NBN Plan Comparison: Your Guide to Choosing the Best Broadband

Choosing the right NBN plan can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This guide simplifies the process of Nbn Plan Compare, helping you find a plan that perfectly fits your needs and budget. From understanding speed tiers to considering data allowances and contract lengths, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision and get the best internet service for your home.

Understanding NBN Speed Tiers: How Much Speed Do You Need?

The first step in your nbn plan compare journey is understanding speed tiers. NBN plans are categorized into different speed tiers, each offering varying download and upload speeds. The faster the speed, typically the higher the price. It’s crucial to choose a speed tier that aligns with your household’s internet usage.

There are six main NBN speed tiers available:

NBN 12 (Home Basic I): Offers a maximum download speed of 12Mbps and upload speed of 1Mbps. This tier is suitable for single individuals with very light internet usage, primarily for email and basic browsing.
NBN 25 (Home Basic II): Provides a maximum download speed of 25Mbps and upload speed of 10Mbps. Ideal for 1-2 people or light to moderate users. Good for browsing, emails, and standard definition streaming.
NBN 50 (Home Standard): With a maximum download speed of 50Mbps and upload speed of 20Mbps, this is a popular choice for 2-3 people or moderate to heavy users. It handles multiple HD video streams, working from home, and online gaming smoothly.
NBN 100 (Home Fast): Offering a maximum download speed of 100Mbps and upload speeds of either 20Mbps or 40Mbps (provider dependent), NBN 100 is recommended for households of 4+ people or heavy internet users. Perfect for 4K streaming, large file downloads, and multiple connected devices.
NBN 250 (Home Superfast): Provides a maximum download speed of 250Mbps and upload speed of 100Mbps. Suitable for 5+ people, large households with heavy internet demands, small businesses, and share houses requiring simultaneous 4K/8K streaming and large data transfers.
NBN 1000 (Home Ultrafast): The fastest tier, offering a maximum download speed of 1000Mbps and upload speed of 50Mbps. Best for small businesses or households with multiple power users. Often overkill for typical household use.

Consider your household size and internet activities when choosing a speed tier. For most families, NBN 50 or NBN 100 plans are the most popular and offer a good balance of speed and price.

Compare NBN 12 plans

Compare NBN 25 plans

Compare NBN 50 plans

Compare NBN 100 plans

Compare NBN 250 plans

Compare NBN 1000 plans

Price and Typical Evening Speeds: Key Factors in NBN Plan Compare

When you nbn plan compare, price and typical evening speeds are critical factors. While advertised maximum speeds sound impressive, typical evening speeds reflect the actual speeds you’re likely to experience during peak usage hours (7pm-11pm). These speeds are a more realistic indicator of plan performance.

Aim for a plan where the typical evening speed is close to the maximum speed of the chosen tier. For example, an NBN 50 plan should ideally offer typical evening speeds close to 50Mbps. Pay attention to the monthly price and ensure it aligns with the typical evening speeds offered. Cheaper plans might compromise on speed during busy hours.

Data Allowance: Unlimited is the Way to Go

Data allowance is another crucial aspect when you nbn plan compare. Fortunately, unlimited data NBN plans have become standard and are often only slightly more expensive than capped plans. The difference is usually just $5 to $10 per month.

Opting for an unlimited data plan provides peace of mind, especially for households with multiple users streaming, gaming, and downloading content. While some providers offer capped plans, exceeding the limit often results in drastically slowed speeds (down to 128Kbps), which is barely usable. Unlimited data avoids these frustrations and ensures consistent performance.

Contract Length: Flexibility vs. Incentives

Contract length is a significant consideration in your nbn plan compare process. NBN plans are generally offered on either month-to-month or contract basis.

Month-to-month plans offer flexibility. You are not locked into a long-term agreement and can switch providers easily if needed. This is ideal if you value freedom and want to test out different providers.

Contract plans typically require you to commit for a fixed period (e.g., 12 or 24 months). In return for this commitment, providers often offer incentives such as a free modem or discounted monthly rates. If you are confident you’ll be staying in your current location and are happy with a provider’s offering, a contract plan with incentives can be beneficial. Carefully evaluate the terms and conditions of contract plans, especially early termination fees.

Additional Features and Bundles: Adding Value to Your NBN Plan

Beyond speed, data, and contract, consider additional features when you nbn plan compare. Some providers offer bundled deals or extras that can add value to your plan. These can include:

NBN and Mobile Bundles: Combine your NBN plan with mobile phone services for potential discounts and simplified billing.
Internet and Energy Bundles: Some providers offer bundles combining internet with electricity or gas services.
Streaming Subscription Deals: Access discounted or bundled streaming subscriptions to platforms like Netflix or Stan.
Home Phone Line Options: Add a home phone line with call packs to your NBN plan if needed.

