Gigaclear is rapidly becoming a prominent name in the UK broadband market, particularly for those residing in rural areas. With numerous internet service providers (ISPs) available, it’s essential to determine if Gigaclear is a suitable option. This comprehensive review delves into Gigaclear’s services, pricing, customer satisfaction, network technology, and environmental impact to help determine if it’s the right fit for a home. For more background on broadband options, check out our broadband guide.
Gigaclear is an independent UK ISP specialising in full-fibre broadband for rural communities. Unlike many providers that rely on Openreach’s network, Gigaclear has built its own dedicated fibre optic network. This strategic decision allows them to bypass the outdated copper wires that often hinder broadband speeds in remote locations. By bringing fibre directly to the premises, Gigaclear empowers residents of rural areas to enjoy the same high-speed internet access readily available in major towns and cities.
Their recognition further strengthens Gigaclear’s focus on rural connectivity as a finalist for the Employer of the Year award. This accolade highlights their dedication to employee satisfaction and development, contributing to a positive customer experience. Moreover, Gigaclear has secured substantial financial backing, exceeding £1.5 billion, providing a solid foundation for future expansion and network improvements. Their partnership with Infracapital, a leading infrastructure investment firm, further reinforces their commitment to growth and innovation in the broadband sector.
It’s also worth noting that Gigaclear was honored with the Choose Broadband Award for Rural Coverage in 2023. This award underscores their dedication to bridging the digital divide and providing high-quality broadband services to underserved communities.
Gigaclear offers a variety of broadband plans tailored to different needs and budgets. All plans come with a minimum contract term of 18 months. Here’s a breakdown of their current offerings:
| Plan | Average Download/Upload Speed (Mbps) | Monthly Price During Contract |
|---|---|---|
| Superfast 200 | 200 | £17 – £19 |
| Ultrafast 300 | 300 | £19 – £20 |
| Ultrafast 400 | 400 | £20 – £25 |
| Hyperfast 900 | 900 | £34 – £49 |
Key Features:
What Gigaclear Doesn’t Offer:
It’s important to be aware that Gigaclear’s primary focus is on providing high-speed internet access. They do not offer TV options or bundle their broadband plans with gift rewards.
Price Increases: While Gigaclear’s pricing is competitive, it’s essential to factor in potential price increases. Gigaclear’s prices may rise by £1.50-£3 per month each April.
Gigaclear’s full fibre network is designed to deliver exceptional speeds and reliability, surpassing the performance of traditional part-fibre or copper connections. Their commitment to connecting homes directly to fibre optic cables ensures that distance from the exchange doesn’t negatively impact speed or reliability. This is particularly beneficial for users in rural areas who often experience slower speeds with other providers due to the limitations of older network infrastructure.
Speed Test Results
Independent research has consistently shown that Gigaclear excels in delivering high speeds and low latency. In a recent study comparing various broadband providers, Gigaclear achieved the following:
Furthermore, Gigaclear’s average broadband speeds have consistently exceeded the UK average over the past few years. For more detailed comparisons, you can view our BT vs Virgin Media comparison.
Reliability
While Gigaclear generally provides a reliable service, some customers have reported occasional outages and inconsistencies. These reports often mention issues with service drops or fluctuations in speed. However, it’s important to consider that these negative experiences are often balanced by positive reviews from customers who praise Gigaclear’s reliability. Many users highlight the consistent speeds and minimal downtime they experience with Gigaclear.
Customer service is a crucial aspect of any broadband provider, and Gigaclear receives a mixed bag of reviews in this area. Some customers commend their helpful and efficient support team, while others express frustration with installation delays and challenges in resolving technical issues.
Customer Service Options:
Gigaclear offers various channels for customer support:
Customer Satisfaction Ratings:
Gigaclear currently holds an “Excellent” rating on Trustpilot, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 based on over 26,700 customer reviews. This suggests a generally high level of customer satisfaction. For more user insights, visit our broadband reviews section.
