Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is the most basic type of broadband connection in the UK. This currently uses a standard copper phone line and offers average download speeds of around 10Mb. However, as part of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch-off, by the end of January 2027, these copper lines are due to be switched off. This means we'll be waving goodbye to ADSL broadband products.
You can read more about this in our PSTN Switch Off guide.
Currently, you may find you can only sign up to an ADSL broadband package if you don't have access to fibre broadband. However, 98% of the UK now has access to superfast fibre broadband with speeds of at least 30Mb.
ADSL Broadband: the key points
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How does ADSL internet work?
ADSL works by sending data and voice along the same copper wires, with a filter at the end to split the signals. Remember the old days of dial-up when you had to unplug the internet to make a call? You don’t have to do this with ADSL.
Most ADSL broadband now uses ADSL2+ technology, with average download speeds of around 10Mb.
ADSL2 and ADSL2+ are enhancements to the original ADSL standard, each offering higher rates for users situated closer to telephone exchanges. That’s right, with ADSL speed decreases the further you are from an exchange.
Unfortunately, there are a handful of areas currently unable to receive ADSL2 and ADSL2+. In those locations, speeds are limited to a maximum 8Mb and the internet connection is usually a lot slower in practice.
Improvements to the choice of packages, speeds and prices have been enabled thanks to LLU or ‘Local Loop Unbundling’. This is a regulatory process set up by Ofcom, that allows other ISPs to provide services on the BT Openreach network and that’s what's offered by providers such as Sky, TalkTalk and Plusnet.
Why should I choose ADSL broadband? The pros and cons
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Nowadays, it's likely you'll be able to find much more affordable, basic fibre broadband deals, and we recommend these following packages:
Who offers ADSL broadband?
In the run-up to the PSTN Switch-Off, fewer providers are offering ADSL broadband as an option.
You may find you can only sign up to ADSL broadband now if you don't have access to a fibre network. However, this will only be around 2% of properties in the UK.
Which providers still offer standard ADSL broadband internet?
BT - 'BT Broadband'
Unlimited broadband packages start at around £30 on a 24-month contract. BT deals include a free BT Home Hub and free access to the BT Wi-Fi public hotspot network. You’ll get an average download speed of 10Mb and BT broadband is frequently available with free rewards.
TalkTalk - 'Fast Broadband'
Cheap ADSL broadband deals, starting from £29.95 per month, include a free router. You’ll get an 11Mb average download speed and a 1Mb average upload speed. TalkTalk offers unlimited downloads and online security features.
Is ADSL fast enough?
While the speeds are limited in comparison to high-speed fibre broadband, it should be enough for most individuals or small households.
ADSL packages can cheap, but be aware, as providers phase out ADSL broadband, you may find there are cheaper deals to be had with a basic fibre connection. It can sometimes be a false economy.
To find out the most affordable deals at your address, use the Broadband Genie broadband checker tool, or enter your address below to see what's on offer for you:
Frequently asked questions about ADSL broadband
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Is ADSL faster than fibre broadband?
No, quite the opposite. ADSL is the slowest broadband technology and will give you download speeds of around 11Mb. In contract, superfast fibre broadband delivers download speeds of 30Mb+. Meanwhile, an ultrafast fibre deal refers to speeds of 300Mb+.
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What’s the average price for ADSL broadband?
The cost of ADSL broadband has actually increased in recent years. You can now pick up an ADSL deal for around £30 depending on your provider. However, you may find, as ADSL broadband products will no longer be available from January 2027, and providers work to phase these out, a basic fibre package will work out cheaper.
Expert Summary
When it comes to trying to save money, ADSL might sound like the right route to go down. But unless you’re after the very cheapest broadband, or it’s all you can get, we’ll always recommend fibre instead.
Full fibre is limited, but it’s much faster than ADSL and the prices don’t tend to be too bad either. You can often get a cheaper superfast fibre deal. Especially as providers, such as Sky Broadband phase ADSL deals out in time for the copper telephone network switch-off (due by January 2027).
ADSL broadband is a little dated now, but it’s certainly still useable if you still have it. Provided you’re not going to be downloading plenty of big files or gaming online, it should still work well.
However, it's likely you will soon be approached by your provider to move to a basic fibre broadband package. Before this happens, we recommend looking around at your options. If you're out of contract, you don't have to stick with your same provider. These cheap broadband deals are a good alternative.
For more helpful tips, you can read our guide: 'how to switch broadband and get an amazing deal'.
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