Best NBN providers in Australia
We've compared the top NBN providers in Australia according to customer service rating, typical evening speeds, online gaming and price.
Choosing the right NBN plan can be overwhelming. At Compare Broadband, we're here to make it easier. We compare factors like typical evening speed, gaming plans, customer service and value for money to help you make an informed choice.
Feeling lost about which NBN provider to pick? We've searched through countless plans to find the perfect NBN option for you.
Even if you're on a tight budget, you can still get great Internet. Many NBN providers offer affordable plans with reliable connections.
Choosing the right provider depends on various factors like where you live, available infrastructure, your required speed, data usage, and your monthly budget.
We’ve put together a list of the best NBN providers in Australia to include typical evening speeds, providers best for online gamers, customer service ratings and price.
To better manage your expectations, give us a call at Compare Broadband and we'll give you an insight into which providers are the best options in your area.
Most popular NBN plans
Many NBN providers have various plans to fit different budgets and needs. Providers will usually offer speeds like NBN 25, NBN 50, and NBN 100, with some offering faster options like NBN 250 and NBN 1000, though these may not be available everywhere.
Some of the most popular plans in our system include:
Best NBN providers: Customer service
When picking an NBN provider, it's tempting to focus on low prices or well-known brands, but it's crucial to consider the actual user experience.
While everyone's experience differs, reading reviews from current customers can give you an idea of what to expect.
At Compare Broadband, we're committed to helping you find the best NBN provider for customer service in Australia, so we've analysed data from customer review sites to identify the top two providers for customer satisfaction
Tangerine
Tangerine is known for great customer service. It offers a 14-day trial and refund if you're not satisfied.
You can manage your account online for quick service changes, making it easy to see what speeds you’re getting and when your bills are due.
Tangerine provides good value, strong support, and has positive reviews on TrustPilot and Product Review.
Let us talk you through Tangerine’s best plans.
More
After Tangerine, More Telecom is also highly praised for customer service.
More Telecom provides quick and accessible customer and tech support throughout the week via live chat or email. Its 14-day trial competes with Tangerine, but it's the positive reviews on TrustPilot and Product Review that set More apart as a top choice for customer service in Australia.
Call our experts to learn more about More Telecom’s plans today.
Best NBN providers: Typical evening speed
It's challenging to identify the fastest NBN providers due to similar typical evening speeds. Fortunately, the ACCC's Measuring Broadband Australia program releases quarterly reports, offering insights into 11 providers' performance during busy evening hours.
These reports measure performance as a percentage of the maximum speed for each plan. It also includes data on daily outages, average download speeds, webpage loading times, latency, and packet loss.
When it comes to typical evening speeds, it’s not just about how fast the connection is: it’s also about reliability. You don't just want to look for a fast connection, but one that will be consistent with few dropouts. The top two plans for typical evening speeds include:
Telstra high-speed plans
Telstra reported high Internet speeds, hitting 101.0% during busy times in the ACCC's latest report for December.
Telstra's NBN plans don't tie you into a contract. If you switch to another provider in the first 24 months, you'll need to return the modem or pay a $200 fee.
Discover Telstra plans and typical evening speeds.
Exetel high-speed plans
Exetel takes the lead in this quarter's rankings. Its customers experienced a remarkable 100.9% of the maximum plan speeds during peak hours, as highlighted in the latest ACCC broadband performance report.
Explore Exetel's offerings for NBN 50 or faster speeds.
Best NBN providers: Online Gaming
Today's games rely heavily on Internet connectivity for multiplayer gaming, purchasing new games, downloading DLC, and installing updates.
For gamers seeking a new Internet plan, speed (for downloads) and reliability (for online play) are crucial factors to consider. While there isn't a single best NBN provider for gaming, most telcos on the market should offer a satisfactory gaming experience.
A faster Internet connection greatly benefits gamers by reducing download and update times, especially for large games over 50GB.
Previously, an average ADSL2+ connection would see that a 50GB game used to take around 12 hours to download. With a 100Mbps NBN connection, this time drops to just over an hour. With an NBN 1000 plan on an HFC or FTTP connection, you might download a game in as little as seven minutes.
However, not all NBN plans are the same. Peak hour speeds can vary between providers because it buys network capacity from NBN Co.
The ACCC requires NBN providers to disclose the typical evening speed, which indicates the speed you can expect during busy evening hours.
How to choose an NBN provider
When choosing an NBN plan and provider, it's crucial to conduct thorough research to make an informed decision. Avoid being swayed solely by marketing tactics and prioritise customer service and the specific features that matter most to you.
Here are some key aspects to consider when selecting an NBN Internet plan provider:
Connection speed
NBN 50 plans are often considered a good balance between speed and affordability. However, if you have higher demands for speed, you might consider faster plans such as NBN 100 or even NBN 250 or NBN 1000 if available in your area.
If you have more modest needs, a slower plan like NBN 12 might suffice.
Typical evening speeds
While providers advertise maximum speeds, it's essential to consider the typical evening speeds, especially if you engage in activities that require consistent high-speed Internet during peak hours.
Calls included
Some NBN plans include calls to Australian numbers, which can be beneficial if you make frequent calls domestically. Consider whether you need this feature or if you can opt for a plan without it.
Bundled entertainment
If you're interested in additional services like pay TV or streaming platforms, some providers offer bundled entertainment options. Evaluate whether these offerings align with your entertainment preferences.
BYO modem
Some providers offer a free modem when signing up for a plan, while others allow you to bring your own compatible modem. Consider whether you prefer the convenience of a provided modem or already have a suitable one.
NBN technology type
Depending on your location, you may have different NBN technology options available, such as FTTP, FTTC, HFC, FTTN, Fixed Wireless, or Satellite. Each technology has its own advantages and limitations, so choose the one that best suits your needs and is available in your area.
Ultimately, the best NBN plan and provider for you will depend on your specific needs, priorities, and budget. Take the time to compare different providers and plans to find the one that offers the features and services that align with your requirements.
Stay connected with Compare Broadband
At Compare Broadband, we're the top choice for Australians seeking the perfect Internet package. Our wide range of NBN plans makes selecting the right one simple, and our informative guides offer additional support for informed decisions. With a 5-star Trustpilot rating, you can trust that you're in good hands with us!
Use our search tool to discover the ideal NBN plan for your home or business. Alternatively, reach out to our experts for insights into major telcos, NBN services, and other Internet packages in Australia. Compare NBN plans today and embark on a journey to hassle-free Internet access.
FAQs
Does the provider matter for NBN?
Yes, the NBN provider you select can have a major impact on your broadband speeds and performance. Different providers use different technology to deliver the NBN, so make sure to compare NBN plans and research customer reviews before signing up with an ISP.
How to switch NBN providers?
Switching NBN providers is easy. All you need to do is research and compare NBN plans, sign up with the desired provider, then switch your services over. If you have any questions about switching, don't hesitate to contact Compare Broadband for assistance. We can help answer any questions you may have and make sure that the process goes smoothly.
Can I upgrade my NBN plan?
Yes, you can upgrade your NBN plan with the same provider or switch to a different provider. However, if you're switching providers, there may be some setup or hardware fees involved. You should also read the Critical Information Summary for each plan to make sure it meets your needs before signing up.
What happens if I cancel my NBN contract?
If you're on a contract, you may be subject to early termination fees. These vary depending on the provider and length of your contract. Contact your provider directly for more information about cancellation policies and charges. It's also important to make sure that all equipment is returned properly before you switch.
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