What is the Sky Broadband Hub?
The Sky Broadband Hub is now the standard free router you’ll get with whatever Sky package you sign up for.
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) ready: This router is part of the fifth generation (not Wi-Fi 6) in networking standards that supports higher data rates, allowing for quicker downloads, smoother streaming, and more responsive online gaming.
Free with any Sky broadband contract: Whether you are signing up for the most basic ADSL package or full fibre, this router will be provided and comes at no extra charges.
8 antennas: An impressive amount of built-in aerials help get better wireless coverage than the previous router, the Sky Q Hub, which only had 5.
4 gigabit ports, 1 USB port: The gigabit ports are 10 times faster than Ethernet ports, perfect for plugging devices directly in and gaming. The USB port is there to help with charging phones or tablets.
Dual band: This router can transmit on two different frequency bands, 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Both bands offer different benefits and having these options means a more versatile and efficient network than a single-band router.
Supports up to 64 devices: Well equipped to cope with multiple devices running at the same time
Smart scan: The Sky Broadband Hub has smart channel selection and smart scan features. This means it constantly monitor your hub's connection and switch channels or reboots the connection if it detects a problem.
What we like
The Sky Broadband Hub is a fast and reliable router, especially when it comes to signal range. Thanks to its multiple aerials you should get great Wi-Fi reception throughout your home. It has smart features like a channel selection and smart scan, which kick in automatically if your internet isn’t running to its best abilities and either restart or retune to get you the fastest speeds.
What could be better
No matter how decent this router is, there’s no ignoring the fact that this is a Wi-Fi 5 router. For those really wanting to future-proof and get the best performance out of high-bandwidth activities like 4K streaming or online gaming, a Wi-Fi 6 compatible router like the Sky WiFi Max Hub would be a better choice. So, let’s take a look at that too.
What is the Sky Max Hub?
This is your optional, paid upgrade that was first introduced in July 2023. You can add it to any broadband package and it comes with a a minimum speed Wi-Fi guarantee – the guaranteed speed will depend on the package – in every room of your home.
When you receive your Sky Max Hub you’ll run tests to find out where any weak signal spots are and then Sky will send you up to three Sky WiFi pods which will help reach any areas your router is missing.
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology: Allows the router to communicate with all WiFi 6-enabled devices. Offers faster speed and improved performance.
Wi-Fi guarantee: Up to 8 times faster than standard Wi-Fi, with a money-back guarantee if it's not met. For customers on all packages 100Mbps and under, you’ll get minimum download speeds of at least 10Mbps in every room. Customers on 150 up to 900Mbps have a promise of at least 25Mbps.
Advanced security: Customers subscribing to the Sky Max Hub will be able to activate an extra layer of your security and parental controls.
Supports up to 120 devices: Perfect for large, smart households that need multiple devices running simultaneously.
£4 a month (at the time of writing) with any Sky broadband contract: This is over a minimum term of 24 months that can’t be cancelled.
8 antennas: Enhanced built-in aerials help get better wireless coverage.
4 gigabit ports, 1 USB port: The gigabit ports are 10 times faster than Ethernet ports, perfect for plugging devices directly in and gaming. The USB port is there to help with charging phones or tablets.
Dual band: This router can transmit on two different frequency bands, 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Both bands offer different benefits and having these options means a more versatile and efficient network than a single-band router.
Smart scan: The Sky Broadband Hub has smart channel selection and smart scan features. This means it constantly monitor your hub's connection and switch channels or reboots the connection if it detects a problem.
What we like
With the Sky WiFi Max you get a boosted whole home WiFi guarantee, plus an upgraded router and a range of other unique service extras (extra security and better parental control options). The 3 Max pods and Wi-Fi booster devices can be used all around the home and should get the largest of households covered, even lofts and basements. Free engineer visits if needed are also included.
Wi-Fi 6 is fairly new and not all devices need it. But, anyone with Sky Stream or Sky Glass – both on Wi-Fi 6 – will really benefit from this router. You'll experience the best viewing resolution of any 4K content with the fastest speeds.
What could be better
There's no denying that it's a brilliant piece of kit and with the whole home Wi-Fi guarantee, it's a winner. The price of £4 a month is also good value, especially when compared to the £11 a month that it was previously advertised at. The only drawback we can really find fault with is its lack of flexibility. There's no option to cancel this add-on, even if you're not happy with the service. If you take this upgrade, you've got it for a minimum of 24-months with no exit available.
Do you have an older Sky router?
If you’re an existing Sky customer you might already have the: Sky Hub and the Sky Q Hub. Or maybe you’re not sure what type of Sky router you have. There’s a which hub do you have? page with Sky that might be useful to check, especially if you have any type of problem.
Anyone interested in a router upgrade should speak directly to Sky customer service.
**Like the sound of the Sky Broadband Hub and Sky WiFi Max? Find the best Sky broadband deal today >>**
