fbpx

Best Mobile Broadband Plans

The best mobile broadband plan for your needs is one which meets your data and speed requirements while fitting your budget.

Written by 
Savvy Editorial Team
Savvy's content writing team are professionals with a wide and diverse range of industry experience and topic knowledge. We write across a broad spectrum of finance-related topics to provide our readers with informative resources to help them learn more about a certain area or enable them to decide on which product is best for their needs with careful comparison. Meet the team behind the operation here. Visit our authors page to meet Savvy's expert writing team, committed to delivering informative and engaging content to help you make informed financial decisions.
Our authors
, updated on February 13th, 2024       

Fact checked

At Savvy, we are committed to providing accurate information. Our content undergoes a rigorous process of fact-checking before it is published. Learn more about our editorial policy.

Internet - Compare Broadband & NBN Plans

We’ve partnered with Econnex to bring you a range of internet plans to help you compare them.

Whether you're a traveller, student, remote worker or simply in need of reliable internet wherever you are, finding the best mobile broadband plan for your needs can help you access internet on the go for the right price.

Through Savvy, you can compare a range of internet plans available in your area from trusted Australian providers and filter by price, speed, connection type and more, so get started with a free, no-obligation quote through us today!

How do I find the best mobile broadband plan for my needs?

Finding the best mobile broadband plan for your needs involves considering several factors to help you secure the most suitable and cost-effective option. The variables to think about when searching for the right plan include:

  • Determine your usage: begin by assessing your data usage requirements. Are you a heavy user who often relies on a mobile connection to download large files or a light user who primarily checks emails and social media? Knowing your data needs will help you choose the right plan.
  • Network coverage: check the coverage of mobile broadband providers in the areas you’re likely to need your connection. The fastest and most reliable plan won't be of much use if the network coverage is poor where you’re travelling. Because of this, it’s important to look for providers with good coverage in your region.
  • Speed requirements: consider your speed requirements. If you need fast internet for activities like streaming or online gaming, you may look for a plan with higher download and upload speeds (such as 5G). Most providers offer 4G and 5G options, although 5G isn’t as widely available across Australia.
  • Data allowance: based on your usage, select a plan with an appropriate data allowance. Unlimited data plans are very rare, with most coming with caps of between 5GB or less and up to 400GB.
  • Prepaid or postpaid: it’s important to think about whether to go for a prepaid or postpaid plan. Prepaid plans generally come with more flexibility and without the risk of accruing an unexpectedly high bill, but postpaid plans tend to be less expensive.
  • Additional features: consider additional features like free hardware, international roaming capabilities and bundled services like entertainment packages, as these may add value to your plan.
  • Price comparison: compare the total cost of plans, including monthly fees, modem costs and any additional charges. Don't forget to factor in any promotions or discounts that might apply, as well as consider any price changes once an introductory period ends.

By carefully evaluating these factors and comparing mobile broadband plans, you can find the best available option which aligns with your specific needs and budget.

What’s the best type of mobile broadband connection?

There are three main types of mobile broadband connection you can choose from. These are:

Data-only SIM cards

Data-only SIM cards

How they work: data-only SIM cards are small, rectangular cards that you insert into compatible devices in much the same way as a phone SIM. They provide mobile broadband connectivity by connecting to a cellular network.

Device compatibility: SIM cards are designed primarily for devices with SIM card slots, such as tablets and certain laptops. However, you may also wish to use one in a smartphone as a hotspot, while they can also be inserted into existing dongles or pocket Wi-Fi modems.

Best for: data-only SIM cards are best suited for users who want mobile broadband on their tablets or laptops when they're on the go. They're ideal for travellers, remote workers or students who need internet access outside of Wi-Fi zones.

USB modems/dongles

USB modems/dongles

How they work: USB modems or dongles are small devices that connect to compatible devices via a USB port. They function in the same way as data-only SIM cards but offer a dedicated hardware connection.

Device compatibility: USB modems are compatible with most laptops, desktop computers and other devices which have USB ports. They often come with their software for easy installation.

Best for: USB modems are suitable for users who require a dedicated and more stable internet connection on their laptops while travelling or in areas with limited broadband options. They can be a good choice for business professionals or individuals needing secure, direct access.

Pocket Wi-Fi

Pocket Wi-Fi

How they work: pocket Wi-Fi devices, also known as mobile hotspots, are portable gadgets which create a Wi-Fi network using a mobile broadband connection. Multiple devices can connect to this network, sharing the internet connection.

Device compatibility: pocket Wi-Fi devices are the most versatile type of mobile broadband thanks to their lack of physical connection, meaning any device can connect to a hotspot network wirelessly.

