UK ISP comparison
BT Broadband vs NOW Broadband
BT is the mainstream incumbent; NOW Broadband is Sky's flexibility-focused brand for short and rolling contracts. Choose by commitment preference.
About BT Broadband
BT retails Openreach FTTC and FTTP with mainstream bundle reach across mobile, TV and sport.
About NOW Broadband
NOW Broadband is a Sky Group sub-brand with rolling-monthly and short-contract options designed for renters and sharers.
Pricing comparison
NOW typically prices below BT on monthly rolling contracts but lacks the long-tenure promotional pricing BT offers. In-contract BT can beat NOW headline.
Speed comparison
Both retail Openreach. NOW is mostly FTTC-focused with growing FTTP availability; BT covers the full Openreach speed ladder including 900 Mbps FTTP.
Coverage comparison
Both cover Openreach. BT has full FTTP retail; NOW FTTP retail availability is more selective.
Verdict
NOW wins for short-tenure households who need flexibility. BT wins for households who want speed and bundle depth on a longer contract.
Who each is best for
NOW suits renters, sharers and households unwilling to commit to 24 months. BT suits households committing to a tenancy or owning a home.
How to switch
- Check availability at your postcode for both providers. Coverage matters more than the headline brand.
- Compare like-for-like on speed, contract length and total cost of ownership for 12 to 24 months.
- Use One Touch Switch to move. Your new provider does the heavy lifting.
- Test your speed after the switch on UKSpeedTest.co.uk and complain if it materially underperforms.
Last updated: May 2026. Pricing changes frequently. Always check the latest tariff at the provider's own site or via SearchSwitchSave.com.
Common questions
How long does a switch between BT Broadband and NOW Broadband take?
Under the UK One Touch Switch process introduced by Ofcom in 2024, most switches between two UK fixed-line broadband providers complete within ten working days. The gaining provider takes responsibility for the switch and your existing contract ends automatically. See Fibreswitch.com for the live status of your switch.
Will I lose service during the switch?
Most One Touch Switch moves between Openreach-based providers happen with no service downtime, because the underlying line stays connected. Moves between Openreach and a separate network (Virgin Media, Hyperoptic, Community Fibre, Netomnia, CityFibre via altnet retailer) can involve a brief overlap period to avoid any gap in connectivity. Your gaining provider will confirm the precise method during the order.
Can I keep my router?
Generally no. Most UK ISPs issue their own router optimised for their network and supply chain. You can use your own router on most Openreach FTTC and FTTP services, but bear in mind support and Wi-Fi guarantees apply to the supplied router. Cable, XGS-PON and certain proprietary altnet networks require the supplied modem or ONT.
Is the switch process the same in Northern Ireland?
One Touch Switch covers Great Britain. In Northern Ireland, switching processes follow Ofcom NI guidance and may differ for the Hull region where KCOM operates the historic incumbent network. Check with your gaining provider for region-specific guidance.