Sky Superfast Broadband

Sky Superfast Broadband Overview

Sky Superfast Broadband, also known as "Superfast 80," is one of the easiest and most dependable broadband packages in the UK. It is made for small to medium households that want a steady and strong internet connection. This package provides a reliable part-fibre connection. It gives an average download speed of 61Mbps and an upload speed of 16Mbps. This makes it great for homes where several devices are used at the same time.

Sky Superfast Broadband is designed for all your online needs. Whether you are streaming HD or 4K videos, playing online games, or browsing, it can handle it all. This service is great for busy homes where several people use different devices at the same time. Family members or flatmates can browse the web, stream videos, or make video calls without any delays.

Consistent Performance and Wide Accessibility

Sky Superfast Broadband uses fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) technology. This type of technology mixes high-speed fibre optic cables with regular copper lines. It offers a good mix of speed and wide availability. While customers might not get the full fibre speeds, they still enjoy a reliable connection. This connection works well for many online activities. This service is available to 97% of UK homes. This means most households, even in rural or suburban areas, can get a solid part-fibre service. They don’t have to wait for full fibre to come to their area.

Correct as of 29/10/2024

Pros

• Good Prices for New Customers: Get special discounts for your first time
• Wide Reach: Available in 97% of the UK
• Great Customer Service: We have high ratings for support and service
• Special Deals for Sky TV Bundles: Save up to £10 a month when you combine broadband with Sky TV services

Cons

• Extra Cost for Latest Sky Max Hub: Customers have to pay £3 a month for WiFi Max if they want the new WiFi 6 router.
• Basic WiFi Guarantee: The standard package only includes a minimum speed guarantee of 3Mbps.

Sky Superfast Broadband Packages and Deals for New Customers

Sky often has great deals for new customers. These deals make Sky Superfast Broadband affordable and easy to get. They usually combine broadband with extra features like Sky TV or better WiFi. This way, you can find a package that fits your home’s needs.

Package Details:

1. Superfast Broadband: You can get this for £27 a month. New customers will receive the Sky Broadband Hub with unlimited usage. This means you can stream, browse, and game without worrying about data limits. There is a £5 setup fee at first, but you will get this back on your first bill. This plan has reliable part-fibre broadband and is perfect for those who only want internet service without TV or phone extras.
2. Superfast + Sky TV Entertainment: This package costs £37 a month and has free setup. It gives you Superfast Broadband along with Sky's Entertainment package, which includes Netflix. You will have access to popular shows, movies, and exclusive Sky content. With over 100 channels, like Sky Atlantic, Sky Witness, and National Geographic, this option is great for families that enjoy both live TV and on-demand streaming. You do not need a separate streaming subscription.
3. Superfast + Sky WiFi Max Add-On: This plan is available for £30 a month. It includes all the features of Superfast Broadband and adds the Sky Max Hub with WiFi 6 technology. The Sky WiFi Max add-on improves WiFi coverage in your home. You will receive a speed guarantee of 10Mbps in every room for an extra £3 each month. This add-on is ideal for bigger homes or those with several devices needing steady internet throughout the house.

Note: Prices may increase after the initial contract term, and Sky reserves the right to implement annual price adjustments.

Sky Talk and Home Phone Options

Sky Superfast Broadband comes with a home phone line. You can enjoy pay-as-you-go calls as a standard option. If you like having a call plan that includes costs, Sky has several Sky Talk packages. These plans offer flexible choices to help keep your home connected. You won’t have to stress about charges for each minute. Here are the call plans you can choose from:

• Evenings & Weekends Extra (£8/month): This plan gives you free calls to UK landlines and mobiles in the evenings (7pm to 7am) and all weekend. It’s great for people who don’t call much during the day but want to keep in touch at times that are easy for them.
• Anytime Extra (£16/month): This plan offers unlimited calls to UK landlines and mobiles at any time. It’s perfect for families that call often or for people working from home who depend on regular phone calls.
• International Extra (£18/month): This package not only includes calls to UK landlines and mobiles but also covers calls to 50 popular international destinations like the US, Canada, and Australia. It’s the best choice for families with relatives living abroad or for business needs that go international.

These Sky Talk packages let you talk for up to one hour on each call. If you need to chat longer, just redial. These plans offer budget-friendly choices for all your calling needs. They keep you connected both at home and around the world.

Sky TV Bundles and TV Packages

Sky is famous for its great TV services. They provide high-quality entertainment and offer bundles that fit different needs. If you get Sky Superfast Broadband too, you can enjoy extra discounts. This turns your home into a complete entertainment center. Here’s a look at Sky’s popular TV options:

Sky Stream

Sky Stream is the newest way to watch Sky content. It streams high-definition shows directly over the internet. You do not need a satellite dish. This makes Sky Stream a great choice for renters or anyone who wants the flexibility to watch live TV, on-demand shows, and streaming apps without needing extra devices.

