4th Utility Broadband Deals

4th Utility broadband comes with flexible contracts. Where most large ISPs try to tie customers into long agreements with annual price rises built in, 4th Utility gives you a choice of contract lengths:

• 30-day rolling – the most flexible option, ideal for renters, students or anyone unsure how long they will stay in a property. You can cancel with 30 days’ notice.
• 12-month contract – a middle ground that usually comes in cheaper than the rolling plan but avoids the long lock-in of two years.
• 24-month contract – the lowest monthly cost on paper, but with a longer commitment.

All packages include:

• Unlimited usage with no monthly data caps
• No standard setup fee
• No line rental

Compared with large ISPs such as Virgin Media, BT or Vodafone, the pricing is straightforward. There are no artificial “first-year discounts” followed by sharp increases, aside from the March adjustment on fixed terms.

In terms of pricing, entry-level fibre packages usually start in the mid-£20s per month. Higher-tier plans such as the 900 Mb or 1 Gb package sit in the £50–£60 range depending on postcode and whether you are served by 4th Utility’s own build or by CityFibre.

4th Utility applies an annual £3 increase each March on 12- and 24-month deals.

When the initial term ends, monthly costs rise by no more than £4 above the original price.

Social tariff

4th Utility offer a dedicated low-cost broadband plan for households on a tighter budget. This social tariff package is available to customers who receive certain state benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Income Support.

The plan is priced lower than standard full fibre deals but still runs on the same fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) network. That means customers on the social tariff don’t have to compromise on reliability or stability compared with mainstream plans. Download speeds are capped at a more modest level, usually around 40Mb to 50Mb, which is still fast enough for essential online activities like streaming in HD, schoolwork, and video calling.

Contracts are deliberately simple: the social tariff is offered on a rolling monthly basis with no early exit fees.

4th Utility Router review

4th Utility supplies the Icotera i4850-25 router with their full fibre plans. It’s a WiFi 6 capable device designed for high-capacity FTTP networks.

Icotera i4850-25 specs

• WiFi standard: 802.11ax (WiFi 6), dual band 2.4GHz and 5GHz
• Ethernet ports: 4 × Gigabit LAN, 1 × 2.5Gb WAN/LAN
• Antennae: 4 × internal for beamforming and MU-MIMO
• Processor & memory: Quad-core CPU, 512MB RAM (for concurrent traffic)
• Throughput: Optimised for symmetrical gigabit speeds
• Security: WPA3 support, firewall and parental controls via web interface

The inclusion of a 2.5Gb Ethernet port means households on faster gigabit plans can achieve wired speeds above 1Gb, something not all ISP routers offer.

Pros and Cons

The Icotera i4850-25 is a modern and reliable router. In everyday use it provides stable gigabit throughput, strong wireless coverage, and low latency over wired connections. It compares favourably with routers from BT and Sky at similar speed tiers.

However, there are limits to be aware of:

• No mesh system – unlike Virgin Media’s Hub 5 with WiFi Pods or BT’s Complete WiFi, 4th Utility do not supply a mesh solution. Coverage in larger properties may require your own add-on extenders.
• No guest WiFi option – many ISP routers allow you to create a separate network for visitors; the Icotera interface does not currently support this feature.
• Interface is basic – the web panel allows simple configuration but lacks advanced customisation compared with third-party hardware.

Supports using your own router

The router can be placed into bridge mode, allowing you to bypass its routing functions and connect your own high-end router or mesh kit. This is useful for households that want more advanced controls, wider WiFi coverage, or additional features such as VPN support.

Popular mesh systems like Eero Pro 6, TP-Link Deco, or Netgear Orbi will work seamlessly when connected this way. The bridge option ensures customers aren’t locked into using the supplied device, which is a positive for those looking to integrate their broadband into an existing smart home or pro-network setup.

Installation and setup

With 4th Utility, installation is simple and cost-free. Where the building is already connected to Openreach or CityFibre, installation is straightforward, usually completed within 7 to 14 days of ordering.

Unlike providers such as Virgin Media or Sky, 4th Utility do not currently offer a self-install option. An engineer visit is required to install the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) inside the property. This is the small white box that connects the incoming fibre line to the Icotera router. The router is then plugged into the ONT via Ethernet, and WiFi is ready to use immediately.

