Get a free modem with your nbn® plan

When you sign up to a new nbn® plan, some providers include a nbn® modem router at no upfront cost. Most 'free' modems require you to stay connected for 18 to 36 months. Leave early and a hardware fee applies.

It's always nice to hear that a provider offers a free nbn® modem. Searching nbn® plans with free modem with Compare Broadband is a good place to start.

Here's what's actually on offer from the providers Compare Broadband sells.

Which nbn® providers include a free modem?

Three providers offer an nbn® plan with included modem via Compare Broadband: Optus, iPrimus and Superloop. Other providers offer modems as an optional purchase when you sign up. The best nbn® modem is the one that fits your needs.

Aussie Broadband, Dodo, More Telecom and Tangerine sell modems separately. Prices range from cheapest with Dodo's modem up to higher costs for Aussie Broadband's eero Pro 6E.

Optus Ultra Wi-Fi Modem Gen 2

Optus includes its Ultra Wi-Fi Modem Gen 2 on all nbn® plans when you stay connected for 36 months. The modem supports Wi-Fi 6 and includes a 4G backup connection to keep you online during outages. It's also built with 95% recycled plastics - great for the environment!

Cancel with 12 months remaining and Optus charges a pro-rata hardware fee. 

iPrimus Kaon DG2144

iPrimus includes the Kaon DG2144 when you stay connected for 18 months. It supports Wi-Fi 6, works with all nbn® connection types including OptiComm and Redtrain, and comes pre-configured. Leave before 18 months and iPrimus charges a fee for the hardware.

Superloop eero 6+

Superloop offers the eero 6+ at no upfront cost when you keep your service active for 18 months. The eero 6+ provides whole-home Wi-Fi 6 coverage and can support up to 75 devices. Cancel early and Superloop charges a fee per month for each remaining month.

What about Telstra?

Telstra offers its Smart Modem 3 free on a 24-month nbn® contract, with a non-return fee if you leave early. Compare Broadband doesn't sell Telstra plans directly. If you're comparing Telstra against other providers, call us on 1300 764 000 and we can walk you through the alternatives.

What happens if you leave early?

A 'free' modem is conditional. Each provider takes a different approach:

• Optus: You pay the remaining balance of the modem's retail value on a pro-rata basis. 
• iPrimus: A flat fee applies regardless of how far into the 18 months you are.
• Superloop: A fee per month multiplied by the remaining months on your 18-month commitment.

Read the provider's Critical Information Summary before signing up so you know the exact terms.

Is a longer contract worth it for a free modem?

It depends on what the modem is worth and how long you plan to stay. The Superloop eero 6+ normally costs up front without a contract, so an 18-month commitment gives you that modem at no upfront cost. If you'd have bought it anyway, the deal makes sense.

It's easier to pay for a modem outright if you're likely to switch providers within 18 months.

The Optus deal is harder to justify for most households. Staying connected for 36 months to save money on a modem is a long commitment. Check whether an Optus plan's ongoing value justifies the term before signing.

When will my modem arrive?

Most providers dispatch modems within 1 to 5 business days of your order.

Delivery times may be longer in regional areas. Contact your provider if your modem hasn't arrived within the expected window.

What makes a good nbn® modem?

If you're purchasing a modem rather than getting one included with a plan, look for:

• Wi-Fi 6 support: Faster speeds and better performance when multiple devices are connected. Standard on most modems sold from 2023 onwards.
• 4G backup: Keeps you connected during nbn® outages. Useful for households that work from home. Optus and iPrimus included modems both have this.
• Mesh compatibility: Allows you to add satellite units to extend coverage in larger homes. The Superloop and Aussie Broadband eero 6+ is a mesh system by design.
• Ethernet ports: At least four Gigabit ports for wired devices like gaming consoles, smart TVs or desktop computers.

Should you buy your own modem instead?

Buying your own modem (BYO) means you're not tied to a provider's hardware terms. Most nbn® providers support BYO at no extra cost. The trade-off is the upfront cost, which can be more than you expect to pay for a reliable Wi-Fi 6 modem-router.

If you switch providers often, a BYO setup saves money over time. See our guide to the best cheap nbn® modems if you choose that option. 

Or read our nbn® modem setup guide if you need help connecting your modem.

Ready to compare plans? Use our nbn® plan comparison tool to find the right plan for your household.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I leave my nbn® provider before contract ends?

Telstra requires you to return the Smart Modem 3 or pay a non-return fee. iPrimus does not require return but charges. Superloop charges a monthly cost for remaining months.

Optus deducts the modem's pro-rata value from your final bill. Always check your provider's Critical Information Summary before switching.

Can I use my own modem with nbn®?

Most nbn® providers support BYO modems. Your modem needs to be compatible with your nbn® connection type and nbn® service. You can check your address to know your connection type and whether you need a new modem or not based on that.

FTTN users need a VDSL2-compatible modem. Some provider modems are locked to their network. A Telstra Smart Modem may not work with another provider. It must be unlocked first.

Does a better modem mean faster internet?

A modem cannot exceed the speed tier of your nbn® plan. However, a better modem can improve Wi-Fi performance throughout your home and reduce congestion on busy networks. If your nbn® speed tests well at the connection point but Wi-Fi is slow, upgrading your modem is worth considering.