The latest Ofcom report shows that from April to June this year, NOW Broadband had the most unhappy customers, with 18 complaints per 100,000 users. Many were upset about how their issues were handled, with poor complaint resolution making up 38% of the grievances. Although this was an improvement from the previous quarter, NOW still lagged far behind its competitors in customer satisfaction.
Sky performed far better, with only 5 complaints per 100,000 customers. Virgin Media and EE were not far behind NOW in terms of dissatisfaction, with users frequently pointing to slow service installations, unresolved technical problems, and unclear billing as their main frustrations.
The overall number of broadband complaints dipped slightly, but there remains a stark difference in customer experiences between the best and worst-performing providers.
How Did Landline Providers Fare?
EE had the most complaints in the landline category, with 15 per 100,000 customers unhappy with their service. Many cited ongoing faults, problems with initial setups, and interruptions to service. These complaints increased compared to the previous quarter, indicating worsening experiences for some users.
Utility Warehouse had no complaints at all, maintaining a spotless record. Sky and Vodafone also stood out with just two and three complaints per 100,000 users respectively, reflecting a more stable service.
The gap between providers is clear, with some excelling in meeting expectations while others continue to face mounting criticism.
Which Mobile Providers Struggled The Most?
O2 received the most complaints, with 8 complaints per 100,000 customers. The biggest problem customers had was with poor follow-up on reported issues and this in turn frustrated them and left them feeling ignored.
Tesco Mobile performed best, with only 1 complaint per 100,000 users. EE and Vodafone also recorded low levels of dissatisfaction, indicating they managed to keep their customers relatively happy.
Overall, complaints about mobile providers dropped slightly, suggesting a gradual improvement in the experiences customers are having with their services.
What Can Be Learned From These Complaints?
Poor handling of customer complaints was a common issue. NOW Broadband, O2, and Virgin Media consistently fell short, with unresolved concerns driving up their complaint numbers.
Meanwhile, companies like Sky, Tesco Mobile, and Utility Warehouse had far fewer complaints, showing that some providers manage to get things right. Though there has been a slight drop in overall complaint numbers, these figures highlight how varied the experiences of customers can be depending on their choice of provider.
Top Starlink Alternatives
These different providers might make one reconsider which services to use. Starlink has been successful across the board, and there are similar providers who have uninterrupted internet connectivity that might be options. These alternatives are just as good, if not almost as good, as Starlink and perhaps better than the providers that are receiving endless complaints:
1. bOnline
bOnline brings affordable, high-speed internet to UK small businesses with an easy setup process. They take care of the transition when switching providers so its simple for companies to get online quickly and reliably.
With download speeds reaching up to 76 Mbps, their fibre broadband is perfect for video calls, file transfers, and cloud-based applications. Businesses receive a router that’s pre-configured and ready to use upon arrival. Competitive pricing is a priority, and their price match guarantee ensures clients always get value for money.
Trusted by over 50,000 businesses, bOnline is a reliable choice for those needing dependable internet services. Their team actively monitors customer accounts, helping businesses stay connected while keeping costs low.
2. HughesNet
HughesNet connects rural communities with satellite internet, offering speeds up to 100 Mbps. Designed for regions where other options are unavailable, it enables activities like streaming, remote work, and online education.
Their unlimited data plans prevent unexpected charges, while Fusion® technology reduces delays, improving online experiences like gaming and video calls. Whole Home Wi-Fi ensures coverage throughout the house, with additional mesh nodes available to eliminate dead zones.
3. Integra
Integra is solving the connectivity issues of areas without fibre. Their service uses multiple networks to deliver fast speeds, reaching up to 500 Mbps. With near-total UK coverage, it’s a practical choice for businesses and homes in rural locations.
The installation process is quick, with no hidden fees or extended waiting periods. Integra’s technology maintains consistent service, even during high demand or tough conditions.
Designed to meet the needs of remote workers and businesses, Integra provides a dependable connection for large uploads, video streaming, and daily tasks in places where traditional internet options fall short.
4. Konnect
Konnect helps communities without access to traditional broadband. With download speeds of up to 100 Mbps, their satellite internet connects homes and businesses across Europe and the Mediterranean.
The service is accessible within weeks, avoiding the delays of fibre installation. Konnect has packages for both everyday users and businesses needing higher capacities, making it suitable for a different needs.
5. Brdy
Brdy gives its users satellite internet with download speeds up to 150 Mbps, perfect for homes and businesses in remote locations. Their services are for those who can’t access traditional broadband, with fast and stable connections.
The setup process is simple, with no long-term obligations needed thanks to flexible 30-day contracts. Customers can connect multiple devices, stream videos, and complete daily tasks without interruptions.
With over a decade of experience, Brdy has connected thousands of users in 20 countries, making reliable internet a reality for those beyond the reach of fibre networks.
6. Rural Internet
Rural Internet has spent over 20 years bringing broadband services to areas where connectivity is often unreliable. With a deep understanding of rural infrastructure, the company is a pro at creating high-speed fibre connections and dependable telephony services for homes and businesses. Their experience means they can recommend the most reliable options suited to any location, no matter how isolated.
The company prioritises its customers, designing its services to meet the practical needs of individuals and enterprises alike. They bring fast home broadband as well as fully managed business networks, to name a few services.
7. Airband
Airband brings high-speed internet access for rural parts of the UK, where traditional networks are often unavailable or underperforming. The company connects isolated homes and businesses with speeds of up to 900Mbps through fibre and wireless technology for reliable internet to be accessible even in these rural areas.
Airband wants to improve connectivity in local communities through carefully designed infrastructure projects. Their services extend across counties such as Devon, Wales, and Gloucestershire, ensuring even remote locations benefit from consistent, high-quality broadband.
They have affordable packages and they play a big part in trying to lessen the digital divide, for rural residents to enjoy faster, more reliable online experiences.