• Core Features: Enjoy Sky Entertainment with more than 100 channels. This includes Sky Atlantic, Sky Witness, and National Geographic, along with Netflix Basic integrated.
• Add-Ons Available: You can easily add Sky Sports, Sky Cinema, Disney+, or Paramount+ to change your viewing experience as you like.
• Flexible Contract Options: Sky Stream lets you choose a monthly contract or an 18-month commitment. This gives users the chance to change or cancel with more ease than regular satellite services.

Sky Stream has an app that works great with smart TVs. It features Voice Search and Restart TV. This means you can start a show from the start, even if you join it late. Sky Superfast Broadband provides average download speeds of 61Mbps. This helps homes easily watch in 4K Ultra HD. You will enjoy clear and smooth video quality.

Sky Q

Sky Q is a classic TV package that uses a satellite dish for a steady signal. This platform lets you record, pause, and rewind live TV. You can record several shows at the same time and keep up to 1,000 hours of content saved. Sky Q is perfect for families who like satellite TV and want an old-fashioned way to watch with better recording options.

• Key Features: The Sky Q box gives you access to 4K Ultra HD content, Sky Sports, Sky Cinema, and box sets. It also lets you watch popular streaming services like Netflix and Disney+.
• Multi-Room Capability: Sky Q has an add-on that lets you watch Sky content on several TVs in your home. This is perfect for families with different viewing habits.
• Interactive Features: You can use Voice Control with the Sky Q remote. It also lets you use other apps, like YouTube and Spotify, directly from the Sky Q box.

Sky Q needs a satellite dish. This makes it less flexible than Sky Stream. However, it is a strong choice for people in places where internet bandwidth may be low.

Sky Glass

Sky Glass is Sky's new TV that takes care of everything in one package. You won’t need a satellite dish or a separate box. It has top streaming features from Sky and a stunning 4K HDR display that comes in different sizes. Sky Glass is great for people who prefer a simple setup with no extra gadgets.

• Easy Streaming: You can stream all content with Sky Superfast Broadband or other compatible Sky broadband services. This means you do not need a satellite.
• Colour and Size Options: Sky Glass is available in several sizes (43”, 55”, and 65”) and comes in different colors. This makes it easy to fit into any home style and taste.
• Extra Channels and Apps: You get all the main Sky channels. You can also add Disney+, Netflix, and other popular apps right on the screen.

Sky Glass has a smart design that includes speakers and a remote you can use with your voice. It also has features like Playlisting, which lets you keep shows from different streaming services all in one spot. Along with Sky’s flexible packages, Sky Glass is a great option for those who love technology. It gives you Sky’s content with fewer devices.

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Installation and Setup Costs for Sky Superfast Broadband

When you join Sky Superfast Broadband, getting started is easy and costs are low. New customers only pay a small setup fee of £5. This fee is usually refunded on the first bill, making the setup feel free. The setup includes installing the Sky Broadband Hub and activating the broadband connection by professionals. You can also get help from Sky’s customer service team if you need it.

What’s Included in the Setup Process

Sky's setup helps new customers get started fast. Here is what you will find in the standard setup:

• Sky Broadband Hub Delivery and Installation: The Sky Broadband Hub is known for good connectivity. It arrives before the activation date, so customers can set it up early. With simple plug-and-play setup, users can expect a steady broadband connection from the start.
• Professional Activation: Sky activates the line from afar. This usually happens within one to two days after installation. They test the connection between your home and the telephone exchange to ensure it works well.
• 24-Month Minimum Term: Sky Superfast Broadband needs a minimum term of 24 months. After this period, customers can check other Sky broadband deals. They can upgrade to plans like Sky Broadband Ultrafast. They might also look into the latest Sky full fibre options if available in their area.

Sky Broadband Hub: A Reliable Router for Most Households

The Sky Broadband Hub comes free with the Superfast Broadband package. It gives you reliable WiFi all around your home. This strong dual-band router works well for normal household use. Here’s why it is perfect for Sky Superfast Broadband:

• Dual-Band WiFi: Works on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. This balances range and speed. It helps with HD streaming, online gaming, and browsing on several devices without interruptions.
• Four Ethernet Ports: Comes with four 1Gb Ethernet LAN ports. This is great for connecting devices like gaming consoles, smart TVs, and home office gear directly to the router. It provides a stable and fast connection.
• WiFi Capabilities: The Sky Broadband Hub has smart mesh technology. This spreads WiFi coverage all over your home and cuts down on dead zones. It is especially good for homes with many rooms or larger spaces.
• Parental Controls: Includes the Sky Broadband Shield. This tool helps filter and control internet access based on age group, time limits, and content types. It ensures a safe browsing experience.
• WiFi 5 Compatibility: The Sky Broadband Hub supports WiFi 5, which may not be the newest WiFi 6 standard. However, it offers enough speed and stability for everyday use in most homes.

