Best Mobile Broadband Plans & Providers - 2023
Mobile broadband is essentially a data-only SIM package that allows you to add mobile internet to certain devices such as tablets, phones, smart watches, hotspots and more. With mobile broadband, you can connect to the mobile network from anywhere you would normally be able to use a mobile phone. We're going to take a look at the best mobile broadband plans & prices in Australia and find out if mobile broadband is an option for you.
- Need to learn the basics first? Start here:
- What is Mobile Broadband?
- Mobile Broadband vs. NBN - Explained
- Mobile Broadband vs. Home Wireless Broadband - Explained
Here are Selectra's picks for top mobile broadband providers covered in this guide.
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The most popular mobile broadband plans in Australia are from Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. Let's have a look.
Telstra Mobile Broadband Plans
Telstra mobile broadband plans are available on a month-to-month basis with no lock-in contract.
With the Telstra data-only SIM card, you'll get:
- No excess data charges: If you use up your data allowance on a Telstra mobile broadband plan, you can continue to browse the web at reduced 1.5Mbps speeds
- Data sharing: Share data between up to 10 eligible plans on the same Telstra account
- Autopay: Set and forget your bill payments by setting up autopay with your chosen bank or credit/debit card
- International roaming: Select destinations are eligible for an International Roaming Day Pass add-on
You can choose to bring your own device such as a tablet or dongle, or purchase one with Telstra outright or repay it over 12, 24, or 36 months.
Here is a list of all Telstra mobile broadband plans.
| Company | Data Package | Cost | Plan Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 GB | $15 | SIM only Prepay using AutoPay No data overage charges (nationally) Telstra 3G & 4G network Telstra Data Sharing (max 10 people) |
| 30 GB | $25 | SIM only Prepay using AutoPay No data overage charges (nationally) Telstra 3G & 4G network Telstra Data Sharing (max 10 people) |
| 75 GB | $55 | SIM only Prepay using AutoPay No data overage charges (nationally) 5G Telstra Network Telstra Data Sharing (max 10 people) |
| 400 GB | $85 | SIM only Prepay using AutoPay No data overage charges (nationally) 5G Telstra Network Telstra Data Sharing (max 10 people) |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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Optus Mobile Broadband Plans
Optus has four data-only mobile broadband plans on a month-to-month basis with no lock-in contract.
With Optus mobile broadband, you can get:
- No excess data charges: If you use up your data allowance you can continue to browse the web at reduced 1.5Mbps speeds
- Data sharing: Eligible Optus Choice Plus plans on the same account can share data
Although you won't get international data roaming included like you do with Telstra's plans, you do get subscription benefits.
- Subscriptions: When you use SubHub to sign up for streaming services you can save 10% if you bundles 3 or more subscriptions. Also, Optus customers get Optus Sport at a discounted rate of $6.99/month
You can bring your own compatible device to use with an Optus data-only SIM card, or purchase one and pay it off over 12, 24, or 36 months.
Until 17/10/2022 Optus is offering double data which results in the following data and prices.
Below you will find a table summarising data-only plans available through Optus.
| Company | Data Package | Cost | Plan Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 GB | $15 | SIM Only Post Pay each month 4G Optus Network Free Optus Sport Subscription No data overage charges (nationally) |
| 60 GB | $25 | SIM Only Post Pay each month 4G Optus Network Free Optus Sport Subscription No data overage charges (nationally) |
| 120 GB | $45 | SIM Only Post Pay each month 5G Optus Network Free Optus Sport Subscription No data overage charges (nationally) |
| 200 GB | $60 | SIM Only Post Pay each month 5G Optus Network Free Optus Sport Subscription No data overage charges (nationally) |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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Vodafone Mobile Broadband
Vodafone has three mobile broadband plans available starting at $20 per month.
All Vodafone mobile broadband plans come with no lock-in contract and a 30-day network guarantee. You can choose to bring your own device, or get a mobile broadband modem through Vodafone and pay it off over 12, 24, or 36 months.
Another important point to note is that Vodafone upping its game. They have just expanded their mobile broadband plans to include lot's more data and is investing in improving it's network.
With Vodafone mobile broadband plans you'll get:
- International roaming: For only $5 a day, you can use your plan as normal with no overage charges.
- 30-day Money-back Guarantee: If you aren't satisfied with the Vodafone network, you can get your money back.
