Cheapest gas and electric tariff in the UK (how to find it)
The “cheapest” tariff depends on your postcode, meter type, payment method and usage. Compare whole-of-market prices and see what’s likely to be best for your home.
- UK-focused guidance for credit, prepayment and smart meters
- Clear costs: unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and discounts
- Practical examples with realistic assumptions and estimated totals
Estimates only. Prices vary by region, supplier and eligibility. Always check tariff details before switching.
Fast answer: what’s the cheapest gas and electric tariff?
In the UK, there isn’t one single cheapest tariff for everyone. The lowest-cost option for your home is the tariff with the best combination of:
Unit rates
The price per kWh for electricity and gas. Often the biggest driver of cost for higher-usage homes.
Standing charges
Daily fixed charges for each fuel. These can outweigh unit-rate savings for low-usage homes.
Tariff terms
Exit fees, fixed end dates, payment method, eligibility (e.g., online-only), and meter compatibility.
Key takeaway: “Cheapest” is best judged by estimated annual cost for your exact details (postcode + usage + meter + payment method), not by a headline unit rate alone.
Quick ways to spot the likely cheapest option
- Low usage? Prioritise low standing charges (even if unit rates are slightly higher).
- High usage? Prioritise unit rates (standing charge matters less proportionally).
- Prepayment meter? Compare prepay-specific prices and check top-up method and emergency credit.
- Smart meter? Consider time-of-use only if you can shift usage (e.g., EV charging overnight).
What to have ready (takes 2 minutes)
- Postcode and whether you rent or own (some tariffs have eligibility checks).
- Payment method: Direct Debit, cash/cheque, or prepayment.
- Meter type: standard, smart, Economy 7, or prepayment.
- Annual usage (kWh) or a recent bill (we can estimate if you don’t know).
Compare gas and electricity prices (whole of market)
Use the form to get an estimated quote based on your postcode, meter and usage. We’ll show tariffs you may be eligible for, including key terms like exit fees and whether prices are fixed or variable.
Good to know: UK energy prices vary by region (your postcode affects distribution costs), meter type and payment method. Two homes next door can still see different “cheapest” tariffs if usage or meter setup differs.
Tariff types: what “cheapest” often looks like
Fixed tariff
Unit rates and standing charges are set for the contract term (commonly 12 months). May include exit fees. Often suits budgeting.
Variable tariff
Prices can change (often with notice). Usually no exit fees. Can be best if you want flexibility, but it’s harder to predict costs.
Time-of-use (e.g., Economy 7 or smart tariffs)
Cheaper rates at certain times (often overnight). Can be cheapest only if you can shift usage to off-peak (storage heaters, EV charging).
Prepayment
Pay-as-you-go top-ups. Not all tariffs support prepay meters. Check standing charge and any in-home display/app features.
Two realistic cost scenarios (with assumptions)
These examples show why the cheapest tariff can differ depending on how much energy you use. Figures are illustrative (not live market prices) to help you understand the trade-offs.
Scenario A: low-usage flat (single occupant)
- Assumptions
- Electricity 1,800 kWh/yr, gas 6,000 kWh/yr; single-rate meter; Direct Debit.
- Tariff 1 (lower unit, higher standing)
- Elec 26p/kWh + 60p/day; Gas 7p/kWh + 35p/day → estimated £974/yr
- Tariff 2 (slightly higher unit, lower standing)
- Elec 28p/kWh + 45p/day; Gas 7.5p/kWh + 25p/day → estimated £933/yr
Even with higher unit rates, Tariff 2 can be cheaper because standing charges are paid every day regardless of usage.
Scenario B: family house (higher usage)
- Assumptions
- Electricity 3,600 kWh/yr, gas 14,500 kWh/yr; single-rate meter; Direct Debit.
- Tariff 1 (lower unit, higher standing)
- Elec 26p/kWh + 60p/day; Gas 7p/kWh + 35p/day → estimated £1,984/yr
- Tariff 2 (higher unit, lower standing)
- Elec 28p/kWh + 45p/day; Gas 7.5p/kWh + 25p/day → estimated £2,008/yr
For higher usage, cheaper unit rates can outweigh higher standing charges.
Important: The “estimated annual cost” you see in comparisons is only as accurate as the usage figure. If your usage is unknown, we can estimate from property type and occupancy, but your actual bills may differ.
Get your quote
Tell us a few details and we’ll match you with tariffs for your area. If you’re unsure about your usage, you can still start with an estimate.
What happens next?
- We confirm your meter setup and payment method (where needed).
- We show eligible tariffs for your postcode with estimated annual costs.
- If you choose to switch, you’ll be guided through the key terms (including any exit fees).
Comparison table: which tariff is usually cheapest for which home?
This table doesn’t replace a postcode-based quote, but it helps you quickly shortlist the right type of tariff for your situation.
| Tariff type | Often suits | Watch outs | What to check before choosing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Budgeters; households wanting price certainty for a set term | Exit fees; auto-rollover to higher rates at end of term | Exit fee amount; end date; what happens when it ends; Direct Debit vs other payment pricing |
| Variable | Renters; anyone wanting flexibility; people likely to move soon | Rates can increase; harder to plan ahead | How price changes are communicated; whether discounts are time-limited; standing charges |
| Economy 7 / time-of-use | Homes with storage heaters; EV owners who can charge overnight | Day rate can be higher; can be costly if most use happens daytime | Exact off-peak hours; whether your meter is set up correctly; % of usage you can shift |
| Prepayment | Households needing pay-as-you-go control | Tariff availability; top-up convenience; emergency credit rules | Standing charge; friendly credit/emergency credit; whether smart prepay is supported |
Decision checklist (quick and practical)
- Confirm your meter: single rate, Economy 7, smart, or prepay.
