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Why should pensioners get broadband?
While it may seem impenetrable and complex at first, broadband can be a great asset for older people and pensioners. It is a great way to stay in touch with relatives and friends, including those who live abroad, as it enables you to call or message people through platforms such as WhatsApp.
Emails are also the main mode of communication with businesses these days, so having a broadband connection means you can stay abreast of subscriptions, get in touch with customer service, and find out about deals when they happen.
An internet connection unlocks the world of online shopping, so you can place orders from the comfort of your own home and have items delivered all the way to your front door. You can also access many streaming platforms to watch films and television series on demand.
What do older people need from their broadband?
It goes without saying that older users’ priorities when it comes to broadband may be different to those of younger people.
For instance, you might value cheaper deals over top broadband speeds, as the monthly cost of an internet connection may be more of a concern than accessing ultrafast broadband.
Customer service is also likely to be important, including the option to reach your provider over the phone rather than communicating via an online chatbot.
Who is the best broadband provider for pensioners?
When it comes to choosing the best broadband provider for pensioners, our experts recommend Plusnet, which stands out thanks to its excellent customer service.
The company’s support team is UK-based and available seven days a week over the phone or online, which will help you feel confident that your issue can be addressed promptly and easily.
Other top broadband providers for pensioners include BT and Sky; as two of the “big four” internet companies in the UK, they have decades of experience and are trusted by millions of customers to deliver reliable broadband across the country.
What to look out for when comparing broadband packages for pensioners
Below, we’ve rounded up all the factors to take into consideration when browsing broadband deals for pensioners and elderly users.
Broadband speeds
Internet speed is expressed in Megabits per second (Mbps), which corresponds to how many units of data can be uploaded or downloaded per second with a given internet connection. The higher the Mbps, the faster and more reliable your broadband will be.
For a small household (one to two people) with light internet usage (checking emails, placing a call, browsing social media or online shopping), broadband speeds of 30-70Mbps should be more than enough.
Connection type
Because your speed requirements will likely be low, slower connection types such as ADSL or part-fibre broadband could be suitable for your household.
These broadband connections run fully or partly off the copper cable telephone network, which is gradually being replaced by faster, more reliable fibre optic cable networks. As such, in the long term, it may be easier to opt for full fibre broadband if you can access it.
Price
The cost of a broadband package is an important factor to consider, particularly for pensioners with a limited income. When comparing prices, make sure to look at the monthly cost of the deal, but also any upfront installation costs it may come with.
By entering your postcode in the free postcode checker above, you can see all the deals available in your area, and filter them in terms of monthly and total costs for total transparency. Any upfront costs are clearly laid out on the deals featured above so you won’t get caught out.
Customer service
Customer service is another factor to prioritise. We’d recommend looking for providers who have call centres based in the UK, as you may prefer to speak to someone on the phone rather than liaise with an online agent.
Broadband and phone deals for pensioners
While the advent of mobile phones means many people are now doing away with landlines altogether, older users and pensioners may still prefer to opt for a home phone as part of their internet package.
While a landline is necessary to access ADSL or part-fibre internet connections, full fibre broadband operates on fibre optic cables instead of the copper cable telephone network, so it is not a requirement for this type of broadband.
Customers can still take out a full fibre broadband and phone deal; the only difference is that the phone line will be digital, meaning it runs off your broadband connection rather than through the old telephone network.
Important note: Broadband providers should always check whether older users have an alternative method of contacting emergency services in the event that their internet connection goes down (for example, a mobile phone) before offering them a digital landline.
Frequently Asked Questions about broadband for pensioners
*Average speeds are based on the download speeds that at least 50% of customers get between 8pm and 10pm (peak time). Remember that this is a rough guide, you may see higher or lower speeds than those listed here.
Some providers may increase their monthly costs during your contract. Check their individual sites for specific terms and conditions.
Broadband comparison is provided by Usave, a trading name of A Networks Media Ltd through a partnership with Stickee Technology Limited, registered in England and Wales (Company No. 06711740). Registered Office: Unit 2 The Pavilions Cranmore Drive, Shirley, Solihull, England, B90 4SB. We, A Networks Media Ltd, do not own or control Stickee Technology Limited or vice-versa but work together on a limited basis as a business partnership.