Talktalk.co.uk Reviews

Based on looking at the website, TalkTalk.co.uk presents itself as a value-driven telecommunications provider in the UK, primarily focusing on broadband services, especially their “Full Fibre” offerings.

The reviews, as highlighted on their site, typically revolve around their aggressive pricing strategies and the speed of their internet packages, often touting “the UK’s most reliable broadband technology.” However, a deeper dive into the typical customer experience often reveals a mixed bag, with some users praising the affordability and performance for everyday use, while others express concerns about customer service and fluctuating speeds during peak times.

This article will dissect the various facets of TalkTalk’s services, from their broadband packages and pricing to their customer support and overall reliability, providing a comprehensive overview for anyone considering their services.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Understanding TalkTalk’s Core Offerings: Broadband and Beyond

But what exactly are you getting when you sign up with them? It’s more than just internet.

They bundle various services to attract and retain customers.

Broadband Packages: Speed, Price, and Technology

TalkTalk’s main draw is its range of broadband packages, with a strong emphasis on Full Fibre technology. This isn’t just marketing hype. Full Fibre, or Fibre-to-the-Premises FTTP, is indeed the gold standard for internet connectivity, delivering speeds directly to your home rather than relying on older copper lines.

• Full Fibre 900: This is their flagship offering, boasting average speeds of 944 Mb/s. They highlight it as “24x faster than standard broadband,” making it ideal for “seamless streaming, or smooth gaming.” The pricing starts at £42.00 a month on a 24-month contract with no setup fees, though it’s crucial to note the price increases to £45.00 from April 2026 and £48.00 in April 2027. This staggered pricing structure is a common tactic, so always check the full terms.
• Other Fibre Options: While the website prominently features Full Fibre 900, TalkTalk typically offers a spectrum of fibre broadband speeds, including Fibre 65 and Fibre 150, catering to different household needs and budgets. These will likely use a mix of FTTC Fibre-to-the-Cabinet and FTTP, depending on regional availability.
• Availability: A critical factor for any broadband provider is availability. TalkTalk stresses “Availability by region” and prompts users to “Check availability” with their address. This is because Full Fibre isn’t universally rolled out across the UK, and older infrastructure might still be in place in some areas.

Added Value: Total Home Wi-Fi and Amazon eero

One significant differentiator for their Full Fibre 900 package is the inclusion of Total Home Wi-Fi at no extra cost. This comes with an additional Amazon eero router.

• Boosting Coverage: The eero system is designed to extend Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home, tackling dead zones. This is a smart move, as even the fastest broadband can feel slow if your Wi-Fi signal doesn’t reach every corner.
• Mesh Network Technology: Amazon eero routers operate on a mesh network principle, where multiple units work together to create a seamless, strong Wi-Fi signal across larger homes. This is a definite plus for busy households with multiple devices.

Pricing Structures and Contractual Commitments: The Fine Print

Understanding the cost structure and contract terms is paramount before committing to any broadband provider.

TalkTalk, like many others, uses promotional pricing, contract lengths, and potential future increases.

Initial Promotional Pricing vs. Long-Term Costs

TalkTalk’s initial pricing for Full Fibre 900 at £42.00 a month is competitive for such high speeds. However, the website explicitly states price increases:

• £45.00 from April 2026
• £48.00 in April 2027
  This means your monthly bill will rise over the 24-month contract period. It’s essential to factor these increases into your budget and compare the average cost over the contract rather than just the introductory price.

Contract Lengths and Exit Fees

The advertised contract length for the Full Fibre 900 package is 24 months. This is a standard term in the industry.

• Commitment: A 24-month contract means you’re committed for two years. Early termination often incurs significant exit fees, which can negate any initial savings. Always check the terms and conditions regarding early exit penalties before signing up.
• No Setup Fees: The “no set up fees” is a welcome perk, as some providers charge an upfront cost for activation or equipment.

Price Hikes and In-Contract Increases

Beyond the advertised increases, many UK broadband providers implement annual price hikes, usually tied to inflation CPI or RPI plus an additional percentage. While not explicitly mentioned for annual increases on the landing page, the future price changes for Full Fibre 900 indicate a pre-planned escalation. Thenashie.com.au Reviews

• Industry Standard: Be aware that most providers reserve the right to increase prices during your contract. It’s vital to read the terms and conditions thoroughly to understand if and how these increases will affect you. Some contracts may allow you to exit without penalty if the price increase is above a certain threshold.

