What broadband speed do I need?

Small households often fit 0–50 Mbps. Busy homes with 4K streaming, gaming or home working typically benefit from 100 Mbps+ on full fibre or cable. Match speed to people, devices and concurrent usage.

How do I test my current speed?

Use a wired device where possible. Run multiple tests at different times and average the results. Tools like HowFast.uk, UKSpeedTest.co.uk or BroadbandBoost.co.uk can help.

Is full fibre better than FTTC?

Full fibre (FTTP) usually provides higher speeds, lower latency and more consistent performance than FTTC, which relies on copper from the street cabinet.

Is 4G or 5G home broadband viable?

Yes where signal is strong. Performance depends on indoor coverage and local congestion. Position the router near a window and check any data or fair use policies.

Broadband speed guide for the UK

Choose the right speed for your household, understand the technology differences, and test your current connection before you switch.

Last updated: 30 Dec 2025

What speed do you actually need?

0–35 Mbps

1–2 people, lighter use
HD streaming on one device
Browsing, email, video calls

36–50 Mbps

2–3 people
HD streaming on multiple devices
Regular video calls and cloud docs

51–99 Mbps

3–5 people
4K streaming and online gaming
Large file downloads/uploads

100 Mbps+

Busy homes with many devices
4K streaming, gaming, home working
Best served by full fibre or cable

How to test your current connection

Use a wired/Ethernet device where possible to avoid Wi‑Fi variability.
Pause large downloads and streams during the test.
Run at least three tests at different times and average the results.
Cross-check with more than one tool: HowFast.uk, UKSpeedTest.co.uk, or BroadbandBoost.co.uk.
If Wi‑Fi is weak, test near the router and on 5 GHz where possible.

Technology differences

Full fibre (FTTP)

Fibre runs all the way to the home. Typically the most consistent speeds and lowest latency. Good for busy homes, 4K streaming, gaming and home working.

FTTC (part fibre)

Fibre to the street cabinet, then copper to the property. Speeds depend on distance and line quality. Suits lighter to moderate use.

Cable

Runs on a separate cable network with high download speeds and improving uploads. Strong choice where full fibre is not yet live.

4G or 5G home broadband

Uses mobile networks. Quick to set up and flexible. Performance varies with signal strength and congestion. Position the router well and check any data policies.

Checklist before you upgrade

Confirm availability of full fibre or cable at your address.
Match speed to simultaneous use and consider some headroom for peak times.
Check contract length, annual price rise vs fixed price, and any setup or delivery fees.
Ask about Wi‑Fi guarantees or pods for larger homes.

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