Canstar Blue’s annual review of ADSL and Cable broadband internet providers compares TPG, iiNet, Internode, Belong, Optus, Telstra, Dodo, iPrimus and Foxtel on their speed and reliability, customer service, value for money and more. Our ratings are formed from a survey of more than 1,200 Aussie consumers.
See our Ratings Methodology.
TPG and iiNet have both topped Canstar Blue’s 2019 customer satisfaction ratings for ADSL and Cable internet providers, achieving five stars for overall satisfaction, as well as speed and reliability. TPG was also the best-rated for value for money.
Until the National Broadband Network (NBN) arrives at your door, you’re pretty much stuck with a good old copper ADSL connection. A sturdy cable connection may also be on offer – if you’re lucky enough to live in an area that has it. But while you wait to be connected to the NBN, it’s important that you’re still getting the best service and value that you can from your existing internet provider, so don’t be afraid to shop around before the NBN becomes available. You may even plan your next move with one eye on the NBN switch. If you’re already connected to the NBN, head over to our NBN provider ratings.
There are well over 40 internet service providers out there, which include all the big names you’ve no doubt heard of or seen the ads for on TV. However, there are loads of other providers you may not be aware of: the trick is to dig a little deeper to find the best internet provider that meets your needs, along with a price you’re happy to pay. This is true whether you’re already on the NBN, or looking for a better provider for your existing service. Our goal is to make that digging process a little easier and help you to find that perfect internet provider match. We do this by surveying more than 1,200 internet customers to find out what they think of their provider based on several important factors.
These ratings are based on the experiences of Australian households with an ADSL2+ or cable internet connection, with internet providers compared on factors including their speed and reliability, customer service and value for money. The idea is to give you as much information as possible about the providers compared so you can make an informed decision about which you should sign up with. So, what did we find this year?
Here are the best internet providers in Australia as rated by customers in Canstar Blue’s latest satisfaction survey:
It’s the first time that TPG has emerged as the best-rated internet provider in our annual review, scoring top marks for speed and reliability, as well as value for money and overall satisfaction. For iiNet, it’s the second time at the top of these ratings. It’s worth us pointing out that iiNet is a part of the TPG Telecom Group, which also includes Internode and Westnet. These brands have dominated our internet provider ratings over the years.
Our customer ratings table reports the real-world experiences of Aussie households who have either an ADSL or cable broadband connection with one of the nine providers listed, giving you an idea of what to expect should you decide to sign up with one of them. For further guidance on which might be the best bet for your internet needs and budget, you can read an overview of what each has to offer below.
Looking for a quick, at-a-glance plan comparison for Australia’s biggest broadband providers? The following table shows a selection of published unlimited data ADSL plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest. Use our comparison tool to see plans from a range of other providers. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
min. cost $1,189.77 over 18 month plan period |
Unlimited | $59.99 | Go To Site |
 |
min. cost $720 over 12 month plan period |
Unlimited | $60 | Go To Site |
 |
min. cost $79.99 over one month |
Unlimited | $79.99 | Go To Site |
 |
min. cost $239.97 over one month |
Unlimited | $79.99 | Go To Site |
 |
min. cost $2,070 over 24 months |
Unlimited | $90 | Go To Site |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
TPG offers a wide range of competitive internet plans, with data allowances starting at just 20GB and priced from $39.99 monthly (including home phone line rental). If you’re interested in unlimited data, TPG’s ADSL2+ plans with home phone begin at $59.99 per month.
TPG was an outstanding performer in this year’s review, scoring five stars for overall satisfaction, speed and reliability, as well as value for money, and four stars in all remaining categories.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
min. cost $829.77 over 18 month plan period |
20GB | $39.99 | Go To Site |
|
min. cost $1,009.77 over 18 month plan period |
100GB | $49.99 | Go To Site |
|
min. cost $1,189.77 over 18 month plan period |
Unlimited | $59.99 | Go To Site |
|
min. cost $179.94 for the first month |
Unlimited | $59.99 | Go To Site |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
iiNet has been a stalwart in these ratings for many years now, known for offering a great alternative to the biggest providers. Unlimited data plans start at $79.99 for ADSL2+ with phone line rental.
Like TPG, iiNet achieved five stars for overall satisfaction, as well as both speed and reliability and bill clarity.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
min. cost $79.99 over one month |
Unlimited | $79.99 | Go To Site |
|
min. cost $89.99 over one month |
Unlimited | $89.99 | Go To Site |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
Internode was one of the earliest adopters of ADSL2+ speeds in Australia. Prices start from $79.99 per month for ADSL2+ with phone rental and unlimited data. A 500GB option is also available, from $59.99 monthly.
