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Fibre Broadband VS ADSL Broadband

Fibre VS ADSL Broadband

Fibre VS ADSL Broadband

Which deal is right for your household – fibre or ADSL broadband?

The world of Internet connectivity is ever developing since lockdown, with many still opting to work from home.

One key question we should all consider is the choice between Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL broadband) and Fibre broadband; considering various aspects of performance, cost, and environmental impact.

What is ADSL Broadband?

ADSL relies on landline phone connections and has long been the go-to broadband option for households globally.

According to a 2022 Ofcom report, the average download speed for ADSL broadband stands at 12.6Mbps, a figure that can vary based on geographical location, with rural and urban disparities coming into play.

While ADSL holds its ground with advantages such as widespread availability and easy installation, it is not immune to challenges. One notable drawback is the potential for congestion on phone lines during peak hours.

As multiple users share the same line, it can lead to a reduction in broadband speeds, making it less than ideal for households with high data demands during busy periods – i.e. working from home or streaming Netflix after a long day.

What is Fibre Broadband?

Fibre broadband, a technological leap that has gained momentum as phone lines become less essential in the era of mobile phones.

Fibre offers a range of benefits that address the limitations of ADSL. Its significantly faster internet speeds provide a remedy to congestion issues faced by ADSL users.

Moreover, Fibre’s use of silicon dioxide in optic cables makes it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly solution compared to the copper wires used in ADSL.

How are the Two Types of Broadband Different?

Essentially both options do the same thing with the main difference being in the technology underpinnings. ADSL relies on copper wires, a technology that has been in use for decades.

In contrast, Fibre broadband utilises fibre optic cables, either from street cabinets or directly to homes, ushering in a new era of connectivity that promises faster and more reliable internet.

Fibre VS ADSL – Which One Do I Need?

The burning question on many minds is, “Which option is more cost-effective?”

While the initial costs of Fibre broadband, including installation, might seem higher, the long-term benefits make it a more economical choice. The faster and more reliable connection supports multiple devices seamlessly, ensuring uninterrupted broadband speed.

If a loss of internet would have a negative effect on your day-to-day or cause major interruptions to remote working/ smart home security settings, then we believe that fibre is worth every penny – even if just for peace of mind!

Additionally, choosing Fibre contributes to a greener energy output, aligning with the growing trend towards environmentally conscious choices.

Our Expert Broadband Opinion

Fibre broadband has emerged as the gold standard in internet connectivity, offering significant advantages over traditional ADSL technology. Here’s why we believe fibre broadband is the superior choice:

  • Blazing Fast Speeds: Fibre broadband delivers unparalleled speed and reliability, offering lightning-fast download and upload speeds compared to ADSL. With fibre-optic cables capable of carrying vast amounts of data at incredible speeds, users can enjoy seamless streaming, gaming, and downloading without buffering or lag.
  • Consistent Performance: Unlike ADSL broadband, which relies on copper telephone wires and is susceptible to signal degradation over long distances, fibre broadband provides consistent performance regardless of your proximity to the exchange. This means users can experience reliable connectivity and consistent speeds, even during peak usage times.
  • Future-Proof Technology: As technology continues to evolve, fibre broadband represents a future-proof investment in connectivity. With the capacity to support emerging technologies like 4K streaming, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things (IoT), fibre broadband ensures that users remain at the forefront of digital innovation.
  • Symmetrical Upload and Download Speeds: One of the key advantages of fibre broadband is its symmetrical upload and download speeds. Unlike ADSL, which typically offers slower upload speeds, fibre broadband provides equal bandwidth for both uploading and downloading data, making it ideal for activities like video conferencing, cloud storage, and online collaboration.
  • Enhanced Reliability: Fibre-optic cables are less susceptible to interference from external factors like electromagnetic interference and inclement weather, resulting in enhanced reliability and uptime compared to ADSL. This increased resilience ensures that users can stay connected when they need it most, without interruptions or dropouts.

Keen to receive tailored broadband advice from our experts today?

