Onestream Broadband Review 2025

This comprehensive review examines everything from Onestream’s package options and pricing structure to customer service experiences and the often-overlooked hidden costs that can inflate your monthly bill. We’ve analysed over 31,000 customer reviews, compared their offerings against major competitors, and investigated the recurring complaints about add-on charges and cancellation difficulties.

The bottom line upfront: Onestream delivers genuinely affordable broadband with unlimited data and competitive speeds, but the budget pricing comes with compromises. Router rental fees aren’t included in headline prices, customer service receives mixed reviews, and several add-on services get automatically added during checkout.

If you’re comfortable managing your own equipment and don’t mind keeping a close eye on your billing, Onestream could save you £100-200 annually. However, if you value responsive support and straightforward contracts, paying slightly more for BT or Plusnet might prevent future headaches.

What is Onestream Broadband?

Onestream launched in summer 2018 with a straightforward proposition: offer no-frills internet access at prices that undercut household names. The company is currently controlled by Bios Group Limited (part of the Ridown Group), having previously been associated with business telecoms specialist Onecom until 2019.

The provider uses the Openreach network—the same infrastructure powering BT, Sky, TalkTalk, and most other UK providers except Virgin Media. This means Onestream reaches approximately 98% of UK homes, and with Openreach’s continued rollout, full fibre now passes over 60% of properties nationwide with availability growing monthly.

Unlike Sky or Virgin Media, Onestream doesn’t bundle TV services or throw in subscription perks. There’s no streaming platform access, no sports channels, and no reward cards. The focus remains firmly on broadband, with optional phone line services available for those who need them.

This stripped-back approach allows Onestream to offer competitive monthly rates, but as we’ll explore, the headline prices don’t tell the complete story.

Packages, Speeds, and What You Actually Get

Onestream offers seven broadband packages split between two technologies: FTTC (fibre to the cabinet) and FTTP (fibre to the premises).

Standard Fibre Options

For areas without full fibre infrastructure, Onestream’s two FTTC packages deliver practical everyday speeds. Fibre 40 offers 38 Mbps average downloads with 9 Mbps upload—suitable for single-person households or couples who browse, stream in HD, and handle occasional video calls. The Fibre 80 package bumps average downloads to 67 Mbps with approximately 18 Mbps upload capability, making it more appropriate for families with three or four users who stream simultaneously.

These packages use fibre-optic cables to the street cabinet, then rely on existing copper phone lines for the final connection to your home. This explains the slower speeds and occasional stability fluctuations during peak evening hours (8pm-10pm).

Full Fibre Packages

Where available, Onestream’s five FTTP packages eliminate copper wiring entirely. Supreme Full Fibre 80 starts at around 74 Mbps average downloads with 18 Mbps upload. The middle option, Supreme Full Fibre 115, reaches approximately 100 Mbps download with 18 Mbps upload.

Plan	Avg Speed (D/U)	Minimum Guaranteed Speed
Supreme Full Fibre 115	101 Mbps / 18 Mbps	50 Mbps
Supreme Full Fibre 220	194 Mbps / 26 Mbps	97 Mbps
Supreme Full Fibre 550	484 Mbps / 66 Mbps	242 Mbps
Hyperstream Full Fibre 1000	871 Mbps / 101 Mbps	435 Mbps
Supreme Full Fibre 80	70 Mbps / 18 Mbps	35 Mbps

Supreme Full Fibre 220 delivers roughly 200 Mbps downloads with 30 Mbps upload—sufficient for households with five or more users, multiple 4K streams, and regular cloud backups. The Supreme 550 package hits approximately 500 Mbps downloads with 73 Mbps upload.

At the top, Hyperstream Full Fibre 1000 reaches around 910 Mbps average downloads with 110 Mbps upload speeds. This package handles anything you throw at it: simultaneous 8K streaming, large file transfers, and multiple remote workers on video calls.

All packages include unlimited data—no usage caps, no throttling, and no surprise overage charges.

