BT Smart Hub 3 Router

BT Smart Hub 3 is BT’s latest home broadband router, introduced in May 2026. It replaces the Smart Hub 2 and brings Wi-Fi 6, faster wireless performance and improved security.

The biggest difference is Wi-Fi technology. Smart Hub 2 uses Wi-Fi 5, while Smart Hub 3 supports Wi-Fi 6. This allows compatible phones, laptops and other devices to achieve higher wireless speeds. It also handles multiple connected devices more efficiently, particularly when several people are using the internet at once.

Both routers have seven internal antennas, dual-band Wi-Fi and four Gigabit Ethernet ports. However, Smart Hub 3 adds a 2.5Gbps WAN port, WPA3 security and built-in Hub Threat Protect.

BT Smart Hub 3 specifications

BT Smart Hub 3 features

Wi-Fi 6

Smart Hub 3 uses Wi-Fi 6 to provide faster wireless connections and better performance when multiple devices are active. It is great for homes with several smartphones, laptops, smart TVs and gaming consoles. Actual Wi-Fi speeds depend on your broadband plan, device and distance from the router.

Four Gigabit Ethernet ports

There are four 1Gbps Ethernet ports for connecting gaming PCs, consoles, televisions and other wired devices. The router also has a separate 2.5Gbps WAN port to connect to the Openreach full fibre modem. However, the individual Ethernet ports are limited to 1Gbps.

Advanced security

WPA3 provides stronger Wi-Fi security than the WPA2 standard used by Smart Hub 2. BT also includes Hub Threat Protect, which can block suspicious connections and harmful online activity across connected devices. You can view blocked threats and manage protection through the My BT app.

Complete Wi-Fi Plus

For larger homes, BT offers Complete Wi-Fi Plus as an optional extra. It uses Wi-Fi extenders to improve coverage in bedrooms, upstairs rooms and other areas with weak signals. BT can provide up to three extenders where needed.

Hybrid Connect

Smart Hub 3 supports BT Hybrid Connect, an optional broadband backup service. If your fixed broadband connection fails, Hybrid Connect automatically switches to the EE mobile network to help keep your devices online. Performance depends on the available mobile signal.

Digital Voice

The router has a dedicated phone port for BT Digital Voice. You can connect a compatible home telephone and make calls using your broadband connection without a traditional landline phone service.

Wi-Fi controls

The My BT app lets you manage connected devices, pause internet access and set screen-time controls. You can also access Hub Manager to change router settings, Wi-Fi passwords and other network options.

Which BT broadband plans get Smart Hub 3?

BT provides the Smart Hub 3 to new customers taking its Part Fibre and Full Fibre broadband plans.

The router is supplied with new orders regardless of the broadband speed you choose. Existing BT customers using Smart Hub 2 do not automatically receive Smart Hub 3. They can ask BT about upgrading their router.

BT Smart Hub 3 pros and cons

Pros

• Wi-Fi 6 provides faster wireless performance than Smart Hub 2 on compatible devices.
• Seven internal antennas and 4×4 MU-MIMO on the 5GHz band.
• Four Gigabit Ethernet ports and a 2.5Gbps WAN connection.
• WPA3 security and built-in Hub Threat Protect.
• Supports Complete Wi-Fi Plus, Digital Voice and Hybrid Connect.
• Included with new BT Part Fibre and Full Fibre broadband plans.

Cons

• No Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 support.
• No 6GHz Wi-Fi band.
• Ethernet LAN ports are limited to 1Gbps, with no 2.5Gbps LAN port.
• Complete Wi-Fi Plus and Hybrid Connect are optional extras.
• Existing Smart Hub 2 customers do not automatically receive a free replacement.
• Wi-Fi coverage may still be limited in large homes or properties with thick walls.

Smart Hub 3 vs Smart Hub 2