The Adelaide-based telco achieved four stars for overall satisfaction in our 2019 ratings, with five-star results for both customer service and ease of setup.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
min. cost $179.97 over one month |
500GB | $59.99 | Go To Site |
|
min. cost $239.97 over one month |
Unlimited | $79.99 | Go To Site |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
Belong’s ADSL offerings are simple but affordable, with prices beginning at $50 monthly for 100GB, or $60 for unlimited data. Unlike other providers, the Telstra-owned telco waives all standard activation fees for new customers, regardless of plan type.
In this year’s ratings, Belong scored three stars for overall satisfaction, but achieved four stars for value for money, bill clarity, and ease of setup.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
min. cost $660 over 12 month plan period |
100GB | $55 | Go To Site |
|
min. cost $720 over 12 month plan period |
Unlimited | $60 | Go To Site |
|
min. cost $120 for the first month |
100GB | $60 | Go To Site |
|
Belong Month to Month Unlimited
min. cost $130 for the first month |
Unlimited | $70 | Go To Site |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
Internet giant Optus has made several recent changes to its broadband offerings, and now provides unlimited data ADSL from $70 per month. This plan also includes Optus Sport, plus phone line rental.
Optus scored three stars for overall satisfaction in our 2019 ratings, with four-star results for both speed and reliability and ease of setup.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
70Â Bundle Plan
min. cost $1,779 over 24 months |
Unlimited | $70 | |
|
90 Bundle Plan
min. cost $2,259 over 24 months |
Unlimited | $90 | |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
Australia’s biggest telco recently streamlined its broadband options and now offers plans from just $75 per month for 500GB of data. Unlimited data begins at $90, and both plans are available on a no-contract basis only.
Like Optus, Telstra scored an overall satisfaction rating of three stars, with four star results for speed and reliability and ease of setup.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
min. cost $1,800Â over 24Â months |
500GBÂ | $75 | Go To Site |
|
min. cost $2,070 over 24 months |
Unlimited | $90 | Go To Site |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
Dodo is one of a select few internet providers to deliver multiple home services, including electricity and gas. When it comes to broadband, Dodo is typically one of the cheaper telcos around, offering unlimited data from $30 a month (and just $20 for 101GB).
Dodo achieved an overall 2019 satisfaction rating of three stars, but did achieve four stars for value for money, bill clarity, and ease of setup.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Unlimited Data
min. cost $720Â over 12 month plan period |
Unlimited | $30 | |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
Like Dodo, iPrimus operates under the Vocus Communications umbrella, but offers markedly different ADSL plans. Prices start at $60 per month for 100GB, with unlimited data beginning at $80.
Despite a range of products on offer, iPrimus scored a rating of three stars in each category, including overall satisfaction.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Unlimited Basic
min. cost $1,935Â over 24 months |
Unlimited | $80 | |
|
Entertainment Basic
min. cost $2,230Â over 24 months |
Unlimited | $90 | |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
No longer just a pay TV provider, Foxtel also offers ADSL bundles via Telstra’s broadband network. All plans include unlimited monthly data, and are available from an extra $65 per month, depending on your Foxtel package.
This is the first year Foxtel Broadband has been included in Canstar Blue’s ADSL and Cable review. The provider achieved a three-star rating in all categories, including overall satisfaction.
| Brand | Features | Max Data**/billing period | Advertised Cost^^/billing period | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Unlimited Broadband +Â Foxtel Plus Bundle
min. cost $1,178.40Â over 12 month plan period |
Unlimited | $98.20 | |
|
Unlimited Broadband +Â Movies HD Bundle
min. cost $1,370.40Â over 12 month plan period |
Unlimited | $114.20 | |
|
Unlimited Broadband + Sports HD Bundle
min. cost $1,418.20Â over 12 month plan period |
Unlimited | $118.20 | |
|
Unlimited Broadband + Premium Bundle
min. cost $1,658.40Â over 12 month plan period |
Unlimited | $138.20 | |
| View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue |
**^^View important information | |||
While the nine broadband providers featured above can generally be thought of as the biggest around, it’s worth pointing out that there are many other providers equally capable of offering you a good deal. These include:
While the big providers are probably going to be your first port of call, looking into a smaller provider may prove to be better value in terms of straight up data versus price. However, generally the biggest internet providers offer more than just cheap deals. Often, they provide comprehensive support with call centres operating around the clock, as well as easy online service and support options.
Bigger internet providers may also remove much of the ‘mystery factor’ and often come with free and prompt installation, which these smaller telcos may not be able to provide. All in all, it’s a good idea to keep an open mind and consider a wide range of plans and providers before signing up.