Real-World Performance

Independent speed testing data from FairInternetReport shows Onestream customers averaging 124 Mbps downloads across all packages, with a median of 17 Mbps. The distribution leans towards faster speeds, with 27% of tests classified as “fast” (80-300 Mbps) and another 27% reaching “very fast” (over 300 Mbps).

However, customer reviews frequently mention performance falling short of guaranteed minimum speeds, particularly on FTTC packages during evening peak times. Several users report dropouts lasting a minute or two, especially when multiple devices connect simultaneously.

For typical streaming, browsing, and remote work, Onestream’s speeds handle daily tasks without issue. Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube stream smoothly on faster packages. Where the provider struggles is competitive online gaming—the Openreach network’s contention ratios mean latency and jitter can spike during busy periods. Serious gamers prioritising low ping times might prefer providers operating their own fibre infrastructure, like Community Fibre or Hyperoptic in supported areas.

The Real Cost: Pricing Breakdown and Hidden Charges

Onestream’s headline prices look attractive on comparison websites, but the total monthly cost requires closer examination.

Monthly Pricing Structure

As of October 2025, Fibre 40 starts around £18.50 monthly on a 24-month contract, while Fibre 80 costs approximately £19.50. Full fibre pricing varies by promotion, with Supreme 115 packages sometimes available for £24.95 and Hyperstream 1000 reaching £37-38 monthly during sales.

These prices appear lower than equivalent BT or Sky packages—often by £5-10 monthly. However, the numbers don’t include router rental.

Router Rental Fees

Unlike virtually every other UK provider, Onestream charges separately for routers. The company’s price guide lists monthly fees for their Superstream and Superstream+ router options. Depending on the package and router chosen, expect to add approximately £2.95 to £5.95 monthly. Over a 24-month contract, this extra charge adds £70.80 to £142.80 to your total cost—suddenly making those comparison website prices less competitive.

You can avoid these fees by using your own router. Onestream actively encourages this and provides clear instructions: FTTC packages require a VDSL-enabled modem router with DSL port, while FTTP packages need any router with a WAN port handling gigabit speeds. This approach saves money but assumes technical confidence most broadband customers don’t possess.

Setup and Connection Fees

Current pricing includes a £9.95 router delivery charge. Onestream also lists activation fees in their price guide—£99 for FTTC connections and £149 for FTTP installations, though promotional offers frequently waive these charges for new customers. Always check the final checkout summary to confirm which fees apply to your specific order.

Annual Price Increases

Every 1st April, Onestream increases prices by a fixed £2.75 monthly for any broadband, part fibre, or full fibre service ordered, renewed, or upgraded on or after 1st January 2025. While this proves more predictable than the RPI+3.9% formula many competitors use, it still adds £66 over a 24-month contract. Customers signing between January and March avoid the first year’s increase but face it in subsequent years.

For a realistic cost example: A Supreme 115 package advertised at £24.95 monthly with a £4.95 router rental actually costs £29.90 monthly initially, then £32.65 after April. Total 24-month cost (excluding any waived activation fees): £738.90—not quite as budget-friendly as first glance suggests.

The Add-On Controversy

Multiple customer complaints centre on services added during the checkout process. Onestream’s terms and conditions explicitly reference a McAfee antivirus one-month free trial that automatically renews unless cancelled, billing approximately £5 monthly thereafter.

More controversially, in 2024-25, media reports and regulators highlighted NordVPN trials being added to orders in an “opt-out” fashion. Some comparison websites temporarily delisted Onestream over this practice. The distinction matters: McAfee appears in the provider’s published terms, whilst the VPN bundling represented a more problematic sales tactic.

These practices, whilst technically disclosed, have drawn criticism from consumer advocates and contributed to Onestream’s mixed reputation. Always review your order summary carefully before completing checkout, and immediately log into your account to cancel any unwanted services after signing up.

Router Hardware: Basic but Functional

Onestream supplies TP-Link and other-brand routers on a rental basis—a departure from industry norms where providers include equipment costs in monthly pricing.

FTTC Customers

Basic VDSL2 modem-routers serve standard fibre packages. These devices support WiFi on 2.4GHz and include four Fast Ethernet ports. For light use in smaller homes, they function adequately. However, the limited WiFi capability and range cause frustration in multi-storey properties or homes with thick walls.

