Understanding Your Broadband Needs
Many UK households might be paying more for their broadband than necessary. According to a recent study by GoCompare, 28% of broadband users are paying for faster internet speeds than they actually need. This could mean that millions of people are overpaying by nearly £120 annually. The average person is spending an extra £6.93 per month on their broadband bill, and those with speeds exceeding 100 Mbps could be paying even more.
Why You Might Be Paying Too Much
Choosing the fastest broadband speed available can seem tempting, especially if you’re looking for the best performance. However, this isn’t always necessary. If your internet usage is limited to basic tasks like checking emails or watching low-resolution videos, you might not need high-speed connections. On the other hand, if your household has multiple people streaming 4K content, gaming online, or working from home simultaneously, then higher speeds may be essential.
According to Catherine Hiley, a broadband expert at GoCompare, the right package depends on several factors, including the number of people in your home, the number of devices used at once, and your online activities.
Assessing Your Internet Usage
To determine whether you’re overpaying, consider how you use the internet. For example, households with up to four members who stream content, video call, and work from home typically require around 50-76 Mbps. If your needs fall below this range, you might be able to switch to a slower, cheaper deal without affecting your experience.
Available Deals at Reasonable Speeds
If you’re looking to save money, there are several broadband deals available at reasonable speeds. Here are some options:
- Pop Telecom – Ultrafibre 80 (FTTP)
- Community Fibre – 150Mbps Fibre Broadband with £25 voucher (FTTP)
- Toob – Home150 (FTTP)
- YouFibre – YOU 150 (FTTP)
- Vodafone – Full Fibre 150 (with £155 voucher) (FTTP)
- Vodafone – Full Fibre 2 (with £125 voucher) (FTTC)
- EE – Fibre 67 (with £150 reward card) (FTTC)
These deals offer different levels of speed and pricing, so it’s worth comparing them based on your specific needs.
Switching Your Broadband Deal
Switching broadband doesn’t have to be complicated, especially if you’re not locked into a contract. To start, compare the packages offered by your current provider with those available elsewhere. If you find a better deal, you can either negotiate with your existing provider or switch to a new one.
Some providers now offer ‘One-touch switching,’ which simplifies the process by allowing your new provider to handle the transition without requiring you to interact with your old one.
What If You’re Still in Contract?
If you’re still under contract with your current provider, your options may be more limited. However, you can still try negotiating with your provider for a better deal. Keep in mind that early termination fees may apply if you cancel mid-contract.
In some cases, new providers may offer to cover these fees as part of their switching incentives. Before proceeding, make sure to obtain your final bill from your previous supplier and review all the terms and conditions carefully. It’s also important to confirm that the provider will definitely cover your fees before making any decisions.
Final Tips
When considering switching broadband, always check for mid-contract price increases. Providers usually notify customers of these changes each April. Additionally, not all homes can access FTTP (fibre to the premises) connections, so you may need to look into FTTC (fibre to the cabinet) options if FTTP is unavailable in your area.
By understanding your internet usage and exploring available deals, you can potentially save a significant amount on your broadband bill.