Broadband Speeds Explained: What Speed Do You Actually Need?

Broadband speeds are measured in Megabits per second (Mbps) or, for the very fastest connections, Gigabits per second (Gbps). The higher the number, the faster data travels between the internet and your device.

If you are comparing results with an encrypted connection active, use our guide to VPN speed loss and paired testing before assuming the broadband line is at fault.

Download speed vs upload speed

Download speed is how quickly data comes from the internet to your device. This affects streaming, web browsing, downloading files, and loading video calls.

Upload speed is how quickly data goes from your device to the internet. This affects video calls, cloud backups, uploading photos, and live streaming.

Most broadband packages have much higher download speeds than upload speeds. Full-fibre (FTTP) packages are the exception, and several altnets now go well beyond simply matching the two: Community Fibre offers up to 3,000 Mbps symmetrical on its fastest tier, and YouFibre up to 8,000 Mbps, both with upload matching download exactly.

The UK's "average speed" is higher than what most people actually get

Ofcom's Connected Nations data recorded the average maximum available download speed at 285 Mbps, up nearly 30% from 223 Mbps the year before, driven by the rapid rollout of gigabit-capable full fibre. This figure describes what is technically available, not what a typical household experiences day to day: the median speed actually delivered on FTTC connections specifically is closer to 80 to 100 Mbps, since the national average is pulled upward by full-fibre connections capable of far higher speeds. When comparing a package against "the UK average," check whether the figure describes availability or actual delivered speed, since the two can differ substantially.

What broadband speed do you actually need?

Do not confuse broadband speed with the wireless link inside the home. Our Wi-Fi 7 explained guide shows when a newer router can remove a local bottleneck and when the incoming package remains the limit. For a household sizing of 100, 150 and 300 Mbps, including upload, cloud backup and always-on clients, use what broadband speed do I need.

Why does my speed vary?

Advertised speeds are “up to” figures. Actual speed depends on the technology (FTTC, FTTP, Cable), how far the property is from the exchange or cabinet (for FTTC), the time of day, home wiring and router placement. FTTC and cable connections also share capacity with other properties on the same street cabinet or node, so speed can dip during peak evening hours, roughly 7pm to 10pm, when many nearby homes are online at once. Full fibre (FTTP) is far less affected by this specific problem, since each property has its own dedicated fibre line rather than a shared one.

Under Ofcom rules, providers must tell you the minimum guaranteed speed you can expect before you sign up. If you consistently receive below this, you have the right to exit your contract without penalty.

What is latency?

Latency (or ping) is the delay in milliseconds between sending a request and receiving a response. For gaming and video calls, low latency (under 30ms) is more important than raw speed. Full-fibre connections typically deliver much lower latency than FTTC or ADSL.