Customer reviews frequently describe weak signals in bedrooms, dropped connections when moving between rooms, and slow speeds on devices far from the router. Compared to the BT Smart Hub 2 or Sky’s modern routers, these basic units feel several years behind.

Full Fibre Customers

The TP-Link Archer VR400v3 serves faster packages and represents a notable improvement. This dual-band router supports WiFi 5 across both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, reaching 867 Mbps on the faster band. Four Gigabit Ethernet ports accommodate wired connections for gaming consoles or desktop computers. The VR400v3 also supports TP-Link’s OneMesh system for whole-home coverage when paired with compatible extenders.

Whilst more capable than the basic option, the VR400v3 still lags behind premium routers from major providers. Sky’s Max Hub offers WiFi 6, WPA3 encryption, and intelligent mesh capabilities. BT’s Smart Hub 2 delivers stronger signal penetration and better multi-device handling. For the monthly rental fee, the VR400v3 feels like questionable value.

Bring Your Own Router

Onestream actively encourages customers to use their own equipment, even maintaining detailed setup guides on their website. Popular third-party options include the ASUS DSL-AC68U for FTTC (£130-150) or the TP-Link Archer AX73 for full fibre (£100-120). Whilst these represent upfront costs, they eliminate monthly rental fees and typically outperform Onestream’s basic equipment. Over a 24-month contract, you’ll save £70-140 after recouping the hardware cost.

Improving WiFi Performance

If you’re stuck with Onestream’s basic router, several strategies help improve coverage. Position the device centrally in your home rather than tucked in a corner near your master socket. Avoid placing it near large appliances like refrigerators or microwaves that interfere with WiFi signals.

WiFi boosters from TP-Link, Netgear, or other manufacturers cost £20-40 and extend coverage to problem areas. For larger homes, mesh systems from TP-Link Deco or Amazon eero create seamless whole-home networks, though these cost £100-200 and somewhat defeat the purpose of choosing a budget provider.

Customer Service

Customer support is Onestream’s most significant shortcoming based on extensive review analysis.

Contact Methods and Hours

You can reach Onestream via phone (0333 241 4449), live chat through their website, or email (hello@onestream.co.uk). Operating hours are Monday to Friday 9am-7:30pm and weekends 9am-4pm, with only technical phone support available Sundays.

These limited hours create challenges for working customers who need help during the day. Several reviews mention frustration trying to reach someone outside office hours when connections fail or technical issues arise.

The Support Experience

Trustpilot reviews reveal a stark divide. Approximately 70% rate Onestream five stars, often praising helpful individual support agents by name. These positive experiences typically involve straightforward issues like resetting passwords, checking order status, or simple technical questions answered quickly via live chat.

However, 19% of reviewers rate Onestream one star, with complaints clustering around specific problems. Common themes include scripted responses that don’t address specific issues, with multiple customers reporting support agents reading from templates rather than genuinely troubleshooting problems. When pressed for escalation or detailed technical assistance, representatives often suggest calling back or claim to submit tickets that never receive follow-up.

Long resolution times for technical faults appear frequently in negative reviews. Whilst Onestream promises quick responses, actual fault fixing often takes days or weeks. Customers experiencing persistent dropouts or speed issues report making multiple contacts over weeks with little progress, and several mention being told to wait for Openreach engineer visits that get repeatedly rescheduled.

Cancellation difficulties feature prominently in negative reviews. The process requires phone contact (live chat cannot handle cancellations), and representatives reportedly use retention tactics including questioning decisions, emphasising early termination fees, and sometimes transferring customers between departments multiple times.

Poor record-keeping appears in numerous complaints. Customers report making several contacts about issues only to have new agents claim no previous records exist. This forces people to re-explain problems repeatedly and extends resolution timescales frustratingly.

The Complaints Process

For unresolved issues, Onestream maintains a dedicated complaints email: complaints@onestream.co.uk. According to their published Complaints Procedure, they aim to respond within seven days. If Onestream doesn’t resolve your complaint within eight weeks or issues a “deadlock letter,” you can escalate to the Communications Ombudsman.

