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Data SIMs are super convenient – stick one into your iPad or tablet and you can hop online in all the same places your mobile phone can get a signal. With this easy, portable data solution you won't have to fuss too much about your work, gaming or streaming needs on the go. Take a look at all the plans below to find the best one for your usage.
Sort through the tables below and adjust the filters to set price, data amount, and more, depending on what kind of data SIM you're after.
Data SIMs are a fast and easy to use type of mobile broadband. Pop one into your tablet and you'll gain access to the Internet via the same mobile network your phone uses. Anywhere your phone gets a signal, your data only SIM will work too.
The only difference with a data SIM and your regular mobile plan is that you won't be able to send texts or make calls, although you can still communicate with apps like Skype, WhatsApp or Viber.
Getting a separate data only SIM can have a lot of advantages, including:
Not all plans are the same, so you should think about a few things when deciding on one.
Data SIMs can be slotted into a surprisingly wide range of devices, including:
Yes, you can insert it the same way as any mobile SIM card. This will allow you to use the Internet, but it won't let you send or receive calls and texts. With a data SIM inserted, you can use your smartphone as a mobile hotspot, or keep in touch using data-driven apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime.
Yes, you can also reverse the above situation. In Australia, most modern tablets, such as most newer iPad models, will still be able to function with a mobile SIM inserted, the same way as a mobile phone. You'll be able to use data, send texts and make phone calls. Some plans or providers may have restrictions on what devices you can use their mobile SIMs in, so check the terms and conditions.
Unfortunately, there are no full speed unlimited data SIMs currently available in Australia. The closest thing you can get to unlimited data SIMs are with Telstra. These plans don't charge for excess data usage so it will allow you to keep browsing and using data on your plan even after hitting the limit.
The catch is that your download speed will be slowed down to a mere 1.5Mbps, which is significantly slower than full speed. So while you don't get charged for going over, you should also expect a limitation on what you can do with this speed.
Here are the plans that you can get with Telstra with no excess data charges:
Sam Baran is a writer for Finder, covering topics across the tech, telco and utilities sectors. They enjoy decrypting technical jargon and helping people compare complex products easily. When they aren't writing, you'll find Sam's head buried in a book or working on their latest short story. Sam has a Bachelor of Advanced Science from the University of Sydney.
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