Choosing the Right Broadband

With so many broadband packages available, it can be hard to know which one is actually right for you. Providers advertise different speeds, technologies and prices, but not every household needs the same thing.

This guide helps you make a clear, practical decision based on how you really use the internet.

Think about your real usage

The best broadband package depends mainly on what you do online and how many people share the connection.

Light internet use

• Browsing websites
• Email and social media
• Occasional video calls

A basic fibre package is usually more than enough for this level of use.

Medium internet use

• Streaming TV and films
• Working from home part-time
• Several devices online at once

A mid-range fibre package offers a good balance of speed and value for most households.

Heavy internet use

• Multiple people working from home
• Online gaming
• 4K streaming on several screens
• Large downloads and cloud backups

Faster fibre or full-fibre packages are usually the best choice in busy homes.

Understanding advertised speeds

Broadband speed is measured in Mbps. Higher numbers mean more data can move at once.

• 30–40 Mbps – suitable for small households
• 60–80 Mbps – comfortable for most families
• 100+ Mbps – ideal for heavy users and large homes

Remember that advertised speeds are averages. Real performance can vary depending on your home setup and Wi-Fi quality.

Don’t confuse broadband speed with Wi-Fi performance

Many people upgrade their broadband package when the real problem is actually poor Wi-Fi inside the home.

A faster broadband connection will not help if your router is badly placed or struggling to reach certain rooms.

These guides can help you improve Wi-Fi performance before paying for more speed:

• Fixing Slow Wi-Fi at Home
• Router Placement Tips
• Extenders vs Mesh Wi-Fi

Other things to consider

Price and speed aren’t the only important factors. Also think about:

• Contract length and flexibility
• Setup or activation fees
• Quality of the router included
• Customer support reputation
• Upload speed if you work from home

Check what’s available at your address

The right package for you also depends on what providers and technologies are available where you live.

Use our broadband checker to see real options for your home.

Check broadband availability

Need help choosing?

If you’re not sure which package makes sense for your situation, we can help you compare options and make a confident decision.

Get personal advice