Here you can find a summary of Vodafone data-only mobile broadband plans.
| Company | Data Package | Cost | Plan Benefits | Site Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 GB | $20 | SIM Only Must pay $20 for your first month | Sign Up |
| 70 GB | $40 | SIM Only Must pay $20 for your first month | Sign Up |
| 150 GB | $60 | SIM Only Must pay $20 for your first month | Sign Up |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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Mobile Broadband Plans with Honourable Mention
These month-to-month mobile broadband plans aren't from the "big three", Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. However, we think that they are high enough up on the list to receive an honourable mention.
Mobile broadband plans with monthly data-only SIMs generally come with more benefits and inclusions than prepaid data-only plans.
If you're looking for prepaid mobile broadband plans, we cover those a little further down.
Without further ado, here's our selection of mobile broadband plans with Honourable mention.
1. Southern Phone Mobile Broadband
Southern Phone offers contracted monthly mobile broadband plans on the Optus Network.
Southern Phone mobile broadband plans come with:
- 12-month contract
- Optus 3G/4G Network
- Certified carbon neutral by Climate Active
Southern Phone mobile broadband SIM cards are compatible with most devices, and you get Australia-based tech support for any help you might need with your service.
Below, you’ll find a summary of Southern Phone data-only plans available.
| Company | Data Package | Cost | Plan Benefits | Site Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 GB | $15 / month | Yearly Data Package SIM Only Optus 3G & 4G Network Certified carbon neutral by Climate Active | Sign Up |
| 15 GB | $25 / month | Yearly Data Package SIM Only Optus 3G & 4G Network Certified carbon neutral by Climate Active | Sign Up |
| 50 GB | $40 / month | Yearly Data Package SIM Only Optus 3G & 4G Network Certified carbon neutral by Climate Active | Sign Up |
| 100 GB | $65 / month | Yearly Data Package SIM Only Optus 3G & 4G Network Certified carbon neutral by Climate Active | Sign Up |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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2. Aussie Broadband Mobile Broadband Plans
Aussie broadband runs on the Optus network and offers 4G coverage to its mobile broadband customers.
Until 30/09/2022 Aussie broadband is offering double data for 6 months.
Here's a look at all of monthly Aussie Broadband's mobile broadband plans in greater detail starting with the cheapest:
| Company | Data Package | Cost | Plan Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 GB | $15 / Month | SIM Only Post Paid Optus 4G network Mobile data sharing No lock-in contract |
| 25 GB | $25 / Month | SIM Only Post Paid Optus 4G network Mobile data sharing No lock-in contract |
| 40 GB | $35 / Month | SIM Only Post Paid Optus 4G network Mobile data sharing No lock-in contract |
| 60 GB | $45 / Month | SIM Only Post Paid Optus 4G network Mobile data sharing No lock-in contract |
| 120 GB | $65 / Month | SIM Only Post Paid Optus 4G network Mobile data sharing No lock-in contract |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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Aussie Broadband is one of our top picks for mobile broadband plans as it offers good value for the money and friendly customer service.
One of the major differences that set Aussie Broadband apart from other mobile broadband providers is the ability to share data with up to 10 devices on the same account. This is great for large families whose data use is constantly fluctuating depending on the person. It is essentially a way of helping their customers have more flexibility with their usage and avoid data caps or extra charges.
Aussie broadband also rewards its existing NBN customers that also purchase a mobile broadband data-only plan. Depending on the level you choose, you could receive up to double the data for the same price as other users.
All Aussie Broadband data only mobile plans include the following:
- No lock-in contract contract
- Optus 3G/4G Network
- Certified carbon neutral by Climate Active
- Australian-based customer support
Prepaid Mobile Broadband Plans
There are a number of mobile providers that offer data-only SIM cards, with different data allowances and expiries depending on your needs.
Below we cover prepaid mobile broadband plans from:
- ALDI Mobile
- Amaysim
- Lebara
- Yomojo
1. ALDI Mobile Prepaid Mobile Broadband
ALDI Mobile is our top pick for mobile broadband plans in Australia.
Have a look at their plans in greater detail in the table below, starting from the cheapest:
| Company | Data Package | Cost | Plan Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 GB | $95 / 365 days | Yearly Data Package SIM only Prepaid with auto recharge Tesltra 3G & 4G network Monthly data rollover |
| 185 GB | $240 / 365 days | Yearly Data Package SIM only Prepaid with auto recharge Tesltra 3G & 4G network Monthly data rollover |
| 365 GB | $365 / 365 days | Yearly Data Package SIM only Prepaid with auto recharge Tesltra 3G & 4G network Monthly data rollover |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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ALDI Mobile runs on the Telstra network which is the largest in Australia. Although they don’t have access to Telstra’s 5G network, the speeds and coverage offered are more than enough.
