Top 10 Super-Fast Broadband Deals

Super-fast broadband is a term used to describe broadband connections that enable you to download files and surf the Internet at lightning speeds. Super-fast broadband is the next step in the evolution of the Internet.

How fast is super-fast broadband?

We define super-fast broadband as a connection with a speed of 30Mb or above. This means that even at its slowest, super-fast broadband is several times faster than the UK average of around 9Mb.

A super-fast connection means you can download movies and music within seconds and stream TV without interruption, too. As a result, your web surfing experience will be smoother than ever and the way you use online multimedia applications and services will be transformed overnight.

Why is super-fast broadband so much quicker?

In the case of Virgin Media’s super-fast broadband products, quicker connections of up to 120Mb are made possible due to the next-generation fibre-optic network it operates. This is much more efficient at relaying data than standard ADSL copper wires which slow down connection speeds.

BT's Infinity service, meanwhile, uses a slightly different fibre to the cabinet technology to deliver speeds of up to 76Mb. And because other carriers have used BT's infrastructure to launch super fast broadband services of their own, you can now get impressively quick connections from the likes of TalkTalk, Sky and Plusnet too.

Compare Infinity deals at our dedicated BT Infinity page

Compare fibre broadband packages at our dedicated Fibre-optic broadband page

How can I tell if I can get super-fast broadband?

Fibre-optic broadband is available to millions of UK households. If you’re in an urban area, you’ve got a very good chance of being able to get it. Rural areas are less well-served.

If you reside out of town and out of range of fibre broadband providers, don't despair. You may still be able to get a fast connection over standard ADSL broadband networks. Headline speeds on some of the UK's quickest ADSL home broadband products are very impressive 16Mb.

Can you get super-fast broadband? Check your availability with our postcode checker.

Which is the best super-fast broadband provider?

The company with the quickest super-fast broadband product is Virgin Media, whose XXL customers can expect speeds of up to 120Mb in areas where it has upgraded its network. 60Mb and 30Mb options are also available for a reduced price.

BT's Infinity 76Mb service is also highly rated, as are the carriers that use BT's network to deliver the same kind of speeds, such as TalkTalk, Plusnet and Eclipse.

Do I need super-fast broadband?

This largely depends on how you use the Internet. But if you’re a heavy downloader, play games online or watch a lot of on-demand television, then a super-broadband connection is essential for your needs.

Conversely, if you’re the kind of person who only uses the Internet for e-mail or perhaps a bit of shopping and light web browsing, then you're possibly better off sticking with your existing connection.

Not what you're looking for? Why not compare ADSL broadband deals on our dedicated page