In multi-dwelling units such as flats, fibre is normally routed from a shared riser or basement cabinet up to each apartment. 4th Utility have partnerships with housing associations and property managers, so access is usually arranged in advance.

Customer service and complaints

4th Utility is a smaller broadband provider, so official Ofcom reports on complaint levels and satisfaction scores are not yet available. Instead, the best insights come from Trustpilot ratings and customer reviews on Reddit and other forums.

Trustpilot and reviews

4th Utility currently holds an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 on Trustpilot, based on several hundred reviews. Around three quarters of customers rate them “Excellent” or “Great”, highlighting:

• Professional installation engineers
• Speeds delivered as promised
• Clear communication during sign-up

Negative reviews tend to focus on billing queries and service interruptions. Some customers report difficulty in reaching support quickly, especially outside standard business hours. Unlike larger ISPs such as BT or Virgin Media, there is no 24/7 helpline.

Complaints handling

4th Utility follow Ofcom’s complaint handling code, so unresolved complaints can be escalated to an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) scheme. Customers can take their issue to Ombudsman Services if they cannot reach a solution directly with 4th Utility.

Reported issues in online discussions and “4th Utility complaints” searches include:

• Delays in installation appointments
• Router replacements taking longer than expected
• Limited weekend support availability

However, response rates are improving. Trustpilot data shows over 90% of complaints receive a provider reply, with most answered within a few days.

Support is available through UK-based phone lines, WhatsApp chat, and a web live chat tool. There’s no mobile app for self-management, but you can log into your account through their web portal to manage billing and updates.

You can get in touch with them through:

• Sales: 0800 066 2833
• Support: 0333 888 4050
• WhatsApp and live chat via their website

Is 4th Utility any good?

4th Utility is a smaller broadband provider, but its packages stand up well against the bigger names. Full fibre lines deliver consistent speeds, contracts are fair with predictable annual rises, and installation is free in most cases. While it lacks extras like bundled TV or symmetrical uploads, it offers a reliable mid-market alternative for households that want straightforward gigabit broadband without the price hikes seen elsewhere.

Pros

• Full fibre (FTTP) speeds up to 1Gbps, available on Openreach and CityFibre networks
• Fair contract terms – annual rises limited to £2, out-of-contract rises capped at £4
• Free installation and free WiFi 6 router included
• Option of 30-day rolling contracts as well as longer terms
• Competitive pricing, often cheaper than BT and Sky at like-for-like speeds
• Trustpilot rating above 4.0 with most reviews citing reliable performance
• Bridge mode support for customers wanting to use their own router or mesh kit

Cons

• Smaller support operation – no 24/7 helpline or live chat
• Limited availability outside buildings and developments partnered with Openreach or CityFibre
• No bundled extras such as pay TV or inclusive mobile benefits
• Complaints handling slower than BT, Sky or Virgin Media when faults occur

Overall

4th Utility is best for households who want reliable, ultra-fast broadband at a fair price. It’s not the cheapest in the UK, nor the most feature-packed, but it avoids the steep out-of-contract penalties and complex mid-contract price rises that frustrate customers of bigger ISPs.

If you live in a property where 4th Utility is offered – especially new builds or CityFibre areas – it’s a perfect choice worth shortlisting alongside Vodafone, TalkTalk, Plusnet, and Virgin Media Gig1.

Alternatives to 4th Utility

As 4th Utility operates mainly on Openreach and CityFibre networks, customers often have several other providers to compare in the same postcode. The main alternatives include:

BT

BT Full Fibre is the most widely available alternative to 4th Utility, with plans ranging from 36Mb to 900Mb. Availability covers millions of homes nationwide, which makes BT a more widely available choice in areas where smaller providers don’t operate.

BT pricing is generally higher than 4th Utility at gigabit level, though BT add more extras to justify the cost. Customers get the Smart Hub 2 router as standard, and can add the Complete Wi-Fi guarantee, which uses mesh discs to ensure whole-home coverage. BT also offer strong UK-based customer service, including technical help through the EE brand.

Another important difference is that BT provides the Home Essentials social tariff, with 36Mb or 67Mb plans at discounted rates for low-income households. This is something 4th Utility doesn’t currently match directly, though they do run their own 30Mb discounted social plan.

