
21 October 2020
TalkTalk TV and broadband provider review
We ask thousands of TV and broadband customers about their experiences so we can tell you exactly how TalkTalk's service compares with that offered by other providers.
In this article
TalkTalk has recently joined big hitters Sky and Virgin Media in offering digital TV alongside its broadband service. It offers a cheap basic TV package with YouView's Freeview HD, catch-up and on-demand TV content, with the flexibility to add optional movies and sports fixtures including Premier League matches, Sky Sports, and ESPN. So is TalkTalk's TV and broadband service worth a look?
TalkTalk TV and broadband review
In this in-depth review of TalkTalk's TV and broadband service, we'll:
- Give you a full breakdown of how its customers rated it for key factors, such as the TV shows it offers.
- Show how TalkTalk compares to all the other major TV and broadband providers, including BT, Sky and Virgin.
- Report quotes from real TalkTalk TV and broadband customers on their experiences.
- Assess the equipment on offer from TalkTalk.
- Look at the latest deals and offers that it's promoting.
- Reveal the level of complaints to Ofcom that come from TalkTalk customers.
To get all this information, try Which?.
We'll tell you exactly what you need to know about all the UK's broadband and pay-TV providers and will help you avoid signing up for a deal you'll come to regret.
If you're already a member then go to the log-in page to unlock the table.
And if you'd prefer a cheaper option without a TV service, then you can find your ideal package by comparing all the latest broadband deals.
Our latest survey
Our results are based on our regular broadband and pay-TV survey. Twice a year, we talk to customers to find out what they think of the service they receive. This means we're best placed to help you to choose the right service for you.
In January 2020, we surveyed 3,017 members of the public and asked them about their experiences with their broadband and pay TV provider. We report on all providers that have at least 40 respondents.
TalkTalk TV and broadband deals
TalkTalk's TV service is only available as part of a broadband and phone package. You don't need a cable or satellite connection – you watch TV over Freeview or through your internet connection.
While all Freeview channels are transmitted to your TV through your aerial, all catch-up TV and specialist channels are delivered to the YouView Box that TalkTalk supplies, via your broadband connection. To watch these, you need to be in an area that can receive TalkTalk broadband at speeds of 2Mbps or more (5Mbps to get premium channels).
TalkTalk offers two TV plans: TV with Fast Broadband includes access to up to 80 Freeview channels, while TV Plus with Fast Broadband includes the same 80 Freeview channels plus the TV Starter Boost, which gives access to a further six entertainment channels that include Sky 1 and 2.
Confusingly, despite the 'Fast Broadband' titles, you can take out standard-speed broadband deals (average speed 11Mbps) as part of either bundle or pay more for a fibre connection.
You can customise your package by adding 'Boosts', such as Sky Sports, BT Sport and Kids channels, and handily these have super-flexible rolling monthly subscriptions meaning you're not committed for the long term. You can also sign up to pay-monthly services, such as Netflix, or watch movies on demand.
Not interested in subscribing to a TV deal? Find out how satisfied TalkTalk's broadband customers are in our TalkTalk standalone broadband review.
Supplied TalkTalk equipment
The TalkTalk box you receive will depend on your TV package. With the cheaper TV with Fast Broadband package you'll get the standard YouView set-top box which doesn't let you record TV. Choose the more expensive TV Plus with Fast Broadband package instead and you'll be supplied the YouView+ PVR that allows you to record up to 180 hours of programmes.
TalkTalk also has an app (TalkTalk TV, formerly known as TV2GO) that lets you watch TV on your mobile or tablet if you’ve added one of its Boosts to your deal.

Windows tips and tricks: seven simple ways to make your PC easier to use
22nd January 2021
Computing

On test: Huawei GT2 Pro, Mobvoi Ticwatch Pro 3 GPS and Oppo Watch
22nd January 2021
Wearable technology

Ask Alexa: our weekly take on the best commands, tips, tricks and Skills
21st January 2021
Audio

The most popular TVs of 2020
22nd January 2021
TV & home entertainment