FTTP vs FTTC: what is the difference?
FTTP uses fibre all the way to your home, while FTTC uses fibre to the cabinet and copper for the final stretch. The difference affects speed, stability, and future upgrade options, but availability depends on your exact address.
FibreSwitch is a comparison service, not a broadband provider. We help you compare options and understand what to check before you switch.
Written by: Alex Martin-Smith
Broadband comparison and consumer switching guidance. https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmartinsmith/
Reviewed by: Adrian James
Digital product leadership and broadband comparison review. https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-james-b71441380/
Reviewed on: 31 January 2026
Quick summary
- FTTP is full fibre to the property and usually offers better stability.
- FTTC relies on copper for the final stretch, which can reduce performance.
- Availability varies by address, even within the same postcode.
- Installation requirements can differ between FTTP and FTTC.
- Upload speeds are often stronger on FTTP.
- Check contract terms regardless of technology.
On this page
What is FTTP?
FTTP is full fibre broadband, meaning the fibre cable runs directly to your home.
Because the fibre link goes all the way to the property, FTTP tends to be more stable and capable of higher speeds.
The equipment installed at your home can differ from older connections, so check whether an engineer visit is needed.
If you are moving home or renovating, factor fttp vs fttc: what is the difference? decisions into your timeline. Installation dates can slip if access is not confirmed or if address records are missing. Book early and keep a backup option if you need connectivity on a fixed date.
Use a simple checklist before you commit to fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?: confirm availability, confirm terms, and confirm timing. Those three checks prevent most surprises and make it easier to compare offers that look similar on paper.
For fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?, keep a record of the key facts you used to decide, such as estimated speeds, contract length, and price change terms. That record helps if you later need to compare offers or raise a query with the provider.
For fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?, start with an address level availability check, then compare estimated speeds with how your household actually uses broadband. That keeps expectations realistic and helps you avoid overpaying for a tier that will not perform at your address. Where providers show ranges, use the lower end as your planning figure and keep a note of any installation lead times or access requirements.
What is FTTC?
FTTC uses fibre to a street cabinet, then copper wiring for the final connection to your home.
Copper lines are more sensitive to distance and interference, which can reduce speeds compared with FTTP.
FTTC is still common in many areas, so it can be a practical option where full fibre is not available.
If you are comparing fttp vs fttc: what is the difference? options, ask the provider to confirm any terms that vary by network, especially where installation or contract terms differ. Providers often share core details in the contract summary, but the best way to avoid surprises is to request the specifics in writing before you place the order.
Many households focus on headline speed, but for fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?, stability, upload performance, and in home coverage often matter more. A plan that performs consistently at peak times can feel faster in day to day use than a faster plan that drops or fluctuates. Test at the time you normally rely on the connection.
If you rely on fttp vs fttc: what is the difference? for work, study, or streaming, prioritise predictable performance over short term discounts. Shorter contracts can offer flexibility, but longer contracts may be good value if the provider has a strong track record at your address. When in doubt, compare total cost across the full term.
When you compare fttp vs fttc: what is the difference? deals, check the router and Wi-Fi coverage assumptions. A strong line can still feel slow if the router is in a poor location or if the home layout blocks signal. If you cannot place the router centrally, plan for mesh or wired access points before you upgrade the package.
How do FTTP and FTTC compare in real use?
FTTP usually delivers more consistent speeds and stronger upload performance, while FTTC can vary more by distance.
If you live far from the cabinet, FTTC speeds can drop. That is why two homes on the same street can have different results.
For homes with heavy upload needs or many devices, FTTP tends to be the more future-proof option where available.
It is easy to underestimate how much simultaneous use affects fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?. If more than one person is online at the same time, build in extra headroom. That might mean a higher tier, but it can also mean a better Wi-Fi setup or a change in router placement, so check the simplest fixes first.
If a provider offers a strong deal for fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?, confirm whether any mid contract price changes apply. Price changes can alter the total cost and should be included in your comparison. Ask for the price change terms and keep the confirmation with your order details.
For fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?, make sure the installation route fits your property. Flats, listed buildings, and rental homes can require permissions or shared access, which can delay installation. Plan early and confirm access requirements with the provider before booking dates.
Use a simple decision rule for fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?: if the address level estimate is already low, a higher tier might not deliver more in practice unless the underlying network changes. In that case, improving Wi-Fi coverage or switching to a different network can be more effective.
How do you check availability?
Use an address-level checker rather than relying on postcode averages.
Availability can vary by building, especially in flats or new builds. A full address check is the most reliable approach.
If you are unsure, compare results from more than one provider to confirm the network options at your address.
If you are unsure how fttp vs fttc: what is the difference? applies to your home, test your current service first. A wired speed test gives the best view of the line, while Wi-Fi tests show indoor coverage. That split helps you decide whether to change provider or change your home setup.
For fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?, make sure you understand any notice period before you make changes. Some providers require advance notice, which can affect the date you switch or cancel. Planning around the notice period reduces overlap charges and avoids accidental early termination.
If your home has a complex layout, fttp vs fttc: what is the difference? decisions should include where your router will sit. The best plan can still feel slow if the router is in a corner or behind thick walls. A quick placement check and a repeat speed test can reveal whether Wi-Fi is the real issue.
When a provider offers a promotional price for fttp vs fttc: what is the difference?, check what happens after the promotion ends. Some deals rise after an introductory period, so the long term value can be different from the first bill. Always compare the full term cost.
What are the installation differences?
FTTP often requires an engineer visit, while FTTC can be activated remotely in many cases.
FTTP may need new equipment or fibre installation, which can affect lead times and access requirements.
FTTC usually uses existing copper lines, so installation can be faster but may still require a router swap.
How should you choose between FTTP and FTTC?
Choose based on availability, performance needs, and total cost, not just headline speed.
If FTTP is available at a reasonable price, it often offers better long-term value for busy households.
If FTTP is not available, FTTC can still deliver usable speeds, but check the expected estimate for your line.
- Availability at your exact address
- Expected download and upload performance
- Installation timeline and access requirements
- Contract length and total cost
Common mistakes
- Assuming FTTP is available because it is in the area.
- Choosing FTTC without checking the expected speed estimate.
- Ignoring upload needs for work or gaming.
- Not checking installation requirements for FTTP.
- Comparing by headline speed only.
FTTP vs FTTC checklist
- Check availability at your exact address.
- Compare download and upload estimates.
- Confirm installation requirements and timeline.
- Compare total cost and contract length.
- Consider future needs like home working or gaming.
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Next step
Check availability at your address to compare live deals, then review the terms before you switch.
FAQs
Is FTTP always available?
No. Availability depends on network build at your exact address.
Is FTTC still worth it?
It can be a practical option where FTTP is not yet available.
Do I need a new router for FTTP?
Often yes, but your provider will confirm equipment requirements.
Last updated: 31 January 2026.