How to Compare Broadband Prices

To compare broadband prices effectively, calculate the total contract cost including monthly fees, setup charges and any mid-contract price rises. Divide by speed to find cost per megabit, then factor in contract length and extras like router quality. The cheapest headline price is rarely the best overall value once all costs are included.

Calculating Total Contract Cost

The advertised monthly price is just the starting point. To find the true cost, multiply the monthly fee by the contract length, add any setup charges, and factor in annual price rises. A BT Fibre 2 deal at �30 per month on a 24-month contract with a �30 setup fee and �4 April rise totals �798 over two years. Compare this with a Cuckoo plan at �27 per month with no setup fee and no price rises, totalling �648 - a �150 saving despite a similar headline price. Virgin Media bundles may look expensive at �40 per month but include TV and phone, potentially replacing separate subscriptions. Always calculate the full contract cost before comparing providers. Several comparison sites now show total contract cost by default, making this easier.

Understanding Cost Per Megabit

Cost per megabit is a useful metric for comparing broadband value. Divide your monthly price by the average download speed to see how much each megabit costs. A 36 Mbps plan at �22 per month works out at 61p per megabit. A 500 Mbps plan from Hyperoptic at �35 per month costs just 7p per megabit - nearly nine times better value. Gigabit plans offer the lowest cost per megabit but you may not need that much speed. The sweet spot for most households is 100-300 Mbps, where plans from Sky, Vodafone and EE typically deliver strong value between 8p and 15p per megabit. Slower packages are cheaper overall but far more expensive per megabit of speed delivered.

Comparing Like for Like

When comparing broadband deals, ensure you are matching equivalent packages. Check whether the quoted speed is average download or maximum - providers must display average speeds in their Key Facts documents under Ofcom rules. Compare contract lengths directly, as an 18-month deal may appear cheaper monthly but locks you in for less time, potentially costing more when you factor in switching frequency. Examine what is included - TalkTalk and NOW Broadband include basic call packages, while BT charges extra. Router quality varies too; a Plusnet hub is functional but basic, while BT Smart Hub 2 and Sky Glass router offer mesh capability. Consider upload speeds if you work from home or create content, as these vary dramatically between providers.

Using Comparison Tools Effectively

Broadband comparison tools can save hours of research but require some savvy. Enter your postcode to filter for providers actually available at your address - nationally only around 10-15 providers may serve your area despite 100-plus existing UK ISPs. Sort by total contract cost rather than monthly price to see the true picture. Filter by minimum speed to avoid being shown packages that will not meet your needs. Check Ofcom-accredited comparison sites for impartial results. Pay attention to customer satisfaction scores - Zen Internet and Cuckoo consistently rank highest in Ofcom surveys despite not being the cheapest. Read the Key Facts sheet before clicking through, as this document confirms exact speeds, prices, contract terms and exit fees for your specific address.

Compare Broadband Deals at Your Address

Enter your postcode to see which providers and speeds are available at your home. Compare deals, speeds and prices to find the best broadband for your address.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest broadband per megabit?

Gigabit plans offer the lowest cost per megabit, typically 3-5p per Mbps. Hyperoptic, Community Fibre and Virgin Media gigabit packages regularly deliver the best speed-to-price ratio. However, most households do not need gigabit speeds, so mid-range plans often represent better overall value.

Should I choose the cheapest broadband deal?

Not necessarily. The cheapest headline price may come with a high setup fee, annual price rises or poor customer service. Calculate the total contract cost and consider customer satisfaction ratings. Providers like Zen Internet cost more monthly but consistently score highest for service quality.

How often should I compare broadband prices?

Review your broadband deal when your contract is within 30 days of ending. Providers must notify you before your contract expires under Ofcom rules. This is the best time to switch or negotiate, as you avoid early termination fees and can access the latest new-customer deals.

Related Guides

Best Broadband Deals � Broadband Costs Explained � Hidden Broadband Costs � How to Switch Broadband

Methodology & Sources

Information in this guide is sourced from Ofcom market reports, Openreach coverage data, ISPreview.co.uk, provider websites and independent broadband research from Point Topic and Thinkbroadband. Prices and availability are checked monthly. Speed data reflects advertised average speeds from provider Key Facts documents.