Learn more and get in touch.

Find the Right Broadband Deal Today

While ADSL broadband remains a reliable and cost-effective option for many, Fibre broadband emerges as a forward-looking, high-performance solution that aligns with the increasing demands of modern connectivity.

In conclusion, the tussle between ADSL and Fibre broadband is not merely a battle of speed but a comprehensive evaluation of factors such as reliability, environmental impact, and long-term cost-effectiveness. As technology advances and becomes more integral to our daily lives, the shift towards Fibre broadband seems not only logical but also essential.

Embrace future-ready internet infrastructure that meets the demands of a digitally connected world.

What’s more, with our free deal finder tool and unbiased expert advice, it’s easier than ever to find an affordable fibre deal.

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How to Find the Cheapest Broadband Deal

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Tired of paying high prices for internet?

We know how to uncover the cheapest broadband plans in your area

Maybe your contract is due to end and you’re not happy with the new plan your supplier offered you.

Or, perhaps you’re just looking for more lesser-known ways to save money right now (who isn’t?!)

Read on to learn how and where you can find the cheapest broadband deals in your area – without ever sacrificing speed or reliability.

How to find the cheapest broadband deals

We’ve got a few crucial tips that will help you find the cheapest broadband deals in your area.

By following our expert advice, you’ll soon be able to trim down your monthly expenses whilst still enjoying a seamless and well-suited internet connection.

  1. Assess Your Usage.

Understanding your internet usage is crucial in finding a deal that suits you. If you’re a light internet user, you might not need the fastest speeds. A lot of households find that they end up paying for high Wi-Fi speeds that they don’t even require – the average household only needs 30Mbps to function smoothly online.  However, if you’re a heavy gamer, home worker, or frequently stream in 4K, opting for a faster fibre plan would be worth it to save you from a lot of frustration.

        2. Check for Bundles.

Many providers offer bundled services, combining broadband with TV and phone services. While this might seem like a good deal, ensure that you genuinely need these services. Sometimes, standalone broadband deals can be more cost-effective. This is something you can tailor through our free deal checker.

        3. Consider Contract Length.

Providers often offer different contract lengths, typically 12, 18, or 24 months. While longer contracts might come with slightly lower monthly costs, they can lock you into a deal that might become less competitive over time. If you’re not comfortable with a long commitment, shorter contracts might be a better option.

       4. Negotiate with Your Current Provider.

If you’re already with a broadband provider and you’ve found a better deal elsewhere, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Sometimes, providers are willing to match or even beat competitors’ offers to keep you as a customer.

         5. Read Reviews.

Before committing to a new broadband provider, read reviews from current and previous customers. This will give you an idea of the level of customer service, reliability, and overall satisfaction you can expect. This is another factor our experts take into consideration for you, and we only work with reputable and trusted suppliers.

          6. Keep an Eye on Hidden Costs.

It’s key to consider any additional costs such as setup fees, line rental, and installation charges. This is something our experts are trained to spot and they can discuss this in detail with you, because hidden costs can quickly creep in and add up.

         7. Research – Don’t Go In Alone.

The world of broadband is vast, and it can quickly get expensive if you don’t know where to look. Instead of manually comparing quotes and websites alone, we’ve made it easy to search offers in one place.

Where is the Best Place to Find the Cheapest Broadband Deals?

Right here, with our experts!

There are a lot of sites and services that help make it easy to search broadband deals, however, Switch Experts will never charge you a penny.

You’re guaranteed to save time and money this way, instead of manually trawling through separate sites.

It’s also fairly common to be charged more when you go directly to the supplier.

How do I Switch?

At first, the idea of switching broadband suppliers might seem daunting, but the potential savings are well worth it.

Our experts are here to make the process as fast and as easy as possible.

With Switch Experts, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 to find a new deal.

You search and tailor deals available in your area, we confirm the switch over, then you get to enjoy your new plan and your shiny new savings! Our team will also tailor their advice to you personally, looking at your current contract and internet needs.

Get started today and find your new deal in no time.

