Quick Answer
BT and Sky perform almost identically for internet speed because they both use the same Openreach infrastructure. The choice comes down to TV bundles and hardware. Sky is the winner if you want premium TV (Sky Glass/Stream) seamlessly integrated. BT is the winner for networking hardware (Smart Hub 2) and if you are an EE mobile customer (Halo benefits).
Choose Sky if: You want the best TV content package. Choose BT if: You want reliable Wi-Fi guarantees and superior router hardware.
| Feature | BT | Sky |
|---|---|---|
| Network | Openreach | Openreach |
| Max Speed | 900 Mbps | 900 Mbps |
| Router | Smart Hub 2 (Excellent) | Sky Broadband Hub (Average) |
| TV | EE TV (Flexible) | Sky Stream / Glass (Premium) |
| Customer Service | Good | Good |
Speed & Reliability
Since both use Openreach:
- If you can get Full Fibre (FTTP) with BT, you can get it with Sky.
- If you are stuck on FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet) with Sky, BT will likely offer the same speed.
Speeds Available: 36 Mbps, 61 Mbps, 145 Mbps, 500 Mbps, 900 Mbps.
Differentiator: BT’s Hybrid Connect (part of Halo 3+) is a backup 4G connection that kicks in if your broadband goes down. Sky typically doesn’t offer a 4G backup router solution as standard.
TV Bundles
Sky is a media company first.
- Sky Stream: A tiny box that delivers all Sky channels over WiFi. No dish needed.
- Content: Unrivaled access to Sky Atlantic (HBO), Sky Sports, and Cinema.
BT (EE TV):
- Uses the EE TV Box (often an Apple TV 4K).
- Content is delivered via NOW TV memberships (owned by Sky).
- Great for TNT Sports (Champions League) which comes included in many bundles.
Hardware (Router)
BT Smart Hub 2: Widely regarded as one of the best ISP-supplied routers. Strong signal, supports discs for mesh networking (Complete Wi-Fi).
Sky Broadband Hub: A decent router, but older tech compared to BT’s offering. Sky recently launched the Sky Max Hub (WiFi 6) for an extra monthly fee, bringing them closer to parity.
Verdict
It’s a draw on speed.
- Go with Sky if you want the “whole home entertainment” package.
- Go with BT if you prioritize connection stability, router quality, or have an EE mobile contract.