Best UK broadband provider 2017: The best internet providers for every budget

Finding the perfect broadband provider can be tricky. There’s a lot of things to consider, from contract length to line speed, and more providers in the UK than you can shake a stick at. On top of that, most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offer a confusing range of packages, at vastly different prices.

We’re here to clear up the confusion. Each year we review the internet packages each broadband provider offers, with the most in-depth coverage in the UK. You don’t want to be chained to a lengthy broadband contract that you aren’t happy with. But don’t fret: we’ll make sure that doesn’t happen.

Below you’ll find our helpful how-to guide for choosing the broadband provider that’s perfect for you. After that, you’ll find our top picks of the best broadband providers in 2017, catering to every budget and need.

How to choose the best broadband provider for you

1. Coverage is everything

The first thing to look into is broadband coverage in your area. You might have spotted an inviting contract promising great speeds at a reasonable price – but the service to your particular area may not be capable of the advertised speeds. Always check the estimated line speed to your home before ordering; most ISP’s have a page on their website dedicated to this.

2. Be wary of lengthy contracts

Often you might spot a decent internet package, offering a good speed for a low monthly fee – but when you read the small print you’ll see that you’re locked into a contract lasting 18 months or longer. That might be fine if you’re happy with the service, but if the first month doesn’t go well, you’re looking at a long 17-month wait before you’re free to switch.

3. Work out your first-year price

Monthly payments might sound manageable, but if you’re comparing services it’s smart to tally up how much you’re going to be paying in total over the course of a year. Find out if there’s a setup fee (there often is) and include that in your budget. Once you’ve signed up, re-check your package once your minimum contract period ends: many providers charge more after your first year, though they’ll often offer a discount if you threaten to move to a different provider.

4. Speeds are crucial - but don’t be fooled

“Up to” speeds might look attractive, but do your research and read customer reviews to find out whether these speeds are consistently attainable, and whether they’re subject to throttling during busy times (or when using particular services). Remember too that what’s advertised is the connection speed between the ISP and your router; if your laptop or smartphone is connected over Wi-Fi, that could slow things down.

5. What else do I need to look out for?

Keep an eye out for other packages included in your service. Often, it works out cheaper to bundle TV, landline or mobile packages in with your monthly broadband. Also, keep an eye out for monthly usage caps – and if you’re moving from one ISP to another, or switching from DSL to fibre, check whether you’ll need to invest in a new router.

The UK's best broadband providers

1. BT Broadband: The best for speed, reliability and value

BT’s broadband offering is the best in 2017. The UK telecoms conglomerate offers some of the most consistent internet connections out of the lot, with reliable (and generous) speeds.

Its prices are competitive compared to most other ISPs, and the supplied BT HomeHub 4 router is the most reliable. BT might not offer the very fastest speeds, but up to 90% of BT’s customers signed up to the mid-range BT Unlimited Infinity 1 package said they received at least 90% of their quoted speeds during peak times, according to Ofcom’s annual broadband report. Prices are very reasonable too.

Read our full BT broadband review for more details

2. Sky Broadband: Packages aplenty

Sky’s broadband packages set it apart from other ISPs. The 76Mbits/sec top speed doesn’t match Virgin Media’s 300Mbits/sec offering, but Sky makes up for that with plenty of packages to choose from – and its entry-level 17Mbits/sec package is the cheapest on our list.

Sky’s customer service is also one of the highest rated in the UK, with Ofcom’s annual survey recording fewer customer complaints than other big providers. Sky’s broadband offering is a good all-round line-up. Just be aware of those lengthy 18-month contracts.

Read our full Sky broadband review for more details

3: Virgin Media Broadband: For those who feel the need for speed

Virgin Media offers the fastest speeds of any big ISP. The likes of Sky and BT don’t come close, with Virgin reaching up to a generous 300Mbits/sec.

Virgin Media’s packages aren’t the cheapest, however. You can save a lot of money if you opt for an entry-level package from a different ISP. Don’t go for Virgin if you want to save some pennies – but if you’re craving raw speed it’s the only game in town.

Read our full Virgin Media broadband review for more details