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Your Guide to Mid-Contract Broadband Price Hikes

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Locked in and paying more?

Mid-contract broadband price hikes can leave you scratching your head and clutching your wallet.

Regrettably, they’re becoming more prevalent across internet suppliers.

We’ve got you covered, from the fine print behind price hikes to practical tips to help you dodge them.

Our experts are eager to break down the puzzles around mid-contract broadband pricing rises so that you can stay on top of digital connectivity, whilst keeping control of your budget.

When did Broadband Prices Increase?

You may have noticed that your monthly broadband price has quietly increased since April.

If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to check your most current bill as soon as you can.

This latest price hike is the result of a significant increase in inflation that began in 2023.

As a result, a sizeable portion of internet subscribers have seen an unexpected increase in their monthly charges of up to 15%—a huge price increase that coincides with an ongoing cost of living crisis.

Even if you’ve agreed to a fixed monthly rate throughout your contract period, price rises are becoming regrettably common nationwide.

According to a recent Which? survey, customers could face an uplift of over £100 per year as a result of recent mid-contract broadband price hikes – and this will affect millions of people.

What are Mid-Contract Broadband Price Hikes?

Mid-contract broadband price rises are the act of increasing your current monthly price, whilst you are still in the middle of your contract.

Typically occurring annually, these adjustments are linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate, which is published each January.

This amalgamation often results in an annual price increase of approximately 4-5%, regardless of the initial rate you agreed upon when entering your contract.

Price rises are imposed to help suppliers offset the mounting costs associated with running a business and providing their internet service.

However, the anomaly in 2023 emerged due to an unusually high CPI rate of 10.5% recorded in January.

As a result, the ensuing broadband contract price adjustments for 2023 exceeded the norm and left a lot of us reeling – with some prices rising by a shocking 14.4% this year!

Can I Switch Deals if my Bill Goes up?

You might be thinking “Well, surely I can just switch deals to avoid any mid-contract broadband price hikes?”

It’s unfortunately not always that simple.

This depends on the contract you signed up for with your existing supplier.

When you take out a new broadband deal, you agree to accept the terms and conditions put in place by your supplier.

These days, most T&Cs tend to mention that their prices will increase mid-contract, in line with inflation.

This might be tucked away within the fine print of your contract, or maybe your supplier will be more upfront about it.

Either way, we always recommend re-reading your contract in detail – even if it feels like a chore!

If your contract does not include any mention of accepting mid-contract price rises, you’ll be given a 30-day window to switch deals for free.

If it does mention price rises, you could face an exit fee.

You’ll find information about your exit fees within your T&Cs – as it’s likely to be another condition you’ve already agreed to.

What Are Exit Fees?

Exit fees are charges that you might face for leaving your current broadband deal before your contract period is up.

In some cases, you may have to pay for the remaining months left of your contract, but this varies depending on your supplier.

This is something our experts can investigate in depth for you.

Do any Suppliers Offer a Guaranteed Fixed Price?

Some internet suppliers do guarantee you a fixed ‘price for life’ – you just have to know where to look!

We’ve made it easy to search all the latest broadband deals from a range of suppliers in your area.

If you’re approaching the end of your contract when you find out about a price hike, the time couldn’t be better to switch and save!

One of our trusted suppliers, Neatley, offers every customer a fixed and affordable ‘price for life’ guarantee.

Find out more or get in touch directly on 0330 341 1954 today.

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What Exactly is 4G Broadband?

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4G or Fibre?

Don’t be fooled by the name – 4G broadband is very different to your traditional home Wi-Fi!

In some cases, it might be a better option for you.

We’ll explain all the how’s, what’s and why’s you might have.

What is 4G Broadband?

4G broadband is a cutting-edge internet connection.

It’s often used as an effective substitute for regular broadband, and we’ve explained why.

Unlike standard phone-line-based arrangements, 4G broadband frees you from the constraints of wire.

How?

By delivering a smooth internet connection to households over the omnipresent 4G mobile network that spans the majority of the UK.

