Virgin Media M125 broadband plan offers an average download speed of 132Mbps. This plan replaced M100, which had lower speeds. M125 offers a higher download speed and an increased upload speed of 20Mbps.
M125 offers reliable speeds for small to medium-sized homes, handling web browsing, video streaming, and gaming on multiple devices. In terms of pricing, this service is cheaper than other packages offering similar speeds. The contract lasts for 18 months, after which the monthly price usually increases.
Who Should Consider Virgin Media M125 broadband?
M125 is suitable for homes with two to four people. The speeds are enough for typical online tasks, such as streaming in HD or 4K, browsing social media, or holding video calls. The plan can handle multiple devices at once, though the connection may slow down if you have many users performing heavy tasks like HD streaming at the same time.
It is also great for light to moderate online gaming. If you need to upload large files or join many video calls, the 20Mbps upload is more than enough.
Households with many users can consider faster Virgin packages, such as M250 or M350. However, for average use, M125 may feel more than sufficient. It provides a step up from slower broadband plans found elsewhere, while keeping monthly costs lower than the fastest options.
Virgin Media M125 Plan Details
Virgin Media M125 replaced M100. That earlier plan had download speeds around 108Mbps and an upload speed of 10Mbps. With M125, the download speed increased to 132Mbps, and the upload speed doubled to 20Mbps. Existing M100 subscribers received this boost, and new customers susbscribe for the new M125 plan.
You can choose M125 with or without a home phone line. If you want weekend calls, you can add them for an extra fee. If you no longer need a landline, you can opt for broadband-only. Virgin Media also charges a setup fee unless a promotion waives it. The standard contract runs for 24 months, after which the price usually goes up. Keep track of any mid-contract price changes. Most providers adjust fees based on the Retail Price Index (RPI) plus an additional percentage.
Virgin Media provides both an average speed and a minimum guaranteed speed for all its plans. The average speed for M125, which is 132Mbps, reflects what half of the users experience during peak hours. The minimum guaranteed speed is 66Mbps. If your speed falls below this level and remains there for three days or more, and Virgin cannot fix it, you can terminate your contract without paying a termination fee, as per Ofcom regulations
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New M125 customers usually receive the Hub 3 router. This device supports dual-band WiFi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and WiFi 5 (802.11ac). Although WiFi 6 is the latest technology, many devices still use WiFi 5, so the Hub 3 covers most needs. If you experience WiFi not-spots or low speeds in certain rooms, you can add Virgin’s WiFi Pods. These pods extend your wireless range. If you subscribe to a Volt package, you receive these pods with the WiFi Max guarantee.
Installation can involve a visit from an engineer or a self-install kit, depending on your address. Some properties are already equipped with Virgin cabling. In that case, you might simply plug in the Hub 3 and get online without much effort. If you lack the necessary cables, an engineer may need to install them. This process can cause some delay, but once complete, you gain access to Virgin’s cable network
Virgin Media M125 Performance and Speed
M125 is much faster than many basic broadband plans, as the UK’s average broadband speed is around 69Mbps. With this internet plan, you can stream Ultra HD video content, play online games, and connect several devices online at once. You can make a video call while someone else watches a 4K movie.
The upload speed of 20Mbps is helpful when you send data out, which matters a lot if you often back up files to the cloud or join video conferences. It also helps if you play online games that require voice chat or real-time updates. Larger families might see slowdowns if several people undertake bandwidth-heavy tasks at the same time. In that case, an upgrade to M250 or M350 might help.
Ofcom, the UK telecom regulator, checks real-world speeds and publishes reports. The reports show that Virgin Media’s guaranteed speeds match what users experience. Of course, your actual speed can vary due to home wiring, router placement, or the number of users online. You can test your speed. If you notice significant drops, you can check your equipment or talk to Virgin’s support team.
M125 Compared to M250, M350, and Volt
Virgin Media offers faster broadband plans, such as M250 and M350. M250 provides average speeds of 264Mbps, while M350 offers 362Mbps. These options are somewhat expensive but can handle heavy usage from multiple devices, making them suitable for busy homes. They also facilitate faster downloads and offer higher upload speeds.
Volt is a premium range of bundles that combines Virgin Media broadband with O2 mobile services. The entry-level Volt plan starts with M250 and includes a 6GB O2 SIM, the WiFi Max guarantee, and a phone line with weekend calls. Volt users can also receive WiFi Pods that guarantee speeds of at least 30Mbps in each room or receive a credit on their bill.
M125 might be sufficient for typical UK homes with a few users. However, if you need extra upload speed or if you stream 4K video in many rooms simultaneously, consider the faster plans. Sometimes, a promotion reduces the price difference between M125 and the M250 or M350 plans, allowing you to gain faster speeds for a slight increase in cost.
