We’ve compared 298 mobile phone plans from 46 providers in Australia and curated our top 5 picks based on price, network and expert analysis. Not every mobile plan will suit your needs, so be sure to weigh your options before picking the one that’s right for you.
Our top picks were reviewed by senior utilities editor Mariam Gabaji.
Telstra, Optus and Vodafone allow you to pay for your phone in monthly instalments over 12, 24 or 36 months.
However, it’s difficult to pick a single top iPhone, Samsung or Google Pixel plan since budgets and priorities vary.
Instead, you can compare phone plans from the major brands for every model, not just the newest and use the filters to find the best deal for you.
The best mobile plan for you will depend on your personal preferences. Here are some of the things to consider to help get you started:
While there are dozens of mobile plan retailers, there are just 3 network operators. In order of coverage, they are Telstra (99.7%), Optus (98.5%) and TPG/Vodafone (98.4%).
You can check coverage in your area online before you sign up because even in metropolitan areas, there may be coverage gaps.
The average Australian uses 12.8GB a month according to the ACCC's Internet Activity Report.
You can use our mobile data usage calculator to get an estimate of how much data you use, but it's also a good idea to check your latest bill.
Knowing how much data you need will stop you from overpaying on your mobile plan.
When choosing our top picks, we considered a broad range of features that are useful to have, including data rollover, Wi-Fi calling and international calls and texts.
That being said, you may just be happy with a regular plan with national calls and texts and data. If that sounds like you, don't be fooled by fancy extras and stick to a simpler plan for cheaper instead.
Buying outright will always be cheaper in the long run as you won't be tied to the major telcos and their premium prices.
However, phone repayment plans can work out better if you don't want to pay a hefty amount upfront.
If you do end up getting a new phone on a plan, you'll need to decide which repayment period works best. You can typically choose between 12-, 24- and 36-months.
You can read our guide to buying outright vs on a plan for more tips.
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Hi Roy,
Thanks for getting in touch! It’s helpful to know that when choosing a mobile plan, it should be one that fits your monthly budget and lifestyle. Hope this was helpful. Don’t hesitate to message us back if you have more questions.
Best,
Nikki
Hi,
I would like to know which MVNO using full strength 4G network for voice and data. I heard that Boost is using Telstra’s full network and Virgin is using Optus. Is there any other MVNO using full strength network for both voice and data ??
Cheers!
Samy
Hi Samy,
Thanks for getting in touch with Finder.
The network strength depends on different factors such as time and place. However, in terms of network coverage, the service an MVNO offers shouldn’t differ in any way at all from the service that you’d get from the underlying network provider at the same location. That makes sense because it’s the exact same network infrastructure. If there’s an outage or a reception problem with an MVNO, it’s a question of the underlying carrier’s network, not the MVNO.
We also have a list of MVNOs along with the networks they use. Please check and see if it answers your question.
I hope this helps. Should you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out again.
Have a wonderful day!
Cheers,
Joshua
I need a new mobile phone (keeping my existing mobile number) + prepaid monthly plan to receive incoming calls from work and reply back fast and easy … as my job based on how fast I receive the messages from work and can take the shift … so coverage is important … between Caboolture, the Sunshine Coast and Bribie Island . Best/lowest price deals with fast and safe/reliable network even in rain/storm? Any suggestions? Thanks*
Hi Zita,
Thanks for your inquiry.
In terms of speed, calls, and messaging, all Australian telcos are largely using 3G networks. So we couldn’t single out who’s fast and who’s not. You may compare your phone plan using our comparison table and search filters to help narrow down your options. Please see the image below:
Once you have chosen a particular plan, you may then click on the “Go to site” button and you will be redirected to the provider’s website where you can proceed with your application or get in touch with their representatives for further assistance.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
May