Why Not Just Use Wi-Fi?

In some areas, internet suppliers have limited infrastructure.

This means that some homes simply can’t access faster broadband because they don’t have fibre optic cables installed in their area.

People living in more rural towns might also find that they have limited choice of suppliers and consequently fewer deals to pick from.

Whilst fibre coverage is expanding every day, lots of people are understandably looking for alternative Wi-Fi solutions.

How do I Access 4G Broadband?

You can connect to 4G broadband in a few ways.

Our experts have covered the main three ways below:

‘Tethering’ – The ‘tethering’ feature on your smartphone effectively turns it into a Wi-Fi hotspot. You will be able to connect a small number of gadgets and devices, but your usage will be limited. You might also notice that your mobile data is quickly eaten up when you do this, so it’s key to review your contract terms.

A Mobile Broadband ‘Dongle’ – A mobile broadband ‘dongle’ is a small gadget with 4G or 5G capability. It connects your devices using Wi-Fi or a USB to give you internet access. Compared to ‘tethering’, you can access more data and at a faster speed with a dongle.

A Dedicated Router – By using a dedicated router, you can connect more devices and handle more traffic than you can with tethering or dongles. Most large mobile networks offer this type of router, as it gives you a strong connection wherever you go.

What are the Benefits of 4G Broadband?

There’s a lot of important benefits to 4G broadband.

Our experts rate the top five perks to be:

  • Reliable Speeds. 4G broadband is faster than the speeds you receive to your mobile phone, as it uses more advanced hardware.  This is what makes it comparable to broadband, rather than mobile data signal.
  • Widely Available. Because 4G is practically everywhere, it is an excellent choice for rural WiFi and other areas lacking cable infrastructure.
  • No Fuss Set-up. Installation is quick and simple, requiring little to no setup.
  • Portable. Certain routers can be transported with you when you travel, allowing them to deliver WiFi in a caravan, for example.
  • Flexible Packages. You are not usually locked in long term with 4G broadband, as flexible packages are more readily available. One of our suppliers even offers a 30-day rolling contract.

Are There any Drawbacks of 4G Broadband?

Despite all the benefits, there are a few factors to consider.

  • Limited Bandwidth and Speed: 4G networks can provide impressive speeds, but they still have limitations in terms of bandwidth compared to newer technologies like 5G. As more users connect to a 4G tower, the available bandwidth is shared, leading to potential slowdowns during peak usage times. This is especially the case in densely populated areas or during crowded events.
  • Signal Interference: 4G signals can be affected by physical obstacles such as buildings and trees. Interference can lead to weaker signals and reduced network coverage, particularly in rural areas.
  • Limited Coverage: We’ve already hinted at this one! While 4G coverage is widespread in many areas, it may not be available in more remote or rural locations. This is something we can help you identify.
  • Data Caps and Throttling: Many 4G broadband plans come with data usage limits and may impose throttling or reduced speeds once those limits are reached. This can be a concern for heavy data users who rely on consistent high-speed connections.
  • Security Concerns: 4G networks, like any wireless technology, can be vulnerable to security breaches. Unauthorized access to the network can pose risks to user privacy and data security.

What About 5G Broadband?

5G works the same as 4G – it’s just considerably faster!

5G broadband is still fairly new and therefore less widely available than 4G, but coverage is growing consistently.

Your supplier will let you know if you’re eligible for 5G, as this depends solely on their network.

It’s also worth noting that 5G is currently more expensive than 4G.

Should I Consider Getting a 4G Broadband Deal?

If you live in a rural area with limited internet availability, it could be a perfect solution for you.

4G and 5G broadband solutions are growing in popularity due to being flexible, fairly priced, and reliable.

However, if your area also struggles with flaky mobile signal, this could affect your service.

This is something our experts can help you decide.

Start searching for the latest deals in your area today and see which plan is best suited to you.

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The Pros and Cons of Fibre Broadband

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Key points to know about fibre broadband

Fibre broadband is the next-generation broadband technology, changing the way we connect to the internet.

