Best Broadband Deals in Aberdeen (September 2024)

Looking for the best broadband deals in Aberdeen this September? You've come to the right place!

This guide will help you navigate the top offers, compare providers, and choose the best deal tailored to your needs. Stay connected with the fastest speeds and most reliable service. Discover how to compare and switch plans, what to consider before choosing, and the best options in Aberdeen.

How to compare and switch a broadband plan

Switching broadband providers can seem daunting, but by following the proper steps, you can make it straightforward to get the best broadband deals:

1. Make sure you're out of contract. Before switching broadband providers, ensure you're out of your current contract's minimum term. If you switch while still in contract, you may incur costly early termination fees for the remaining months. Check your contract's end date by reviewing your original contract, confirmation email, or contacting your current provider's customer service.
2. Enter your postcode and pick a plan. To find the best broadband deals, enter your postcode into a comparison tool. This will show personalised broadband bundles sorted by location, speed, and cost. Compare plans to find the one that best matches your particular needs, considering factors like download speeds, monthly fees, and additional perks.
3. Complete the switch. Your new provider will handle the switch once you select your new broadband plan. Staff will arrange your service transfer, ensuring a smooth transition. You'll receive updates via letters and emails throughout the process, keeping you informed until the switch is complete.

What to consider before choosing the best Aberdeen broadband deal?

Choosing the best broadband deal in Aberdeen isn't just about finding the fastest or cheapest option; it's about ensuring you get the experience you want from your provider. The right plan should fit your needs, whether streaming, gaming, or working from home. Here's what you should consider:

• Accessibility in Aberdeen. Accessibility in Aberdeen is a crucial factor. Not all providers offer services in every area, so checking availability in your specific location is essential. You can use our convenient broadband postcode checker to see what deals are available in your area. By entering your postcode, you can compare the best options tailored to your location.
• Use case. Everyone uses the internet differently. You might not need the fastest internet speeds if you primarily read news or send emails. However, if you're an online gamer or frequently stream HD videos, you'll require much higher speeds to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Tailoring your broadband plan to your specific use case ensures you get the best performance without overpaying for excessive features.
• Internet speed. Broadband speed is crucial, especially in households with many users. Streaming HD videos requires at least 25 Mbps, gaming needs around 50 Mbps, and working from home with video calls can require 80 Mbps or more. Remember, the more connected devices you have, the greater the speeds you'll need to ensure a smooth online experience.
• Contract terms. Broadband contracts are typically long-term, ranging between 12 and 36 months. Remember that prices can change during that time, and your internet needs can also change. Being locked into a long contract can make it difficult to switch providers because of early termination fees. Consider your future needs and current satisfaction with your provider when choosing a contract term.
• Price and discounts. It's important to consider the overall costs and any introductory discounts the providers offer. Look beyond the monthly price to include upfront costs, installation fees, and equipment charges. Introductory discounts can initially make a deal seem attractive, but it's crucial to understand the cost after the promotional period ends.
• Bundles. Some broadband providers offer bundled services, including TV, phone, and the internet. Combining your broadband, TV, and phone into one package can simplify your billing and get you better rates than purchasing each service separately. Consider whether a bundled package meets your needs and offers a better overall value.
• Bonuses. Some providers offer bonuses like free routers, installation services, or streaming subscriptions. Getting free extras like these can add tremendous value to your broadband package, making one deal more attractive than another. Be sure to factor in these bonuses when choosing your broadband plan to get the best overall value.

What is the fastest broadband in Aberdeen?

Virgin Media offers the fastest internet connection in Aberdeen, with entry-level packages starting at 100Mbps and premium services delivering speeds up to 1,100Mbps. You're more likely to find these ultra-fast connections in the city centre and areas like Rosemount, Ferryhill, and Torry. The ongoing CityFibre rollout is also bringing full-fibre connectivity to many parts of Aberdeen, potentially rivalling Virgin Media's speeds soon.