TalkTalk’s Reputation: A Look at Customer Service and Reliability

When people review broadband providers, two things consistently come up: customer service and reliability.

A good deal on paper means little if you can’t get help when things go wrong, or if your internet keeps dropping out.

Customer Service: A Mixed Bag of Experiences

TalkTalk’s customer service has historically been a point of contention for many users.

Online reviews often paint a picture of frustration.

• Common Complaints:
  • Long Wait Times: Customers frequently report extended wait times when trying to reach support via phone or chat.
  • Resolution Issues: Some users find that problems aren’t resolved efficiently, requiring multiple calls or prolonged troubleshooting.
  • Offshore Call Centers: Like many large companies, TalkTalk uses offshore call centers, which can sometimes lead to communication challenges.
• Improvements: It’s worth noting that providers are constantly working to improve their customer service. TalkTalk has invested in digital tools and self-service options, but the overall perception among a segment of customers remains challenging.
• Ofcom Reports: Independent regulatory bodies like Ofcom regularly publish reports on customer complaints. Checking these can provide an objective view of how TalkTalk compares to other providers in terms of service. For example, Ofcom’s 2023 customer service report indicated that TalkTalk received 10 complaints per 100,000 customers for broadband services, higher than the industry average of 7.

Network Reliability and Outages

Reliability is about consistent service and minimal downtime.

TalkTalk highlights “the UK’s most reliable broadband technology” Full Fibre, but this refers to the underlying infrastructure, not necessarily the overall service delivery.

• Full Fibre’s Advantages: Fibre optic cables are inherently more reliable and less susceptible to interference than traditional copper lines, leading to fewer slowdowns and disconnections due to external factors.
• Internal Network Issues: However, reliability also depends on TalkTalk’s internal network management, routing, and equipment. Sporadic reports of localized outages or performance dips during peak hours do surface in user forums.
• Service Level Agreements SLAs: For residential customers, detailed SLAs regarding uptime are rare. It’s generally expected that service will be consistent, but extended outages, while rare, can happen. TalkTalk typically provides an online service status checker to inform customers of known issues.

Equipment Provided: Routers and Total Home Wi-Fi

The hardware you receive can significantly impact your internet experience.

TalkTalk’s inclusion of an Amazon eero router with certain packages is a notable benefit.

The Standard Router

For standard fibre packages e.g., Fibre 65, Fibre 150, TalkTalk provides its own branded router. Musclefood.com Reviews

• Functionality: These routers are generally adequate for basic internet usage, but they may not offer the advanced features or extensive Wi-Fi coverage of higher-end models.
• Ports and Features: Expect standard Ethernet ports for wired connections and basic Wi-Fi capabilities e.g., Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 depending on the model.

The Amazon eero System: A Game Changer for Wi-Fi

The inclusion of an Amazon eero router and potentially an additional unit for Total Home Wi-Fi with the Full Fibre 900 package is a significant advantage.

• Mesh Wi-Fi Benefits:
  • Eliminates Dead Zones: The mesh system creates a unified network that blankets your home, ensuring strong Wi-Fi signals in areas where a single router might struggle.
  • Seamless Roaming: As you move through your home, your devices automatically connect to the strongest eero unit, ensuring an uninterrupted connection.
  • Easy Setup and Management: eero systems are renowned for their user-friendly mobile app, which simplifies setup, network management, and troubleshooting.
  • Security Features: eero also offers advanced security features, including automatic software updates and threat detection, which can provide peace of mind.
• Value Proposition: For users in larger homes or those with many Wi-Fi-dependent devices, the eero system significantly enhances the overall value of the Full Fibre 900 package, effectively saving them from purchasing a separate mesh system which can cost hundreds of pounds.

Installation Process and Switching Providers

Switching broadband providers can seem daunting, but in the UK, the process is generally straightforward thanks to established guidelines. TalkTalk aims to make this as smooth as possible.

The “No Setup Fees” Advantage

TalkTalk emphasizes “no set up fees,” which covers the standard installation of their services.

• Standard Installation: For most fibre connections, this means either a self-installation kit where you plug in a new router, or a visit from an Openreach engineer if new lines need to be activated or an FTTP connection needs to be physically brought into your property.
• New Fibre Lines: If you’re getting Full Fibre and your home isn’t already connected to the FTTP network, an engineer visit will be necessary to install the optical network terminal ONT and connect it to your router. This is usually part of the standard installation process and included in the “no setup fees.”

