What is broadband only?

Broadband-only packages provide internet access without bundling inclusive home phone calls or a television subscription.

They’re a popular choice for households that use mobile phones for calls and prefer to choose their own streaming services.

However, the phrase broadband only doesn’t necessarily mean that the physical connection has no telephone wiring.

The underlying technology depends on the network serving your property.

Use the comparison table above to explore broadband packages from participating providers without bundled TV or inclusive calling services.

What’s the difference between broadband only and broadband without a landline?

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t exactly the same.

Broadband only describes the services included in the package.

Broadband without a landline generally refers to getting an internet connection without needing a traditional telephone calling service.

With full-fibre broadband, fibre-optic cables run directly to your property, so the internet connection doesn’t rely on a copper telephone line.

Some part-fibre services can also be supplied without an active analogue telephone calling service.

A package may therefore use existing telephone infrastructure for its broadband connection while providing no inclusive home phone calls.

Can you get broadband without a landline?

Yes. Many providers now offer broadband packages that don’t require a traditional home phone calling service.

Full fibre, also known as FTTP, uses fibre-optic cabling directly to the property.

Modern part-fibre services may also use single-order broadband arrangements without an analogue telephone service.

However, if you currently use a home telephone number, it’s important to check what happens to that number when switching.

You may be able to arrange a separate digital phone service, but it isn’t necessarily included with broadband only.

Is broadband only cheaper?

Broadband-only packages can be cheaper than bundles that include home phone calls or television services, but they aren’t automatically the lowest-cost option.

Some broadband and phone packages include basic telephone facilities without a substantial additional charge.

Similarly, a promotional broadband and TV bundle may occasionally offer a competitive introductory price.

The best way to compare value is to look at the total minimum-term cost and the services included.

If you don’t use a home phone or premium television subscription, broadband only is often a sensible starting point.

Explore our cheapest broadband deals to compare prices across different package types.

Which types of broadband are available without calls or TV?

Full-fibre broadband

FTTP uses fibre-optic cabling directly to your property.

It supports a range of speeds, including gigabit connections, and doesn’t require a traditional copper phone line.

Many full-fibre providers offer internet-only packages as their standard residential product.

Part-fibre broadband

FTTC uses fibre to a local street cabinet and copper wiring for the final connection.

It can be supplied without an inclusive home phone calling service.

Although speeds are generally lower than full fibre, part-fibre broadband may still be sufficient for smaller households.

Cable broadband

Virgin Media offers broadband-only packages using its cable and full-fibre networks.

The connection technology varies by location, but customers don’t necessarily need to take a TV or phone subscription.

Mobile home broadband

4G and 5G home broadband uses a mobile network rather than a fixed-line connection.

It can be suitable where fixed broadband isn’t available or where installation would be inconvenient.

Check coverage, data allowances and contract terms before choosing.

How fast should broadband only be?

Broadband-only packages are available at a wide range of speeds.

The right speed depends on how many people share the connection and what they’re doing online.

For browsing, email, video calls and occasional streaming, a modest broadband package may be sufficient.

For households with several connected devices and frequent HD or 4K streaming, additional capacity may be useful.

Very fast broadband can reduce download times and support heavy simultaneous use, but it isn’t essential for every household.

Don’t pay for a faster package solely because it appears to offer better value per megabit.

Choose a speed that meets your actual requirements.

Do broadband-only deals include a router?

Most residential broadband packages include compatible networking equipment, although the model and terms differ.

Some providers supply the router as part of the contract, while others charge delivery or equipment fees.

You may also be required to return the router when the service ends.

Check whether the equipment supports the broadband speed you’re ordering and whether additional Wi-Fi coverage products cost extra.

Can you keep your existing home phone number?

Potentially, but this needs to be arranged carefully.

If you’re moving from broadband with an active home phone service to broadband only, the telephone service may be disconnected.

If you want to retain the number, check whether it can be transferred to a separate digital phone provider.

Don’t cancel an existing phone service before confirming the transfer arrangements.

Some households may prefer a broadband and phone package instead.

Broadband only versus broadband and TV

Broadband-only packages can be particularly attractive if you already use streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+ or other on-demand platforms.

You can choose which subscriptions to maintain without relying on a particular broadband provider’s TV platform.

However, if you regularly watch premium live sports or entertainment channels, a combined broadband and TV package may offer better value.

Compare the total price of both approaches rather than assuming one is always cheaper.

See our broadband and TV deals.

What should you check before ordering?

Compare the initial monthly charge, scheduled price increases and total contract cost.

Check the minimum contract length and whether early termination charges apply.

Consider any setup fees, equipment charges and out-of-contract pricing.

Also check the connection technology and speed estimate for your individual address.

If you’re switching from a package with home phone or TV services, establish what happens to those services when you leave.

Compare broadband-only deals

Use the comparison table above to explore internet packages from participating providers without inclusive calling or television services.

Enter your postcode and select your address where available to check which connections may be offered.

Compare prices, speeds and contract conditions before ordering.

The best broadband-only deal is one that provides enough speed at a competitive total cost, without paying for additional services you don’t need.

Broadband-only FAQs

What does broadband only mean?

Broadband only means an internet package without bundled TV services or inclusive home phone calling allowances. The underlying connection may still use existing copper infrastructure, depending on the technology.

Can I get broadband without a phone line?

Yes. Full-fibre broadband doesn’t require a traditional copper phone line, and some part-fibre services can also be supplied without an active analogue calling service.

Is broadband only cheaper than broadband and phone?

It can be, but not always. Compare the total package cost, as some broadband products include basic telephone facilities without a significant additional charge.

Does broadband only include Wi-Fi?

Residential broadband packages normally include or provide a compatible router for creating a home Wi-Fi network. Check whether equipment and delivery are included in the price.

Can I watch Netflix with broadband only?

Yes. You can use streaming services independently of a broadband and TV bundle, subject to having a compatible device and any required subscription.

Can I keep my landline number with broadband only?

You may be able to transfer your telephone number to a separate digital calling service. Check this before switching, as cancelling the existing phone service can complicate number retention.