Keep detailed records of all contacts including dates, times, agent names, and reference numbers—this documentation proves essential for escalation.

Getting Connected and Contract Terms

Order to Activation Timeline

Expect approximately 16 days from order placement to active service, though this varies based on whether you need a new line installation or just a provider switch. You should receive an activation date within 72 hours of ordering.

Switching Providers

For customers currently using BT, Sky, TalkTalk, Plusnet, or other Openreach-based providers, Onestream handles the switching process automatically. You don’t need to contact your current provider—Onestream coordinates the changeover and your service transfers seamlessly on the scheduled date.

Virgin Media customers face a different process. Because Virgin uses its own cable network rather than Openreach infrastructure, you must contact Virgin directly to cancel before Onestream can activate your service. This creates potential gaps in coverage if timing doesn’t align perfectly.

Installation Options

Most customers can self-install using instructions supplied with the router. If you already have an Openreach socket in your home and you’re switching from another Openreach provider, setup typically involves plugging in the router and waiting for it to sync.

New installations requiring engineer visits cost extra, though exact fees depend on your specific situation and any promotional offers. Several reviews mention surprise charges for engineer callouts that weren’t clearly communicated during the sales process.

Contract Lengths and Terms

The standard offering involves 24-month agreements with lower monthly costs. You can opt for 12-month contracts, but expect to pay approximately £1.50-3 more monthly plus additional upfront activation fees. Over 12 months, this flexibility costs roughly £28-46 extra.

Giving Notice and Cancellation

Cancellation requires 30 days’ notice via phone contact or post. Onestream’s terms specifically state you can end the contract by calling 0333 241 4449 or writing to Onestream, Unit 15, Fulcrum 2, Solent Way, Fareham, PO15 7FN. The contract ends 30 days after you contact them. Live chat cannot process cancellations.

After your minimum contract period expires, service continues on a rolling basis until you give notice—it doesn’t automatically renew into a fresh fixed-term agreement. You must actively cancel with 30 days’ notice to stop service and billing.

Early Termination Fees

Leaving mid-contract triggers charges for each remaining month at your current monthly rate. Additionally, Onestream bills for any discounted installation costs if you received reduced or waived setup fees.

For example, leaving 10 months into a 24-month contract paying £30 monthly means owing 14 months × £30 = £420 in early termination fees. Some customer complaints mention cancellation quotes reaching £450-650 depending on package and remaining contract length.

Equipment Return Requirements

You must return rented routers within 14 days of cancellation to avoid equipment charges ranging from £29.95 to £125 depending on the model. Onestream doesn’t offer prepaid return packaging—you pay for recorded delivery yourself to:

Onestream Fulfilment Centre
Unit 2, Fulcrum 4
Solent Way
Whiteley
PO15 7FT

Multiple reviews describe unexpected router charges appearing on final bills when customers didn’t realise equipment needed returning or weren’t informed during cancellation calls. Always confirm return requirements in writing and obtain tracking proof when shipping equipment back.

The Add-On Billing Problem

One of the most frequent cancellation complaints involves continued charges for add-on services like Onestream Assured or McAfee antivirus. These services operate independently from your broadband contract and continue billing unless explicitly cancelled—even after your main broadband service ends.

Before cancelling, log into your online account and manually terminate all add-on services. Then confirm during your cancellation call that no additional subscriptions will continue billing.

Speed Guarantee and Exit Rights

Onestream’s terms and conditions include provisions for exiting your contract if speeds consistently fall below the minimum guaranteed level after they’ve been given reasonable opportunity to fix the issue. However, the specific timeframes aren’t detailed in their standard terms, and Onestream isn’t listed among Ofcom’s Voluntary Broadband Speeds Code signatories.

If you experience persistent speed problems, document them thoroughly with screenshots and speed tests, contact customer support to report the issue officially, and request their investigation process timeline in writing.

Comparing Onestream Against Major Providers

Understanding how Onestream stacks up against established competitors helps clarify whether the savings justify the compromises.

