providers using CityFibre networks are gaining popularity.

They often provide:

  • Shorter contractsM
  • Fast response timesM
  • Competitive pricingM

Always check what’s available in your postcode.

What Are Some Common Broadband Extras?

When you compare broadband, don’t forget the extras:

  • Hub or router: Some include Amazon Eero with voice controlM
  • Cashback or vouchers: Used to reward new signupsM
  • Free trials: Some include Amazon Prime, Netflix, or antivirusM
  • Family controls: Useful for managing screen timeM

These extras can be great, but the monthly bill and download speed should still be your main priority.

When Should I Start Looking for a Better Deal?

Ideally, start shopping around 30 days before your contract ends. This gives time to compare broadband deals and avoid paying out-of-contract rates.

Providers are required to notify you when your contract is ending. Use this time to explore the next broadband deal available for your needs.

Compare Broadband and Save More

Free Price Compare allows you to compare broadband from all major UK providers in one place. Whether you want faster internet, a lower monthly price, or a plan that suits your smart home setup, we’ll help you find a great way to save.

Compare Broadband and Save More

Correct as of 18 June 2025

FAQs About Getting a Better Broadband Deal

What’s the best time of day to switch broadband?

There’s no set time. However, deals often update early in the month (e.g. April, June, July) and during Black Friday sales.

Will switching broadband affect my internet connection?

There may be a loss of service for 24 hours. Most providers manage a smooth handover with minimal disruption.

Can I get broadband without credit checks?

Some social tariffs and smaller providers skip credit checks, especially on rolling contracts.

Is it worth switching for a freebie?

Only if the core service offers good value. A new broadband deal should meet your needs first.

Do I need to cancel my old provider?

Often your new provider will handle the switch, unless you’re moving between networks (e.g., from BT to Virgin).

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Grab the cheapest Broadband & Phone Deals

Make savings up to 44% & keep the operational cost lower!!!

Compare Now

References

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