Choosing the Right Broadband Provider in the UK

If you’re considering switching to a different broadband provider, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll show you what to consider before choosing a broadband company, how to find the right package for your needs and briefly go through the top 5 providers in the UK.

With so many broadband providers available on the market, you must know what to consider before contracting a subscription.

Determine how many people will use the connection, the speed you require, the purpose of the package (personal use or business), what additional services you need, such as TV and phone, the providers in your area, the benefits or gifts offered, the minimum required validity period of the contract and your budget.

How Many People Will Use the Connection?

When multiple people use a broadband connection, it slows down your connection’s speed. So, depending on the number of people using your connection, you can choose unlimited fibre optic broadband, with a download speed of about 34Mb, unlimited broadband, with a download speed of around 10Mb, or a low-cost package with limited usage.

Connection Speed

Once you’ve established the connection speed which you require, determine if you require ADSL standard or fibre broadband. Fibre optic connections are suitable for TV and video in 4k and HD quality, large files downloads, video games, and if you have multiple gadgets connected simultaneously. However, choose ADSL broadband if you only use the internet for emails or social media updates, for HD video streaming and if there’s no fibre optic broadband available in your area.

What Providers Cover Your Area?

Consider which providers are available in your area. For example, John Lewis has a very wide footprint in the UK. You can choose John Lewis’ options such as unlimited, fibre and fibre extra.

Also, determine whether there are any fees which you must pay as a guarantee once you sign the contract. The top providers require no upfront cost and rely on their reputation and high-quality services. For example, John Lewis requires no upfront cost for its packages.

Also, factor-in any benefits or gifts which may be offered by a broadband provider. John Lewis broadband often has the cheapest deals on the market and offers benefits such as smart home solutions.

Additional Services Available

Depending on your requirements such as TV and phone call plans, determine what broadband providers have such services available. You’ll find packages which include line rental options and calls to landlines in the UK between certain time frames during the day or on the weekend. But you can also find anytime or International deals which allow you to make calls freely.

TV bundles are also available with some broadband suppliers, however, none of the John Lewis broadband packages have a TV option available.

Minimum Contractual Length

You can opt for a contractual length of between 1 month or 12 months. While some providers offer temporary broadband services, your best approach is to pick a long-term contract with a top provider. You’ll find that John Lewis broadband packages are available for a 12 months contract following which tariffs may change.

Your Budget

Although price plays an important role in your decision-making, consider that a reliable and stable internet connection which will meet your needs. Low-quality services will only lead to frustration. And picking the cheapest provider will guarantee low-speed and extra costs for additional data.

So, first, check the features and then compare what package and provider suits you best.

Final Thoughts

The UK is home to a variety of broadband providers, and you must determine which is your best option. So, before contracting a broadband subscription consider details such as how many people will use the connection, the speed you require, any additional options, what benefits you can enjoy, the minimum contractual length and your budget. Once you’ve checked off every box on the list, you’ll know which broadband provider is suitable for you.