No Contract and Short Contract Broadband
No contract or short-term broadband is a convenient option for households and users who look out for broadband services without signing up for long term contracts.
What is no contract broadband?
No contract broadband, also known as rolling one month contract, is a flexible option that helps customers avoid long-term contracts like 12, 18, or 24-month contracts.
On the other hand, no contract option allows customers to sign up for one month rolling contract with their internet service provider (ISP).
When you sign up for one month rolling contract, the service automatically continues on a month-to-month basis until you decide to cancel it. To end the contract, you simply need to give a month’s notice.
Why choose no contract or short-term contract broadband?
No contract and short-term broadband options are ideal for individuals who need internet access in temporary living situations or might have to relocate in the near future.
This option allows users to cancel their service anytime without termination fees, as long as they give a month’s notice.
Pros and cons of no contract broadband
Pros:
- Ideal for short-term use or temporary living situations
- Provides flexibility for those who may need to relocate
- No exit fees
- Only requires one-month notice to cancel
Cons:
- Expensive
- Higher setup fees
- No free router
- Fewer customer incentives and promotions
Short-term contract options
- One-month contracts – Sign up for 30 days rolling contract.
- Three-month contracts – Less common but offer a slightly longer commitment.
- Six-month contracts – A longer short-term option, compared to 1 month contract.
- Nine-month contracts – Often tailored for students, aligned with term times.
Advantages of no contract broadband
No contract broadband offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing customers to cancel or change their internet service without incurring penalties.
This is particularly useful for those with uncertain living arrangements or who may need to relocate frequently.
Short-term contracts are ideal for students who need internet at their location for under a year or only a few months.
Disadvantages of no contract broadband
While no contract broadband offers flexibility, it often comes with higher monthly rates, router cost and setup fees.
Additionally, customers may miss out on promotional offers or incentives that are available with long-term contracts.
Is no contract broadband good?
No contract broadband is suitable for individuals who value flexibility and are willing to pay slightly higher monthly rates and setup fees.
Consider your living situation, relocation possibilities, and financial constraints before deciding if this option is right for you.
Providers offering no contract broadband deals
Several providers offer no contract broadband services, including Virgin Media, Hyperoptic, and Now Broadband. Each provider has its own offerings and pricing. An installation fee of around £30 – £60 usually applies
Virgin Media
Virgin Media offers all its fibre packages with a 30-day rolling contract, allowing you to cancel at any time without long-term commitment.
Plusnet
Plusnet, a customer-friendly ISP, provides 1-month contracts for its broadband plans. However, installation costs extra, and you need to give a 10-day notice before leaving the provider.
Now TV
Now TV’s broadband service also includes packages on a 1-month rolling contract. They offer a wide range of packages, allowing you to bundle standard or fibre broadband with TV packs that include premium content such as movies, news, kids, and sports channels. Keep in mind that a one-time upfront fee will apply.
Direct Save Telecom
Direct Save Telecom is another provider that offers a 1-month contract option to new customers. They also have an 18-month contract option if you prefer a longer commitment.
Alternatives to no contract broadband
If no contract broadband isn’t the right fit for you, consider options like mobile broadband through dongles, MiFi devices, 4G tethering, or public WiFi hotspots.