Your guide to Virgin Media broadband packages
Dan Howdle
In 2026, Virgin Media O2 remains one of the UK's most powerful broadband providers. With its ongoing transition to Full Fibre (XGS-PON) via the nexfibre network, it now offers multi-gigabit speeds to over 5 million homes. For most customers, the service is defined by high-performance hardware and a new, more transparent pricing model.
You've no doubt already checked to see whether you can get it using our Virgin Media postcode checker. If you are ready to switch, our 2026 guide covers everything from the latest Wi-Fi 6 routers to the new fixed price rise policy that replaced inflation-linked hikes.
Key features
Quick Verdict: Virgin Media distinguishes itself with Gig2 speeds (2,000Mbps) via XGS-PON technology and the Wi-Fi 6 Hub 5 router. Unlike Openreach providers, it operates its own HFC and FTTP network, allowing for unique add-ons like symmetrical upload speeds.
- Wide range of packages – Options range from M125 (132Mbps) to the ultrafast Gig2 (2,000Mbps) service
- Hub 5 (Wi-Fi 6) Standard – Virgin Media now provides the Hub 5 as standard for most new customers, offering significantly better range and performance than older Hub 3/4 models
- Symmetrical Upload Add-on – Customers on the nexfibre network can now pay a £6/month add-on for symmetrical upload speeds (e.g., 2Gbps up and down)
- Fixed Annual Price Rises – Most new contracts now include a transparent fixed price rise of £4.00 per month every April, rather than complex inflation percentages
- Volt bundles with O2 SIMs – Combining broadband with an O2 SIM doubles your mobile data and boosts your broadband speed to the next tier
- Essential Broadband – Social tariffs starting at £12.50/month are available for households on Universal Credit and other benefits
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Broadband speeds and pricing
Virgin Media's speed headline is the 2Gbps 'Gig2' service, delivered via XGS-PON technology to approximately 5 million homes. While Gig2 represents the peak of performance, most UK households find the sweet spot with M125 or M250. These packages offer 132Mbps and 264Mbps respectively, which is more than enough for simultaneous 4K streaming and high-intensity gaming.
As of 2026, the hardware experience has been significantly upgraded. Most new customers receive the Hub 5, which supports Wi-Fi 6 for lower latency and better stability when multiple devices are connected. If you are in a Gig2 area, you will receive the Hub 5x, designed specifically for high-capacity Full Fibre connections.
Pricing in 2026 is governed by a flat-rate increase policy. While headline prices remain competitive, be aware that your monthly bill will increase by £4.00 every April. Social tariff users on the "Essential" packages remain exempt from these increases.
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Expert Verdict
"In 2026, the big story is the Hub 5 and nexfibre. By moving most users away from the older Hub 3, Virgin Media has fixed many of the Wi-Fi stability complaints of the past. If you're lucky enough to be in a nexfibre area, the option for symmetrical speeds makes Virgin a true rival to the specialised Full Fibre 'AltNets'."
Dan Howdle, Broadband and mobile expert
What real users say
Sentiment Summary: Users generally praise the raw speed of the Gig1 and Gig2 packages, noting it is significantly faster than standard Openreach fibre. The new Hub 5 is widely cited as a major improvement over the Hub 3. However, a common point of frustration remains the April price increase policy, which applies mid-contract.
Choosing the right package
Whether you're looking for broadband only or a full home entertainment bundle, use this guide to match your needs:
- Best for Solo Renters: M125 Broadband Only – No phone line required, cheapest effective monthly cost.
- Best for Large Families: M500 or Gig1 – Supports 15+ devices simultaneously without lag.
- Best for Mobile Users: Volt Bundles – Includes O2 SIM, double mobile data, and the WiFi Max guarantee.
- Best for Low Income: Essential Broadband – Social tariff starting at £12.50/month with no exit fees.
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