The average broadband contract lasts at least 12 months, so it’s important to find an affordable package that saves you money over the whole year.
What is a 12 month broadband deal?
While 6 month and no contract deals are available from some providers, a 12 month broadband deal is one of the best ways to maximise your choice without committing to a lengthy contract for more than a year.
The days of 12 month contracts being offered as standard are over, sadly, with more providers preferring 18 and 24 month deals, but you can find some great packages if you search using your post code at the top of this page.
What types of broadband can you get on a 12-month contract?
Just because you opt for a 12 month broadband deal doesn’t mean you have to compromise on speed. You can get fast, fibre optic broadband or standard, ADSL broadband, depending on your needs.
ADSL is more appropriate if you’re on a tight budget or a light user that doesn’t stream video via the likes of Netflix or use Spotify for music.
Fibre optic deals are best for larger households and those who want to take full advantage of video streaming, online gaming and social media.
12-month ADSL broadband contract deals
For those who want to save money yet still get steady, affordable access to the internet at home, a 12 month ADSL broadband deal is a great option.
Plusnet offers a 12 month deal with unlimited broadband at a reasonable price, with average speeds of 10Mbps and no set up costs.
Another low-cost provider offering 12 month contracts is Now Broadband - with 11Mbps average speeds and free anytime calls as well as standard broadband.
John Lewis Broadband also offers a 12-month 10Mbps deal, no set up costs, plus evening and weekend calls and an @johnlewis.com email address.
12-month fibre optic deals
Fibre optic deals are the best bet for anyone who wants to maximise their broadband, from streaming to connecting with other gamers. If you’re a heavy internet user, or belong to a large household that uses several different devices like phones, tablets and games consoles, then a fibre package is the best option for you.
The good news is that there are a range of excellent, affordable 12 month broadband deals from all kinds of providers, meaning you have plenty of choice.
Now Broadband, Onestream, John Lewis Broadband and Zen all offer options with speeds of either 36Mbps or 66Mbps, perfect for handling everyday needs and getting everyone in the house online at once.
To find out if fibre optic is available in your area, type your details into our postcode checker and we'll do the rest.
12-month broadband and TV deals
Finding a TV bundle on a 12 month broadband contract isn’t as easy as it used to be, with major players like Sky, Virgin Media and BT preferring 18 month deals as standard.
However, Now Broadband has a number of impressive 12 month broadband deals that include access to regular channels, as well as Sky Sports Membership, Sky Cinema Membership and Entertainment Membership. Costs vary depending on the TV services you want, but represent excellent value nonetheless.
Which providers offer 12 month contracts?
12 month broadband contracts are the preserve of smaller providers, with major players preferring to try and entice customers onto longer, 18 or 24 month packages with lower prices and extras.
That means this section of the market is now contested by Now Broadband, John Lewis, Zen, Onestream and Plusnet. You’ll still get great broadband, however, whichever option you choose.
What alternatives are there to a 12 month contract?
If you don’t want to sign up for an 18 or 24 month deal and even a year seems too long, there are alternatives out there. These include:
- No contract broadband. Some providers, including Virgin Media and Hyperoptic, offer 30-day rolling contracts which you can cancel any time. Perfect if you’re in short term accommodation.
- Six month broadband. You can secure short, six month broadband deals too, although options are limited.
- Student broadband. If you’re only going to be in your property for nine months while studying, this is a great idea.
- Mobile broadband. Dongles and MiFi contracts have the benefit of being wholly portable, although connections may not be as strong as they use 4G and 5G rather than fibre or ADSL.
What are the pros and cons of 12-month broadband deals?
Pros
- Short deal means you can shop around for a new package after a year
- Decent fibre optic speeds available, broadly similar to those on all but the most expensive 18 and 24 month contracts
- TV bundle options from Now Broadband
- Great for renters on one-year leases
Cons
- Can’t get the very fastest fibre deals
- Biggest providers don’t offer such short contracts
- Hard to find deals with extras and sweeteners
Similar broadband packages
Broadband packages on a budget
Can I leave my 12-month contract early?
If you’re locked into a contract, and you try to leave early, your provider may charge you a termination fee to cancel. Depending on how far into your contract you are, the cost can be pretty hefty.
The good news is there are ways you may be able to cancel your contract early.
If your speeds don’t match what you were promised, for example, or your provider raises prices mid-contract you can now walk away penalty-free.
Take a look at our handy guide to find out more information on leaving your contract early.