Best for: this connection is popular among users who need to connect multiple devices simultaneously or share internet access with others, such as families, small groups or professionals working on the go, as it provides flexibility and convenience.

Frequently asked questions about the best mobile broadband plans

What’s the best mobile broadband plan for light or regular users?

The best mobile broadband plan will ultimately depend on you and factors such as your budget and usage. Light or regular users who primarily use the internet for tasks like web browsing, social media and occasional video streaming may benefit from more budget-friendly plans with moderate data allowances. You might look for plans with data caps ranging from 10GB to 50GB, but it’s important to assess how much data you use each month before buying your plan.

What’s the best mobile broadband plan for heavy users?

Heavy users who engage in data-intensive activities such as frequent streaming or large file downloads are more likely to need a high-data mobile broadband plan with higher potential speeds. Plans with data allowances of 100GB or more may be a good fit for heavy users, but it’s important to consider the amount of data you’re likely to use.

Is mobile broadband or home wireless broadband better for me?

The choice between mobile broadband and home wireless broadband depends on your specific requirements. Mobile broadband is highly portable and suitable for users who need internet access on the go, whether for travel, work or remote locations. Home wireless broadband, on the other hand, provides a more stationary internet connection for residential or small office use.

If mobility is a priority, mobile broadband is the better option. However, if stability and consistent speeds are essential, especially for multiple users or devices, home wireless broadband may be the preferred choice. Assess your usage patterns and location to determine which option aligns best with your needs.

Helpful guides on internet plans

Internet Banner - An older couple smiling at a laptop at home

What is ADSL?

Once the most common internet connection in Australia, much of the ADSL infrastructure has now been replaced by the NBN....

Internet Banner - Couple sitting together calculating their tax return

Claiming Internet on Tax

It’s important to know how to claim necessary expenses if you work from home, such as your internet bills. Are...

Internet Banner - Man sitting in an office smiling at his laptop

Types of Internet Connection

There’s a range of internet connection types to wrap your head around in Australia, from the NBN to home wireless,...

Internet Banner - Woman looking at her laptop on a table in an airport

What is Mobile Broadband?

Mobile broadband is a popular connection type for those who need internet on the go. Mobile broadband is the main...

Internet Banner - Man smiling at his tablet while his partner lies on the couch behind listening to music

FTTP NBN Explained

Find out more about FTTP connections on the NBN, how they work and their potential speeds. FTTP is the most...

Internet Banner - Internet modem router sitting on a table while a woman uses her tablet in the background

Modem vs Router

Modems and routers are both important for your home or business internet connection, but what do they do? You might’ve...

Internet Banner - Woman sitting on the couch on her laptop

Fibre Internet Plans

Fibre internet plans provide an alternative fixed line connection to the NBN for eligible homes in Australia. There are plenty...

Internet Banner: Person sitting on a person's back while holding a tablet

HFC NBN Explained

Find out more about HFC connections on the NBN, how they work and their potential speeds. HFC is a unique...

Internet Banner - Woman sitting on the couch next to her dog conducting an NBN check

NBN Check

Find out how to check the status of your NBN connection and its availability in your area. If you're keen...

Disclaimer:

Savvy is partnered with Econnex Comparison (CIMET Sales Pty Ltd, ABN 72 620 395 726) to provide readers with a variety of internet plans to compare. We do not compare all retailers in the market, or all plans offered by all retailers. Savvy earns a commission from Econnex each time a customer buys an internet plan via our website. We don’t arrange for products to be purchased directly, as all purchases are conducted via Econnex.

Any advice presented above is general in nature and doesn’t consider your personal or business objectives, needs or finances. It’s always important to consider whether advice is suitable for you before purchasing an internet plan. For further information on the variety of internet plans compared by Econnex, or how their business works, you can visit their website.

$50 Woolworths eGift card terms and conditions
  • The Promoter is CIMET Sales Pty Ltd ABN 72 620 395 726. Level 18/570 George Street Sydney, NSW 2000. Econnex Comparison is powered by CIMET.
  • Promotion available on qualifying Broadband Plan purchases between 1st February 2024 to 31st July 2024 (“Promotional Period”) and may be withdrawn at any time by Econnex Econnex Comparison retains the right to change or alter the terms of this offer.
  • You (“Customer”) will receive $50 worth of Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards when you purchase a Broadband Plan via Econnex Comparison, subject to these Terms and Conditions.
  • Information on how to qualify to receive the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card forms part of these Terms and Conditions. Participation in this promotion is considered acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.
Eligibility requirements
  • To be eligible to receive the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards, you must purchase the Broadband Plan via the following link: https://app.econnex.com.au/broadband?rcCode=90709
  • You must switch to a new Broadband retailer. Customers who change plans via Econnex but remain with the same retailer will not be eligible.
  • Your Broadband Plan must be connected within 30 days from the date of purchase.
  • Eligible Recipients will receive the applicable Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards by email up to 120 days after purchasing the Broadband Plan.
  • Econnex Comparison is not liable if any Customer details supplied are incorrect.
  • Econnex Comparison is providing this offer in conjunction with the retail services offered on its platform.
  • Details of Econnex Comparison retailers can be found at the following link: https://www.econnex.com.au/approved-providers-list
  • You must be an Australian resident aged 18 or over. Econnex Comparison may request you to provide a copy of your valid ID for identification purposes.
  • The Promoter reserves the right, at any time, to verify the validity to receive the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards and Customer’s information (including the Customer’s identity, age and place of residence) and reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual who the Promoter has reason to believe has breached any of these Terms and Conditions, tampered with the claim process, or engaged in any unlawful or other improper misconduct calculated to jeopardise fair and proper conduct of the promotion.
  • Errors and omissions may be accepted at the Promoter's discretion. Failure by the Promoter to enforce any of its rights at any stage does not constitute a waiver of those rights.
  • When the request for a connection cannot be completed, is unsuccessful, or a request is made for the cancellation of your Broadband Plan within the first 30 days from the date of connection, you will not be eligible to receive any gift card.
  • Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card is subject to any issuer Terms and Conditions.
  • Any ancillary costs with redeeming the gift cards are not included.
  • No responsibility is taken for any lost or stolen Woolworths Store Bonus eGift Cards.
  • If the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards are unavailable, the Promoter reserves the right to substitute the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards to a card with equivalent value, subject to directions from a regulatory authority.
  • If the offer is not able to be conducted as reasonably anticipated, due to any reason beyond the reasonable control of the Promoter, including but not limited to: technical difficulties, unauthorised intervention or fraud, the Promoter reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to the extent permitted by law: a. to disqualify any individual; or b. to modify, suspend, terminate or cancel the promotion, as appropriate.
  • This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer from Econnex
Econnex Comparison Terms and Conditions.
  • Econnex Comparison will transfer your Broadband Plan request and details to the selected retailer.
  • Econnex Comparison may contact you to clarify any details or discrepancies in the information you provided for your Broadband Plan purchase.
  • To cancel your request, you will need to contact the Broadband Plan retailer and inform them of your decision.
  • Please note that we do not compare all brands in the market, or all products offered by all brands.
  • If you have any inquiries regarding your Broadband Plan purchase, you can contact us directly at 1800 013 000 or email us at [email protected]
  • Econnex Comparison Terms and Conditions: https://www.econnex.com.au/terms-and-conditions/
  • By participating in this promotion, the individual authorises the Promoter to collect, hold, use and disclose their personal information in accordance with Econnex’s privacy policy, including providing such information to third parties such as contractors, service providers, suppliers and where required or authorised by law. Econnex’s Privacy policy can be found at https://www.econnex.com.au/privacy-policy
  • Econnex may, unless the individual tells us not to, use the information to communicate with them by mail or electronically by, for example, email, phone, SMS to issue direct marketing and commercial communications telemarketing calls.
  • To opt out of direct marketing access, update, or correct personal information you may contact us at [email protected]
Other Information
  • Woolworths Group Ltd ABN 88 000 014 675 is the issuer of the Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card but is not the Promoter of the offer nor responsible for fulfillment of the offer terms.
  • Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards have a fixed term expiry as displayed on the front of the gift card and are redeemable in-store and online at Woolworths Supermarket stores only.
  • Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards are valid for 3 months from the issue date and Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards are not reloadable or redeemable for cash.
  • Econnex Comparison and Woolworths will not replace, expired, lost, stolen, or deleted Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Cards.
  • Check your Spam/junk email if you have not received a Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card in your inbox within 120 days after activation of your Energy, Electricity or Gas Plan.
  • Woolworths Store Bonus eGift Card is sent via email from [email protected] or [email protected]
  • For enquiries related to the application, gift cards, or adding or removing any details on the application, please contact the Econnex Comparison at 1800 013 000 or e-mail us at [email protected]
  • For the balance and transactions history on this Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card and Woolworths Terms and Conditions visit https://woolworths.com.au/giftcards or call 1300 101 234.
Internet - Compare Broadband & NBN Plans

We'd love to chat, how can we help?

By clicking "Submit", you agree to be contacted by a Savvy Agency Owner and to receive communications from Savvy which you can unsubscribe from at any time. Read our Privacy Policy.