Compare energy tariffs (UK): find the right deal for your home
Compare gas and electricity tariffs across the market, understand what you’re really paying for, and switch with confidence—based on your meter, payment method and region.
- See how fixed, variable and tracker tariffs compare (with UK-specific caveats)
- Check what matters most: unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and eligibility
- Get an estimated quote in minutes—no promises, just transparent numbers
Estimates are based on the details you provide and typical billing rules. Prices, availability and eligibility vary by supplier, region, meter type and payment method.
Fast answer: how to compare energy tariffs in the UK
To compare energy tariffs properly, focus on the total estimated annual cost for your home—based on your usage, region, meter type (credit, prepayment, smart/standard; single-rate vs Economy 7), and payment method (Direct Debit, cash/cheque, prepay). The cheapest unit rate isn’t always best if the standing charge is high (or vice versa).
1) Compare the right prices
Check unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day) for both gas and electricity, for your region and payment type.
2) Match the tariff to your risk
Fixed gives budget certainty; variable can change; tracker follows a published index/formula and can move up or down.
3) Check the “fine print”
Look for exit fees, discount conditions, smart meter requirements, and eligibility (e.g., new customers only).
Prefer to read first? Jump to how to compare tariffs step-by-step.
Get an estimated quote (whole-of-market approach)
Tell us a few details and we’ll show tariff options you may be eligible for, with an estimated annual cost. We’ll always flag key terms like exit fees and payment method.
What happens next
- We estimate costs using your details (or typical usage if you don’t know your kWh).
- You compare tariffs by total cost and key terms—not just headline rates.
- If you choose to switch, we guide you through what your supplier will do and what you may need to check.
You can also review the explanation below: How to compare tariffs.
Quick details form
We’ll use this to send your comparison results and help if you want to switch. Fields marked required are needed to proceed.
How to compare energy tariffs (step-by-step)
Step 1: Identify your meter setup
- Standard credit meter
- You pay by Direct Debit or on receipt of bill. Most tariffs are available here.
- Smart meter (credit or prepay)
- May unlock smart/time-of-use tariffs, but you can often still choose standard tariffs.
- Prepayment meter
- Fewer tariff options in some cases. Always check whether a tariff supports prepay and how top-ups work.
- Economy 7 / multi-rate electricity
- You’ll have separate day/night rates. A single-rate tariff may be better if your night use is low.
Step 2: Compare on total estimated cost
Your annual cost is usually:
+ (gas unit rate × annual gas kWh) + (gas standing charge × 365)
Rates can vary by region (distribution network area), payment method, and meter type. Always compare like-for-like.
Step 3: Check contract terms before switching
- Exit fees: common on fixed tariffs; may apply per fuel.
- Price changes: variable and tracker tariffs can move; fixed tariffs may still change in limited circumstances (see terms).
- Discount conditions: e.g., only if you pay by Direct Debit or manage online.
- Warm Home Discount / priority services: check eligibility with the supplier if you rely on these.
Two realistic examples (with numbers)
These examples show how standing charges, usage and tariff type can change the result. They are illustrative estimates, not a promise of savings. Rates vary by region and supplier.
Scenario A: Low-use flat (electric-only)
Assumptions: Electricity 1,800 kWh/year; single-rate; paying by monthly Direct Debit; no gas.
| Option | Rates used | Estimated annual |
|---|---|---|
| Lower unit rate, higher standing charge | 24p/kWh + 70p/day | (1,800×£0.24)=£432 + (365×£0.70)=£255.50 £687.50 |
| Higher unit rate, lower standing charge | 27p/kWh + 45p/day | (1,800×£0.27)=£486 + (365×£0.45)=£164.25 £650.25 |
Takeaway: for lower usage, a lower standing charge can matter more than a slightly lower unit rate.
Scenario B: Family home (gas + electricity)
Assumptions: Electricity 3,100 kWh/year; gas 12,000 kWh/year; paying by monthly Direct Debit; single-rate electricity.
| Tariff style | Rates used (elec / gas) | Estimated annual |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed 12 months | 25p/kWh + 55p/day 6.5p/kWh + 32p/day |
Elec: (3,100×£0.25)=£775 + (365×£0.55)=£200.75 Gas: (12,000×£0.065)=£780 + (365×£0.32)=£116.80 £1,872.55 |
| Variable (example) | 24p/kWh + 62p/day 6.9p/kWh + 30p/day |
Elec: £744 + £226.30 Gas: £828 + £109.50 £1,907.80 |
Takeaway: for higher usage, unit rates tend to drive more of the total—while standing charges still add up.
Tariff types compared (what they mean in the UK)
Suppliers use similar labels, but terms can differ. Always check the tariff information (including how and when prices can change).
| Tariff type | How prices move | Typical contract terms | Best for | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Unit rate and standing charge set for the term (subject to the tariff’s terms) | Often 12–24 months; exit fees are common | Budgeting, stability, renters with predictable usage | Exit fees; you may miss cheaper deals later |
| Variable | Supplier can change prices (with notice), often in line with wider market conditions | Usually no fixed end date; exit fees less common | Flexibility; people likely to switch again soon | Prices can rise; budgeting uncertainty |
| Tracker | Moves with a published index/formula (e.g., daily/weekly movement), per tariff terms | May have limits/caps or not; may have exit fees | Risk-tolerant households watching the market | Can increase quickly; understand the index and any caps |
| Time-of-use (smart) | Different rates at different times (e.g., off-peak cheaper) | Often requires a smart meter; terms vary | EV charging, shifting usage to off-peak | Peak rates can be high; not ideal if you can’t shift demand |
Decision checklist: who it suits (and who it doesn’t)
- Fixed may suit you if: you want predictable pricing; you’d rather avoid sudden changes; you’re happy to stay for the term.
