How to switch between Virgin Media and BT
Dan Howdle • August 30th, 2024
Switching broadband providers doesn't have to be complicated, so whether you are thinking of swapping from BT to Virgin or vice versa, there are just a few simple steps you need to follow to make sure everything goes to plan.
Virgin runs on its own exclusive network, whereas BT operates over the widely used Openreach network, but whatever package you currently have – broadband, TV or phone – switching between the two need not be a hassle. This guide outlines everything you need to know about switching between BT and Virgin Media.
Know which services you want to switch
If you are just looking to switch all your services – broadband, TV, and phone – from one provider to the other, then that is a fairly simple task. In general, taking all your services from one provider is ideal as the contract length will be the same for each service, you have one point of contact if any problems arise, and invariably it will be cheaper to take everything in a bundle with one provider.
Before you go any further, you’ll need to check whether your required services from BT or Virgin Media are available in your area by choosing one of the options below.
Compare and choose a new deal
Virgin only offers superfast broadband with average speeds ranging from 54Mbps to 1Gbps. If you are currently on BT standard broadband, you will notice a huge difference if you switch to Virgin. However, if you are on BT's entry-level fibre package, you will already be getting around 36Mbps. For much faster speeds, Virgin Media is a good choice.
When it comes to TV, Virgin offers more in the way of channels than BT, but both providers offer you the option to bolt on Sky Sports and Sky Cinema. If you are leaving BT but want to keep BT Sport (now TNT Sports), it comes as part of Virgin Media's Bigger Bundle + Sports bundle.
Whether you’re after a single service or a TV and broadband bundle, finding the best deal is easiest when all the information you need is in one place. Our comparison pages make life easy, enabling you to compare features, costs, and contracts simply and effectively.
You need to talk to both providers
Switching between Virgin Media and BT is a bit more involved than switching between providers on the same network, but it just means you will need to contact both BT and Virgin yourself – whichever way you are switching.
If you’re switching from BT to Virgin Media
You’ll need to contact BT to let them know you are leaving and to cancel your services – Virgin won’t do it for you. To ensure a seamless switchover, make sure you arrange to disconnect with BT on the same day or just after your Virgin Media connection starts.
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Total saving £144M500 Fibre Broadband- 516Mb average speed +
- Unlimited usage +
- No phone line
- Reduced Price Plus 3 Months Free
£29.99 per month(usually £33.00)(prices may change during contract)Total saving £144£0 one-off cost18 month contract -
Total saving £131M250 Fibre Broadband
- 264Mb average speed +
- Unlimited usage +
- No phone line
- Reduced Price Plus 3 Months Free
£25.99 per month(usually £28.99)(prices may change during contract)Total saving £131£0 one-off cost18 month contract -
M350 Fibre Broadband
- 362Mb average speed +
- Unlimited usage +
- No phone line
£35.99 per month(prices may change during contract)£0 one-off cost18 month contract
If you’re switching from Virgin Media to BT
You’ll need to arrange your BT installation date first, then cancel your services with Virgin. To avoid being without a connection, let Virgin know your BT activation date and arrange for your Virgin Media service to be stopped shortly afterward.
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£50 reward cardFull Fibre 500- 500Mb average speed +
- Unlimited usage +
- No phone line
- £50 Virtual Reward Card
£39.99 per month(increases on the 31st March 2025 by CPI +3.9%)£50 reward card£0 one-off cost24 month contract -
£50 reward cardFibre 1
- 50Mb average speed +
- Unlimited usage +
- No phone line
- £50 Virtual Reward Card
£30.99 per month(increases on the 31st March 2025 by CPI +3.9%)£50 reward card£31.99 one-off cost24 month contract -
£50 reward cardFull Fibre 100
- 150Mb average speed +
- Unlimited usage +
- No phone line
- £50 Virtual Reward Card
£29.99 per month(increases on the 31st March 2025 by CPI +3.9%)£50 reward card£0 one-off cost24 month contract
Check your current contract
If you’re still within the minimum period of your contract with either BT or Virgin Media, you will have to pay early termination fees. This won’t apply if your original contract period has expired, and you should be able to cancel without any trouble. BT now typically has a minimum term of 24 months for its broadband packages, while Virgin Media usually offers 18-month contracts.
However, if you are leaving Virgin Media and desperate to get out of your contract early, BT will credit your new account with up to £300 if Virgin charges you termination fees. The funds will go into your account and offset future bills – you won't receive a lump sum of cash.
If you are leaving Virgin Media, you will undoubtedly be offered cheaper deals and other incentives to tempt you to stay, as Virgin does not like to lose customers. These offers may well be worth considering before you make your final decision to leave. BT, on the other hand, rarely gets involved in haggling so don't expect the same treatment if you are leaving BT.
Not ready to switch?
We'll remind you when it's time
Use our switching reminder and we'll email you when your deal is coming to an end so you don't lose out!
Set reminderConclusion
Because you are switching between two networks, moving your broadband from BT to Virgin Media (or vice versa) isn’t quite as simple as switching between two providers on the Openreach network, but if you plan ahead and keep all parties informed, it should go smoothly and you'll be switched over in no time.
