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What is mobile broadband – everything you need to know

When it comes to home internet, NBN is by far the most popular choice, however there are other options available that might be more suitable for some users – in particular, mobile broadband.

In this article, we’ll take a look at what mobile broadband is and why you might need it, as well as comparing a range of mobile broadband plans to help you find a plan that suits you.

What is mobile broadband?

It’s as simple as it sounds — mobile broadband is broadband (internet) which is delivered via a mobile network. In most cases, that mobile network would be 4G, but there are also limited 5G mobile broadband products available.

However, there are a couple of different products and ways to use mobile broadband on the market, which is where it gets a little more complicated.

Mobile broadband can sometimes come in the form of a data-only SIM card, which you can then use with a smartphone, tablet or other device (such as a dongle) which can hold a SIM card. Generally data-only SIM cards have smaller data inclusions, which can range anywhere from 1GB up to over 100GB, but typically you won’t find unlimited data on these plans.

Some mobile broadband plans also come with a modem or USB dongle, so rather than buying a SIM card and the device separately, you’ll get both with the one plan  (although you may have to pay an additional upfront fee for the modem or dongle). Generally these plans with the modem included are called ‘mobile broadband’ plans, and some providers might offer more data on these than on a data-only SIM.

How does mobile broadband work?

Mobile broadband can work the same as any fixed internet connection, such as NBN, depending on what type of mobile broadband plan you have. If you’ve chosen a plan with a modem or dongle, you’ll be able to use that device to create a WiFi network in your home and connect multiple devices to your mobile broadband connection, the same as you would on a fixed network modem.

Some of these modems are portable and powered by an internal battery, while other mobile broadband modems are not, and will need to be plugged into a powerpoint to operate.

The only downside is that you are relying on the mobile network to access your internet connection, and if there are problems with signals, you might experience issues with your connection. However, if a fixed broadband network such as NBN experiences problems, it will not affect your mobile broadband connection.

If you have a data-only SIM card for your mobile broadband, and you’re using it to connect your tablet or phone to the internet, generally that is only providing an internet connection to the device that the SIM card is inserted into. If you want other devices to access this internet connection, you will need to set up a hotspot from your tablet or phone. Likewise, some dongles, such as USB dongles, are set up to provide internet connection only to the device it’s plugged into, such as a computer.

Why do I need mobile broadband?

Mobile broadband

While the NBN network is the most common form of home internet, there are many reasons why a mobile broadband plan could be a good option for you.

Considering the portability of most mobile broadband plans — especially if you have a portable modem or dongle —  mobile broadband is a great option for anyone who does a lot of travelling, or needs internet access when out and about. Data-only SIM cards are also useful if you have a tablet or portable device and you need the internet on the go, rather than relying on whatever WiFi networks you can find, such as if you’re travelling or caravanning throughout Australia.

If you currently don’t have NBN available in your area, a mobile broadband plan could also be a good option while you wait for your home to be connected, or for renters who want to be able to take their internet with them if they move. Mobile broadband can also be a great additional internet plan for large households, especially if you work from home full time or part time, as dropped connections and slow speeds could cause problems.

Having a separate internet option at home could minimise congestion on your home broadband plan, especially if multiple people in the home are using the internet simultaneously for activities such as streaming high-definition video.

Mobile broadband is also a good option if your home is in an area where NBN will not be rolled out, or if the fixed line options in your area are not right for your needs. Of course with mobile broadband you’ll need to ensure you’re in an area with mobile reception, especially 4G coverage, for a more optimal mobile internet performance.

Telstra Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Telstra mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Brand Features Max Data**/billing period Advertised Cost^^/billing period
Telstra Logo

Small

  • SIM only plan – pay upfront via AutoPay
  • No excess data charges in Australia
  • 5G access included
  • Share your data with up to 10 plans across your account

min. cost $25 over one month

30GBMax Data**/billing period $25Advertised Cost^^/billing period
Telstra Logo

Medium

  • SIM only plan – pay upfront via AutoPay
  • No excess data charges in Australia
  • 5G access included
  • Share your data with up to 10 plans across your account

min. cost $58 over one month

75GBMax Data**/billing period $58Advertised Cost^^/billing period
Telstra Logo

Large

  • SIM only plan – pay upfront via AutoPay
  • No excess data charges in Australia
  • 5G access included
  • Share your data with up to 10 plans across your account

min. cost $90 over one month

400GBMax Data**/billing period $90Advertised Cost^^/billing period
View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue

