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Prepaid Mobile Broadband Plans

Prepaid mobile broadband is a fast and convenient way to access internet on the go without a lock-in contract.

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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.

Prepaid mobile plans offer Australians the flexibility to access internet on the go without the commitment of a long-term contract. Whether you need mobile internet for occasional use, travel or as a backup, prepaid mobile broadband plans offer the freedom to top up your data as needed.

You can compare a range of competitive internet plans side by side with Savvy. Our online comparison service allows you to effortlessly explore and compare offers from leading Australian providers. Get the wheels in motion with a free, no-obligation quote through us today.

What is prepaid mobile broadband?

Prepaid mobile broadband is a flexible type of internet plan which uses 4G and 5G networks to establish a connection. It allows users to access the internet using a mobile broadband connection without the need for a fixed-term contract. It operates on a prepaid basis, which means you purchase data allowances in advance, typically in the form of online top-ups of your account.

This type of plan is popular for those who want to avoid long-term commitments and have control over their internet usage and spending. In particular, this provides a level of financial security to plan holders in helping avoid unexpectedly expensive bills (which may be present in postpaid plans).

What types of prepaid mobile broadband plan can I choose from?

There are three main types of mobile broadband which you can purchase with prepaid plans, so it’s important to consider which of these is the best fit for your needs. These are:

Data-only SIM cards: these plans provide a SIM card with a data allowance. You can insert this SIM card into a compatible device like a tablet or mobile hotspot to access the internet.
USB modems/dongles: some plans come with a USB modem or dongle that you can plug into your computer or another compatible device to activate internet access.
Pocket Wi-Fi: these plans offer a pocket-sized device that creates a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet simultaneously. These are often the most expensive but come with the benefits of remaining untethered to any devices and offering connectivity for more than one device at once.

How do I compare prepaid mobile broadband plans?

Comparing prepaid mobile broadband plans involves considering several factors, which include the following:

Cost: compare the total cost, including the initial purchase of equipment (if any) and data recharge costs. Look for value for money.
Data allowance: evaluate the data allowance provided by each plan. Choose one that aligns with your internet usage, whether it's light browsing, working online or heavy data use. The amount of data you can access may range from as little as 5GB or less to upwards of 400GB.
Network coverage: check the 4G or 5G network coverage and quality offered by the provider. Ensure it covers the areas where you’re likely to need internet access.
Device compatibility: if you already have a mobile device (such as a pocket Wi-Fi modem), ensure it’s compatible with the prepaid plan and network.
Expiry period: most plans have specific expiry periods for data usage, which are generally after 28 to 30 days. However, there may be other options with ongoing periods beyond one month, so consider if this is something you’re looking for.
Recharge options: assess the ease of recharging your plan when you run out of data. Consider whether it offers convenient online recharge options.
Data rollover: check if the plan includes incentives like data rollover into the next period if you don’t use it all up before the end of your recharge cycle.

Considering these factors can help you find the best available prepaid mobile broadband plan best suited to your needs and budget.

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The pros and cons of prepaid mobile broadband

PROS

Flexibility and control

Prepaid mobile broadband plans offer flexibility and convenience as you can recharge your data when needed. This control allows you to adjust your plan based on your data usage patterns.

No long-term commitment

Prepaid plans don’t require a long-term contract, making them ideal for short-term or temporary internet needs. You aren’t locked into a lengthy agreement, which provides freedom and convenience.

Budget-friendly

These plans often cater to various budgets, with options for light users to heavy data consumers. You can choose a plan that aligns with your budget and avoid unexpected excess usage charges.

CONS

Limited data allowance

Most prepaid plans come with limited data allowances, which may not be suitable for users with extensive data needs or who download large files. Unlimited mobile broadband plans are extremely rare.

Higher cost per GB

Prepaid mobile broadband plans can be more expensive per GB of data compared to other types of internet plan. If you use a substantial amount of data, the cost may add up quickly.

Data expiry

Prepaid plans often have data expiry periods, typically 30 days, after which any unused data may expire. This can be a disadvantage if you have periods of low data usage.

Common prepaid mobile broadband questions

How do I know if prepaid mobile broadband is right for me?

It’s important to assess your needs as an individual when comparing internet plans to determine which type is suitable for your needs. For example, prepaid mobile broadband is generally appealing to those who want flexibility and control over their data usage without a long-term contract and only need it for occasional or short-term internet uses.

How do I check my prepaid mobile broadband plan's balance?

Most providers offer ways to check your balance, such as through their app, website or by texting a specific code. Contact your provider or check their website if you’re unsure about how to check your outstanding balance.

What's the difference between a prepaid mobile broadband plan and a prepaid phone plan?

While prepaid mobile broadband plans are designed for internet access on tablets, laptops, modems or mobile hotspots, prepaid phone plans are designed specifically for phones. On top of offering a certain amount of data (if you have a smartphone), phone plans also come with talk and text capabilities.

Can I use my prepaid mobile broadband plan overseas?

Using your prepaid mobile broadband plan abroad depends on your provider and the plan. Some providers offer international roaming options, but it's best to check with your provider for specific details and 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.