For us, the best thing about ALDI Mobile’s mobile broadband is their plans come in year-long packages. This means you pay a flat fee and get a set amount of data to use over the course of a year. This is great if you don’t plan to use your mobile data the same way each month as it allows flexibility for you to use as much as you need when you need it without having to top up.
All ALDI Mobile data-only plans come with:
- Data rollover
- Auto recharge
- 365-day expiry
- 3G/4G Telstra Network
ALDI Mobile’s packages start at $95 and go up from there. The only downside is that if you cancel your mobile broadband service before your 365 day period is up or before you have used all of your data, you will not be refunded for your unused data.
Another high note to mention about ALDI Mobile's data only plans is that in Canstarblue’s annual customer survey, ALDI mobile has ranked number 1 in Australia for 3 years in a row with 5 stars in all categories surveyed.
2. Amaysim Prepaid Mobile Broadband
Amaysim is another of our favourite mobile broadband providers as their plans are a great value. They also offer unlimited data banking when you sat on the same plan after sign-up.
Here is a table with Amaysim's 3 mobile broadband plans ranked from cheapest to most expensive:
| Company | Data Package | Cost | Plan Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 GB | $15 / 28 days | SIM Only Prepaid with auto recharge Optus 4G+ Network 28-day expiry* |
| 50 GB | $40 / 28 days | SIM Only Prepaid with auto recharge Optus 4G+ Network 28-day expiry* |
| 90 GB | $60 / 28 days | SIM Only Prepaid with auto recharge Optus 4G+ Network 28-day expiry* |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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Amaysim uses the Optus network which is the second most extensive network in Australia.
However, if you are looking for 5G mobile broadband plans, then you’ll have to look elsewhere. Amaysim users only have access to the Optus 4G+ network – which still has great speed and coverage. Amaysim is a great option for city dwellers who need their tablet on the go, as the best coverage will always be in more populated areas.
All Amaysim mobile broadband and data-only plans come with:
- Unlimited data banking
- Auto recharge
- 28 day expiry period
- Optus 4G Plus Network
Another important note to remember is that Amaysim is a SIM only company, meaning you’ll have to use an existing device or buy one elsewhere. All Amaysim mobile broadband plans operate on a 28 day renewal period. You won’t have a contract, but the plan will automatically renew each month as a standard feature. If you don’t want this, you can request this feature to be disabled.
3. Lebara Prepaid Mobile Broadband
Lebara prepaid mobile broadband plans are available on the Vodafone 4G Network and come with flexible expiry periods depending on your needs.
| Company | Data Allowance | Cost & Expiry | Plan Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25GB | $20 / 30 days | SIM only Data banking Vodafone 4G network |
| 50GB | $35 / 60 days | SIM only Data banking Vodafone 4G network |
| 75GB | $45 / 90 days | SIM only Data banking Vodafone 4G network |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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Lebara is famous for being a budget provider, so it's natural that you will always find a killer deal when looking at Lebara's plans. The case is no different with the mobile broadband plans.
Lebara's plans come out to be less than $1 per gigabyte. That's a screaming deal. As an added benefit, Lebara offers data banking up to 200GB. Data banking is a feature that saves any unused data from previous months and stores it for use whenever you need it. This is a nice feature because, although Lebara's plans are all prepaid, they do have a 30-day expiry period.
All Lebara data-only SIM plans include:
- Up to 200GB of data banking
- Bonus data available
- Flexible expiry periods
- Vodafone 4G Network
4. Yomojo Prepaid Mobile Broadband
Yomojo data-only SIM cards come on the Optus 4G Plus Network, with a variety of data allowances, from 2GB up to 100GB.
Yomojo prepaid mobile broadband plans come with:
- Auto recharge
- 30-day expiry
- Optus 4G Plus Network
| Company | Data Package | Cost | Plan Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 GB | $14.90 / Month | SIM Only Prepaid auto recharge (30 days) Optus 4G+ Network |
| 7 GB | $19.90 / Month | SIM Only Prepaid auto recharge (30 days) Optus 4G+ Network |
| 15 GB | $34.90 / Month | SIM Only Prepaid auto recharge (30 days) Optus 4G+ Network |
| 50 GB | $54.90 / Month | SIM Only Prepaid auto recharge (30 days) Optus 4G+ Network |
| 100 GB | $79.90 / Month | SIM Only Prepaid auto recharge (30 days) Optus 4G+ Network |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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5G Mobile Broadband Plans
While the 5G network is currently being rolled out across the country, and more and more mobile providers are offering 5G mobile phone plans and home wireless broadband plans, there are currently only a couple of 5G mobile broadband plans available.
