NBN 12 Plans

Compare budget-friendly internet options, including NBN 12 plans, in one place through Savvy today.

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, updated on August 6th, 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.

Looking for a cheaper, low-speed internet plan? NBN 12 plans offer an attractive solution for individuals and small households with basic internet requirements. To make an informed choice about your internet service, it's essential to compare your available options thoroughly.

You can do just that through Savvy. Our platform enables you to effortlessly compare a variety of NBN 12 plans offered by leading Australian providers all in one place. Get a free quote through us today and start looking for the best NBN 12 plan available to suit your needs and budget.

What is NBN 12?

NBN 12 is one of the basic speed tiers offered by the NBN in Australia. It represents a maximum download speed of 12 megabits per second (Mbps) and a maximum upload speed of 1Mbps. This speed tier is also known as “Basic I” because it comes with the lowest maximum speed of all the available NBN tiers.

NBN 12 plans are designed to provide a reliable internet connection for light online activity such as web browsing, email and basic video streaming. While it doesn’t offer the fastest speeds available, it’s an affordable option for individuals and small households with relatively modest internet needs.

Who is NBN 12 suitable for?

NBN 12 plans are suitable for individuals and households with light to moderate internet usage. Here are some specific scenarios where NBN 12 might be a good fit:

  • Individuals: if you live alone and primarily use the internet for basic tasks like checking emails, social media and occasional web browsing, NBN 12 may meet your needs.
  • Small households: small households consisting of one to two people who engage in light internet activities like web surfing and video streaming at low resolutions can benefit from NBN 12.
  • Seniors: as a senior, you may not have much use for the internet beyond the occasional browse or video call every now and then. If you don’t use it much, you might look to a cost-effective, low-power plan like NBN 12.
  • Budget-conscious users: NBN 12 plans are typically among the most affordable options. If you're looking to save on your monthly internet bill, this speed tier can provide cost-effective connectivity.
  • Secondary connections: some households might use NBN 12 as a secondary connection in addition to a higher-speed plan for heavy usage scenarios.

How do I compare NBN 12 plans?

When it comes to comparing NBN 12 plans, there are several essential factors to keep in mind to make an informed decision:

  • Plan cost: begin by examining the monthly fees associated with NBN 12 plans from different providers. Take into account any additional charges like setup fees and modem costs. Additionally, check for any ongoing promotions or discounts which might make the plan cheaper overall.
  • Speed and performance: it’s important to ensure the plan consistently offers speeds of up to 12Mbps, especially during peak usage times such as evenings. Ensure that these speeds align with your specific online activities and requirements.
  • Data allowance: evaluate the data allowance included in each plan. Consider your typical monthly data consumption and select a plan that adequately caters to your needs. It's worth noting that almost all NBN 12 plans come with unlimited data, but it's still essential to confirm this.
  • Contract terms: determine whether the NBN 12 plan you're interested in comes with contract terms. Some plans offer month-to-month flexibility, while others might have fixed-term contracts. If you opt for a plan with a contract, be aware of potential exit fees in case you need to make changes later on.
  • Bonus features: explore any extra features or services bundled with the plan. Certain providers may include complimentary modems, while others might offer entertainment perks like streaming subscriptions. Consider whether these extras align with your preferences.
  • Bundle options: enquire about bundle opportunities which may allow you to combine your NBN 12 plan with other services, such as mobile plans. This bundling can potentially lead to cost savings, making it an option worth considering.

By considering these factors, which you can do through Savvy, you can choose the best available plan for your needs with more confidence. Our online comparison service streamlines this process by enabling you to explore plans from various top Australian providers in one convenient location.

The pros and cons of NBN 12

PROS

Affordable pricing

NBN 12 plans are often the most budget-friendly option among NBN tiers. They provide a cost-effective solution for individuals or households on a tight budget.

Suitable for light users

These plans are suited for light internet users who engage in basic online activities. They offer sufficient speed for these tasks without overpaying for higher speeds.

More reliable than ADSL2+

Although its maximum speed is only half that of an ADSL2+ connection (24Mbps), NBN connections are considered more reliable and faster than the old cable system.

CONS

Inferior to NBN 25

In many cases, NBN 25 plans are priced similarly to NBN 12, meaning you could access much higher download and upload speeds for just a few dollars extra per month (if that).

Lowest available speed

Because the maximum speed caps out at 12Mbps, these plans are unsuitable for many families today who demand more from their connection.

Frequently asked questions about NBN 12

How do I find the cheapest NBN 12 plan?

To find the most affordable NBN 12 plan available where you live, it’s important to compare offers from various internet service providers. Look for promotions, discounts and bundle options that can lower your monthly costs. Additionally, consider any setup fees or modem charges to calculate the total cost.

Why can’t I access the speeds advertised on my NBN 12 plan?

Several factors can affect your internet speed, including network congestion, distance from the exchange and the quality of your modem and Wi-Fi setup. If you consistently experience slower speeds, contact your provider for troubleshooting or consider upgrading to a higher NBN tier.

Can I use my existing modem with a new NBN 12 plan?

It depends on the compatibility of your modem. NBN typically requires a modem with specific NBN-ready features. Check with your provider to confirm if your current modem is compatible. If not, you may need to use the one offered by your provider or purchase one separately.

When should I not buy an NBN 12 plan?

It may be worth avoiding NBN 12 plans if you have heavy internet usage, such as streaming in high definition, online gaming or multiple devices connected simultaneously. NBN 12 plans may not provide the necessary speed and bandwidth for these activities, leading to a subpar online experience. Consider higher-speed NBN tiers or internet plans for better performance.

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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.