The price gap between the cheapest and priciest broadband providers can top $600 a year, but with so many broadband plans and speed tiers out there, it can be hard to know which one's right for you, especially if all the jargon sounds confusing.
Hi, I'm Mariam, Finder’s tech and utilities expert, and I'm here to help you figure out how to compare internet plans and pick the one that works best for your home and won't break the bank.
Let's start with the basics. In Australia, there are a few main ways to get internet at home. Most people use the NBN, which is the National Broadband Network. That includes fixed line NBN, which most of us have, plus satellite and fixed wireless NBN, which are mainly used in regional and rural areas.
If you can't get NBN, you might have access to a private fibre network like those offered by TPG or GigaComm. Another option is home wireless or mobile broadband, which run on 4G or 5G mobile networks. What's actually available to you will depend on where you live. So, it's worth checking which options are available at your address before comparing. You can use the address tracker on Finder to see what plans you can get. If it's not NBN, we'll show you alternatives.
Once you know the type of connection you can get, the next step is to look at speed. For fixed line NBN, speeds are grouped into tiers like NBN 25, NBN 50, NBN 100 and higher. These help you work out what suits your household.
For example, NBN 25 can be fine for light users or smaller households, while NBN 100 is better for busier homes with three or four people online at once. Your address also determines the type of fixed line NBN connection you have, which will in turn affect what speeds you can get. Some connection types can't go beyond NBN 100, while fibre to the premises, for example, can reach the fastest speeds available all the way up to NBN 2000.
If you're not happy with your NBN connection or you just can't get access to it, home wireless broadband plans have become a really popular alternative, especially on the 5G network as it can hit speeds similar to some NBN plans. The main catch is that not every provider offers it yet and coverage still depends on where you live.
If you want something more portable or your internet needs are pretty light, you could go for a mobile broadband plan. It works similar to your phone plan minus the calls and texts.
Once you've decided on the type of plan, the next thing to look at is data and price. Most internet plans now come with unlimited data, which gives you peace of mind, but with mobile broadband or NBN satellite, data caps are more common. So, make sure your allowance actually fits how you use the internet.
And finally, price. Always, always look out for a deal. Most broadband providers have sign-up offers, think six or even 12-month discounts. Plus, most plans don't have lock-in contracts anymore, so it's easy to switch when a better deal comes along.
And remember to factor in modem costs, too. If you can't bring your own modem or don't already have a compatible one, you might need to get it from your provider. Some will even give you one for free if you stay connected for a certain period or return it after cancelling your plan.
And that's a wrap. Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of how to compare internet plans. Check out the link in the description to shop around for a deal or leave a comment if you have any questions. Bye.
I was looking at Optus NBN500 offer that has a bonus Visa reward ending 30th January. If I sign up now, but I select the start date for the plan as 9th February, will I still qualify for the Bonus Visa reward? I have looked at T’s and C’s but am not clear on it, as it mentions something about activating the service within 30 days of sign up?
Hi Peter, yes, you’ll still qualify for the reward as the start date of your plan is within the 30-day period. Hope this helps!
We don’t have NBN available to us. What networks would be available to us.
Hi Rose, a close alternative is 5G home internet – you can compare NBN alternatives in our guide: https://www.finder.com.au/broadband-plans/nbn/nbn-alternatives. Hope this helps!
We go overseas each year but still pay for our non broadband when away. Do non contract ( month to month ) plans allow a stop and start service or is more complicated than thst
Hi Babs,
You may be able to pause your internet service, but it depends on your provider and plan. Some providers offer a temporary hold on your account for extended travel, or you may be able to downgrade your plan to a cheaper/lower plan while you’re away. It’s best to contact the provider directly to inquire about your options.
How do you end a contact with Optus?
Hi Caroline, you can just give them a call and they’ll help you out! Hope this helps.
Hi Danish, We’re a review and comparison site, we don’t have customer service staff, we simply connect you with options for your household suppliers. Your best bet is to contact a retailer directly.
Best of luck!