Optional Upgrades: Sky Max Hub and Sky WiFi Max

For customers who want faster speeds and stronger WiFi at home, Sky has the Sky Max Hub with the Sky WiFi Max package. By paying a small additional monthly fee of £3, you can use Sky's best router. It features WiFi 6, which allows for high-quality streaming, smooth connections on several devices, and a wider range.

• WiFi Guarantee: With Sky WiFi Max, you get a 10Mbps WiFi guarantee in every room. This helps fix any weak spots in coverage.
• Automatic Line Monitoring: Users of Sky Max Hub enjoy daily checks on their line. If there are issues, it fixes them automatically. This keeps your connection smooth without the need for manual checks.
• Free Engineer Visits for Issues: If you have ongoing issues, Sky WiFi Max offers free engineer visits during off-peak hours.
• Backup Data: Sky gives 2GB of Sky Mobile data to Sky Max Hub users. This ensures you stay online, even if your broadband connection is down.

How Fast is Sky Superfast Broadband?

Sky Superfast Broadband gives reliable speeds. These speeds are perfect for HD streaming, online gaming, and browsing on several devices. Here’s a summary of the speeds and promises you can expect from this service.

Improved Speeds and Performance

• Faster Download Speed: In May 2023, Sky improved the average download speed from 59Mbps to 61Mbps. This means users now enjoy a quicker and more dependable service.
• Ofcom Report Results: A recent Ofcom report from September 2023 shows that Sky Superfast gives speeds that are a bit higher than what they advertise. It outperforms some close competitors. During peak hours (from 8 PM to 10 PM), Sky hit 63.57Mbps for downloads and 18.14Mbps for uploads. This proves it can handle tough apps during busy times.
• Great Peak Performance: With these real-world speeds, Sky Superfast is a good choice for homes that need reliable internet for streaming and gaming.

Speed Variability and Network Type

Sky Superfast is a type of broadband service that uses both fibre optic and copper wiring. This setup can affect speed, especially based on how far you are from the nearest street cabinet or telephone exchange. Full fibre broadband usually gives you steadier speeds. However, part-fibre plans, like Sky Superfast, are available in many areas and provide good performance for most people.

Speed Guarantees and Compensation

Sky has a speed guarantee to help customers who face slow internet speeds. Here is how this speed guarantee works and what customers should expect:

• Personalised Minimum Speed: Sky gives each customer a minimum download speed based on their connection. If the speed goes below this minimum for three days in a row, customers can get a refund for one month. Plus, any initial costs are refunded in the first 30 days after activation.
• Plan Adjustment Options: Customers can change to a different broadband package without any fees. They can also end the contract for free if there are ongoing problems.
• To get a refund or fix problems, customers need to wait for their connection to settle for 14 days.
• After that, they should check their speeds using the My Sky app.

WiFi Guarantee Options

Sky has two choices to help you get reliable WiFi throughout your home. Each option has different advantages.

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Our Broadband Expert Review of Sky Superfast Broadband

Sky Superfast Broadband is a reliable option for homes that need good internet at a fair price. However, it does have some downsides, like issues with router performance and limited upgrade options. Here is our expert overview of the service:

Price – (3/5)

Sky Superfast Broadband costs £27 each month for new customers. This price is a good deal. However, after the contract ends, the cost goes up to £43 each month. This increase might not feel great for those who stay long term. New customers can enjoy special deals, which often include no setup fees and discounts when they also choose other Sky services.

Speed – (3/5)

Sky shows an average download speed of 61Mbps and an upload speed of 16Mbps. This package works well for everyday tasks like streaming, gaming, and browsing. These speeds are good for normal use in a household. Ofcom reports say real-world speeds can go beyond the average, hitting about 64Mbps during busy times. While it’s not the fastest option out there, the speed is enough for most homes.

Reliability – (3/5)

Sky is known for its reliable service and good performance. It provides stable connections throughout the UK. Sky Superfast is a service that uses both fibre and other technology. This means that speeds can differ based on how close you are to the street cabinet. However, most users find that its performance is strong. Sky also provides a speed guarantee. If your speed goes below what they promised, you can receive compensation. This gives users peace of mind.

Router – (2.5/5)

The Sky Broadband Hub comes with standard dual-band WiFi and Ethernet options. However, it does not support WiFi 6. This lack of support means that homes with many devices may experience slower speeds. You can upgrade to the Sky Max Hub, which supports WiFi 6, by paying an extra £3 each month through the WiFi Max add-on. The Sky Max Hub can improve WiFi coverage and gives faster speeds. This is especially helpful for homes with several connected devices. Unfortunately, the extra cost and the basic features of the standard Sky Broadband Hub may not meet everyone's needs. This is why it received a rating of 2.5 stars from our experts.

FAQs About Sky Superfast Broadband