Gigaclear’s network is built on a foundation of full fibre technology (Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP)), enabling them to deliver ultrafast broadband speeds directly to a home. They employ a variety of network architectures, including physical infrastructure access (PIA) and micro ducts, to ensure their network reaches diverse areas with varying geographical challenges.
Key Network Features:
Network Infrastructure:
Gigaclear’s network infrastructure comprises various components, including street access cabinets, fibre drop cabinets, and fibre pots strategically placed at property boundaries. They utilize a combination of directly buried fibre and micro ducts to connect homes to their network.
Open Access Network:
Gigaclear’s network is designed for open access, meaning that other broadband providers can utilize their infrastructure to offer services to customers. This open access approach has the potential to foster competition and provide consumers with a wider range of choices in Gigaclear’s coverage area.
WiFi Frequencies:
Gigaclear’s routers operate on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi frequencies. Each frequency has its own characteristics:
By utilizing both frequencies, Gigaclear’s routers aim to provide a balance of speed and coverage for an optimal WiFi experience.
Gigaclear offers a “Smart WiFi” service that utilizes mesh technology to enhance WiFi coverage and performance. This service is designed to address common WiFi issues, such as dead zones and weak signals.
How Smart WiFi Works:
Smart WiFi involves using multiple WiFi nodes strategically placed around a home. These nodes work together to create a mesh network, ensuring a strong and consistent WiFi signal in every room. The system intelligently directs devices to the optimal node, providing the best possible connection.
Smart WiFi Guarantee:
Gigaclear offers a Smart WiFi guarantee, ensuring a minimum WiFi speed of 10Mbps in every room. This guarantee provides peace of mind, especially for users with large homes or those who experience WiFi dead zones with traditional routers.
Gigaclear demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. They have implemented various practices to minimize their environmental impact and contribute to a greener future.
Ethics Policy Statement:
Gigaclear’s Ethics Policy Statement outlines their commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. This statement guides their efforts to create social value, promote a healthy working environment, and conduct business in a responsible and ethical manner.
Environmental Ratings:
Gigaclear has received recognition for its environmental efforts. The Good Shopping Guide has awarded them an “acceptable” ethical score in their Ethical Broadband Providers Ratings Table. They are also recognized as a top-rated ethical brand by The Good Shopping Guide.
Gigaclear’s network is constantly expanding, but it’s essential to check if their services are available in a specific location. Here are a few ways to determine Gigaclear’s availability:
Gigaclear’s primary focus is on providing broadband to rural communities in the UK. Their network currently covers a significant portion of southern and central England, with a strong presence in counties such as Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Essex, and Berkshire. They are actively expanding their network to reach more rural areas, including parts of Somerset, Devon, and Kent.
Expansion into Yorkshire:
In recent news, Gigaclear has announced its expansion into Yorkshire, bringing their full fibre network to underserved communities in this region. For updates on regional expansions, see our York broadband deals page.
Gigaclear presents a compelling case for those seeking a reliable and high-speed broadband provider, especially for those in a rural area with limited full fibre options. Their competitive pricing, symmetrical speeds, and focus on customer satisfaction make them a strong contender in the UK broadband market. However, it’s crucial to weigh the potential drawbacks, such as possible installation delays and mixed customer service experiences.
Pros:
Cons:
Key Factors to Consider:
When evaluating whether Gigaclear is the right choice, consider the following factors:
Future Developments:
Gigaclear’s ongoing network expansion and commitment to innovation suggest a promising future for the company. As they continue to grow and invest in their infrastructure, expect to see wider coverage, improved services, and potentially even faster speeds in the years to come.
In conclusion, Gigaclear offers a compelling proposition for those seeking high-quality broadband in rural areas. By carefully weighing the pros and cons and considering individual needs, an informed decision can be made about whether Gigaclear is the right broadband provider.
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