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In the quest for cheap broadband, you can save by carefully considering the essentials for your ideal package. Many providers offer bundles for broadband with TV channels to reduce overall costs, and it can be worth exploring whether you could cut costs by not having a landline.
Assessing the internet speeds that match your household’s usage can reveal further savings – for many, opting for a lower-speed package fulfils their requirements while keeping costs low.
By comparing broadband deals, you can save money and still get the broadband service you need. Our experts have analysed numerous broadband providers, looking at their packages, speeds and services to save time and money when deciding which broadband package is right for you.
The most affordable broadband deals often come without the extras of more premium packages that inflate the cost. These budget-conscious options typically exclude additional services, such as TV channel bundles and inclusive home or mobile phone tariffs.
However, this no-frills approach doesn’t mean a compromise on quality. Many inexpensive broadband plans now include fibre broadband options, which are not only faster but also more reliable than traditional Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) connections. With the evolution of technology, fibre broadband has become increasingly common and cost-effective. It often negates the need for a traditional landline, potentially eliminating the expense of unnecessary line rental for many modern households that rely on mobile phones for voice communication, rather than a landline.
Cheap broadband packages generally include:
Affordable broadband offers aren’t solely defined by the lowest monthly price tag. They may consolidate several services into a cost-effective monthly package or offer high-value gift vouchers, providing a greater overall value.
When comparing cheap wifi deals, it’s crucial to determine your specific needs to avoid paying for unnecessary extras. Here are some key considerations to help you find the right package and save money:
When comparing broadband offers, consider the full spectrum of benefits offered. Providers frequently sweeten the deal with added incentives such as cash back, gift cards, or credits that reduce the overall cost.
For example, if you are offered a year’s contract for £30 a month, plus a £60 gift card, your monthly cost will be reduced by £5, amounting to a substantial reduction over the year.
Deals marked as ‘exclusive’ are typically the most competitive package offer. While it may not be cheap, while the promotion lasts, you’re unlikely to find a better deal.
Consider consolidating your TV and home or mobile phone subscriptions under one provider. Opting for a bundled package could prove more cost-effective than the cumulative total of individual services.
While these bundles may not be as cheap as the most basic broadband-only plans, they could offer an affordable solution without sacrificing the services you rely on. So, it’s worth exploring options with providers that can cater to all your telecommunications needs.
While the most economical broadband packages typically offer lower speeds, it’s essential to prioritise finding a service that meets your household’s internet demands. If you have multiple users simultaneously working, streaming and gaming, fast speeds become crucial to avoid lag and interruption.
Securing a connection that can comfortably handle your collective usage is more critical than opting for the cheapest option. The incremental cost of a higher-speed deal is often marginal when weighed against the value of uninterrupted service and the avoidance of daily frustrations.
To ensure you select a package that meets your speed requirements without overextending your budget, it’s advisable to explore a comprehensive range of broadband packages and deals.
When comparing broadband, pay attention to the duration of the contract – they typically last for 12 months, 18 months, or 24 months. Short-term agreements can offer greater flexibility, particularly appealing if you’re planning a house move or living in a rented property.
Equally important is to investigate the provider’s price adjustments. Some impose substantial rate increases mid-contract, while others may hike prices considerably once the introductory period lapses. Knowing your contract’s end date enables you to switch providers or renegotiate your plan and avoid any steep rate rises.
However, should you terminate your broadband service before the agreed minimum period ends, be prepared to incur a cancellation charge. The specifics of this fee vary by provider, but, typically, you’ll have to settle the balance for the remaining contract duration and potentially pay for any supplied hardware, such as a router.
Cheap broadband can be attractive for various reasons, but it’s essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.
