What Are the Differences Between BT Broadband Hubs?
BT has released several broadband hubs over the years, each with varying features and capabilities.
Here's a comparison table of the key specifications for each BT Broadband Hub model:
Router Model |
BT Smart Hub 2 |
BT Home Hub 5 |
BT Home Hub 4 |
BT Home Hub 3 |
BT Smart Hub |
Release Year |
2018 |
2015 |
2013 |
2011 |
2010 |
WiFi Standard |
WiFi 5 (802.11ac) |
WiFi 5 (802.11ac) |
WiFi 4 (802.11n) |
WiFi 4 (802.11n) |
WiFi 4 (802.11n) |
Frequency Bands |
Dual-Band |
Dual-Band |
Dual-Band |
Single-Band (2.4GHz) |
Dual-Band |
Antennas |
7 |
5 |
2 |
2 |
7 |
Ethernet Ports |
4 Gigabit |
4 Gigabit |
4 |
4 |
4 Gigabit |
Security |
WPA2 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
Intelligent Mesh |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
4G Backup |
Yes (BT Assure) |
No |
No |
No |
No |
USB Ports |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Typical Use |
All BT Broadband Plans |
Legacy Plans |
Legacy Plans |
Legacy Plans |
Legacy Plans |
(*This is a promotional product and is subject to change at any time)
Which BT Broadband Hub Is Best for High-Speed Internet?
The BT Smart Hub 2, released in 2018, is the most advanced router offered by BT, supporting the WiFi
5 (802.11ac) standard. With 7 antennas, intelligent mesh technology, and 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports,
the BT Smart Hub 2 provides excellent wireless coverage and high-speed connectivity, making it the
best choice for BT's high-speed broadband plans.
How Do the Older BT Broadband Hubs Compare to the Latest Model?
The BT Home Hub 5 (2015) and BT Smart Hub (2010) are older models that also support WiFi 5, but they
lack the advanced features of the BT Smart Hub 2, such as intelligent mesh technology and 4G backup.
The BT Home Hub 4 (2013) and BT Home Hub 3 (2011) are legacy routers supporting the older WiFi 4
(802.11n) standard. The BT Home Hub 3 only operates on a single 2.4GHz band, while the other models
offer dual-band connectivity.
What Sets the BT Smart Hub 2 Apart from Previous Generations?
The BT Smart Hub 2 stands out for its intelligent mesh technology, which helps to improve wireless
coverage and performance throughout your home. It also offers enhanced security features, including
WPA2 encryption, and the unique BT Assure 4G backup feature, ensuring you stay connected even if
your broadband connection fails.
Additionally, the BT Smart Hub 2 is the only model specifically designed for use with all current BT
Broadband plans, while the older models are considered legacy devices.