Plusnet Broadband Review 2025

For many UK households, Plusnet has become a go-to name for reliable broadband without the premium price tag. Known for offering straightforward packages, easy setup, and UK-based customer support, Plusnet delivers just broadband that works—no fuss, no gimmicks.

However, many providers now lead with speed upgrades, entertainment bundles, and extras designed to tie into the connected home, while Plusnet keeps its product lineup lean, choosing to appeal to those who value simplicity over extras.

This review takes a closer look at what Plusnet brings to the table—from real-world speed and reliability to customer service experiences and overall value for money.

Speeds & Plans

Plusnet currently provides three types of broadband connections: copper ADSL, part-fibre (FTTC), and full fibre (FTTP).

Latest Offer: Free setup. Include £100 Reward card with selected packages. Ends on 16th April.

Copper (ADSL)

This legacy product delivers internet through traditional copper telephone lines and offers average download speeds around 10Mbps. It’s now mostly relevant in areas where fibre access is unavailable. While other providers are phasing out copper-based services, Plusnet has retained theirs for now, though uptake is expectedly low.

Part-Fibre (FTTC)

The part-fibre (Fibre) package combines fibre-optic infrastructure from the exchange to the cabinet, with the final leg to the home completed over copper. This plan offers average download speeds of 66Mbps and upload speeds of 17Mbps, although exact performance varies by distance to the cabinet and line quality. This option remains the most widely available Plusnet product.

Full Fibre (FTTP)

Plusnet entered the full fibre space in 2022, offering full fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) packages over the Openreach network. Speeds range from 74Mbps to 900Mbps, offering significant improvements in both download and upload capabilities. Full fibre is currently available to around 40% of households across the UK, with coverage expanding rapidly.

Plusnet Hub Two Router

Every Plusnet broadband plan includes the Plusnet Hub Two. It’s essentially a rebranded version of BT’s Smart Hub 2. Here’s what it offers:

Specifications:

While not the latest technology—missing out on WiFi 6 and WPA3 security—it still holds up for most domestic needs. It’s more capable than routers from some cheaper providers like NOW Broadband and Shell Energy, offering decent wireless coverage and reliable performance.

However, it does not support mesh networking. Users with large homes or thick walls may want to invest in third-party mesh systems. Plusnet allows users to switch the Hub Two to modem-only mode for this purpose.

Installation and Setup

All Plusnet broadband packages come with free setup. For customers switching within the Openreach network, setup is usually quick and requires no engineer visit. For new full fibre customers, especially those without an Openreach Optical Network Terminal (ONT), an engineer appointment will be arranged.

There are no upfront costs on any package. Activation is handled efficiently, with most installations completed within 10 working days.

Broadband Speeds and Performance

Advertised speeds are based on averages measured during peak times (8pm to 10pm), as per Ofcom guidelines. Part-fibre (FTTC) users typically receive between 36Mbps and 70Mbps depending on location.

Users in full fibre areas typically experience speeds close to advertised rates. Plusnet also provides personalised speed estimates and a minimum guaranteed download speed during the order process. If performance regularly falls below this threshold and cannot be fixed within 30 days, customers can leave without penalty.

Plan	Min. Guaranteed Speed
Fibre (FTTC)	71Mbps
Full Fibre 74	40Mbps
Full Fibre 145	80Mbps
Full Fibre 300	165Mbps
Full Fibre 500	275Mbps
Full Fibre 900	500Mbps

Reliability

Plusnet stands out for its reliability, consistently performing better than the industry average. Based on the latest Ofcom figures and independent surveys:

Despite the slightly slower repair time, Plusnet’s lower fault rate reduces the chance of needing a repair in the first place. This is especially true for full fibre customers, who benefit from a more reliable network.

WiFi Performance and Coverage

Unlike some providers, Plusnet does not offer a WiFi guarantee. Providers such as BT and Virgin Media offer whole-home coverage options, often using mesh systems to maintain speeds in every room. With Plusnet, however, if you experience signal dropouts or dead zones, it’s up to you to invest in additional equipment.

That said, for most average-sized homes, the included Hub Two router generally delivers reliable coverage for everyday tasks.

Customer Support and Satisfaction

Plusnet’s customer support is based in the UK. This is a major draw for users who prefer domestic support staff over offshore call centres. Here’s how they perform in satisfaction surveys:

The number of customer complaints has significantly declined since 2019, following a problematic billing system migration. Since 2021, Plusnet’s complaint levels have been stable and better than rivals like Vodafone, Shell Energy, and TalkTalk.

Ofcom’s most recent complaint data shows Plusnet at 12 complaints per 100,000 users—on par with the national average. Only Sky, NOW Broadband, and EE performed marginally better.

Pricing and Annual Increases

Plusnet is widely recognised as a budget-friendly provider. While exact monthly costs vary by deal and region, Plusnet routinely undercuts big names like BT, TalkTalk, and Virgin Media.

Each April, Plusnet applies an annual price rise tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) + 3.9%. This is the same model used by BT and EE.

While common in the market, it can catch customers off guard if inflation rates are high. Customers should be aware that the monthly fee at sign-up won’t remain fixed beyond the first year.

Security and Parental Controls

Plusnet includes SafeGuard, a web-based filtering system that allows users to block access to certain content categories such as gambling, adult content, and social media. It’s basic but functional.

There is no dedicated app for parental control, but settings can be managed from the user dashboard. For advanced controls, users would need to consider third-party solutions or upgraded hardware.

