Hi, I have been looking at the 12GB mobile broadband plan with Virgin, but am not sure how fast the download speeds will be.
Can you give me any advice? I am in inner Sydney CBD. Cheers
24/05/2012
Hi Elliot,
Mobile Broadband is an excellent solution for people who need a broadband connection while on the move. Otherwise, it is not a recommended home solution.
Click here to check out our best Mobile Broadband plans
Virgin (1300 106 571) Mobile is owned by Optus (1300 768 194), and is positoned as their budget brand. As such, it connects to the Optus network at a slower standard than Optus mobile broadband. In fact, it connects at a slower standard than most Optus wholesalers, such as Amaysim. Top speeds on Virgin's network are about 3-5Mbps, with real world speeds often slower. Particularly in the Sydney CBD, you're going to fnd congestion to make the service unusable for all but the most basic applications.
Many people opt for Mobile Broadband in an effort to simplify the process and avoid messy cords and connections. That's fair enough. But for something to be good value, first it has to be good, and mobile broadband is only 'good enough' when compared with other solutions.
For example: a Virgin mobile broadband plan, with 12GB of data is $39 a month. TPG can offer 20GB for the same price, on a fixed line connection (that price includes lines rental). Setup fees are steep on a 6 month contract, and you have to buy a modem, but the overall quality of the connection will be far superior.
Of course, if you do need an ad-hoc connection for when you're on the move, then Mobile Broadband is fine. But if you mostly just need a connection at home, it's worth the extra effort to get a fixed line service. If you have a smartphone, you might find your provider will allow you to 'tether' your phone data connection to your computer for free - though it's best to ask them first. In this scenario, your phone will become a Wi-Fi hotspot for your laptop or tablet. For many people, it's a cheaper solution for those rare times you need a connection while away from home.
Thanks,
Adam at CompareBroadband
1300 106 571
