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Dongle Internet Plans

You could access the internet you need on the go with a simple mobile broadband dongle plan.

100% free and no obligation.

Written by , updated on February 13th, 2024

Receive a $50 Woolworths eGift Card*

Receive a $50 Woolworths Bonus Store eGift Card when you purchase a Broadband Plan via Savvy's partner, Econnex Comparison. Terms and conditions apply.

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

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, staying connected on the go has never been more essential. Dongle internet plans offer a flexible and convenient solution for those who need internet access wherever they are.

At Savvy, our online comparison service allows you to effortlessly explore and compare internet plans from leading providers in one place. Get the wheels in motion on comparing the best available plans for your needs with a free, no-obligation quote through us today!

What are dongle internet plans and how do they work?

Dongle internet plans, also known as USB modem plans, are a type of mobile broadband service which allows you to access the internet on the go using a portable USB device. These plans are designed for individuals or businesses which need internet connectivity outside of their home or office. Here's how they work:

USB modem or dongle: dongle internet plans come with a USB modem or dongle device. This device contains a SIM card and connects to the mobile network to provide internet access.
Mobile network: these plans use the mobile network infrastructure in your area to access the internet, which will either be 4G or 5G in Australia. When you plug in the USB modem or dongle, it connects to the nearest mobile tower to establish a connection. This means you can get online wherever there's mobile coverage.
Data allowance: dongle plans come with a specific data allowance which determines how much internet you can use each month, as unlimited broadband options are hard to come by. Once you reach your data limit, you may need to purchase additional data or wait until your plan renews.
Portability: one of the key advantages of dongle internet plans is their portability. You can use them wherever there's mobile network coverage, making them ideal for travel, remote work or backup internet access.

How do I compare dongle internet plans?

Comparing dongle internet plans involves evaluating several key factors to ensure you choose the right plan for your needs. Here's how to compare them effectively:

Data allowance: evaluate the data allowance provided by each plan. Choose one which aligns with your internet usage, whether it's light browsing, streaming or heavy data use. These plans can range from as little as 5GB to 10GB all the way up to 400GB.
Network coverage: check the network coverage and quality offered by the provider. Ensure the network you’re planning to use (either 4G or 5G) covers the areas where you’re likely to need internet access.
Device compatibility: ensure your device (such as your laptop or computer) is compatible with the dongle or USB modem provided by the plan.
Cost: compare the total cost, including the initial purchase of the dongle or USB modem (if any) and data recharge charges. It’s important to look for value for money when comparing deals.
Prepaid or postpaid: if you have the choice, it’s worth considering whether prepaid or postpaid is better for you. Prepaid plans come without a contract and require you to pay for your data ahead of the period of use, while postpaid plans charge you at the end of the month and come with ongoing billing periods.
Recharge options: assess the ease of recharging your plan when you run out of data. Consider whether it offers convenient online recharge options.
Expiry period: plans have specific validity periods for data usage. These are typically month-to-month, but in some cases may be several months at a time or up to a year.

What are my other mobile broadband plan options in Australia?

In addition to dongle internet plans, there are several other mobile broadband plan options available in Australia. These include:

Pocket Wi-Fi plans

These plans come with a portable Wi-Fi modem which allows multiple devices to connect to the internet simultaneously. They’re ideal for sharing internet access with others while on the go. In general terms, these are the most expensive type of mobile broadband, with the modems themselves also being the most valuable.

Data-only SIM plans

If you already have a compatible device, such as a dongle or tablet, you can opt for a data-only SIM plan. These provide data for your tablet, smartphone, or mobile hotspot device and, like dongles, are very simple to use.

When it comes to deciding which is the best for your needs, it’s important to assess factors such as the device (or devices) you’ll be using and what’s compatible, as well as your budget.

Why compare internet plans with Savvy?

100% free

The entire comparison process is free with us, meaning you can use it as many times as you like.

Trusted providers

You’ll be able to consider competitive offers from some of Australia’s leading internet providers before you buy.

Compare any time, anywhere

You can compare plans 24/7 with our online form regardless of where in Australia you’re living.

Common questions about dongle internet plans answered

Do I need a battery for my dongle?

No – while dongles require power to operate, this comes from being connected to a power source, such as a laptop or USB charger, to function, rather than a battery.

Can I use a dongle internet plan for gaming or streaming?

Dongle plans may not be always ideal for gaming or streaming due to potential data limitations and latency. If you engage in these activities frequently, it's worth considering plans with higher data allowances or restricting these activities to another home or Wi-Fi connection wherever possible.

Do dongle plans come with international roaming?

Dongle plans may offer international roaming options, but whether these are included varies by provider. Check with your specific dongle plan provider for details on international roaming services and associated costs.

Helpful guides on internet plans

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 1^st February 2024 to 31^st 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.

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Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd (ABN 78 660 493 194) trades as Savvy and operates as an Authorised Credit Representative 541339 of Australian Credit Licence 414426 (AFAS Group Pty Ltd, ABN 12 134 138 686). We are one of Australia’s leading financial comparison sites and have been helping Australians make savvy decisions when it comes to their money for over a decade.

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© Copyright 2024 Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd T/as Savvy. All Rights Reserved.

1300 974 066

Sign up to our newsletter

Disclaimer and important things you should know

Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd (ABN 78 660 493 194) trades as Savvy and operates as an Authorised Credit Representative 541339 of Australian Credit Licence 414426 (AFAS Group Pty Ltd, ABN 12 134 138 686). We are one of Australia’s leading financial comparison sites and have been helping Australians make savvy decisions when it comes to their money for over a decade.

We’re partnered with lenders, insurers and other financial institutions who compensate us for business initiated through our website. We earn a commission each time a customer chooses or buys a product advertised on our site, which you can find out more about here, as well as in our credit guide for asset finance. It’s also crucial to read the terms and conditions, Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or credit guide of our partners before signing up for your chosen product. However, the compensation we receive doesn’t impact the content written and published on our website, as our writing team exercises full editorial independence.

For more information about us and how we conduct our business, you can read our privacy policy and terms of use.