Compare Internet Deals UK (2022)

Comparing some of the fastest internet providers can be tricky based on the diverse speeds, packages, and geographical availability. So in order to simplify things, we took 4 providers offering superfast broadband speeds in order to help you grasp a better idea of the costs behind superfast internet.

Which internet provider has the best customer service?

In 2021, BT, Sky and EE are the three providers that have received the least amount of customer complaints in regards to customer support in the UK broadband internet industry. Thus, it´s safe to say that these three internet providers have the reputation of having the best customer service.

Customer satisfaction

Provider	Overall customer satisfaction	Satisfaction with reliability of service	Satisfaction with speed of service
	86%	84%	80%
	86%	86%	84%
	88%	87%	85%

Which internet deal is the best for me?

Choosing an internet plan can be a big commitment, with most contracts lasting a year or more. One person’s perfect internet deals will defer from another person´s perfect deal based on their internet usage, location and more. For example; If you’re looking for the cheapest internet deals, and just use the internet for social networking, your perfect deal would be different than someone working from home who needs fast and reliable internet. Thus, it’s essential you take the time to understand what you need from your internet plan and compare internet providers in order to ensure you chose the right internet deal for your specific needs.

How do I choose an internet package?

While chosing an internet package can seem overwhelming at first, there are several factors that you should consider to help you chose the best internet package for you:

• Contract length
• Download speed
• Download limit
• Availability based on your location
• Customer support
• Offers, rewards and gifts
• Overall cost

Which internet deal contract length is best?

Short term and no contract broadband deals are ideal for those who are not planning on staying with their internet provider for a long term duration. However, these contracts usually have more costs (overall cost and set-up costs) than long term contracts. Hence, if you don’t foresee the need to switch internet providers in the long term, a 12, 18, or 24-month contract would be more suitable.

What internet speed do I need?

Your required internet speed is based on your internet usage (gaming, streaming, working), the number of devices connected, data transfer technology and your location. The following table can help give you an idea of your personalized optimal internet speed based on the amount of devices connected and online usage.

Internet speed is usually defined as Mbps which stands for “megabits per second” which is a measurement of bandwidth. Simply put, bandwidth is the download rate of your internet connection. If you´re having doubts in terms of the amount of Mbps you´re using, take a look at this figure. This will give you an idea of how much internet you need for different online usages in order to better help you understand the daily Mbps you require for your online activities.

What can affect your internet speed?

If you have noticed that your internet is too slow for your online usage, there are a few things you can do to improve your speed before bringing it to the attention of your provider and/or considering upgrading your internet plan.

• Location of wireless setup: Try moving your wireless setup to a location closer to your internet devices.
• Too many devices are connected: Try turning the Wifi off of the devices that are not being used.
• Switch your Wifi for wires: While wifi is convenient, ethernet cables can give you a more reliable internet connection.
• Clean up your computer: From system updates, to clearing your cache. These efforts can
  help improve your internet speed.
• Troubleshoot your router: Try turning your router on and off again. Make sure your router is as fast as your plan´s download speed.

Managing your internet contract

When managing your internet contract, it´s essential that you are aware of your internet consumer rights in order to help you stay informed throughout the duration of your contract. These factors will help you understand what is expected of both yourself and your provider during the duration of your contract and help you navigate those murky waters that can be easily overlooked in the small print.

• A fair contract
• Both parties must agree and follow through with the terms of the contract
• The quality of the internet should represent what was agreed upon in the contract (ex; the right speed)
• The contract is hosted under the ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution)
• You have the right to cancel your contract (note that additional fees may apply)

Should I get a new internet deal?

You´ve tried these manual tips to increase your internet speed and you are still not satisfied with your internet speed. In this case, it is possible to upgrade your contract or switch providers in order to get a faster internet plan. Keep in mind that when getting a new internet deal, make sure your router can keep up with the speeds of your new plan. Bear in mind that switching your contracts or providers may cost you extra money.

How to switch internet contracts?

If you have finished your contract with an internet provider, you are eligible to switch to a new provider or remain with the same provider and simply switch contracts. However, if you would like to switch contracts before your contract has finished, expect to pay the remaining months left in your contract before you´re eligible to switch. Oftentimes, if you are switching providers, your new provider will help you throughout this process. While if you’re staying with the same provider and simply switching contacts, your current provider will help you through the process. Nonetheless, here are some things you should do before switching your contract.

1. Discover what broadband is available in your area: Before switching you should be aware of the different broadband technologies that are available in your specific area, as their availability can differ by location.
2. Check your contract terms: Unless your provider has not held up their end of the contract (ex; minimum speed required) then expect to pay exit fees if you want to switch contract before your current one is finished.
3. Determine what broadband speed you will need: If your switching contracts, this is a great opportunity to discover what broadband speed you need in order to maintain your desired online usage.
4. Checkout different broadband packages available in your area: think about if you should bundle your broadband with internet and/or phone, often times this can be a cheaper option. If you´re struggling with this, call the number below and we at Broadband Plans will be help to lend a helping hand
5. Chose a provider: checking out customer surveys, deals available are great ways to determine which provider you should go with if you want to go with a different provider.

How to cancel your internet provider?

If you´re unhappy with your internet provider, you are always able to cancel your internet contract. However, expect to pay for the remaining months of your contract and possibly some extra additional fees. Although there are a few special circumstances that would exonerate you from paying the early exit fees such as the following:

• If your internet provider increases their prices
• If you´re not getting the quality of internet speed you´re paying for
• If there is a problem with your internet that your provider is unable to fix
• If you have signed up less than 14 days ago

Regardless if you are exempted from exit fees or not, you will have to get in touch with your providers customer service via email or phone.

Note that you should take the same steps as you would when switching your contract before following through with the cancellation so that you´re prepared for a seamless switch.

How to complain about your internet provider?

When considering switching providers, cancelling your contract, or just simply wanting to make a complaint about your provider’s services there are a series of steps you can take to file a complaint with your internet provider.

1. Speak to your provider regarding your complaint
2. Escalate the broadband complaint to senior management
3. Accept the resolution or request a deadlock letter
4. Complain to the communication ombudsman

Once you´ve made your complaint to Ombudsman you may be contacted to provide additional information to add to any detail you have already provided. Most of the work they do will involve getting evidence like notes and phone calls from your provider. You can also submit copies of correspondence to be on the safe side. Normally, the outcome is issued by letter or email, with a clear description of what will happen next, for example, a company being told to pay you compensation.

FAQ

🏃 Which internet is the fastest?

Virgin Media is considered one of the fastest internet services in the UK (with a median download speed of 1130Mbps).
 

🏅 Who is the best internet provider?

• Vodafone: One of the best internet providers in terms of bundles and deals
• BT: One of the most reliable internet providers
• Virgin media: One of the best internet providers in terms of speed
• EE: One of the best internet providers in terms of speed and customer service

 

💰 Who is the cheapest internet provider in the UK?

While the price will defer based on your location and speed desired, these are some of the brands that can offer the cheapest internet services.

• Plusnet: the UK's cheapest all around
• Virgin: fast fibre for low prices
• Now Broadband: cheap bundle packages