- Telstra offers premium NBN plans with high speeds, unlimited data, and extra features.
- Belong provides affordable, flexible month-to-month NBN plans with unlimited data.
- Choose Telstra for premium service or Belong for flexibility and affordability.
When it comes to choosing the right NBN provider in Australia, two notable options are Telstra and Belong. While both offer robust NBN services, each caters to different customer needs and preferences.
Telstra, one of the largest and most established telecommunications companies in Australia, provides a range of premium services with added perks. On the other hand, Belong, a subsidiary of Telstra, focuses on offering affordable, flexible, and no-frills broadband services.
Telstra NBN plans
Telstra is one of Australia’s leading providers, and its NBN offerings are no exception. The company’s NBN plans are known for reliability, fast speeds, and excellent customer service.
Telstra offers a range of plans tailored to various needs, from casual users to heavy streamers and gamers.
Key features
- Unlimited data: All Telstra NBN plans come with unlimited data, ensuring you won’t have to worry about hitting a data cap. This is especially useful for larger households or individuals who frequently stream content, work from home, or download large files.
- Speeds: Telstra offers a variety of speed tiers, depending on your needs. Plans typically range from NBN 25 (Basic Evening Speed) to NBN 100 (Standard Plus), with higher speeds available on certain plans. Telstra also offers NBN 250 and NBN 1000 plans for those who require ultra-fast speeds for activities like 4K streaming, online gaming, and heavy data use.
- 5G and mobile bundles: Telstra allows you to bundle your NBN plan with mobile services and 5G home Internet, creating a unified service offering for both home broadband and mobile data. This can be a convenient option for users who prefer a one-stop solution for all their connectivity needs.
- Customer support: Telstra offers 24/7 customer support, making it easy to get help whenever you need it. This is a key benefit for users who value prompt, reliable service.
- Modem options: With Telstra, you can choose between several modem options, including the Telstra Smart Modem, which comes with a 4G backup in case of an NBN outage, providing you with added peace of mind.
- Month to month contracts: Telstra offers month to month contracts rather than locking customers in. It's worth mentioning, however, that if customers do leave before 24 months with Telstra, they either need to return the modem or pay a $200 non-return fee.
Downsides of Telstra NBN plans
- Higher prices: Telstra’s NBN plans tend to be on the pricier side when compared to other providers like Belong. While the service quality is top-notch, the higher cost may not be ideal for budget-conscious users.
Belong NBN plans
Belong, which operates under Telstra’s umbrella, offers a more affordable and flexible alternative to Telstra's premium plans. Belong’s NBN plans are well-suited for those on a budget or individuals who don’t want to commit to long-term contracts. The brand focuses on providing simple, straightforward, and flexible broadband options.
Key features
- Affordable pricing: Belong is known for its competitive pricing. With plans starting at some of the lowest prices in the NBN market, Belong offers a budget-friendly option for users who need reliable Internet without breaking the bank.
- Unlimited data: Just like Telstra, all Belong NBN plans come with unlimited data, which means no worrying about hitting a data limit, even if you’re streaming, gaming, or working from home.
- Month-to-month flexibility: One of the standout features of Belong’s NBN plans is its month-to-month contract flexibility. There’s no need to sign a 12 or 24-month contract, which is perfect for renters or people who move frequently. This flexibility makes it easy to cancel or switch plans if your circumstances change.
- No lock-in contracts: Unlike Telstra’s standard offerings, Belong allows you to change or cancel your plan without any termination fees, making it a great option for those seeking flexibility.
- Modem options: While you will need to pay an upfront fee for a modem (unless you’re a new customer, in which case the fee is waived), the modem is compatible with all plans and offers reliable performance for typical home use.
Downsides of Belong NBN plans
- Basic customer support: While Belong offers customer service, it’s not as extensive or available 24/7 like Telstra’s customer support. If you need in-depth assistance, you may have to rely on online support or wait for email responses.
- Limited additional features: Belong’s NBN plans are straightforward, which means it doesn’t offer as many additional features like Telstra’s 5G bundling or backup modem services. This is not necessarily a downside for most users, but if you’re looking for premium features, you may find Belong’s offerings a little basic.
Which one is right for you?
The choice between Telstra and Belong comes down to your personal preferences and needs.
Go with Telstra if you prioritise premium service, high-speed options, reliable customer support, and don’t mind paying a bit more for these benefits. Telstra is ideal for large families, gamers, streamers, or people who want peace of mind with additional services like mobile bundling or backup modems.
Go with Belong if you're looking for a flexible, budget-friendly NBN plan without long-term contracts. Belong is perfect for renters, temporary residents, or anyone who wants a simple, affordable broadband option with no strings attached.
Both Telstra and Belong offer great value in different ways, so it’s all about finding the right balance of features, price, and flexibility that suits your lifestyle.
Get in touch with Compare Broadband
Telstra and Belong both offer excellent NBN plans, but both cater to different customer needs.
Telstra is the go-to choice for those seeking top-tier performance, advanced features, and premium customer support, while Belong provides a more affordable and flexible option for people on a budget or those looking for month-to-month services without a long-term commitment.
Understanding your priorities - whether it’s speed, flexibility, or support - will help you make the right choice for your home or business.
Still on the fence? Why not chat to our friendly Aussie-based team and let us talk you through the available options for both. Give us a call on 1300 764 000.
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