- Match payment method: Direct Debit tariffs can price differently from pay-on-receipt.
- Compare both fuels together: dual fuel isn’t always cheapest, but can be.
- Check the standing charge first if your usage is low or you’re out a lot.
- Look for exit fees if you might move or want flexibility.
- Confirm discounts: any rewards/credits can be time-limited or conditional.
Who this guide is for (and who it isn’t)
It’s for you if…
- You want the cheapest estimated annual cost for your home.
- You’re unsure whether fixed or variable is better right now.
- You have a smart meter, Economy 7 or prepayment meter and need compatible options.
This page won’t help if…
- You need business energy tariffs (this is for homes only).
- Your supply is complex (e.g., multiple meters) and you need bespoke billing advice.
- You’re looking for a guarantee of savings (no one can promise that).
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)
When people search for the cheapest tariff, the “gotchas” are usually in the details below. Checking them takes minutes and can prevent a costly mistake.
1) Standing charges can dwarf “cheap” unit rates
If you’re a low user (small flat, away often, efficient home), a tariff with lower standing charges can be cheaper overall even if the unit rate is higher.
2) Direct Debit vs pay-on-receipt pricing
Many suppliers price lower for Direct Debit. If you prefer paying on receipt, make sure you compare like-for-like, or your quote may look cheaper than your bills.
3) Exit fees on fixes
Fixed tariffs may charge an exit fee per fuel if you leave before the end date. This matters if you might move home or expect to switch again soon.
4) Economy 7/time-of-use can backfire
If most of your electricity use happens in the day, the higher day rate can outweigh overnight savings. Check your usage pattern before switching to a time-of-use tariff.
5) Prepayment meter restrictions
Not all suppliers support all prepayment meter setups. If you’re on prepay, confirm tariff availability and top-up methods before starting a switch.
6) Dual fuel isn’t always cheapest
Having gas and electricity with the same supplier can be convenient, but splitting can sometimes reduce your total cost. Compare both options.
A quick “bill accuracy” check before you switch
- Read your meter (or check your smart meter reading) and ensure your current supplier has the latest.
- Confirm your usage unit: gas is billed in kWh, but meters can show m³/ft³ which is converted.
- If you’re moving, focus on a good default/variable deal; switching mid-move can be inconvenient.
FAQs: cheapest gas and electric tariffs (UK)
Is the cheapest tariff always a fixed deal?
Not always. Fixed tariffs can be cheaper (and more predictable), but variable tariffs may be competitive and usually offer more flexibility. The cheapest option depends on your postcode, usage and current market pricing.
Why does my friend have a cheaper tariff than me?
Prices vary by UK region (distribution charges differ), meter type (single-rate vs Economy 7 vs prepay), payment method and usage. Even small differences can change which tariff is cheapest overall.
What matters more: unit rate or standing charge?
It depends on how much you use. Low users are often more sensitive to standing charges because you pay them every day. Higher users usually benefit most from lower unit rates. Comparing estimated annual cost is the most reliable way to judge “cheapest”.
Can I switch if I rent?
In most cases, yes. If you pay the energy bills, you can usually choose the supplier. If your energy is included in rent or you’re on a landlord arrangement, you may not be able to switch—check your tenancy agreement.
How long does a UK energy switch take?
A straightforward switch is typically completed within days, but timings can vary if there are meter issues, address mismatches or prepayment meter restrictions. Your supply won’t be interrupted during a normal switch.
Will I pay exit fees if I leave my current supplier?
Only if your current tariff includes exit fees and you leave within the contract term. Your bill or online account usually shows this. If you’re not sure, check before agreeing to a new fixed deal.
Can I get the cheapest tariff with a prepayment meter?
You can still compare and switch, but options may be more limited and pricing can differ from credit meters. If you’re able and eligible to move from prepay to credit, that can open up more tariffs—your supplier will confirm requirements.
Do green tariffs cost more?
Not necessarily. Some renewable electricity tariffs are priced competitively, but it varies by supplier and tariff structure. Always compare estimated annual cost and check the tariff’s terms and any certification details.
How we assess the “cheapest” tariff (methodology you can trust)
Our approach
- Primary metric: estimated annual cost based on your usage (kWh), including standing charges.
- Like-for-like comparisons: we compare tariffs by meter type and payment method (e.g., Direct Debit vs prepay).
- Terms surfaced clearly: fixed/variable status, contract length, exit fees (where applicable), and eligibility notes.
- User-first filters: we prioritise showing tariffs you can realistically take (based on the info you provide).
Assumptions & limitations
- Estimates depend on usage: if your kWh usage is estimated, your bill may differ.
- Regional pricing varies: network charges and tariffs differ across Great Britain regions.
- Eligibility matters: some tariffs are online-only, require Direct Debit, or need a compatible smart meter.
- Market changes: suppliers can update tariffs; always confirm final prices and terms before switching.
Editorial trust signals
- Written by:
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by:
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated:
- May 2026
Sources (UK)
- Ofgem (the UK energy regulator) — consumer guidance and rules
- Citizens Advice: energy — switching help and consumer rights
- GOV.UK: energy — official information and support schemes
Ready to find your cheapest gas and electric tariff?
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