- Fixed may not suit you if: you expect to move soon; you want maximum flexibility; exit fees would be a problem.
- Variable may suit you if: you want to switch again easily; you’re watching the market; you want fewer penalties.
- Tracker/time-of-use may suit you if: you understand how rates move and can tolerate change (or shift usage to off-peak).
What to confirm before you switch
- Your meter type and whether you have Economy 7/multi-rate.
- Your payment method (Direct Debit vs prepay) and eligibility.
- Any exit fee on your current tariff (per fuel).
- If you have a smart meter: whether the new tariff requires it to be operating in smart mode.
- If you’re in a complex setup (e.g., heat pumps, EV, solar export): whether a time-of-use tariff helps or hurts.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls
Energy comparisons go wrong for predictable reasons. Use these checks to avoid nasty surprises.
1) Standing charges can outweigh cheap unit rates
If you use less energy (small flat, away a lot), a higher standing charge can make a “cheap” tariff cost more overall. Compare estimated annual totals, not just p/kWh.
2) Economy 7/multi-rate needs the right comparison
If you have day/night rates, make sure you compare against tariffs that reflect your split. A single-rate tariff might look cheaper but cost more once your day usage is priced correctly.
3) Exit fees and contract end dates
Some fixed tariffs charge exit fees if you leave early. These may apply per fuel (gas and electricity). If you’re near the end of a fixed term, check whether exit fees still apply.
4) Direct Debit vs other payment methods
Some tariffs are only offered with monthly Direct Debit. If you prefer pay-on-receipt or have a prepayment meter, the available set of tariffs may be smaller—and unit rates/standing charges can differ.
5) Regional pricing differences
The UK has regional electricity and gas distribution areas. The same tariff name can have different rates depending on your postcode. Always compare using your address/postcode.
6) Smart/time-of-use tariffs: great for some, costly for others
Time-of-use tariffs can help if you shift demand (EV charging, overnight appliances). If most usage is at peak times, you could pay more. Check your routine before committing.
Compare energy tariffs: FAQs
What information do I need to compare tariffs accurately?
Best: annual kWh for gas and electricity (from a bill), your postcode, meter type (standard/smart/prepay; Economy 7 if relevant) and how you pay. Without kWh, you can still compare using typical usage, but it’s less precise.
Is it better to fix my energy tariff or stay on a variable?
It depends on your risk tolerance and how long you expect to stay. Fixed tariffs can help with budgeting but may include exit fees. Variable tariffs can change and are often more flexible. Compare total estimated cost and check terms.
Can I switch if I have a prepayment meter?
Often yes, but your tariff options may be more limited and some suppliers have additional checks. If you have debt on the meter, that can affect switching and repayment arrangements. Always confirm the tariff supports prepay.
Will my supply be interrupted if I switch?
In normal circumstances, no—your gas and electricity continue to flow. You’re changing the company that bills you. You may be asked to provide meter readings around the switch date for accurate final billing.
Why do tariffs show different prices for different postcodes?
Because standing charges and sometimes unit rates vary by regional distribution area. A tariff name can exist UK-wide but with different regional pricing. Always compare using your postcode for the closest estimate.
What are exit fees and when do they apply?
Exit fees are charges for leaving a tariff before the end of the fixed term. They may apply per fuel. Some tariffs have no exit fees. Always check your current tariff’s terms and your contract end date.
Do I need a smart meter to get the best tariff?
Not necessarily. Many competitive tariffs don’t require a smart meter. However, some time-of-use tariffs do. If you’re considering a smart tariff, check that the tariff works for your usage pattern.
How do I compare if I’m a tenant?
If you pay the energy bills, you can usually switch supplier. If bills are included in rent or you have a landlord-managed supply, you may not be able to. Also consider exit fees if you might move before the tariff ends.
Trust, methodology and sources
Page ownership
- Written by:
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by:
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated:
- March 2026
How we assess and present tariff comparisons
Our goal is to help UK households compare tariffs based on estimated total cost and practical suitability (meter type, payment method, contract terms). We avoid “headline-only” comparisons.
- Cost basis: unit rates (p/kWh) and standing charges (p/day) for gas and electricity, combined into an annual estimate using your kWh or a usage estimate.
- Eligibility checks: payment method (e.g., Direct Debit), meter type (credit vs prepay; single vs multi-rate), and any supplier-specific eligibility criteria where available.
- Terms review: exit fees, tariff length, and how prices can change (especially for variable/tracker/time-of-use).
- User-first presentation: we highlight where a tariff may not suit (e.g., high standing charge for low usage).
Limitations (important)
- Estimates depend on the accuracy of your usage and meter details.
- Tariff availability and prices can change; suppliers can withdraw products.
- Your first bill after switching may differ due to timing, readings and account balance transfers.
- If you have complex metering (e.g., multiple meters), results may need manual checking.
Independent UK sources we rely on
- Ofgem (Great Britain energy regulator) — regulation, consumer protections and market rules.
- Citizens Advice: energy advice — practical guidance on switching and resolving issues.
- GOV.UK — government information on energy support schemes and consumer guidance.
Ready to compare tariffs for your postcode?
Get an estimated cost based on your meter and payment type, then choose the tariff that fits your household—not just the lowest headline rate.
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