That said, it’s still not a completely perfect solution for everyone.

Read on to see our expert deep-dive into all the pro’s and con’s of fibre broadband.

We’ve explained all the drawbacks and positives below.

What is fibre broadband?

It provides high-speed internet access through a fibre-optic network, which uses light to transmit data.

This technology is far superior to traditional internet connections that uses copper wires, as it can offer speeds of up to 1Gbps, making it one of the fastest and most reliable forms of broadband available.

Instead of copper wires, fibre infrastructure uses thin plastic or glass strands.

Most suppliers nowadays also offer fibre broadband only deals, meaning you don’t need your landline bundled in anymore either!

See what makes fibre so revolutionary below:

The undeniable pro’s of fibre broadband

Here are some reasons to switch from ADSL to fibre broadband:

  1. Speed: Fibre broadband offers much faster speeds than ADSL, with speeds of up to 1Gbps, making it ideal for homes and businesses that require fast and reliable internet access. This is especially important for activities that require a lot of bandwidth, such as online gaming, streaming high-definition video, and downloading large files.
  2. Reliability: Fibre broadband is more reliable than ADSL, as the fibre-optic network is not affected by interference from other devices and provides a stable connection without any dropouts or interruptions. This makes it ideal for businesses that need a dependable internet connection for critical operations.
  3. Security: Fibre broadband is more secure than ADSL, as the fibre-optic network is much harder to tap into, making it more difficult for hackers to steal sensitive information. This is especially important for businesses, which are often required to protect sensitive data.
  4. Environmental friendliness: Did you know that fibre broadband is more environmentally friendly than ADSL? Fibre-optic cables are made of glass, which is a renewable resource, and do not emit harmful electromagnetic fields like traditional broadband cables. 70% less energy is needed to transmit the same amount of data though a fibre cable, in comparison to a standard copper wire. Using less energy means less heat is generated, meaning that equipment doesn’t need to be kept cool. This drastically reduces the network’s carbon emissions.
  5. Future-proof technology: Fibre-broadband is the next-generation broadband technology, and is the future of internet connectivity. By switching to fibre, you can ensure that your home or business has access to the latest technology and will be able to keep pace with future demands for high-speed internet.
  6. With its high speeds, reliability, and the dedicated and consistent connection (instead of battling for bandwidth with other users during peak hours), you can understand how fibre appeals to busy homes and heavy internet users.

With this in mind, it’s important to know the cons of fibre broadband.

The drawbacks of fibre broadband

While fibre broadband offers many benefits, there are also some negatives to consider:

  1. Cost: Fibre broadband can be more expensive than traditional broadband, especially for consumers who live in areas where fibre-optic networks have not yet been widely rolled out. The cost of installation and the cost of the service itself can be a barrier for some consumers.
  2. Availability: Not all areas have access to fibre yet, especially rural and remote areas. This can leave some consumers with limited options for high-speed internet access.
  3. Complex installation: The installation of fibre broadband can be complex and time-consuming, and may require excavation and disruption to existing infrastructure. This can be a barrier for some consumers, especially those who live in urban areas where space is limited.
  4. Limited service providers: In areas where fibre broadband is available, consumers may only have access to a limited number of service providers. This can result in less competition and higher prices.
  5. Technical difficulties: While fibre broadband is generally more reliable than traditional broadband, there can still be technical difficulties with the fibre-optic network, such as power cuts or network issues, which can result in disruptions to your connection.

Our expert conclusion

Fibre broadband is the future of internet connectivity.

It’s the perfect choice for homes and businesses that require fast, stable and secure internet access.

So, if you want to stay ahead of the curve and enjoy the benefits of the latest technology, you should look into fibre deals near you.

Ready to make the switch?

If you are looking to upgrade your internet connection, we’ll help you find a low priced deal today.

Fibre broadband isn’t as expensive as it once was, and we’ve compiled deals from a wide range of suppliers.

Don’t get lost in competitors and endless quotes – search fibre offers in your area now.

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