Aberdeen City Council has been working on improving digital infrastructure, which means faster broadband is becoming increasingly available across the city. However, speeds may be lower in outlying areas like Bridge of Don or Cove. Use our postcode checker to check availability in your specific part of Aberdeen.

Which types of broadband are available in Aberdeen?

Aberdeen offers various broadband options, including part-fibre and full-fibre connections. Fibre broadband is available in most areas, providing speeds up to 70 Mbps, especially in urban locations. Full fibre, delivering even faster speeds, is still being rolled out. Availability and deals vary by location, so check specific options using a postcode checker.

Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)

Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) broadband is a suitable option for rural areas in the UK, including outlying parts of Aberdeen. ADSL provides a reliable internet connection even in remote locations using the same copper wires as landline phones.

It's the most budget-friendly broadband option, offering speeds around 24 Mbps. While slower than fibre options, ADSL is ideal for basic internet activities like browsing and emailing, making it a cost-effective solution for those in rural areas or on a tight budget.

Fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC)

Fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) or part-fibre broadband is the UK's most widely deployed fibre technology. Providers like Sky, Plusnet, and TalkTalk rely on Openreach's infrastructure. This type of broadband is common in Aberdeen and offers speeds of 300+ Mbps.

FTTC runs full-speed fibre optic cables to the street cabinet. From there, this technology uses copper cables to reach homes. This distance-dependent setup means connection speeds can decrease with increased distance from the cabinet due to interference in the copper cables.

Fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP)

Fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP), or full-fibre broadband, uses fibre optic cables directly from the provider to your home. This technology offers speeds over 1,000Mbps, significantly faster than FTTC.

Although FTTP isn't yet widely accessible and tends to be more expensive, it provides the highest possible speeds for those who need it. Users interested in FTTP should check their preferred provider's website for deals.

Fibre-to-the-node (FTTN)

Fibre-to-the-Node (FTTN) is a broadband system where fibre optic cables run to a street cabinet and connect to homes using coaxial cables. Coaxial cables are better than standard phone lines at resisting interference, resulting in faster internet speeds than ADSL or FTTC.

While slower than the fastest full-fibre connections, FTTN offers a significant speed improvement over ADSL, making it a solid choice for those seeking a balance between speed and cost.

Mobile broadband

Mobile broadband provides wireless internet access via a mobile phone network using 4G or 5G technology. It allows connections through devices like USB modems or Wi-Fi hotspots, making it ideal for mobile devices, tablets, or computers. It offers convenient on-the-go internet access within covered areas.

Mobile broadband speed highly depends on the provider's coverage and network capacity. Typically, 4G offers speeds between 17-44 Mbps, while 5G can provide speeds ranging from 115-140 Mbps and even higher. Mobile broadband is a flexible and portable solution, perfect for those needing internet access while travelling or in areas without fixed-line broadband.

Can I change broadband mid-contract?

You can switch broadband providers without incurring early termination fees if you are out of your contract's minimum term. However, if you're still within the minimum term, you will usually need to pay early exit fees, which typically cover the remaining months in the contract.

Exceptions include recent price increases by your provider or not receiving the minimum guaranteed speeds. Always check your current provider's terms and conditions for detailed information on your rights as a customer before making a switch.

Which providers offer broadband in Aberdeen?

Broadband plans in Aberdeen vary based on location, ranging from ADSL and basic 4G to gigabit broadband. Some areas, especially those further from the city, may have limited options, but there are suitable plans for various needs, whether for work, gaming, or streaming.

Major providers in Aberdeen include Vodafone, Virgin Media, BT, HyperOptic, Plusnet, Zen, Sky, Now, Giganet, and TalkTalk. Customers can choose between flexible 12-month contracts or more budget-friendly 24-month plans.

Remember that availability can vary even within Aberdeen. For instance, areas like Kingswells or Dyce might have different options than the city centre. Use our postcode checker to find the most up-to-date information for your specific address.

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