Evaluate if these additional features are relevant to your needs and if they genuinely offer savings compared to purchasing these services separately.

Which NBN Speed is Right for You? A Detailed Breakdown

Choosing the right NBN speed is paramount when you nbn plan compare. Your choice should depend on your household size and online activities. Here’s a more detailed breakdown to help you decide:

NBN 12 (Home Basic I)

Maximum Download Speed: 12Mbps
Maximum Upload Speed: 1Mbps
Best For: Single-person households with very light internet use.
Suitable Activities: Emailing, basic web browsing.

NBN 25 (Home Basic II)

Maximum Download Speed: 25Mbps
Maximum Upload Speed: 10Mbps
Best For: 1-2 people, light to moderate internet users.
Suitable Activities: Browsing, emailing, standard definition video streaming.

NBN 50 (Home Standard)

Maximum Download Speed: 50Mbps
Maximum Upload Speed: 20Mbps
Best For: 2-3 people, moderate to heavy internet users.
Suitable Activities: Streaming multiple HD videos, working from home, online gaming.

NBN 100 (Home Fast)

Maximum Download Speed: 100Mbps
Maximum Upload Speed: 20Mbps or 40Mbps (check with provider)
Best For: 4+ people, heavy internet users.
Suitable Activities: 4K video streaming, downloading large files, multiple devices connected simultaneously.

NBN 250 (Home Superfast)

Maximum Download Speed: 250Mbps
Maximum Upload Speed: 100Mbps
Best For: 5+ people, very heavy internet users, small businesses, share houses.
Suitable Activities: Simultaneous 4K and 8K streaming, very large file downloads, intensive online activities across many devices.

NBN 1000 (Home Ultrafast)

Maximum Download Speed: 1000Mbps
Maximum Upload Speed: 50Mbps
Best For: Small businesses, households with extreme internet demands.
Suitable Activities: Future-proofing for ultra-high bandwidth needs, professional content creators, very large data handling.

Good to know: NBN 50 is the most common plan in Australia, but NBN 100 is gaining popularity as prices become more competitive.

Switching NBN Plans: A Simple 3-Step Process

Switching NBN plans is generally straightforward. Here’s a simple 3-step guide:

Step 1: Compare Plans

Use online comparison tools to nbn plan compare based on your budget, speed requirements, and desired features. Utilize filters to narrow down your search and find plans tailored to your NBN connection type.

Step 2: Sign Up

Once you’ve chosen a new plan, sign up with your new provider. Select your desired activation date and order a modem if needed. The new provider usually manages the switchover process.

Step 3: Give Notice (Optional but Recommended)

While your new provider often handles the switch, it’s a good practice to inform your current provider of your intention to switch, especially if you are on a contract or have a notice period. Coordinate cancellation and activation dates to avoid overlapping bills.

Cheeky Tip: Before signing up with a new provider, contact your current provider and inform them you’re considering switching. They may offer a better deal to retain you.

Fastest and Most Reliable NBN Providers: Performance Matters

When you nbn plan compare, consider provider reliability and performance. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) publishes regular Broadband Performance reports that assess NBN provider reliability based on their ability to deliver advertised typical evening speeds.

Reliability is measured by how consistently providers achieve their advertised typical evening speeds. Ideally, you want a provider that consistently reaches close to 100% of their advertised speeds.

Fastest NBN Providers (based on ACCC reports):

Rank	Provider	Percentage of Max Download Speeds Achieved
1	Exetel	103%
2	Dodo and iPrimus	102.4%
3	Telstra	102.3%
4	Optus	101.8%
5	TPG	101.8%

Refer to the latest ACCC Broadband Performance report for the most up-to-date rankings when making your nbn plan compare decision.

Extra Fees and Modem Considerations: What to Watch Out For

Beyond the monthly plan cost, be aware of potential extra fees when you nbn plan compare:

Modem Fees: If you need a new modem, some providers charge an upfront fee.
New Development Charge: For properties never connected to NBN before, a one-time $300 new development charge may apply.
Account Fees: Some providers might have fees for non-direct debit payments or surcharges for certain credit card payments. Check the Critical Information Summary (CIS) for details.

Do You Need a New Modem?

Many providers allow you to BYO modem (Bring Your Own Modem), saving on upfront costs. However, ensure your modem is compatible with the new provider. If your modem is over 5 years old, consider upgrading as older modems can cause slower speeds.

Modem Options:

Buy Outright: Pay for a modem upfront and own it.
$0 Modem on Contract: Receive a free modem if you stay with the provider for a set contract period. Early termination may incur modem charges.
$0 Modem with Return: Get a modem for free but must return it in good condition upon leaving to avoid fees.

Some plans include advanced modems with features like Wi-Fi extenders or 4G backup.