Onestream vs BT

BT represents the opposite end of the spectrum: premium pricing, comprehensive support, and bundled extras.

Price: Onestream typically undercuts BT by £5-12 monthly on comparable speed packages. A BT Fibre 2 package (67 Mbps) costs around £29.99 monthly versus Onestream’s Fibre 80 at approximately £19.50—though remember Onestream’s price excludes router rental.

Router Quality: BT includes its Smart Hub 2 at no extra charge—a far superior device to Onestream’s rentals. The Smart Hub 2 offers stronger WiFi coverage, better multi-device handling, and supports mesh extenders for whole-home coverage.

Customer Service: BT scores middle-of-pack in Ofcom’s complaint statistics (13 complaints per 100,000 customers) but delivers 24/7 phone support and responds faster to technical faults. Their online chat support operates outside standard business hours, making assistance more accessible.

Extras: BT frequently throws in reward cards worth £50-100, includes free security software (BT Virus Protect), and offers the option to bundle BT Sport or TV packages.

Verdict: If you can afford an extra £10-15 monthly, BT eliminates many of Onestream’s frustrations. You’ll get better equipment, more responsive support, and fewer hidden charges. However, budget-conscious customers willing to troubleshoot minor issues themselves still save £240-360 over 24 months with Onestream.

Onestream vs Sky

Sky occupies the premium provider space with excellent customer satisfaction ratings and comprehensive service bundles.

Price: Sky’s broadband costs fall between Onestream and BT. Sky Superfast (59 Mbps) typically runs £25-28 monthly—more expensive than Onestream’s Fibre 80 but cheaper than equivalent BT packages. Sky includes router costs in monthly pricing, unlike Onestream.

Router Quality: Sky’s Broadband Hub for standard packages and Max Hub for full fibre customers both outclass Onestream’s offerings. The Max Hub supports WiFi 6, WPA3 security, and intelligent mesh—features absent from Onestream’s basic TP-Link devices.

Customer Service: Sky generates the fewest complaints among major providers according to Ofcom (5 per 100,000 customers). Average phone wait times hover around 2 minutes 14 seconds, and resolution rates exceed industry averages.

Extras: All Sky packages include a digital home phone line with pay-as-you-go calls. Sky’s primary advantage lies in TV bundle discounts—if you want Sky Sports, movies, or entertainment channels, bundling with broadband saves money compared to separate subscriptions.

Verdict: Sky’s excellent customer service and bundle options justify the £5-8 monthly premium for households wanting TV services or valuing responsive support. However, broadband-only customers seeking rock-bottom pricing won’t find Sky competitive against Onestream’s promotional rates.

Onestream vs Plusnet

Plusnet presents the most relevant comparison—both target budget-conscious customers with no-frills service.

Price: The two providers trade positions depending on current promotions. Plusnet’s Unlimited Fibre package (66 Mbps) typically costs £24.99 monthly versus Onestream’s Fibre 80 at £19.50 plus router rental. After adding Onestream’s equipment fees, monthly costs land within £1-2 of each other.

Router Quality: Plusnet includes its Hub Two (a rebranded BT Smart Hub 2) at no extra charge—a significant advantage over Onestream’s paid rentals. The Hub Two offers WiFi 5, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, and better signal penetration than Onestream’s basic TP-Link devices.

Customer Service: Plusnet built its reputation on Yorkshire-based support and “good honest broadband.” Whilst not immune to complaints, they consistently score better than Onestream for response times and resolution quality. Their support operates during extended hours and maintains better issue tracking.

Extras: Plusnet no longer offers phone line services for new customers—just data-only connections. Onestream maintains optional phone packages starting at £7.50 monthly if needed.

Annual Increases: Both providers now use fixed annual increases. Plusnet raises prices £3 monthly each 31st March versus Onestream’s £2.75 on 1st April—minimal difference.

Verdict: The two providers offer similar value propositions, with Plusnet edging ahead slightly on customer service and included router quality. However, Onestream’s occasional promotional pricing can deliver genuine savings for customers comfortable with basic equipment and self-service approaches.

