TalkTalk Broadband Review 2025

If you’re shopping around for broadband that’s reliable and doesn’t break the bank, you’ve probably come across TalkTalk. Known for competitive pricing, TalkTalk markets itself as a budget-friendly alternative to the larger players in the market, including BT, Sky, and Virgin Media.

This review takes a close look at everything TalkTalk offers right now – from broadband speeds and prices to how their TV service works, what kind of router you’ll get, how installation goes, and what current customers are saying.

TalkTalk Broadband Packages

TalkTalk currently offers six main broadband packages. These fall under two categories: standard fibre and full fibre. The standard fibre options use the Openreach FTTC network, while the full fibre plans use FTTP technology in available areas.

Standard Fibre Packages

These two plans are suited to households with low to moderate usage. Fibre 35 is typically enough for browsing and standard definition streaming on one or two devices. Fibre 65 is more suitable for households with multiple users streaming or downloading files.

Full Fibre (FTTP) Packages

Full Fibre packages offer faster, more reliable connections with higher upload speeds and lower latency. These plans are suitable for larger households, remote workers, or those using multiple high-bandwidth devices.

All full fibre plans come with no setup fees and follow the same pricing structure — you’ll pay the listed price during your contract, then it goes up by £3 each April after your contract ends. For the price, these full fibre deals are among the cheapest you’ll find in the UK right now.

Setup and Installation

TalkTalk offers both self-installation and professional installation, depending on the package and infrastructure at the property. Most standard fibre plans are self-installed. A pre-configured router is delivered to the customer, and instructions are included.

For full fibre packages, an engineer is required to complete the installation. This includes setting up an optical modem (ONT) and configuring the router. Standard installation is free. Non-standard setups—such as custom cabling or remote locations—may involve additional charges, disclosed before installation.

The typical time to install a full fibre package is 1 to 2 hours. Installation appointments are booked at the time of sign-up, and customers receive SMS or email reminders.

Routers and Equipment

TalkTalk provides the Wi-Fi Hub Black with most standard and full fibre packages. This dual-band router supports Wi-Fi 5 and features:

Full Fibre 500 and Full Fibre 900 customers may receive an upgraded version of the Wi-Fi Hub that supports Wi-Fi 6. This is based on availability and location. The router provides decent range and speeds for standard households, though larger homes may require additional mesh devices or extenders.

Specification	Wi-Fi Hub (Standard)	Wi-Fi Hub (Wi-Fi 6)
Wi-Fi Standard	Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)	Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Frequency Bands	Dual-band (2.4GHz & 5GHz)	Dual-band (2.4GHz & 5GHz)
LAN Ports	4 × Gigabit Ethernet	4 × Gigabit Ethernet
USB Ports	None	1 × USB 3.0
Smart Channel Selection	Yes	Yes (Enhanced with Wi-Fi 6)
MU-MIMO Support	Limited	Yes
OFDMA Support	No	Yes
Best For	Standard fibre households	Full fibre and multi-device homes

TalkTalk allows customers to use their own router, provided it is compatible with either FTTC or FTTP technology. However, support is only provided for TalkTalk-supplied equipment.

TalkTalk TV

If you’re looking for a simple way to get both broadband and TV without spending a fortune, TalkTalk makes it easy. You can add TalkTalk TV to any broadband plan for just £5 a month. It’s a flexible setup that gives you access to live channels, your favourite streaming services, and on-demand content — all in one place, and all on one bill.

It’s a simple, affordable way to bring together live TV, apps, and streaming — all without switching between devices or juggling multiple remotes.

So, What Is a Broadband and TV Package?

A broadband and TV package is just what it sounds like — broadband for your home, plus access to TV through a smart box. With TalkTalk, this means you get fast fibre broadband (depending on what’s available in your area), and a TV hub that lets you watch Freeview, use catch-up apps like BBC iPlayer, and stream from services like Netflix, NOW or Prime Video.

It’s a low-cost way to bring everything together, so you can browse, stream and watch — without needing a separate contract for TV.

What Do You Get with TalkTalk TV?

When you sign up for TalkTalk TV, you’ll receive the TalkTalk TV Hub. Here’s what it offers:

And because everything is rolled into one bill — broadband, TV, and any streaming services you add — it’s easier to keep track of your monthly costs.

Do You Need a Landline for TalkTalk TV?

That depends on the broadband plan you choose:

Either way, you can still add the TV service. It works with both types of broadband.

Digital Phone (VoIP) Service

TalkTalk offers a digital phone service alongside broadband. This is delivered using Voice over IP (VoIP) through the broadband connection. Key features include:

The digital phone service can be added to any broadband package for an additional fee. It requires a compatible router and a DECT or VoIP-compatible telephone.

TalkTalk no longer installs traditional copper-based landlines for new customers. All phone services use IP telephony.

HomeSafe and Security Tools

TalkTalk includes its HomeSafe security suite with all broadband plans. It is managed through the TalkTalk customer portal and includes:

HomeSafe is enabled at the network level, so all devices connected to the router are protected. It can be customised per household preferences and disabled if needed.

Additional device-based antivirus tools are not included but may be offered through third-party bundles.

Customer Service and Support

TalkTalk provides customer support through phone, webchat, and online account services. Support is available from 8am to 10pm on weekdays and from 9am to 6pm on weekends.

Customer Service

Feedback is mixed. TalkTalk has improved response times, but customers have noted inconsistent service quality. Common issues include difficulty in reaching technical support during peak times and delays in resolving billing queries. That said, customers who do not encounter problems often report a satisfactory experience given the low cost of the service.

Performance and Reliability

TalkTalk broadband performance varies by location and package.

Speed tests from third-party sites indicate that TalkTalk full fibre plans deliver close to the advertised speeds, especially when used over Ethernet. Wi-Fi performance depends on home layout and router placement.

TalkTalk vs Other UK Providers

TalkTalk is often compared to BT, Sky, Virgin Media, Vodafone, and Plusnet. Here’s how it generally compares:

TalkTalk stands out for its low pricing and fixed contracts, but customer service remains a weaker point.

Is TalkTalk broadband any good?

TalkTalk broadband is suitable for:

However, TalkTalk broadband is not ideal for:

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Final Verdict

TalkTalk keeps it simple. If you’re after fast broadband at a fair price, and you’re not too fussed about extras like premium TV or elite-level support, it’s a solid option.

Their full fibre plans are especially good value – you get speeds close to a gigabit for less than most competitors. TV is optional, affordable, and works well if you already subscribe to streaming platforms.

Customer service has room for improvement, but many users are happy with the overall experience – especially once everything is up and running.

If you’re looking for an affordable, no-frills broadband provider with decent speeds and flexibility, TalkTalk deserves a spot on your shortlist.

FAQs

Can I keep my phone number with TalkTalk?
Yes, number porting is available during sign-up.

Does TalkTalk offer mobile SIMs?
No, TalkTalk discontinued its mobile service.

Can I watch sports on TalkTalk TV?
Only through external apps like NOW or Prime Video.

Is TalkTalk good for working from home?
Yes, if you’re in a full fibre area. For standard fibre, performance depends on line quality.

Do they raise prices mid-contract?
No. Prices are fixed for the first term. From April 2026, a £3 annual increase applies.

Related

• TalkTalk Fibre 150 Broadband Review
• TalkTalk Fibre 65 Broadband Review
• TalkTalk Full Fibre Broadband
• TalkTalk TV Review
• TalkTalk Fast broadband

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