NBN Connection Types: Understanding the Technology at Your Address

The NBN connection type at your address influences the NBN plans available to you. You can check your connection type using the NBN tracker map. Here’s a brief overview:

FTTP (Fibre to the Premises): Fibre optic cable directly to your home. Fastest and most reliable.
FTTN (Fibre to the Node): Fibre to a nearby node, then copper wiring to your home. Slower than FTTP.
HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial): Fibre to a node, then coaxial cable (like cable TV) to your home. Faster than FTTN.
FTTC (Fibre to the Curb): Fibre to a pit near your property, then copper wiring. Better than FTTN.
FTTB (Fibre to the Building): Fibre to the building’s basement, then copper wiring to apartments.
Fixed Wireless: Wireless signal from a tower to an antenna on your roof. Speeds can fluctuate.
Satellite NBN: For rural areas, using satellite technology. Slower speeds, higher latency.

NBN Fibre Upgrades: If you have FTTN or FTTC, you might be eligible for an FTTP upgrade, offering faster speeds. Check the NBN website for eligibility. Upgrading often requires signing up for an NBN 100 plan or faster.

Alternatives to NBN: Other Broadband Options

If NBN isn’t ideal for you, consider these alternatives when you nbn plan compare broadband options:

Home Wireless Broadband: Uses 4G or 5G mobile networks. No installation needed, but requires a provider-supplied modem. 5G home internet requires 5G coverage at your location.
Mobile Broadband: Wireless internet using 4G/5G networks. Options include data-only SIMs, USB modems, and portable Wi-Fi devices. Suitable for mobile users.

Frequently Asked Questions about NBN Plans

What is the NBN? Australia’s national broadband network, replacing older infrastructure.
Is the NBN still government-owned? Yes, with no current privatization plans. Focus is on full-fibre upgrades.
How much do NBN plans cost? Plans start from around $39 per month, with prices increasing for faster speeds. Cheapest plans are under $70/month.
How do I find my NBN connection type? Use Finder’s NBN tracker map.
How do I connect to the NBN? Compare plans, choose one, and sign up. Technician visit may be required depending on your connection type.
Are there setup fees? Usually free, except for a $300 new development fee. Extra fees might apply for complex installations.
What is the fastest NBN speed? NBN 1000, but availability depends on connection type (FTTP/HFC). Typical evening speeds up to 969Mbps.
Why is my NBN slow? Could be equipment, signal issues, network congestion. Consider upgrading speed tier or checking connection type limitations.
Will ADSL be cut off with NBN? Yes, once NBN is available, old fixed-line services are phased out. You need an NBN plan or alternative to stay connected.
Is NBN worthwhile? Yes, if you get a reliable connection with fast speeds. Depends on your location and connection type. Home wireless might be better for poor FTTN connections.
NBN vs 5G? NBN has wider availability, but 5G is growing. NBN can be more stable, but 5G offers potential for very high speeds where available. 5G modems are provider-specific.

Why Compare Broadband Internet with Finder?

Internet Addicts: We rigorously review NBN plans every month to provide up-to-date information.

Offer Obsessed: We compile hundreds of NBN plan options, saving you time and effort in your nbn plan compare process.

No Mark-ups: You get the same rates as going direct, often with exclusive deals through Finder.

NBN Glossary of Terms

Term	Definition
NBN	National Broadband Network
NBN Co	Organisation building and operating the NBN.
Typical evening speeds	Speeds during busy hours (7-11pm). Realistic speed indicator.
Speed tier	NBN speed categories with max download/upload speeds.
Download speed	Speed of receiving data from the internet (browsing, streaming).
Upload speed	Speed of sending data to the internet (video calls, file uploads).
Maximum speed	Fastest possible download speed on a speed tier.
Mbps	Megabits per second, unit of internet speed.
ISP	Internet Service Provider, your internet company.
BYO modem	Bring Your Own modem, use your existing compatible modem.
Month-to-month	No long-term contract, pay monthly, flexible to leave (notice periods may apply).
Minimum total cost	Minimum upfront cost, usually first month’s fee plus mandatory non-refundable fees.

By understanding these factors and using comparison resources, you can effectively nbn plan compare and select the best NBN plan to meet your internet needs and budget.

Written by

Mariam Gabaji

Utilities Editor & Tech Expert

Mariam Gabaji is a journalist with 13 years of experience, specializing in consumer topics like mobile services and energy costs. Her work appears in the ABC, Yahoo Finance, 9News, The Guardian, SBS, 7News, A Current Affair and Money Magazine. Mariam holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and was a finalist for the 2024 IT Journalism Award for Best Telecommunications Journalist. See full bio

Mariam’s expertise

Mariam has written 316 Finder guides across topics including: – Energy

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