Best broadband deals in Exeter (December 2024)
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Learn moreIf you’re looking for the best broadband deals in Exeter this December, we’ve done the legwork to find the top options so you can enjoy faster speeds and save money. Just enter your postcode to find the best internet provider by postcode in your area.
Here are the best broadband deals in Exeter
How to compare broadband deals in Exeter with Cybernews postcode checker
- Enter your postcode. Type your Exeter postcode in the box so we can show you the best local deals.
- Compare features. Use the filters to compare different contract lengths, prices, and speeds. This will help you find the best option.
- Choose the best deal. Once you’ve compared everything, choose the broadband deal that best suits your needs and budget.
- Sign up. Follow the steps to sign up for your chosen plan. Enjoy faster internet and save money.
What to consider when I’m looking for broadband deals in Exeter?
Finding the best broadband deal in Exeter can be daunting, so here are some tips to help you navigate the options and find a great deal.
- Speed. Think about how you use the internet. If you love streaming shows, playing online games, or having several people use the internet simultaneously, you’ll need faster speeds. The right speed can make a big difference in how smoothly everything runs.
- Location. Consider your proximity to the city centre. Areas like the Quayside and Princesshay can have better fibre coverage, while some properties in more peripheral areas like Topsham or Pinhoe may rely on ADSL or FTTC connections.
- Price. Compare the monthly costs of different plans, but don't be fooled by low introductory offers—they might go up after a few months. Also, watch out for hidden fees like installation or equipment rental charges that can sneak up on you.
- Reputation. You should select a broadband provider with a good reputation. Reliable service means fewer headaches with outages or disruptions. Check out online forums and review sites and ask for recommendations to find a provider that people in Exeter trust.
- Coverage. Make sure the provider has strong coverage in your area. A solid local network means a more stable connection. If fibre optic options are available, they’re usually faster and more reliable.
- Contract length. Pay attention to the contract length. Some providers offer flexible, shorter contracts, while others lock you in for a year or more. You should pick the longest contract length that suits your situation, but don’t lock yourself in excessively because of a monthly discount.
- Customer service. Good customer service is a must. Look for providers known for being helpful and responsive when issues arise. You can understand customer service quality by checking ratings and reviews online.
Other things to think about include:
- Bundled offers. Some providers bundle the internet with TV, phone, or mobile services. Bundles can be a great way to save money and keep things simple. If a bundle fits your needs, it might be worth considering.
- Data limits. Check if the plans have data caps. Unlimited plans are usually the way to go if you're a heavy internet user. Limited plans might work if you use the internet less, but make sure you understand the terms to avoid extra charges.
- Customer reviews. Read what other customers have to say. Reviews can give you a real sense of what to expect; they highlight a provider's strengths and potential issues.
What are the best broadband speeds in Exeter?
Broadband speeds are measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps), with higher numbers indicating a faster connection. Faster internet means you can download items quickly, stream videos smoothly, and have a better online experience. In Exeter, you can get speeds up to 1,100 Mbps with providers like Virgin Media. Approximately 95% of Exeter households now have access to superfast fibre broadband (30Mbps and up), and more than 60% can get ultrafast speeds (300Mbps and up).
Let’s break down what different internet speeds can do for you:
- 10-25 Mbps. This speed is great for small households where people browse the web, check emails and stream standard-definition videos on a few devices. Perfect if you’re not a heavy user.
- 25-50 Mbps. This speed is great for a medium-sized household with moderate internet use. You can stream high-definition videos, make video calls, play online games, and use multiple devices simultaneously.
- 50-100 Mbps. Do you have a bigger household or several heavy internet users? This is the speed for you. It handles 4K video streaming, fast downloads, online gaming, and multiple people streaming or gaming simultaneously.
- 100 Mbps or more is the way to go for large households or those with extensive internet needs. It can handle many simultaneously connected devices, 4K streaming, large file downloads, and smoothly running all your smart home appliances.
In Exeter, you’re spoiled for choice with a range of broadband speeds up to 1,100 Mbps.
Which types of broadband are available in Exeter?
Living in Exeter, you'll find many broadband options to keep you connected. Like most urban areas, Exeter has wide access to fibre broadband, which is excellent for everyday internet use and can reach speeds up to 70 Mbps. Over 96% of the UK can get this type of connection, so you're in good company!