Virgin Media TV and Phone Bundles
Virgin Media offers TV and phone services bundled with the M125 plan. You can choose M125 bundles that include weekend or anytime calls. If you rely on a mobile phone, you can opt for broadband-only or select a suitable Volt package.
TV bundles are available as the new Flex TV service or the more comprehensive TV 360 packages. Flex TV provides access to more than 150 channels on a rolling 30-day plan. You can add Sky Sports or Sky Cinema on a month-by-month basis. The larger bundles include set-top boxes that allow you to pause and record live TV, along with a variety of channels. M125 can be bundled with smaller or mid-level TV plans, while faster broadband options allow you to add larger TV packages.
Virgin Media M125 vs Other providers
When comparing the M125 to plans from Sky, BT, Vodafone, TalkTalk, or other providers, these often come with average speeds in the 100Mbps to 150Mbps range. Their prices can be slightly higher or lower than those of M125. Sometimes, they include perks like new routers or WiFi guarantees. Some providers also bundle TV services with their broadband.
Virgin Media often excels in top speeds due to its superior cable infrastructure. However, coverage is limited. If you cannot get Virgin Media in your area, you will need to consider a different provider. For those preferring an alternative network, full-fibre packages that match Virgin’s speeds might be a good option.
Customer service is another important factor to consider. Ofcom reports have shown that Virgin Media sometimes ranks lower in complaint handling, whereas BT and Sky often rank a bit higher. However, experiences can vary, as some Virgin customers report smooth service with no issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does the contract last?
M125 comes with an 18-month contract. After that, the monthly price can increase unless you switch or renegotiate.
2. Does M125 include a router?
Yes. You receive a Hub 3 router, which supports dual-band WiFi and WiFi 5.
3. Can I choose broadband-only?
Yes. You can remove the home phone line if you do not need it.
4. What if my speed goes below the guarantee?
The minimum guaranteed speed is around 66Mbps. If speeds stay below that level for three days, and Virgin cannot fix it, you can leave early.
5. Do I get free installation?
Virgin often charges a setup fee, but promotions may remove it. Check our deals before signing up.
6. Will my price rise during the contract?
Virgin sets annual rises based on RPI plus a set percentage.
7. Does M125 work for online gaming?
Yes. It is great for most console and PC gaming. Large updates might take longer than on faster plans
8. Which router do I get with M125?
You receive a Hub 3. Some customers might get a Hub 4, but that is less common. Hub 3 is enough for many users.
9. Do I need WiFi Pods?
Only if you have poor coverage in parts of your home. Pods can extend and optimise the WiFi signal. They come at an extra cost unless you have a Volt package with WiFi Max.
10. Can I upgrade to M250 or M350 mid-contract?
Yes. You can often upgrade. This may start a new 18-month term.
Pros and Cons of Virgin Media M125 Broadband
Pros
- Higher-than-average speeds for everyday tasks
- Good for small to medium households
- Broadband-only option for those who do not want a phone line
- Cable network can be faster than copper lines
- Clear minimum speed guarantee
Cons
- Price rises after the 18-month term
- Less suitable for large households with heavy use
- Customer service has mixed feedback
- Hub 3 lacks WiFi 6 support
- Coverage depends on Virgin’s cable network
Conclusion
M125 is Virgin Media’s entry-level plan that still delivers speeds well above the UK average. It offers ample capacity for streaming UHD video, playing games, and running multiple devices in small to medium-sized homes. Its upload speed of 20Mbps is also suitable for users who work from home.
This plan, which replaced M100, added extra speed without a significant price increase. You can choose broadband-only or add a phone line or TV package. If you need more bandwidth, consider the M250 or M350 plans. Volt packages include extras like a 6GB O2 SIM and a WiFi Max guarantee, but they come at a higher monthly cost.
Keep an eye on price changes. Virgin’s annual price rise is based on the RPI plus a set percentage. Once the contract ends, rates may increase further. Mark your calendar for the last month of your 18-month term to renegotiate or switch providers to avoid higher bills.
Customer satisfaction with service and complaint handling varies, as per Ofcom data, although Virgin Media’s cable network maintains a strong record for speed and reliability. Specifically, the M125 offers speeds of over 100Mbps at a reasonable price.
In summary, M125 is suitable for households that desire a decent connection without the need for top-tier speeds. Ensure the guaranteed minimum speed of 66Mbps meets your requirements. If you need faster speeds or advanced features, consider upgrading to Volt or a faster plan. If M125 is available in your area and fits your budget, it is a balanced option to meet most internet needs.