Onestream vs Vodafone

Vodafone has aggressively pursued the budget broadband market with competitive pricing and improved infrastructure.

Price: Vodafone and Onestream frequently compete for lowest-cost positions. Vodafone’s Superfast 2 package (63 Mbps) typically costs £23-25 monthly including a WiFi Hub at no extra charge—comparable to Onestream’s Fibre 80 after adding router rental.

Router Quality: Vodafone’s WiFi Hub and THG3000 routers deliver dual-band WiFi 5 connectivity with better range than Onestream’s entry-level offerings. The THG3000 includes four Gigabit Ethernet ports and offers consistent performance in typical homes.

Customer Service: Vodafone’s support quality has improved significantly but still generates mixed reviews. Their 24/7 phone support and online chat deliver better accessibility than Onestream’s limited hours, though resolution quality varies depending on issue complexity.

Extras: Vodafone frequently bundles free subscriptions to services like Apple TV+ or Spotify Premium for 6-12 months with new broadband contracts. They also offer aggressive mobile-broadband bundle discounts for existing Vodafone mobile customers.

Coverage: Like Onestream, Vodafone uses the Openreach network for most packages, though they also offer 4G/5G home broadband alternatives in some areas using their mobile network—useful for properties without fixed-line infrastructure.

Contract Flexibility: Vodafone offers both 18-month and 24-month contracts, with the shorter option costing slightly more monthly but delivering earlier exit opportunities.

Verdict: Vodafone represents better overall value for customers wanting bundled perks or mobile discounts. Their included router eliminates Onestream’s rental fee annoyance, and extended support hours prove more convenient. However, Onestream’s rock-bottom promotional pricing occasionally undercuts Vodafone by enough (£3-5 monthly) to justify the compromises for strictly budget-focused customers.

The Pros and Cons

What Onestream Gets Right

The competitive monthly pricing genuinely delivers savings when compared to BT, Sky, or EE. If promotions align with your switching timeline, you might secure broadband for £5-10 less monthly than major providers charge for equivalent speeds.

Unlimited data across all packages eliminates anxiety about usage caps or throttling. Heavy streamers, remote workers, and households with multiple users can consume as much bandwidth as needed without surprise charges.

Wide availability through the Openreach network means 98% of UK addresses can access Onestream’s services. You’re not limited to specific postcodes or developments like alternative fibre providers.

The option to use your own router appeals to technically confident customers. Whilst most people won’t exercise this choice, power users appreciate the flexibility to deploy premium hardware without provider restrictions.

Package variety accommodates different household needs, from entry-level 38 Mbps FTTC to gigabit-class full fibre. You can select appropriate speeds without overpaying for unused bandwidth.

Where Onestream Falls Short

Router rental fees not included in headline prices mislead customers during initial comparisons. The monthly charges add £70-140 over typical contracts—significantly reducing the apparent savings.

Customer service quality fluctuates wildly. Whilst some users praise helpful agents, others describe frustrating experiences with scripted responses, poor issue tracking, and extended resolution timescales. The limited operating hours compound accessibility problems for working customers.

Add-on services automatically added during checkout create billing surprises. McAfee subscriptions and the controversial NordVPN trial bundling begin billing after free trials unless proactively cancelled—practices that feel predatory rather than customer-focused.

Basic router hardware struggles compared to equipment from major providers. The entry-level options offer weak WiFi coverage and limited features, whilst even the better VR400v3 lags behind BT’s Smart Hub 2 or Sky’s Max Hub.

The cancellation process involves multiple hurdles. Phone-only contact, retention pressure tactics, and equipment return requirements create friction that several customers describe as deliberately difficult.

No TV services means households wanting bundled entertainment packages must look elsewhere. Unlike Sky or BT, Onestream operates purely as an internet access provider.

Who Should Choose Onestream?

Best suited for

Budget-conscious customers prioritising low monthly costs above all else benefit most from Onestream’s pricing. If saving £10-15 monthly matters more than premium support or advanced equipment, the trade-offs might prove acceptable.