Sky

Sky Full Fibre packages broadly mirror BT’s speed tiers, with options from entry-level superfast to Gigafast 900Mb at the top. Pricing is usually a little lower than BT, though still above what 4th Utility charge in most areas. Like BT, Sky products come with 24 months contract and include annual price rises.

The main advantage Sky brings is the ability to bundle broadband with Sky TV, which remains one of the most comprehensive pay-TV platforms in the UK. Customers can take Sky Glass or Sky Stream on flexible terms, combining broadband, live channels, on-demand streaming, and premium packs such as Sky Sports or Sky Cinema. By contrast, 4th Utility offers broadband-only plans.

For households that want broadband and TV under one bill, Sky is the better choice. But for customers who only need fibre internet and prefer shorter contracts or simpler pricing, 4th Utility may be the right option.

Virgin Media

Virgin Media has its own hybrid fibre-coax and full fibre network, separate from Openreach. Their packages range from M125 up to Gig2, with average download speeds starting at 132Mb and reaching 2000Mb in selected areas. Coverage is excellent across towns and cities, making Virgin the widest non-Openreach option in the UK.

For customers comparing top-end tiers, Virgin’s Gig1 plan at 1.13Gbps is one of the best alternatives to 4th Utility’s 1Gbps service. However, Virgin’s pricing is typically higher at gigabit level, especially after the initial contract term. Upload speeds are also asymmetrical, reaching the maximum 104Mb, unlike the symmetrical uploads offered by some altnets.

Virgin offers Volt benefits for households that also take O2 mobile. This includes double mobile data, roaming perks, and bill credits when broadband and mobile are combined. These extras are unique to Virgin and O2, and not something 4th Utility offers.

For customers focused purely on reliable broadband and simpler contracts, 4th Utility is a great option. But for those who want bundled perks, premium TV, and mobile bundles, Virgin is an ideal choice.

4th Utility vs Vodafone

Vodafone offers both FTTC and FTTP connections, depending on location. Its FTTP services are delivered via Openreach or CityFibre, so it doesn’t own the last-mile infrastructure — unlike 4th Utility, which operates its own private fibre network in supported buildings.

Speed & Performance: Vodafone's full fibre plans top out at 910Mbps downstream, but not all packages offer symmetrical speeds. Uploads are usually lower, especially on Openreach-based lines. In contrast, 4th Utility’s FTTP is symmetrical by default — which benefits users handling large uploads, cloud storage, or video conferencing.

Pricing: Vodafone is often cheaper on paper, thanks to aggressive promotions, but contracts are usually 24 months and subject to annual price hikes. 4th Utility avoids in-contract price increases entirely and offers rolling deals, making it more predictable.

Hardware: Vodafone includes the Ultra Hub 7 on its Pro 3 plan, the most advanced router with built-in mesh. 4th Utility supplies the Icotera i4850-25, solid but more basic unless paired with mesh hardware.

Who wins: Vodafone offers wider availability and better bundling options, but 4th Utility wins on symmetrical speeds, contract flexibility, and pricing stability.

4th Utility vs TalkTalk

TalkTalk is a budget provider operating across FTTC and FTTP footprints, reselling Openreach and CityFibre services. It doesn’t own fibre infrastructure, unlike 4th Utility, which builds and manages its own network in select locations.

Speed & Reliability: TalkTalk offers FTTP up to 944Mbps, but uploads are usually asymmetric unless you're on the CityFibre platform. 4th Utility’s symmetrical setup means faster uploads by default. That’s a better fit for shared households, file-sharing, and remote work.

Contract Terms: TalkTalk’s plans are mostly locked to 24-month terms with scheduled price increases. 4th Utility’s 30-day rolling and 12-month plans provide more flexibility, especially for renters or short-term residents.

Customer Service: TalkTalk’s support reputation is mixed, with many users reporting delays and offshore call centres. 4th Utility keeps support UK-based, with quick response via phone, chat, and WhatsApp.

Verdict: If you're after the cheapest price and can commit long-term, TalkTalk works. If you want full fibre with better support and shorter terms, 4th Utility is a more stable choice — especially for upload-heavy users.

4th Utility vs Hyperoptic

Hyperoptic and 4th Utility have a similar business model: own-network, FTTP-only delivery focused on apartments and new builds. Both bypass Openreach and deploy fibre directly to supported buildings.

