BT, Sky and Virgin need to match this much-needed broadband upgrade from Vodafone

22 July 2023 , 06:30
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Vodafone has just launched a superfast broadband deal for social tariff customers
Vodafone has just launched a superfast broadband deal for social tariff customers

Super-fast internet is about to get much cheaper for Vodafone customers, thanks to the launch of a new fibre broadband package.

The phone and internet giant has just announced its new Fibre 2 Essentials package, which promises download speeds of up to 73Mbps at a bargain price of £20 per month.

It's by far the fastest social tariff available in the UK, making it one of the best value for money of any broadband package currently on the market and it could force its rivals to boost their speeds.

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For the same price, Virgin Media's Essential Broadband Plus service offers 54Mbps; Sky Broadband Basics provides 36Mbps; while BT Home Essentials gives you an average speed of 67Mbps.

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BT, Sky and Virgin need to match this much-needed broadband upgrade from VodafoneSocial tariffs are a quick way of saving on your bills if you're struggling with the cost of living

The Fibre 2 Essentials subscription is just one of a range of social tariffs, which provide mobile phone and broadband connectivity to UK customers who are eligible for benefits.

It's available to anyone claiming benefits including Universal Credit, Job Seekers Allowance, Disability Allowance, Pension Credit or the Personal Independence Payment.

This includes existing Vodafone customers, so if you're already paying for their standard broadband every month, it's worth looking at switching.

Vodafone says the scheme is designed to help households struggling with the cost of living while offering better connectivity than the £12 Fibre 1 subscription.

Once you sign up for a contract, you'll be able to use it for a whole year before being able to renew.

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Broadband providers have previously been criticised for failing to deliver fast speeds to their social tariff customers.

Ernest Doku, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com, said that the new tariff is therefore a 'welcome' addition: "Traditionally, if you sign up to a social tariff for your broadband, you often have to take what you’re given - which can mean slower speeds that aren’t entirely suitable for busy households.

"But all households deserve a choice in their broadband package - and so Vodafone’s new Fibre 2 Essentials tariff is a welcome step in the right direction, offering higher speeds of 73Mbps at a monthly cost that is 20% lower than the market rate, for those who are eligible.

"If a social tariff isn’t right for you, try considering what you need from your broadband before locking into a contract. This can prevent you from overpaying for data or speeds you don’t need, especially when out of contract and in a position to make a saving by switching providers."

If you're interested in comparing different social tariffs to get the best out of your broadband, Ofcom has a full guide available online

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Ciaran Daly

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