Technically confident users comfortable with basic networking can navigate Onestream’s limitations more easily. If you understand routers, DNS settings, and basic troubleshooting, you’ll rarely need customer support and can deploy your own superior equipment.

Light to moderate internet users in smaller households won’t stress Onestream’s infrastructure. One or two people browsing, streaming Netflix, and handling occasional video calls will find the service adequate for daily needs.

Customers happy managing their own equipment and monitoring billing should consider Onestream. If you’re willing to check your account monthly for unwanted add-ons and handle minor technical issues independently, you’ll avoid most common complaints.

Better Alternatives Exist For

Households prioritising responsive customer support should pay extra for BT, Sky, or Plusnet. The frustration of dealing with Onestream’s limited support hours and variable service quality outweighs the monthly savings.

Families wanting TV and broadband bundles need Sky or Virgin Media. Onestream’s internet-only focus doesn’t accommodate entertainment package requirements.

Competitive gamers requiring ultra-low latency won’t find Onestream optimal. The Openreach network’s contention ratios create occasional lag spikes. Dedicated gaming-focused providers or alternative fibre networks like Community Fibre deliver better performance.

Customers wanting hassle-free service without monitoring for hidden charges benefit from providers with more transparent pricing. BT and Plusnet include router costs in monthly fees and don’t automatically add subscription services during checkout.

Final Verdict

Onestream delivers on its core promise: affordable broadband using Openreach infrastructure. The speeds work for most everyday tasks, unlimited data removes usage worries, and promotional pricing genuinely undercuts major competitors.

However, the savings come with meaningful caveats. Router rental fees inflate total costs beyond headline prices. Customer service quality swings from helpful to frustrating depending on your issue and assigned agent. Add-on services automatically added during checkout create billing surprises. The cancellation process involves more friction than necessary.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Value for Money: 4/5
Speed & Reliability: 3.5/5
Customer Service: 2.5/5
Router Quality: 2.5/5
Transparency: 2/5

For strictly budget-focused customers willing to actively manage their service—checking bills monthly, using their own router, and handling basic troubleshooting—Onestream offers genuine value. You’ll save £200-300 over 24 months compared to BT or Sky.

However, most households benefit from paying slightly more for providers offering better support, included equipment, and fewer surprise charges. Plusnet delivers similar budget pricing with better customer service. BT and Sky charge premiums but eliminate the frustrations documented in thousands of negative reviews.

Consider Onestream if you need rock-bottom pricing and possess technical confidence. Otherwise, invest an extra £5-10 monthly in a provider that won’t require constant vigilance against billing surprises or leave you waiting days for fault resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Onestream offer full fibre broadband?

Yes, Onestream offers five full fibre (FTTP) packages where available, with speeds ranging from 74 Mbps to 910 Mbps. Full fibre now passes over 60% of UK properties with coverage expanding regularly. Check Onestream’s website with your postcode to confirm local availability.

Can I use my own router with Onestream?

Yes. Onestream actively encourages customers to use their own equipment. FTTC customers need a VDSL2-compatible router with a DSL port, whilst full fibre customers require a standard router with a WAN port supporting gigabit speeds. Using your own router saves monthly rental fees.

How do I cancel Onestream without paying extra charges?

Give 30 days’ notice by phone (0333 241 4449) or post to their Fareham address during your contract’s final month. After the minimum term ends, service continues on a rolling basis—you’re not locked into another fixed period. Cancel all add-on services separately through your online account, and return the rented router within 14 days via recorded delivery to avoid equipment charges.

What setup fees does Onestream charge?

Expect £9.95 for router delivery. Onestream’s price guide lists activation fees (£99 for FTTC, £149 for FTTP), though promotional offers frequently waive these for new customers. Always check your final checkout summary to confirm which fees apply.

What happens if my speeds fall below the guaranteed minimum?

Onestream’s terms allow you to exit your contract if speeds consistently fall below the minimum guaranteed level after they’ve had reasonable opportunity to fix the issue. Document problems thoroughly with speed tests, contact customer support officially, and request their investigation timeline in writing.