UK ISP comparison
Hyperoptic vs Community Fibre
Two of London's leading altnets. Hyperoptic is the MDU specialist nationally; Community Fibre is the London-only price leader.
About Hyperoptic
Hyperoptic operates symmetric XGS-PON full fibre across multi-dwelling-unit buildings in major UK cities.
About Community Fibre
Community Fibre operates symmetric XGS-PON full fibre across London with multi-gigabit headline tariffs.
Pricing comparison
Community Fibre typically prices entry symmetric gigabit lower than Hyperoptic. Hyperoptic wins on national MDU breadth.
Speed comparison
Both deliver symmetric gigabit. Community Fibre reaches 3 Gbps. Hyperoptic tops at 1 Gbps on standard tariffs.
Coverage comparison
Hyperoptic is national in MDU buildings. Community Fibre is London-only.
Verdict
In London, Community Fibre typically wins on price and top speed. Outside London, Hyperoptic is the leading symmetric-gigabit MDU choice.
Who each is best for
Community Fibre suits London households. Hyperoptic suits MDU residents in non-London cities or where Community Fibre is unavailable.
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 Hyperoptic and Community Fibre 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.