Faster fibre broadband: is it really worth it?

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Faster fibre broadband: is it really worth it? Posted On 14 August 2019

With 5G to be launched later this year, and fibre broadband readily available, just how fast does your internet need to be?

In the average home, no fewer than ten devices are connected wirelessly to your broadband router at any one time! With most of us now watching movies and TV through a streaming service, usually on multiple devices at any one time, broadband speeds are one of the most important things we look at when it comes to buying or renting a property.

With 4K TV becoming more affordable and the premium way to watch your favourite movies, TV shows and play the latest games, you will want broadband that can cope with your needs.

You will require a minimum speed of 25Mbps to stream in the highest quality possible, for 1080p HD you will need 5-8Mbps and for standard definition 2Mbps.

With smart technology becoming a normal part of our day-to-day lives, broadband speeds take on even more importance. With a Google Home or an Amazon Echo, you can control the lights, the heating and the appliances in your home. If your broadband is intermittent you may lose the control you have over your home and its appliances at an inconvenient moment. Always choose a broadband provider that will never limit your speeds during peak times.

We ask Google on average 10-20 questions a day per person; whether it’s to find out about the weather, how to make BBQ marinade or to search for last minute flights and holidays!

With slow broadband it can be frustrating waiting for your smart assistant to find an answer. We are all so used to having all the information at our fingertips, that when we don’t have it, we fall apart!

Most of us stream or download our music through apps like Deezer, Amazon Music or Spotify. There is nothing more annoying than when the favourite part of your song cuts out at the wrong point – the headbanging bit from Bohemian Rhapsody being a perfect example. If you listen to a lot of music, you will probably want to take it with you on your smartphone. To save your mobile data, download the albums you love at home – with faster broadband you can download a whole album in seconds.

40% of Brits now work from home each week with the benefits from doing so obvious; from saving money on the commute, to being in for deliveries and the school run.

However, if your broadband speed isn’t up to scratch it can be frustrating. Employers are likely to call you back into the office if your speed can’t handle the work you need to do.

Alternatively, if you use Skype for business, a poor broadband speed could seriously hinder any meetings you have planned, with your call falling out and poor quality pictures for meetings.

Slow broadband speed is a big turn off when it comes to buying or renting a property – luckily rural countryside areas are finally catching up with innercity speeds. You can check the estimated broadband speed on Rightmove and Zoopla or direct through the providers’ website.

Comparison websites such as Uswitch and Compare the Market will show you the best deals and estimated speeds in your area in minutes.

Not only do you need a fast broadband speed, but you also want one that is consistently good from morning to evening.

The number of providers has tripled in the past few years with packages available to suit all budgets. Fibre Broadband is widely available now and offers some of the highest speeds on the market – so that Mum can watch Stranger Things, while the kids play on Fortnite, and Dad watches the Ashes. However, check reviews and restrictions, as some providers limit speeds at peak times when you need them the most.

Our world is only in the early stages of technological advancement. To future proof your home it is well worth it to get as fast a speed as possible for the future. Schools now use tablets in classrooms and the ability to use computers and the internet is a key skill for your children’s future. By providing superfast broadband at home you are safeguarding their future and providing them with all the tools they need to thrive.

Top tips when looking for a new Broadband Provider:
• Check what speed you are currently receiving – which can be done online or through an app
• Check your contract carefully for any loopholes
• Talk to a person – don’t sign-up online: you may get a better deal
• Check how long your special rate will last
• Check any upfront fees
• Check the length of your contract
• Use a Speed Comparison Checker