If you're looking for even faster speeds, full-fibre broadband (fibre-to-the-premises or FTTP) is on its way. The deals you can get depend on where in Exeter you live, but there's something for everyone.
Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)
If you're in a rural area, ADSL might be your best bet. It uses the same copper wires as landline phones, making it a great option for remote locations. It's also the most budget-friendly choice, offering speeds around 24 Mbps. While it’s not the fastest, it’s perfect if you need a cost-effective solution.
Fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC)
Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC) or part-fibre broadband is the most common fibre technology in the UK. Providers like Sky, Plusnet, and TalkTalk use Openreach’s infrastructure to deliver this service. FTTC is popular in Exeter and across the country and offers speeds over 300 Mbps. The technology involves fibre cables to a street cabinet and copper cables to your property. Just note that the further you are from the cabinet, the slower your connection might be due to the copper wires' limitations.
Fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP)
Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), or full fibre, is the gold standard of broadband. It uses fibre optic cables straight from the provider to your home and delivers blazing-fast speeds of over 1000 Mbps. While it’s not as widely available yet and can be more expensive, it’s worth checking with your provider to see if FTTP is an option for you.
Fibre-to-the-node (FTTN)
Fibre to the Node (FTTN) is another solid choice. It runs fibre cables to a street cabinet and then uses coaxial cables to connect to your home. Coaxial cables are better at resisting interference than standard phone lines, meaning faster internet speeds than ADSL and often better overall performance than FTTC. It's a good middle-ground option if you're looking for decent speeds and reliability.
Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband is a fantastic choice if you're constantly on the go. It gives you wireless internet via 4G or 5G networks, and you can connect through USB modems or Wi-Fi hotspots. Perfect for your mobile devices, tablets, or laptops, it ensures internet access wherever you have coverage. Speeds depend on your provider's network, with 4G usually offering 17-44 Mbps and 5G reaching 115-140 Mbps.
Which broadband providers are in Exeter?
In Exeter, you've got plenty of options for broadband providers. Here are some of the top ones:
- BT Broadband. BT is reliable and widely available. It offers a range of packages, including super-fast fibre optic options. Plus, you can bundle your broadband with TV and phone services for added convenience.
- Virgin Media. If you want speed, Virgin Media is a great choice. It offers the fastest broadband through its fibre optic network as well as great TV and phone bundles.
- Sky Broadband. Sky is known for its entertainment packages. In addition to competitive broadband options, you can get extensive TV services in one package.
- Plusnet. Owned by BT, Plusnet is known for its excellent customer service and budget-friendly packages. It's a no-frills, reliable option.
- NOW Broadband. Perfect for those who don't want to be tied down, NOW Broadband offers flexible, no-contract options. Sky runs it, so you know it’s trustworthy.
- TalkTalk is a provider that prioritises value. It offers affordable broadband packages, including fibre options, which makes TalkTalk a compelling choice for anyone on a tight budget.
- Vodafone. Known for its strong mobile network, Vodafone also offers high-speed broadband. Bundling mobile and broadband services can often score discounts.
More broadband deals you may like:
- Best broadband without landline deals. Discover the top options for broadband that don't require a landline.
- Cheap broadband deals. Compare the best cheap broadband offers available in December 2024.
- Best broadband by Postcode. Enter your postcode to find the top broadband deals in your area.
FAQ
Do I need to tell my old provider I'm leaving?
Yes, you need to notify your current provider when switching broadband services. Depending on your contract, the provider might require a notice period ranging from 14 to 30 days.
What is the average internet speed in Exeter?
In Exeter, average internet speeds range from 50 to 100 Mbps. However, if you opt for full-fibre services, you can get speeds up to 1100 Mbps for an ultra-fast connection.
What can affect my broadband speed in Exeter?
Your broadband speed can be affected by the distance from the street cabinet, the type of connection you have (like ADSL, FTTC, or FTTP), network congestion during peak times and the quality of your home's wiring.
Are there any ongoing broadband improvement projects in Exeter?
Yes, Exeter is part of the CityFibre project. CityFibre aims to bring full-fibre broadband to every Exeter home and business by 2026. This £4 billion nationwide investment will significantly boost speeds and reliability in nearly 300 UK cities, towns, and villages.