Boost Mobile gets access to Telstra 5G, but is it worth ditching big T for?
It turns out you don't have to wait until July to get Telstra 5G from another provider.
Boost Mobile has taken the leap to become the first Telstra mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) to launch a 5G plan, getting a head start to its competitors.
MVNOs are smaller phone providers such as Boost, Woolworths Mobile and Belong that use Telstra's network but often sell its plans at lower prices.
None of the providers were predicted to take up Telstra 5G before July but Boost has cut through the tape already.
You can now get 5G access on Boost's $70 plan where you get 100GB of data on your first 3 recharges, then 65GB after.
Is Boost's 5G plan worth signing up to?
The short answer is no.
Boost's one and only 5G plan is quite expensive and costs $70. You'll get 100GB of data on the first 3 recharges and then it reverts to 65GB after.
On the flip side, Telstra's cheapest 5G mobile plan costs $65. You get 80GB of endless data, which means you won't get charged for going over your monthly data limit.
Overall, Telstra's own plan is a cheaper entry into its 5G network compared to Boost. In the long run, you get more data with Telstra than Boost as well since its bonus data runs out from your fourth month.
If a 5G plan sounds like it will hurt your hip pocket, Boost's 4G plans offer great bang for your buck and are cheaper than Telstra's. We're a sucker for its $30 plan, with 40GB of data for your first 3 recharges.
- Keep in mind. Telstra's 5G network currently reaches over 75% of the Aussie population. Before signing up to a plan, check Telstra's website to make sure your area is covered by 5G. You will also need a 5G-capable handset to use the 5G network.
Why is Boost's 5G mobile plan expensive compared to Telstra?
5G is still a premium proposition and it's difficult for MVNOs to undercut their parent network on price alone.
At this stage, we don't think Boost is invested in promoting its 5G plan.
It's there and you can take it up if you like, or you can save money and go with its cheaper 4G plans instead. We like Boost's 4G plans because:
- Boost is the only MVNO to offers its customers full Telstra 4G coverage, which is especially great for people who live in or travel to rural and regional Australia.
- Its 4G mobile plans are cheaper than Telstra's.
- You can recharge, check your data usage and contact customer service through its app.
- You can get access to extra features such as data rollover, plus international calls and texts to selected countries.
Just keep in mind that:
- There are no in-person stores in case you prefer face-to-face customer support.
- Bonus data on its plans only last for the first few recharges.
The bottom line
If you really want 5G right now, Telstra is a good option. But if you'd like to stick to a budget, then 4G is your best bet, whether that's with Boost or another provider.
Find more providers with mobile plans on the Telstra network to get access to its wide coverage for cheaper.
