Virgin Media’s established cable network versus Vodafone’s competitive full fibre approach presents an interesting choice between proven performance and emerging value.
Speed and Performance
Virgin Media delivers consistent high speeds through cable infrastructure from 54Mbps (M125) up to 1.1Gbps (Gig1). Popular packages include M250 (264Mbps), M350 (362Mbps), and M500 (516Mbps).
Vodafone offers speeds from 36Mbps up to 2.2Gbps with their Pro Full Fibre service. Standard packages include Fibre 1 (36Mbps), Fibre 2 (73Mbps), and full fibre options up to 910Mbps.
Winner: Vodafone for maximum available speeds
Pricing
Virgin Media pricing starts at £26.99/month for M350 and £28.99/month for M250. Gig1 costs £36.99/month during promotional periods.
Vodafone offers competitive pricing from £25/month for Fibre 1 (increasing to £28 from April 2026, then £31 from April 2027). Their full fibre packages provide excellent value.
Winner: Vodafone for better pricing structure
Network Coverage
Virgin Media covers approximately 60% of UK premises with their own cable network, concentrated in urban and suburban areas.
Vodafone combines their extensive full fibre network (covering 15.1 million premises – 47% UK coverage) with Openreach services for broader reach.
Winner: Vodafone for broader coverage options
Customer Service
Virgin Media has historically faced customer service challenges, though recent improvements have been noted.
Vodafonescored 83% in Ofcom’s 2025 customer satisfaction data, showing strong performance in customer service metrics.
Winner: Vodafone for measured customer satisfaction
Contract Flexibility
Virgin Media typically offers 24-month contracts with £0 setup fees but substantial exit fees (up to £45 per remaining month).
Vodafone provides both 12-month and 24-month contract options, offering flexibility for different customer needs without punitive exit fees.
Winner: Vodafone for contract flexibility
Technology Features
Virgin Media provides Hub 5 routers with advanced features and established cable technology delivering consistent speeds.
Vodafone offers Power Hub and Ultra Hub routers with WiFi 6 technology supporting up to 100 devices, plus Intelligent WiFi 6 auto-optimisation.
Winner: Vodafone for advanced router technology
Network Reliability
Virgin Media claims 99.91% network reliability with their cable infrastructure, though localised outages can affect multiple customers.
Vodafone benefits from diverse infrastructure options including their own full fibre network and Openreach partnerships.
Winner: Slight edge to Virgin Media for established reliability
Additional Services
Virgin Media offers comprehensive TV bundles, entertainment packages, and established service integration.
Vodafone provides mobile integration benefits, cross-service discounts, and is developing a comprehensive digital ecosystem.
Winner: Virgin Media for current service breadth
Value Proposition
Virgin Media targets customers wanting proven high-speed cable performance with established infrastructure.
Vodafone focuses on competitive pricing while delivering modern full fibre technology and flexible service options.
Winner: Vodafone for overall value
The Verdict
Choose Virgin Media if you’re in their coverage area and want proven high-speed cable performance, established reliability, and comprehensive entertainment options. They’re ideal for customers who prioritise consistent performance over cost.
Select Vodafone if you want competitive pricing, modern full fibre technology, excellent customer service, and contract flexibility. They offer superior value and customer satisfaction.
Vodafone wins on value, customer service, and modern infrastructure, whilst Virgin Media offers established high-speed performance. For most customers, Vodafone represents better overall value and service quality.