Both Telstra and Optus offer 5G data-only plans, with 5G connectivity available for plans with a larger data allowance. It’s important to note that you will need a 5G-enabled device in order to connect to the 5G network and as of yet, 5G is not available everywhere in Australia.
| Provider & Data Allowance | Cost & Expiry | Price per GB |
|---|---|---|
| Optus 120GB | $45 / month | $0.37 / GB |
| Optus 200GB | $60 / month | $0.30 / GB |
| Telstra 75GB | $55 / month | $0.73 / GB |
| Telstra 400GB | $85 / month | $0.22 / GB |
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*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don’t compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Offers and availability are subject to change. Valid July 2022.
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What is Mobile Broadband?
Mobile broadband is a way to connect your devices to the internet using the mobile network.
Unlike your typical mobile phone plan, mobile broadband (also known as data-only) does not include the ability to call or send text messages. As the name suggests, these plans are data only.
Mobile broadband can be used with any device that uses a SIM card and is a great choice for people who want to connect to the internet while on the go as long as you have a mobile network signal. You can insert a data-only SIM card into any device such as a tablet, wifi dongle, or mobile hotspot device, which is a great option for people who work remotely, travel frequently, or have just moved house and don’t yet have a fixed internet connection at their new address.
Mobile Broadband vs. NBN
Mobile broadband and the NBN are both ways to connect to the internet, but there are key differences in how they connect, and the hardware required.
- Mobile broadband is meant for on-the-go internet while NBN is wired and connected to your home.
- Mobile broadband utilises the 3G, 4G, or even 5G mobile networks, while the NBN uses various fixed technologies.
- The NBN is generally faster than mobile broadband and can be connected to more devices.
- Most NBN plans these days come with unlimited data, while mobile broadband usually comes with capped data allowances.
- Mobile broadband is “plug and play” and can be used to instantly connect to the internet while connecting your home to the NBN usually requires a visit from a technician.
In general, while you can use mobile broadband as your home’s internet connection, NBN plans are much better suited for your home’s WiFi. On the other hand, for people who want to connect to the internet from anywhere, mobile broadband can be a great alternative.
Mobile Broadband vs. Home Wireless Broadband
Both mobile broadband and home wireless broadband utilise the mobile network to connect your devices to the internet but there are some key differences between the two.
- Mobile broadband is designed for on-the-go internet connection while home wireless broadband is meant to be used in one location like your home or office.
- Mobile broadband includes a separate SIM card that you can pop into any eligible device while home wireless broadband requires the use of a special modem.
- Home wireless broadband plans come with higher (or unlimited) data allowance, while mobile broadband often comes with more varied data allowances.
While mobile broadband and home wireless broadband are similar in their technology, home wireless broadband is better suited for in the home, while mobile broadband is best for on the go.
Mobile Broadband FAQ
Is NBN Faster Than Mobile Broadband?
While mobile broadband can reach speeds up to 100Mbps, and 5G mobile broadband can get even faster, it is less reliable than NBN speeds. 4G speeds can be as slow as 20Mbps to 30Mbps, and depend on your mobile network, coverage, location, and the device you’re using.
What is Pocket WiFi?
A pocket WiFi refers to any device, such as a WiFi dongle or portable modem, that connects to the mobile network and shares it with other connected devices.
- WiFi Dongle: A WiFi dongle is a small USB device with a SIM card that can be directly plugged into a laptop to give your computer access to the internet. WiFi dongles are generally used for one device at a time.
- Portable Modem: A portable modem is generally a rechargeable, standalone device with a SIM card that enables multiple devices to connect to the internet at the same time while on the go.
Is Pocket Wifi Better Than a Mobile Hotspot?
Most mobile devices these days can act as a hotspot, which allows you to connect other devices, such as another phone, computer, or tablet, to your mobile’s network connection. However, mobile hotspots generally offer a slower and less stable connection than a dedicated pocket WiFi device which can capture a network signal at greater strength from further away. While there is something to be said about the convenience of a mobile hotspot, since it’s just the one device, if you’re looking for a consistent, portable, internet connection you’re probably better off with a pocket WiFi device.
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