BUYING WELL

Compare broadband on whole-contract cost

Desk research · Published 2026-10-16 · Updated 2026-10-17 · No hands-on product testing

Two quotes can use the same “per month” language while producing different totals. Put them over the same time period and make every included assumption visible.

Write down the payable amounts

Start with the monthly price, the contract term, setup or activation charges, and equipment you must buy. Add applicable exit fees to upfront fees if you are comparing a move away from an existing contract. Use consumer prices including VAT throughout, so you are not mixing different bases.

Account for scheduled increases

Our calculator handles up to two known increases to the monthly charge. Each is an additional monthly amount, not the new total price. Use 0 for an increase that does not apply. Enter the number of full months at the starting price before the increase applies. An increase after 12 months of a 24-month comparison affects the remaining 12 months. An increase after the comparison ends affects none of that period.

For example, £28 for 12 months followed by £31 for 12 months totals £708 before other costs. Dividing by 24 gives an effective monthly cost of £29.50. This is arithmetic using illustrative amounts, not a live broadband offer.

Know what the model leaves out

Some contracts have more than two increases, inflation-linked terms, partial billing months or other price provisions. The calculator does not model those automatically. Treat its result as incomplete if the quoted terms do not fit the model. It excludes contingent cashback and vouchers, since qualifying conditions and timing can differ. Do not subtract a reward just because it appears in an advert.

Cost is one part of suitability

Look at the actual service available at your address, upload needs, support, any minimum-speed commitment, phone requirements and equipment. A cheaper service with a similar headline download rate is not automatically interchangeable. The cost tool is deliberately separate from the Wi-Fi check: switching provider is not a general cure for a dead spot inside the house.

Next action: copy the exact terms from each quote, then run the calculator. Confirm all assumptions against the written contract before signing.