Compare Top 3 Internet Plans
The Comparison Prices Listed are Based on NBN50 Plans
Silver Plan
$58.90 / Month For First 3 Months
Sign Up for Kogan
Value Plus Plan
$59.90 / Month For First 6 Months
Sign Up for Tangerine
NBN 50 Plan
$65.00 / Month For First 6 Months
Sign Up for Dodo
Sky Muster Satellite is the Australian-owned satellite internet service. It is a great option for residents of remote and rural areas and a great alternative to fixed wireless connections. If you're looking for a plan with similar performance and features to traditional wired nbn connections, then Sky Muster Plus Premium plans offer the best value for their pricing. Read below to learn more about Sky Muster Service Providers and the wide variety of options and plans.
Sky Muster Satellite is the National Broadband Network’s (NBN) solution for people who live in regional or remote areas in Australia or the surrounding islands. Also known as NBN Sky Muster, the service is powered by two geostationary satellites that are owned and operated by the NBN and provide part of this service to different Internet Service Providers.
Sky Muster is widely available and can provide a reliable connection at reasonable prices. Installation is quick and easy, with a technician setting up your new Sky Muster satellite dish outside your home and connecting it to a NBN connection box inside to provide fastest connection speeds. Most Sky Muster internet providers will provide a free installation within two to four weeks after your order has been placed.
Below are the benefits and drawbacks of using Sky Muster Satellite service:
Pros:
Cons:
Sky Muster offers two speeds, 12Mbps or 25Mbps download speeds with a monthly metered data cap. The prices for these speeds are dependent on the Internet Service Provider (ISP) you decide to order Sky Muster from.
If you’re looking for unlimited data with faster speeds, you will need Sky Muster Plus, or Sky Muster Plus Premium, these plans costs more than the standard Sky Muster plans but have burst speeds from 25Mbps to 100Mbps.
Sky Muster burst speeds mean when conditions are correct (perfect dish alignment, clear weather, using the internet on off-peak times) you can reach the maximum speed.
The main differences between nbn Sky Muster, nbn Sky Muster Plus, and nbn Sky Muster Plus Premium are in data usage and speed options. With nbn Sky Muster, all your online activity counts towards your monthly data allowance. nbn Sky Muster Plus offers unmetered data for most internet activities, but video streaming and VPN usage between 4 PM and midnight will count towards your allowance. Finally, nbn Sky Muster Plus Premium provides unlimited data for everything you do online, plus a choice of faster internet speeds.
| Service Plan | Data Usage | Speed Options |
|---|---|---|
| nbn Sky Muster | All data metered | 12, 25 Mbps |
| nbn Sky Muster Plus | Most data unmetered streaming/VPN metered (4 PM - 12 AM) | 12, 25 Mbps |
| nbn Sky Muster Plus Premium | Unlimited data | 25, 50, 100 Mbps |
Source: Providers individual websites. Actual offers may vary. Actual speeds may vary. This comparison does not include all providers, products, or plan features. Typical evening speed 7pm-11pm and subject to change. Valid May 2024.
How Do Busy Times Affect My Internet Use?
Peak hours on nbn Sky Muster (7pm-11pm) may lead to slower speeds. This is due to high network traffic. Learn more about managing your internet speed and how to increase it here!
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Installing NBN Satellite Internet on your property requires a few pieces of equipment to ensure a reliable and high-speed connection. When you first sign-up to a Sky Muster internet provider, they will also schedule an appointment to install the necessary equipment on the property with an NBN technician. The first appointment is usually 2-4 weeks from the application date.
A satellite dish must be professionally installed on your property to capture and transmit signals to the Sky Muster satellites. This dish connects to a satellite modem inside your home via coaxial cables. The modem converts the satellite signal into a usable internet connection, which is then distributed throughout your home by an indoor router. Proper installation and alignment of the dish will be necessary to have the best connection, no need to worry though, this is done for you by expert technicians.
Even though there are fewer choices of internet providers for those in regional areas, there are still plenty of options available. It's crucial to compare different providers to ensure you find the one that best meets your needs. Below are the different providers in Australia that offer Satellite Internet plans.
Sky Muster has several providers with different plans and pricing. These different product lines can cover any of your possible needs, from standard Sky Muster plan with as needed connection to Sky Muster Plus Premium plans which are similar to wired connections more suited to heavy internet users.
Sky Muster satellite internet is the solution for Australians in remote areas lacking access to traditional NBN connections. It offers reliable speeds for everyday browsing, email, and social media, though data caps are common. Sky Muster is essential for bringing internet connectivity to the most isolated parts of Australia.
| Provider + Plan | Cost / Month | Typical Evening Speed | Additional Plan Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ant | $39.95 | 25 Mbps | Total Data: 115 Peak Data: 15 Off-Peak Data: 100 |
 Activ8me | $44.95 | 12 Mbps | Total Data: 180 Peak Data: 50 Off-Peak Data: 130 Price per metered GB: $0.25 |
Activ8me | $44.95 + $5.00 | 25 Mbps | Only Available if you pick "Sonic Option" which adds another $5.00 charge onto the original $44.95/month fee. Total Data: 180 Peak Data: 50 Off-Peak Data: 130 Price per metered GB: $0.25 |
| Ant | $44.95 | 25 Mbps | Total Data: 130 Peak Data: 30 Off-Peak Data: 100 |
| Clear | $44.95 | 12 Mbps | Total Data: 130 Peak Data: 30 Off-Peak Data: 100 Price per metered GB: $0.35 |
| Clear | $44.95 | 25 Mbps | Total Data: 130 Peak Data: 30 Off-Peak Data: 100 Price per metered GB: $0.38 |
| iiNet | $44.99 | 25 Mbps | Total Data: 150 Peak Data: 30 Off-Peak Data: 120 Price per metered GB: $0.30 |
Source: Providers individual websites. Actual offers may vary. Actual speeds may vary. This comparison does not include all providers, products, or plan features. Typical evening speed 7pm-11pm and subject to change. Valid June 2024.
Sky Muster Peak and Off-Peak Times
Sky Muster plans have two different period of time that are referred to as Peak and Off-Peak.
Peak times are from: 7 AM - 1 AM
Off-Peak times are from: 1 AM - 7 AM
If you are thinking of choosing a standard Sky Muster internet plan, make sure to keep in mind what periods of time you will most likely use your connection, and choose a plan that has the most data available at that time.`
Sky Muster Plus plans offers unmetered data at similar speeds compared to standard Sky Muster satellite internet, offering a smoother and stabler browsing experience. The unmetered data usually inludes specific time and usage requirements, an exception to your unmetered requirement is that only VPN-use and video streaming from 4pm until Midnight count towards your monthly data allowance. Sky Muster Plus provides a nice balance of performance and targeted data usage for satellite internet users.
| Provider + