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Best NBN Plans

Compare NBN plans from a range of providers with Savvy to help you find the best possible deal for your home or office.

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, updated on February 13th, 2024       

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Internet - Compare Broadband & NBN Plans

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

The NBN has given Australians living all around the country access to another option when it comes to their internet. Whether you're in the heart of Melbourne's CBD or living in rural Western Australia, it's crucial to take the time to compare NBN plans to help you see which one is the best for your needs.

You can do just that right here with Savvy. By filling out our simple online quote form, you'll be able to compare the best possible NBN plans for where you live from a panel of trusted Australian providers. Get the process started with us and lock in your internet plan today!

What's the best type of NBN plan for me?

Internet service providers (or ISPs) are now offering six speed tiers for customers to choose from when it comes to their NBN plans. It's important to understand how each of these plans works before you choose which is the best one for your needs, so you can read about each in the table below:

NBN 12

NBN 12

Maximum download speed: 12Mbps

Maximum upload speed: 1Mbps

Also known as Basic I, NBN 12 is the least powerful option available to Australians and, as a result, also the cheapest. With maximum download speeds of 12Mbps and upload speeds of just 1Mbps, plans of this nature are generally more popular among single-person households and very light internet users, such as those checking emails and social media.

NBN 25

NBN 25

Maximum download speed: 25Mbps

Maximum upload speed: 10Mbps

The next step up from the slowest available plan is NBN 25, which is also known as Basic II. This plan comes with double the download speed capacity compared to NBN 12, making it suitable for many small households with a few devices connected simultaneously and for activities like web browsing, email, social media and occasional streaming of standard definition content.

NBN 50

NBN 50

Maximum download speed: 50Mbps

Maximum upload speed: 20Mbps

NBN 50 (Standard) plans are the most popular in Australia, with 58% of the 8.6 million residential broadband connections making use of this speed in 2021, according to the ACCC’s NBN Wholesale Market Indicators Report from December 2021. This plan is often used by those who stream high-definition content, enjoy online gaming and have multiple devices connected at once, as well as households with a mix of entertainment needs.

NBN 100

NBN 100

Maximum download speed: 100Mbps

Maximum upload speed: 20Mbps to 40Mbps

NBN 100 (Fast) was originally the fastest speed tier available through the NBN. It’s capable of reaching maximum download speeds of up to 100Mbps and comes with an upload speed capacity of either 20Mbps or 40Mbps. These plans are popular among heavy internet users, gamers and families with multiple devices engaged in simultaneous streaming, online gaming and large file sharing.

NBN 250

NBN 250

Maximum download speed: 250Mbps

Maximum upload speed: 25Mbps

One of the two additions to the original NBN lineup, NBN 250 (also known as Superfast) more than doubles the potential power of NBN 100 connections. Power users, home offices, small businesses and households with demanding connectivity requirements may all look to this type of connection, although such speeds can only be supported by Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) and Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) connections at the moment.

NBN 1000

NBN 1000

Maximum download speed: 1Gbps

Maximum upload speed: 50Mbps

The most powerful (and expensive) type of NBN plan currently available in Australia is NBN 1000 (Ultrafast). It may be the connection of choice for businesses, creative professionals and heavy users who need lightning-fast upload and download speeds for tasks like large data transfers, video conferencing and server hosting. Like NBN 250, it can only be supported by FTTP and HFC connections.

What's the best type of NBN connection?

There are several different types of connection that can be installed under the NBN rollout. While you likely won't have a choice as to which you’ll receive when buying an NBN plan, it’s crucial to understand how each of them works before you select your internet plan. NBN connections can be established via the following methods:

FTTP

Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)

FTTP connections are seen as the most effective type of NBN connection currently available in Australia for internet plans. They’re also the simplest in nature: fibre optic cables, which are specially designed for conducting larger amounts of data and faster internet speeds, are connected directly from your home to an NBN access point in your area.

FTTN

Fibre to the Node (FTTN)

The most common type of NBN connection in Australia, FTTN utilises not only new fibre optic cables to connect it to the NBN but also existing copper cables previously used for ADSL and phone connections. These connect to a central cabinet or node in your area to establish your NBN connection. The further away from the node you are (and the longer the copper cable in use), the more your internet speeds are likely to degrade.

FTTC

Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)

FTTC connections are also made possible through existing copper lines. However, in this instance, fibre optic cables are installed up to the threshold of the property (usually the end of the driveway) to connect your property to a distribution point on your street, with the remaining connection coming from your copper phone lines. Because of the reduced use of copper cables, FTTC is seen as more reliable and faster than FTTN connections.

FTTB

Fibre to the Building (FTTB)

FTTB connections are designed for people living in apartment blocks and hotels, particularly those in high-rise dwellings. Also known as Fibre to the Basement connections, these are made through installing a fibre optic cable in the communications room of your building which then connects to the copper cables that run into your apartment or hotel room, with the quality of internet you receive ultimately depending on your building's setup.

HFC

Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)

HFC is also one of the most powerful types of NBN connection in terms of capable speeds. It utilises existing connections to paid television networks such as Foxtel, as well as other advanced cable networks like Telstra or Optus, to connect users to the NBN. Alongside FTTP, HTC connections are one of the only types of NBN connection capable of powering an NBN 250 or 1000 plan from someone’s home or business.

Fixed Wireless

Fixed Wireless

Where physical connections aren’t possible, customers may be able to access the NBN via a Fixed Wireless connection. These involve data being transmitted over radio signals from your home or business to a tower via an outdoor antenna installed on your property. These connections can be made over a distance of up to 14km, with the strength of your internet being impacted by your distance from the tower.

Satellite

Sky Muster Satellite

The final connection type available to Australians is via satellite. This is designed specifically for regional homes and businesses which may not otherwise be able to connect to the NBN and is made possible through the installation of a satellite dish on the roof of the property and an additional modem. Like Fixed Wireless connections, internet speeds are likely to vary depending on your location.

How do I compare the best Australian NBN plans?

When researching the best NBN plans, it's crucial to compare a range of offers before you sign on the dotted line. You can do just that with Savvy through our simple online quote form, allowing you to consider a wide variety of deals side-by-side in one place. It's worth considering the following variables when deciding which NBN plan is the best for your needs:

  • Cost: comparing prices can help you find a plan which not only aligns with your internet needs, but also with your budget. This can help you avoid paying more than you need to for your internet plan.
  • Data allowance: data allowance determines how much internet usage you get each month. It's vital to match your usage habits to prevent overage charges or slowdowns due to exceeding limits. However, it’s worth noting the majority of NBN plans today come with unlimited data.
  • Speed tier: as mentioned, speed tiers dictate how fast your internet connection is. Selecting the appropriate tier can help ensure smooth streaming, gaming and browsing based on your household's needs.
  • Evening speed: this reflects how well the connection performs during peak hours. Considering this will help give you a more accurate reflection of how fast your internet may be when you’re most likely to be using it.
  • Contract terms: whether you opt for a plan with no contract term or one which locks you in for six to 12 months is another important consideration. No-contract NBN plans are more common in today’s market, but it’s worth thinking about which suits you best.
  • Fees: various fees (such as for installation, setup and equipment such as modems or routers) can impact the total cost. Understanding these fees helps prevent surprises and allows you to evaluate the overall value of the plan before you buy it.
  • Additional features: extra inclusions such as streaming subscriptions or entertainment packages may enhance your plan's value. It’s important to consider any added extras on different plans to help you determine whether they’re worth it for you.

Which NBN plan is right for you?

Common queries about the best NBN plans

Who offers the best Australian NBN plans?

The best NBN plan for you will depend entirely on your needs and circumstances, such as how much you use it, what you use it for and what connections are available in your area. Because of this, there's no one provider who offers the best plans, so it's important to compare offers through Savvy to help you find the right plan for you through 

What are the best unlimited NBN plans?

You can receive unlimited NBN plans for any speed tier, so the best will vary depending on what your needs are as an individual, family or business. However, the best plans will be the ones which offer speeds which meet your requirements at the most affordable price.

Are NBN plans the best or should I buy a wireless plan?

Wireless internet plans are, in some respects, seen as a direct competitor to NBN connections. With the rollout of the new 5G network in Australia which is theoretically capable of operating at speeds close to NBN 1000, wireless is a viable option for those looking for strong internet. The important factor to note on these connections is that they may be more affected by network congestion, as well as the mobile coverage in your area.

Can I still buy the best Fixed Wireless or Sky Muster Satellite NBN plans if I live in a non-rural area?

Probably not – because you don’t usually get a choice of the type of connection you receive with your NBN plan, you likely won’t be able to purchase plans of this nature if you’re in a metro or suburban area. Additionally, Fixed Wireless and Sky Muster Satellite NBN plans aren’t as strong as those connected by physical cables and can be less reliable, particularly during peak hours.

What are the best NBN plans for pensioners?

Most pensioners won’t use as much internet as younger people, so a slower speed tier plan could be a suitable option for you. However, this will ultimately depend on your overall usage and how you use the internet.

Will I have to pay anything for NBN installation for the best plans?

In most cases, NBN plans come with free installation. However, where you may have to pay is if your home or business’ existing infrastructure isn’t up to par in terms of conducting an NBN connection (or the specific NBN connection you're looking for). You may be charged a New Development Fee, which is typically around $300, in cases where a new build has the infrastructure installed to connect to the NBN but no active connection has been established.

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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.