Vodafone Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Vodafone mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Brand Features Max Data**/billing period Advertised Cost^^/billing period
Vodafone Logo

Small Data SIM Only Plan

  • SIM only plan
  • No excess data charges for use in Australia

min. cost $20 over first month

30GBMax Data**/billing period $20Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable
Vodafone Logo

Large Data SIM Only Plan

  • SIM only plan
  • No excess data charges for use in Australia

min. cost $40 over first month

70GBMax Data**/billing period $40Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable
View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue

Amaysim Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of  published Amaysim mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Brand Features Max Data**/billing period Advertised Cost^^/billing period
Amaysim Logo

Sim Only 7GB

  • SIM Only

min. cost $15 over 28 day billing period

7GBMax Data**/billing period $15Advertised Cost^^/billing period
Amaysim Logo

Sim Only 50GB

  • SIM Only

min. cost $40 over 28 day billing period

50GBMax Data**/billing period $40Advertised Cost^^/billing period
Amaysim Logo

Sim Only 90GB

  • SIM Only

min. cost $60 over 28 day billing period

90GBMax Data**/billing period $60Advertised Cost^^/billing period
View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue

Southern Phone Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Southern Phone mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Brand Features Max Data**/billing period Advertised Cost^^/billing period
Southern Phones Logo

Extra Small

  • SIM Only

min. cost $180 over 12 month plan period

7GBMax Data**/billing period $15Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
Southern Phones Logo

Small

  • SIM Only

min. cost $300 over 12 month plan period

15GBMax Data**/billing period $25Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
Southern Phones Logo

Medium

  • SIM Only

min. cost $480 over 12 month plan period

50GBMax Data**/billing period $40Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
Southern Phones Logo

Large

  • SIM Only

min. cost $780 over 12 month plan period

100GBMax Data**/billing period $65Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue

Tangerine Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Tangerine mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Brand Features Max Data**/billing period Advertised Cost^^/billing period
Tangerine Logo

100GB Plan

  • Data-only SIM plan
  • Telstra 4G and 5G network coverage
  • Optional modems available
  • Download speeds capped at 100Mbps

min. cost $34.90 over first month

100GBMax Data**/billing period $34.90Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
Tangerine Logo

200GB Plan

  • Data-only SIM plan
  • Telstra 4G and 5G network coverage
  • Optional modems available
  • Download speeds capped at 250Mbps

min. cost $49.90 over first month

200GBMax Data**/billing period $49.90Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
Tangerine Logo

400GB Plan

  • Data-only SIM plan
  • Telstra 4G and 5G network coverage
  • Optional modems available
  • Download speeds capped at 250Mbps

min. cost $64.90 over first month

400GBMax Data**/billing period $64.90Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue

The following table shows selected published Belong mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest.

Brand Features Max Data**/billing period Advertised Cost^^/billing period

Small

  • SIM Only
  • 5G network access
  • Data speeds capped at 150Mbps
  • Data gifting available

min. cost $15 over one month billing period

20GBMax Data**/billing period $15Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site

Medium

  • SIM Only
  • 5G network access
  • Data speeds capped at 150Mbps
  • Data gifting available

min. cost $35 over one month billing period

100GBMax Data**/billing period $35Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site

Large

  • SIM Only
  • 5G network access
  • Data speeds capped at 250Mbps
  • Data gifting available

min. cost $70 over one month billing period

400GBMax Data**/billing period $70Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue

What are the different types of mobile broadband?

Data SIM

Data SIM cards provide a stable internet connection on any devices that are compatible with SIM cards. The obvious benefit of this option is that it’s portable, it works for commonly-used devices like iPhones and laptops, and there are contract and no-contract options. 

Pocket WiFi

Think of pocket WiFi as a portable modem that can connect multiple devices through a mobile broadband network. They tend to be battery-powered, and are one of the most popular options for mobile broadband. 

USB modem

Also referred to as a dongle, USB WiFi modems connect to one individual device, and work to connect this device to a network. Obviously, these are also portable, however they don’t connect multiple devices to a network, which can be an issue.

Home wireless

This option is the most comparable to a typical home modem. These devices plug into a power outlet, and allow for multiple connections to the network.