Package comparison with other providers

Entry-Level Full Fibre (Around 145–150Mbps)

Plusnet’s Full Fibre 145 plan competes well with similar packages:

Mid-Tier Full Fibre (500Mbps)

Plusnet Full Fibre 500 is competitively priced:

Plusnet delivers solid mid-tier value, especially for users not seeking entertainment bundles.

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Pros

Cons

Conclusion

Plusnet in 2025 continues to deliver what it promises: straightforward broadband at affordable prices. It avoids the feature overload seen in some larger providers and focuses on getting the basics right—speed, reliability, and service.

Plusnet is ideal for:

It may not be right choice for:

For users who don’t require add-ons like TV bundles or WiFi guarantees, Plusnet offers one of the best value broadband services in the UK. As full fibre becomes more widely available, Plusnet remains a strong contender, especially for homes that value simplicity, price transparency, and dependable performance.

If you’re after good broadband without the distractions, Plusnet remains a smart and sensible choice.

Plusnet vs BT Broadband

When comparing Plusnet with BT, the core differences lie in pricing, service extras, and support levels. Both operate on the Openreach network, so performance in terms of speed and stability is broadly similar when subscribing to equivalent packages. However, their positioning in the market is quite distinct.

Speed and Packages

BT offers a more extensive range of full fibre plans, including WiFi 6-compatible routers and WiFi guarantees. Plusnet provides six full fibre options (74Mbps to 900Mbps), while BT offers more granular variations, such as Full Fibre 100, 300, 500, and 900.

Router and WiFi

BT includes the Smart Hub 2 as standard, with mesh support and optional WiFi Discs as part of its WiFi Guarantee service. Plusnet’s Hub Two is similar in hardware but lacks mesh compatibility and WiFi 6. BT is better suited for larger homes or where WiFi coverage is a concern.

Add-ons and Services

BT provides a full ecosystem, including BT TV, BT Mobile (via EE), and discounts on TNT Sports. Plusnet has phased out all non-broadband services. If you’re after bundled services, BT is the obvious choice.

Customer Support

Plusnet scores well for UK-based customer support and satisfaction levels. BT, though reliable, often records slightly higher complaint levels. For users valuing straightforward support, Plusnet has a slight edge.

Pricing

Plusnet is consistently cheaper across comparable plans. BT often has higher entry-level prices, justified by premium features like a WiFi guarantee, broader TV options, and newer routers. However, if you only need broadband and care about price, Plusnet wins on value.

Verdict: Choose BT if you want an all-in-one service with the latest tech and TV bundles. Go with Plusnet for lower monthly costs and simplicity without unnecessary extras.

Plusnet vs Vodafone Broadband

Vodafone Broadband competes with Plusnet in both price and service quality, especially on full fibre connections. Vodafone operates on both the Openreach and CityFibre networks, giving it an edge in coverage in some areas.

Speed and Coverage

Vodafone offers a similar speed range to Plusnet, from 35Mbps to 910Mbps. However, Vodafone’s use of CityFibre in select regions may result in better availability or performance. Plusnet sticks solely to Openreach FTTP.

Router and Equipment

Vodafone’s Ultra Hub supports WiFi 6 and is future-ready. It also comes with optional Super WiFi boosters at no extra cost under certain plans. Plusnet’s Hub Two, by contrast, lacks these enhancements, which may affect larger homes or advanced users.

Pricing and Offers

Vodafone often competes closely with Plusnet on price and may even undercut it during promotional periods. Both providers include free setup and contract buyout options for switchers, though Plusnet’s reward card offers are more consistent.

Service Reliability

Plusnet has a lower fault rate and high customer satisfaction, particularly around support. Vodafone’s service record has improved, but customer complaints and support response times remain variable.

Extras and Mobile Integration

Vodafone stands out with optional mobile discounts and the ability to integrate broadband and mobile plans under one account. Plusnet does not offer mobile services anymore, reducing its flexibility.

Verdict: Vodafone is the better option for tech-savvy users or those wanting mobile and broadband in one place. Plusnet is more suited to customers looking for consistent value, straightforward service, and responsive support.

Plusnet vs TalkTalk Broadband

TalkTalk competes with Plusnet in the budget broadband segment, with similar pricing structures and product tiers. Both use Openreach for infrastructure, so speed performance is broadly comparable where coverage overlaps.

Speed Tiers

Both providers offer part-fibre and full fibre packages with comparable average speeds. TalkTalk’s Full Fibre 150 and 500 plans align closely with Plusnet’s Full Fibre 145 and Full Fibre 500 options.

Router and WiFi Support

TalkTalk’s eero 6 router supports WiFi 6 and mesh networking on its Full Fibre packages, a major plus for households with high coverage demands. Plusnet’s router is limited to WiFi 5 and lacks mesh functionality.

Customer Service

TalkTalk has a mixed reputation for customer support, with relatively high complaint levels reported by Ofcom. Plusnet generally ranks better in terms of customer satisfaction, fault resolution, and fewer repeat issues.

Add-ons and Flexibility

TalkTalk includes optional TV services via NOW TV and offers greater customisation in entertainment bundles. Plusnet has discontinued TV-related options, simplifying its offering.

Pricing and Contracts

Both providers are competitive on price, but TalkTalk often features shorter 18-month contracts versus Plusnet’s fixed 24-month terms. This may appeal to renters or those who value flexibility.

Verdict: TalkTalk is attractive for users wanting short-term deals or TV bundles. Plusnet is a better choice for those prioritising customer service and low-maintenance broadband with fewer complications.

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