Switching Process: The Gaining Provider Led GPL Approach

In the UK, switching broadband providers on the Openreach network which TalkTalk uses is primarily handled by the new provider the “gaining provider”.

• Simplicity for the Customer: You sign up with TalkTalk, and they handle the communication with your old provider to cease your old service and activate your new one. This minimizes hassle for the customer.
• Potential Exceptions: If you’re switching from a provider that doesn’t use the Openreach network e.g., Virgin Media, you might need to contact your old provider directly to cancel their service once your TalkTalk service is live.
• Downtime: Typically, there’s minimal to no downtime during the switch, often just a few minutes when the old service is disconnected and the new one goes live. However, it’s wise to plan for a short interruption.

Value for Money: A Critical Analysis

Is TalkTalk truly good value for money? This isn’t just about the headline price.

It’s about the speed, reliability, customer service, and any hidden costs or benefits.

Competitive Pricing Strategy

TalkTalk’s initial pricing for Full Fibre 900 at £42.00/month is highly competitive for gigabit-level speeds in the UK.

• Compared to Rivals: Many competitors charge significantly more for similar speeds, especially when considering the inclusion of the Amazon eero system.
• “Low on Price, Full On Fibre”: This slogan effectively summarizes their market position – aiming for affordability without compromising on the latest fibre technology.

The Long-Term Value Equation

However, the value equation shifts slightly when you factor in the pre-planned price increases over the 24-month contract:

• Year 1-2 approx: £42.00/month
• Year 2-3 approx, from April 2026: £45.00/month
• Year 3-4 approx, from April 2027: £48.00/month

This means the average monthly cost over the initial 24 months will be slightly higher than £42.00, and significantly higher if you remain beyond the first contract without renegotiating. Tradenation.com Reviews

Balancing Cost, Speed, and Service

The true value for money depends on individual priorities:

• For Budget-Conscious Users: If your primary driver is getting the fastest possible broadband at the lowest initial price, TalkTalk’s Full Fibre 900 is a strong contender, especially with the eero included.
• For Demanding Users: If consistent, top-tier customer service and absolute rock-solid reliability without any potential hiccups are your non-negotiables, then you might find higher-priced providers like BT or Sky offer a slightly more premium experience though their prices reflect this.
• Real-World Speed: While 944 Mb/s is the average speed, actual speeds can vary due to internal home Wi-Fi, device limitations, and network congestion. Users often report speeds close to advertised, but it’s important to set realistic expectations.

Alternative Providers and Market Comparison

No review of TalkTalk would be complete without a glance at the broader UK broadband market.

Understanding what other providers offer helps contextualize TalkTalk’s position.

Major Competitors

• BT/EE: Often considered the premium option, offering a wide range of speeds, strong brand recognition, and typically robust customer service, but at a higher price point.
• Sky: Strong in bundled TV and broadband packages, with competitive pricing for fibre options and generally good customer satisfaction.
• Virgin Media: Operates its own independent network, offering often higher speeds than Openreach-based providers in its serviceable areas, but with less widespread availability and potentially higher prices.
• Plusnet: Another Openreach-based provider, often seen as a budget-friendly option with a no-frills approach, known for decent customer service.
• Smaller Fibre Providers e.g., Hyperoptic, Community Fibre: These offer dedicated fibre networks in specific urban areas, often providing extremely fast speeds and competitive pricing, but with very limited geographic reach.

Key Differentiators to Consider

When comparing TalkTalk to others, consider these aspects:

• Network Type: Is it Openreach-based like TalkTalk, BT, Sky, Plusnet or an independent network like Virgin Media, Hyperoptic? This impacts availability and potential maximum speeds.
• Contract Length: Most providers offer 18 or 24-month contracts.
• Price Increases: How transparent are they about in-contract price hikes?
• Bundling Options: Do you need landline, TV, or mobile bundles? TalkTalk primarily focuses on broadband, though landline is usually included.
• Router Quality: Does the included router support mesh Wi-Fi or offer advanced features?
• Customer Service Reputation: Check independent reviews and Ofcom reports.
• Installation Costs & Setup Fees: Are there any hidden upfront costs?

TalkTalk typically competes strongly on price, especially with their Full Fibre offerings.

The inclusion of the Amazon eero is a significant value-add that many competitors don’t match without an additional fee.

However, their historical customer service reputation remains a point of consideration for some users.

Ultimately, the “best” provider is subjective and depends on your specific needs, budget, and geographical location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is TalkTalk.co.uk?

