Switching broadband, TV, mobile could save households £235 a year

Consumers across the UK could save up to £235 annually by switching their broadband, TV, or mobile contracts, according to a new report by consumer watchdog Which?.

The study, which surveyed over 5,000 customers who had ended their contracts in the last year, highlights significant savings for those who switch providers or negotiate with their current ones.

The findings show that out-of-contract broadband and TV customers save the most, with Sky users benefitting from an average saving of £235 by moving to a better deal.

Even those who chose to haggle with their provider saw savings, averaging £117.

For broadband-only customers, switching saved £105, with Virgin Media customers topping the list with £165 in savings.

Switching was a straightforward process for most, according to the research.

Around 75% of broadband users and 73% of mobile users found the process easy.

Those with broadband and TV bundles found it slightly more challenging, though more than half (55%) still described it as manageable.

Savings Across Providers
The survey revealed notable differences in savings depending on the provider.

Virgin Media customers saved the most when switching broadband, while mobile customers with Vodafone reported savings of £146—more than double the £67 average for mobile switchers.

For those who preferred negotiating, EE customers saved the most, with average annual savings of £101.

Beyond financial savings, many customers experienced improvements in service quality after switching.

Nearly four in ten (37%) broadband users reported faster speeds, and 44% enjoyed more reliable connections.

For mobile users, customer service improved for 35% of switchers, and network reception got better for 48%.

Changes on the Horizon
The Which? report comes ahead of significant regulatory changes.

From January 2025, Ofcom’s ban on mid-contract price hikes will take effect, providing greater price transparency and stability for telecom customers.

The consumer group was instrumental in pushing for this change, which will allow customers to compare deals more effectively without worrying about sudden cost increases during their contracts.

In anticipation of these changes, providers like BT have already confirmed new pricing structures.

For example, BT’s planned March 2024 price increase will see broadband and mobile contract costs rise by £3 and £1.50 per month, respectively.

However, companies such as Hyperoptic, Utility Warehouse, and Zen Internet have pledged to keep prices steady for the duration of customer contracts, offering another way for households to avoid future price hikes.

Switching Made Easier
Switching broadband providers is now simpler than ever, thanks to Ofcom’s One Touch Switch regulations, which came into effect in September.

This allows consumers to handle all communications with just their new provider, even when changing between networks, reducing the hassle of switching and increasing accessibility to better deals.

Natalie Hitchins, Head of Home Products and Services at Which?, said: “Our latest research shows out-of-contract broadband, TV, and mobile customers can save a substantial amount of money by switching providers or haggling with their current one – and that most people find the process easy.”

With telecom providers already adjusting to the upcoming regulatory changes, consumers are urged to take advantage of the opportunities to save and improve their services.

As Natalie noted, “Consumers should feel empowered to switch and potentially save hundreds of pounds.”