Internet speed & reliability is the single most important factor driving overall satisfaction when it comes to internet providers, our research shows. In 2019, speed & reliability overtook customer service as the number one driving factor, suggesting that many Aussies have experienced issues in this department. If you want to learn more about internet speeds, head over to our page on the fastest internet plans.
Here are the drivers of customer satisfaction as identified from our 2019 review:
ADSL and cable broadband speeds are generally more predictable than speeds on the NBN, with prices remaining pretty competitive. But it seems many Aussies are willing to pay a little extra if it means they get an internet connection they can rely on.
With an average reported spend of just over $72 a month, and with over three in five of those surveyed having an unlimited data internet plan, customers may find they are paying too much for the amount of data or other features they are currently receiving from their provider. The cheapest unlimited data deals come in at less than $40 a month.
The rollout of the NBN in your area could still be a long way off, so there are a few things you can do to get the most out of your existing ADSL or cable provider – and that includes shopping around for a new deal. Whether you’re choosing an ADSL option, or you’re looking at a good cable plan for your home, it pays to shop around. Here are some useful resources to help you decide what internet plan to go with:
Taking a look at the big service providers in our ratings will also be a good starting point, but don’t forget you have a lot of options when it comes to ADSL or cable internet.
ADSL stands for ‘Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line’ and remains the most common form of fixed-line home internet in Australia, with ADSL2+ the new and improved version. ADSL uses telephone lines to provide internet access, making it the cheapest type of connection.
What ADSL may lack in download speeds, it more than makes up for with sheer choice of providers and plans, with more than 40 internet providers in Australia each with their own selling points.
Cable internet is delivered through a hybrid network of extremely fast fibre optic cables and slower coaxial cables, resulting in increased bandwidth limits and higher speeds for end-users.
If you’re lucky enough to live in a cable-connected home, you will likely only have the choice of one provider with less plan choice than what is offered to ADSL customers. You’ll also generally have to pay more, with prices starting at around $60 a month. However, you will also generally benefit from faster speeds.
How fast your ADSL connection is can be heavily dependent on where your home is located in relation to your exchange. The further you are, the slower your maximum speed likely is. This makes it important to know what exchange you are on. This can be discovered through your provider. A general guide into the fastest maximum speeds you can achieve, depending on your location is:
As you can see, there is a sharp dropoff in ADSL2+ speeds the moment you live farther than about a 3km radius from your exchange. So, if you’re moving house it can pay to see where your home is in relation to your exchange. Note that this isn’t the only thing affecting your ADSL speed; connection and cabling quality, your provider and the time of day (i.e. peak times) can all play a part. Below are lists of exchanges around the states and territories of Australia; if you don’t see one that’s relevant to you, it pays to check with your provider.
TPG and iiNet have dominated our latest review of internet providers, but some other brands performed well in specific areas. This is what we found:
Canstar Blue’s comprehensive internet comparison tool allows you to compare plans and prices from 28 providers. As of February 2020, compared brands are:
We update plans and pricing as soon as we are made aware of changes. Please note that the number of plans shown is subject to change if a provider changes its offerings.
| Telco | Â Plan | Monthly Cost | Contract Term |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPG | Unlimited 18 Months | $59.99 | 18 months |
| Belong | 12 Month Unlimited | $60 | 12 months |
| Dodo | Unlimited | $60 | 24 months |
| Optus | 70 Plan | $70 | 24 months |
| Start Broadband | Unlimited | $75 | 24Â months |
| iiNet | Liimitless Data | $79.99 | No contract |
| Internode | Unlimited | $79.99 | 24 months |
| iPrimus | Unlimited Basic | $80 | No contract |
| Telstra | Unlimited | $90 | No contract |
| Foxtel | Unlimited Broadband +Â Foxtel Plus Bundle | $98.20 | 12Â months |
Last updated January 2020.
Canstar Blue surveyed 9,000 Australian adults across a range of categories to measure and track customer satisfaction, via ISO 26362 accredited research panels managed by Qualtrics. The outcomes reported are the results from customers within the survey group who currently have an ADSL or cable plan in their name and they pay the bills – in this case, 1,206 people.
Brands must have received at least 30 responses to be included. Results are comparative and it should be noted that brands receiving three stars have still achieved a satisfaction measure of at least six out of 10. Not all brands available in the market have been compared in this survey. The ratings table is first sorted by star ratings and then by mean overall satisfaction. A rated brand may receive a ‘N/A’ (Not Applicable) rating if it does not receive the minimum number of responses for that criteria.
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