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.
Why do some plans have download speeds of NBN 12 and others NBN 100? Is NBN 100 the fastest speed available?
Hi Val,
Thank you for your enquiry.
NBN connection has been categorized into 5 NBN speed tiers with downloads ranging from 12 Mbps to 100 Mbps. NBN tier 1 offers speeds of up to 12 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload while NBN tier 5 offers speeds of up to 100 Mbps download and 40 Mbps upload. Compared to the other NBN tier, NBN tier 5 offers the fastest connection speed.
I hope this helps.
Kind regards,
Jason
I currently use ADSL and it adequately meets my present and likely future needs which are quite modest.
Do I really need to update to NBN or will ADSL continue to be available for the next few years?
Hi Peter,
Thank you for your enquiry.
It would be advisable to migrate to an NBN connection if your Internet service provider (ISP) informed you that you should. The current copper wires that your ADSL is using will eventually be discontinued and will be phased out once your ISP switches to the NBN connection. Most ISPs will migrate you to an NBN plan free of charge if your location is NBN ready.
If you wish to learn more, please read more about NBN through our website.
Cheers,
Jason
I’m just wondering what is the best internet connection in Kootingal NSW 2352. We don’t have NBN yet.
What is involved in getting the fibre optic connection?
Thanks.
Hi Wendy,
Thank you for your inquiry.
The best Internet connection would depend on the tasks that you frequently do online. Generally, the faster the transfer rate or the speed of the Internet connection, the better, but it may come with a much expensive monthly rate or plan. Getting a Fibre optic connection may also depend on the network coverage and the communication delivery of an Internet service provider. You’ll more likely be connected to a Fibre optic network if your preferred ISP has Fibre optic cables in your location or building.
Please use our comparison page for broadband plans to find the best plan and service provider that fits your needs. You can modify the search option by clicking “Filter results” and modify the filters according to your needs. You may filter cable/Fibre connection only if you want that type of connection.
Cheers,
Jason
We are about to purchase a house in Kalbar Queensland and were told that the NBN there with be wireless, is this true?
Hi Rachel,
Thanks for your question.
If you want to know the type of NBN technology used in a particular location, you can search the address in our NBN tracker.
Once you get a result, just select the ‘More Info’ button to check the details of the NBN connection in that area.
Cheers,
Anndy
will it be cheaper for those on the age pension?
I have only a basic homeline connection. Ie. local,national and international calls provided for. I am a pensioner and cannot afford more than the$29.90 I am paying at moment. The Broadband plans are all way too much for me.
In checking out some of providers in my area of Katoomba NSW 2780 none of them provide this service in their plans. All quote only for broadband bundles. How can I maintain the simple service I have had for many years. Caroline
Hi Caroline!
It’s possible that there are other options available in the market that match your preferences. You’re right to check with the providers directly in confirming this. It’s best to speak with your present provider and inform them of your situation to see what they can do for you.
Also, you may find an alternative or useful information by checking our guide on mobile plans for seniors.
I hope this helps.
Cheers!
Maria
Hi Russ,
Though there’s no pensioner discount, there providers like nbnsp who offer cheap pay as you go plans for pensioners.
Cheers,
Brodie