Virgin Media operates Ireland's only cable broadband network, offering the fastest residential speeds available—up to 2Gb. But they're not available everywhere, and prices double in year two.
Virgin Media at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage | ~50% of Ireland (urban/suburban) |
| Max Speed | 2Gb |
| Year 1 Price | From €35/month |
| Year 2 Price | From €70/month |
| Contract | 12 months |
| Network | Cable (DOCSIS 3.1) |
Virgin Media's Plans
| Plan | Speed | Year 1 | Year 2 | 2-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Superfast 250 | 250Mb | €35 | €55 | €1,080 |
| Superfast 500 | 500Mb | €35 | €70 | €1,260 |
| Gigabit 1000 | 1Gb | €40 | €80 | €1,440 |
| Gigabit 2000 | 2Gb | €55 | €95 | €1,800 |
Prices vary by promotion. Check current offers.
The Good
1. Fastest Speeds in Ireland
Virgin Media's 2Gb service is the fastest residential broadband available in Ireland. Even their entry-level 250Mb outperforms many competitors.
2. Consistent Performance
Cable broadband delivers more consistent speeds than fibre-to-cabinet (FTTC). You typically get close to advertised speeds.
3. No Landline Required
Unlike Eir and most Open Eir-based providers, Virgin doesn't require a phone line. Pure broadband-only is available.
4. Good TV Bundles
Virgin TV offers comprehensive packages with Sky Sports, cinema channels, and streaming apps. Bundles can offer good value.
5. WiFi Guarantee
Virgin offers a WiFi guarantee—if your WiFi doesn't perform, they'll fix it or refund you.
The Bad
1. Limited Coverage
Virgin's cable network covers about 50% of Ireland—mainly Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, and surrounding areas. Rural Ireland is excluded.
2. Price Doubles in Year Two
| Plan | Year 1 | Year 2 | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500Mb | €35 | €70 | +100% |
This is one of the steepest year-two jumps in the market.
3. Customer Service Issues
Virgin Media receives frequent complaints about customer service, billing errors, and long wait times. This is their weakest area.
4. CPI + 3.9% Annual Increases
Virgin applies the highest annual increase rate—CPI + 3.9%. Your bill rises more than other providers.
5. Not "True" Fibre
Virgin's network is fibre + coaxial cable (HFC), not fibre-to-home (FTTH). While fast, it's technically "part-fibre"—which is why they can't advertise it as "full fibre."
Who Should Choose Virgin Media?
Virgin Media makes sense if:
- You're in their coverage area
- You want the fastest possible speeds
- You'll bundle with TV
- Speed consistency matters more than price
Virgin Media doesn't make sense if:
- You're outside their coverage area
- You're price-sensitive
- Customer service quality matters
- You want the best value
Virgin Media vs Alternatives
| Provider | 500Mb Year 1 | Year 2 | 2-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Media | €35 | €70 | €1,260 |
| Pure Telecom | €35 | €50 | €1,020 |
| Vodafone | €25 to €40 | €40 | €870 |
| Eir | €29.99 | €75.99 | €1,272 |
Virgin is the most expensive over 2 years, tied with Eir.
Coverage Check
Check if Virgin Media serves your address:
- Visit virginmedia.ie
- Enter your eircode
- See available plans
If Virgin doesn't cover your address, your options are Eir-based providers (Sky, Pure Telecom, Vodafone) or wireless alternatives.
Speed Test Reality
Virgin typically delivers close to advertised speeds:
- 500Mb plan: Expect 450-500Mb
- 1Gb plan: Expect 900-1000Mb
This is better than many Eir-based connections where speeds vary more.
Verdict
Rating: 3.5/5
Virgin Media offers the fastest, most consistent speeds in Ireland—but at a premium price with poor customer service. If speed is your priority and you're in their coverage area, they deliver. For value, look elsewhere.
Choose Virgin if: You want maximum speed and are in their coverage area.
Avoid Virgin if: You're price-sensitive or customer service matters.
Last updated: January 2026