A single-marker blood test for herpes simplex type 1, giving a same-day result, for anyone who wants to check for this type specifically.
1 biomarker as listed by Better2Know.
This test checks for herpes simplex type 1 only, using a blood sample. It sits in a small comparison group of Better2Know's own herpes-related tests, alongside its Herpes Type 2 test at the same £185 and its Human Herpes Virus Type 8 test at £245.
Priced at £185, it sits exactly at the median for its comparison group, so it is neither a premium nor a bargain option within that narrow set. Because the only peers recorded are also Better2Know products, we cannot say how this compares with rival providers' herpes tests.
Clinical depth and value for money both score reasonably here, reflecting that a single marker suits a test built around one specific virus, and the price sits level with its closest comparison. Clarity is strong given the detailed listing. Results and follow-up score lower because a doctor does not review the result as standard. It's worth noting Better2Know is CQC registered with a 4.2 Trustpilot score from 775 reviews, and has been trading for 18+ years.
This suits someone who specifically wants to check for herpes simplex type 1 rather than type 2 or both. If you want both types covered, Better2Know's combined Herpes Simplex 1 and 2 Screen costs £195, only £10 more than this single-type test; if you are unsure which type is relevant, that combined screen may be better value.
A small blood sample, usually taken by finger prick, is applied to a test cassette. Better2Know states results are available from around 15 minutes after the sample is taken, and you receive a signed results report on the day. A reactive result means antibodies to herpes simplex type 1 have been detected; the provider does not describe this as a standard doctor-reviewed result.
Herpes simplex type 1 alone is what this test measures, from a blood sample, with a result given at the clinic the same day. At £185 it is priced exactly at the median for its herpes test comparison group, level with Better2Know's own Herpes Type 2 test and cheaper than its Human Herpes Virus Type 8 test at £245. The main limitation is that it only covers one herpes type, not both.
The listing publishes a detailed description, the full biomarker list, a stated turnaround, clear collection options, the sample type; it does not state what the report looks like.
A single-marker test measuring exactly what it sets out to; depth is not the point of this comparison group.
Requires a visit to a clinic; results in around 0 days, well ahead of the sexual health norm of 2.
Results are not doctor-reviewed and no consultation is included; the provider does not describe the report format.
Trustpilot 4.2 from 775 reviews; CQC registered; trading 18+ years.
£185.00 against a comparison-group median of £185.00 (-0%).
Calculated 13 September 2026 from the facts we hold about this test and provider, using our published scoring formula. Scores are not hand-edited.
This test belongs to our Herpes test comparison group. See how it stacks up against equivalent tests from other providers.
Herpes type 2 alone, priced level with its closest peers
A single-marker blood test for herpes simplex type 2, giving a same-day result, for anyone who wants to check for this type specifically.
HHV-8 test: pricier and slower than herpes 1/2 tests
A blood test for antibodies to HHV-8, a herpesvirus linked to Kaposi's sarcoma, mainly relevant for immunocompromised people or those with unexplained skin lesions.
Herpes type 2 alone, priced level with its closest peers
A single-marker blood test for herpes simplex type 2, giving a same-day result, for anyone who wants to check for this type specifically.
HHV-8 test: pricier and slower than herpes 1/2 tests
A blood test for antibodies to HHV-8, a herpesvirus linked to Kaposi's sarcoma, mainly relevant for immunocompromised people or those with unexplained skin lesions.