Speeds: Hyperoptic offers symmetrical plans from 50Mbps to 1Gbps. 4th Utility also tops out at 900Mbps with symmetrical throughput. In real-world terms, both deliver reliable performance with low latency and no peak-time slowdown.

Flexibility: Both providers offer 30-day rolling options, 12-month and 24-month contracts, with no setup fees. Hyperoptic sometimes includes discounts with longer-term deals. 4th Utility keeps pricing simple and stable with no in-contract rises.

Coverage: Hyperoptic has broader reach, covering more than 1.2 million premises. 4th Utility’s network is smaller but expanding in new-build zones.

Router & Features: Hyperoptic supplies a decent router but allows for bridge mode easily. 4th Utility includes the Icotera, which is functional but less advanced. Tech-savvy users may prefer to use their own hardware with either.

Verdict: It’s a close match. Hyperoptic wins on availability and feature maturity. 4th Utility matches on speed and flexibility, and often delivers better pricing stability mid-contract.

4th Utility vs Community Fibre

Community Fibre is a London-focused full fibre provider that, like 4th Utility, builds and operates its own fibre network. Both offer symmetrical gigabit speeds, but their coverage zones and service depth differ.

Speed & Throughput: Community Fibre offers plans up to 3Gbps in certain areas. 4th Utility maxes out at 900Mbps. Both use GPON or XGS-PON depending on location, with symmetrical speeds as standard.

Pricing: Community Fibre is aggressive on pricing, often undercutting other ISPs with offers starting as low as £20/month for 150Mbps. 4th Utility starts around £24.99 — still competitive, but not at Community Fibre’s volume-discount level.

Extras: Community Fibre throws in mesh Wi-Fi pods and even fixed-IP options for home users. 4th Utility keeps it lean — standard router, no extras unless the user provides their own.

Availability: Community Fibre is only available in London. 4th Utility operates in multiple UK cities, but its footprint is smaller and mostly tied to pre-installed MDU agreements.

Conclusion: If you're in London, Community Fibre probably offers better raw value and faster plans. Outside London, 4th Utility fills the same role in supported buildings with strong FTTP performance and fewer gimmicks.

When to consider an alternative

• Households needing symmetrical upload speeds may prefer Community Fibre or Hyperoptic where available.
• Families wanting bundled TV or mobile should look to Sky, BT, or Virgin Media.
• Those prioritising lowest monthly cost might choose TalkTalk or Vodafone during promotions.
• Customers valuing long-term reliability and satisfaction ratings may lean toward BT or Plusnet.

In summary, 4th Utility fits in the mid-range: more predictable pricing and fair contract terms, but without the bundles or extras of the biggest ISPs.

FAQ

1. What is 4th Utility broadband?
It’s a UK-based full fibre provider offering speeds up to 1Gbps on Openreach and CityFibre networks.

2. Is 4th Utility broadband full fibre?
Yes. All connections are FTTP, with fibre running directly to the home.

3. What speeds can I get with 4th Utility?
Packages range from 150Mb to 1Gb. Uploads reach around 100–115Mb, but are not symmetrical.

4. Who is 4th Utility best for?
Renters, new-build residents, and households wanting fast, simple broadband without extras like TV or mobile.

5. Does 4th Utility increase prices mid-contract?
Yes. Standard contracts see a £3-per-month March rise; rolling 30-day pricing is reviewed more frequently.

6. What router does 4th Utility provide?
They supply the Icotera i4850-25 WiFi 6 router free of charge, with bridge mode support for using your own mesh system.

7. Does 4th Utility have a social tariff?
Yes. Eligible customers can take a 30Mb package for £14.40 per month on a rolling contract.

8. Is there a contract-free option?
Yes. Customers can choose a 30-day rolling plan, as well as 12-month or 24-month terms.

9. How is customer service rated?
Support is UK-based and accessible by phone, WhatsApp, and live chat. Trustpilot scores average around 4.1/5.

10. Are there complaints about 4th Utility?
Yes, some reviews mention slower resolution for faults compared to bigger providers, but most feedback is positive on reliability.

11. How long does installation take?
Most installs are completed within 7–10 working days. If fibre is already installed, it can be self-setup.

12. Who are the main alternatives to 4th Utility?
Hyperoptic, Community Fibre, Virgin Media, TalkTalk, and Vodafone are common alternatives, depending on your location.