New NBN satellite internet plans: How to get better speeds + uncapped data
NBN Co launches its Sky Muster Plus Premium plan for 400,000 homes and small businesses across rural and regional Australia.
The new NBN Sky Muster Plus premium plan is hoping to give satellite internet users in Australia more freedom with their online activities.
Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Get 100% unmetered data for all internet activities, meaning you won't need to worry about managing data allowances. Though fair use and shaping policies (when speeds are reduced) will apply.
- From time to time you may be able to access faster burst of speeds up to 100Mbps on the 25/5Mbps plan if network capacity allows.
- The big change from existing Sky Muster plans is that download caps don't apply to streaming video services during peak periods.
The official launch comes on the back of a trial the NBN Co conducted between February and May 2023.
It involved over 10,700 participants to help assess the network's ability to handle offering faster speeds and uncapped data.
"The NBN Sky Muster satellite service is a vital part of the NBN network and connects remote parts of our country," said Gavin Williams, NBN Co's chief development officer for regional and remote.
"This new plan will help more people thrive in the digital age like never before. Not having to worry about a monthly data allowance offers more flexibility in how and when people use their internet, and more time to do the things that matter most."
How much will the Sky Muster Plus Premium plan cost?
So far, Southern Phone, SkyMesh and active8me are the only providers we've seen that have started offering the premium plan.
Southern Phone
Southern Phone's premium plan will cost you $99 a month. You can BYO modem or buy one for $78. There's no lock-in contract.
SkyMesh
SkyMesh is offering the first month free and then $99.95 per month ongoing for unlimited data and no lock in contract.
You can BYO modem or buy one for $199.95.
Active8me
You can get its premium plan for $94 a month for the first 3 months, then $99 a month ongoing. There's again no lock-in contract and you can BYO modem. Buying one will cost anywhere between $84.95 to $164.95 depending on the model.
How does Sky Muster Plus Premium compare to Starlink?
Starlink offers unlimited data and speeds between 100Mbps and 200Mbps.
Right from the bat this is far more promising than the new Sky Muster Plus premium plan, which will offer up to 100Mbps from 'time to time'.
However, Starlink is a lot more expensive in comparison as your setup costs add up to be $1,000 plus. Plus your monthly pricing is $139, which is also on the pricier side.
The good news is Starlink is currently offering its hardware for just $199 instead of the usual $924 for some areas. For the rest, the discounted price is $599.
You can just pop in your address on its website to see which price you're able to get.
Read our full guide to Starlink to see if it's right for you, or compare other satellite internet plans available.