Our experts have compared broadband-only packages and found these are currently the cheapest deals.
| Broadband provider | Broadband deal | Minimum download speed* | Contract length | Price per month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plusnet | Fibre | 11.9Mbps | 24 months | £25.99 |
| Virgin Media | M125 Fibre Broadband | 66Mbps | 18 months | £26.50 (£49 post-contract) |
| Talk Talk | Fibre 35 | 22.4Mbps | 18 months | £27 |
| BT | Broadband | 1Mbps (based on Stay Fast Guarantee) | 24 months | £29.99 (£2 set-up fee) |
Prices correct as of 9/11/2023
These are currently the cheapest broadband and home phone deals, according to our research.
| Broadband provider | Broadband deal | Minimum download speed* | Contract length | Price per month (including line rental) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plusnet | Unlimited Broadband | 10Mbps (average) | 24 months | £25.99 |
| BT | Fibre Essential | 25Mbps (based on Stay Fast Guarantee) | 24 months | £32.99 (£11.99 setup costs) |
| Sky | Superfast 80 | 50Mbps (based on minimum speed guarantee) | 18 months | From £31.75 (£5 setup costs) |
| Shell Energy | Fast Broadband | 11Mbps (average) | 12 months | From £38.27 |
Prices correct as of 9/11/2023
Our researchers found that these are the best broadband and TV deals currently.
| Broadband provider | Broadband deal | Minimum download speed* | Contract length | Price per month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Now Broadband | Brilliant Broadband | 2.8Mbps | 12 months | From £26.99 (£10 delivery fee) |
| Virgin Media | Big Bundle | 132Mbps | 18 months | £31.99 |
| Vodafone | Fibre 1 | 18.2Mbps | 24 months | £35.50 |
| EE | Fibre 36 Essentials | 32Mbps | 24 months | From £36.99 |
| BT | Full Fibre 100 | 100Mbps (based on Stay Fast Guarantee) | 24 months | £49.99 |
Prices correct as of 9/11/2023
Opting for a cheap broadband package can undoubtedly be budget friendly, however, it’s important to be aware of any extra costs that might not be immediately obvious when you sign up. These fees can sneak up, altering what initially seemed like a great deal.
For households on a low income, accessing affordable broadband is particularly important. Recognising this need, some internet service providers offer a social tariff.
Social tariffs are specially discounted broadband plans available to customers on certain government benefits, such as Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Universal Credit, among others.
Social tariffs aim to ensure that everyone has access to the internet, which is increasingly considered a necessity for everyday tasks such as job hunting, managing finances, accessing government services, and children’s education. However, according to Citizens Advice, in the last year, one million people cancelled their broadband services due to cost of living increases, with many unaware that these discounts exist. Ofcom claims that more than four million eligible are missing out on average annual savings of £144.
While the cost of a social tariff can vary between providers, they are significantly cheaper than standard broadband offers, have no early exit penalties, and are not subject to any mid-contract price increases.
Although free broadband is unavailable, TalkTalk recently joined with Jobcentre Plus to provide free broadband for six months to eligible customers, and providers including BT, Sky, Virgin Media, and Vodafone offer heavily discounted services.
Eligibility criteria for these tariffs can vary, so it’s essential to check with individual broadband providers to understand if you qualify and what documentation you need to provide. The application process is usually straightforward, intending to make it as accessible as possible for those who need it.
For most internet users, signing up for cheap broadband allows access to everything they need to accomplish online at an affordable price. Many providers offer bundled deals, meaning you can have your TV and landline – if required, under one subscription, and if you receive qualifying benefits, you could pay even less monthly.
Understanding your broadband requirements and comparing internet deals allows you to choose the right package for your budget.
While cheaper broadband options might raise concerns about reliability, the reality is that many budget-friendly broadband providers maintain good, consistent service levels. Advances in technology and regulatory oversight have paved the way for providers to offer reliable connectivity without a hefty price tag.
The cheapest type of broadband is typically ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line). This technology utilises the existing telephone line infrastructure and is generally more affordable because it’s based on older, more widespread technology.
ADSL’s lower price point reflects its slower internet speeds compared to its more contemporary counterparts, like fibre broadband. It’s a viable option for users with basic internet needs, such as browsing and emailing, who do not require high-speed connections for activities like streaming high-definition videos or online gaming. As market dynamics shift and technology advances, the cost spectrum can change, but currently, ADSL is the budget-friendly choice.
Contrary to what you would expect, the cheapest deals are usually found on broadband and landline packages since these types of broadband require copper phone lines to connect to the network. However, if your home has access to fibre broadband, you can find cheaper broadband-only deals.