Can I get 5G mobile broadband?HTC 5G Hub

Some Aussies might also find they’re in an area with access to a 5G network from either Telstra, Optus or Vodafone. Currently Telstra and Optus are offering 5G mobile or home wireless broadband plans, and all three telcos are continually rolling out their respective 5G networks.

If you’re interested in a 5G mobile broadband plan, you should check the website of your provider of choice to see if your area is covered by their 5G network. Otherwise, you might need to wait a bit until you have access in your area.

The below table features selected published Telstra mobile broadband plans from Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost from lowest to highest and then by data allowance. These are products with links to a referral partner.

5G mobile broadband plans

The following table shows a selection of published 5G mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of their cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

 

Brand Features Max Data**/billing period Advertised Cost^^/billing period

Small

  • SIM Only
  • 5G network access
  • Data speeds capped at 150Mbps
  • Data gifting available

min. cost $15 over one month billing period

20GBMax Data**/billing period $15Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable
Optus Logo

Choice Plus Data Plan

  • SIM Only
  • Month-to-month plan (SIM plan price, inclusions & add-ons may change as notified)
  • 5G network access
  • No excess data charges in Australia. Speed will be capped at max 1.5Mbps

min. cost $20 month to month

20GBMax Data**/billing period $20Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable
Telstra Logo

Small

  • SIM only plan – pay upfront via AutoPay
  • No excess data charges in Australia
  • 5G access included
  • Share your data with up to 10 plans across your account

min. cost $25 over one month

30GBMax Data**/billing period $25Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable

Medium

  • SIM Only
  • 5G network access
  • Data speeds capped at 150Mbps
  • Data gifting available

min. cost $35 over one month billing period

100GBMax Data**/billing period $35Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable
More Logo

100GB Plan

  • Data-only SIM plan
  • Telstra 4G and 5G network coverage
  • Optional modem available for upfront cost
  • Download speeds capped at 100Mbps
  • Special offers for CommBank customers. Terms apply

min. cost $40 over first month

100GBMax Data**/billing period $40Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable
Telstra Logo

Medium

  • SIM only plan – pay upfront via AutoPay
  • No excess data charges in Australia
  • 5G access included
  • Share your data with up to 10 plans across your account

min. cost $58 over one month

75GBMax Data**/billing period $58Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable

120GB Mobile Broadband Plan

  • SIM Only
  • 4G + 5G network access
  • Data pooling

min. cost $60 over one month billing period

120GBMax Data**/billing period $60Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
Tangerine Logo

400GB Plan

  • Data-only SIM plan
  • Telstra 4G and 5G network coverage
  • Optional modems from $599 upfront
  • Download speeds capped at 250Mbps

min. cost $64.90 over first month

400GBMax Data**/billing period $64.90Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site

Large

  • SIM Only
  • 5G network access
  • Data speeds capped at 250Mbps
  • Data gifting available

min. cost $70 over one month billing period

400GBMax Data**/billing period $70Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable
More Logo

400GB Plan

  • Data-only SIM plan
  • Telstra 4G and 5G network coverage
  • Optional modems available for upfront cost
  • Download speeds capped at 250Mbps
  • Special offers for CommBank customers. Terms apply

min. cost $70 over first month

400GBMax Data**/billing period $70Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable

220GB Mobile Broadband Plan

  • SIM Only
  • 4G + 5G network access
  • Data pooling

min. cost $70 over one month billing period

220GBMax Data**/billing period $70Advertised Cost^^/billing period Go to Site
Telstra Logo

Large

  • SIM only plan – pay upfront via AutoPay
  • No excess data charges in Australia
  • 5G access included
  • Share your data with up to 10 plans across your account

min. cost $90 over one month

400GBMax Data**/billing period $90Advertised Cost^^/billing period Link to provider unavailable
View all NBN plans listed on Canstar Blue

Should I get a mobile broadband plan?

After reading through this guide, hopefully you’ll have a clearer idea as to whether a mobile broadband plan is right for you. Think about what it is that mobile broadband will help you with: whether it’s for portability, a data-only SIM card for a portable device or perhaps an additional internet plan at home. This should not only help you to decide if mobile broadband is right for you, but also how much data you might need on your plan.

Mobile broadband can be a great alternative to a fixed internet connection in the home, however it’s not going to work for everyone. If you have limited mobile coverage in your area or problems with mobile coverage, it might not be the best solution for you. However, if you are keen on a mobile broadband plan, do your research, compare plans and also check the website of your provider of choice to ensure you’ll have coverage in your area before signing up.

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