TalkTalk.co.uk is the official website for TalkTalk, a major telecommunications company in the UK that provides broadband, landline, and mobile services to residential and business customers. Walaje.com Reviews

What kind of services does TalkTalk offer?

TalkTalk primarily offers a range of broadband packages including standard fibre and full fibre options, landline phone services, and some TV packages.

Their website prominently features “Full Fibre” broadband.

Is TalkTalk Full Fibre available everywhere in the UK?

No, TalkTalk Full Fibre Fibre-to-the-Premises or FTTP is not yet available everywhere in the UK.

Its availability is dependent on the ongoing national rollout of fibre infrastructure.

You need to check availability using your address on their website.

What are the average speeds offered by TalkTalk’s Full Fibre 900?

TalkTalk’s Full Fibre 900 package advertises average speeds of 944 Mb/s.

This is their fastest offering and is designed for busy households with high demands for streaming, gaming, and multiple connected devices.

Does TalkTalk charge setup fees for new broadband connections?

Based on the website, TalkTalk advertises “no set up fees” for their Full Fibre 900 package.

This typically means no upfront costs for activation or standard installation of the service.

What is Total Home Wi-Fi and is it included with TalkTalk?

Yes, Total Home Wi-Fi is a feature included with TalkTalk’s Full Fibre 900 package at no extra cost. Wstechzone.com Reviews

It provides an additional Amazon eero router to extend Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home, helping to eliminate dead zones.

How long are TalkTalk broadband contracts?

The Full Fibre 900 package specifically mentions a 24-month contract.

Other packages may have different contract lengths, so it’s always best to check the specific terms for the deal you are interested in.

Will my TalkTalk broadband price increase during the contract?

Yes, for the Full Fibre 900 package, the website explicitly states price increases: from £42.00 to £45.00 from April 2026, and then to £48.00 in April 2027, on the 24-month contract.

How does TalkTalk’s customer service compare to other providers?

TalkTalk’s customer service has historically received mixed reviews, with some customers reporting long wait times or issues with resolution.

Independent reports from Ofcom provide data on customer complaints, which can be useful for comparison.

Can I keep my existing phone number if I switch to TalkTalk?

Yes, in most cases, if you’re switching from another Openreach-based provider, TalkTalk can usually port your existing landline phone number over to their service.

What happens if I want to cancel my TalkTalk contract early?

Cancelling a TalkTalk contract early typically incurs early termination charges, which can be significant.

It’s crucial to review the terms and conditions of your specific contract regarding early exit fees. Peruforless.com Reviews

What type of router does TalkTalk provide?

For their Full Fibre 900 package, TalkTalk provides an Amazon eero router, with an additional unit for Total Home Wi-Fi.

For other packages, they typically provide their own branded router.

Is TalkTalk reliable?

TalkTalk utilizes the Openreach Full Fibre network, which is generally considered highly reliable due to its fibre optic technology.

However, overall service reliability can also depend on TalkTalk’s internal network management and customer service response to issues.

How do I check if TalkTalk Full Fibre is available at my address?

You can check availability directly on the TalkTalk.co.uk website by entering your full address into their availability checker.

Does TalkTalk offer any TV packages?

While the main homepage focuses on broadband, TalkTalk does offer TV services, often in partnership with NOW TV, allowing customers to add entertainment, sports, and movie passes to their broadband package.

What is the difference between Full Fibre and standard fibre broadband?

Full Fibre FTTP uses fibre optic cables directly to your home, offering faster and more consistent speeds.

Standard fibre FTTC uses fibre to a street cabinet, then relies on older copper lines to your home, resulting in slower maximum speeds.

Can I upgrade my TalkTalk broadband speed during my contract?

Yes, in many cases, you can upgrade your broadband speed with TalkTalk during your contract.

However, this may involve starting a new contract term and potentially a new monthly price. Leadamax.com Reviews

Does TalkTalk offer discounts for existing customers?

TalkTalk encourages existing customers to “Explore your broadband deals” on their website, suggesting they have specific offers to retain current users, though these may vary.

How long does it take for TalkTalk broadband to be installed?

Installation times can vary.

If your property already has an active fibre connection, it might be a quick self-install.

If an engineer visit is required to install new lines e.g., for FTTP, it could take a few weeks from order placement to activation.

What payment methods does TalkTalk accept?

TalkTalk typically accepts major debit and credit cards for payments, and usually requires customers to set up a direct debit for recurring monthly bills.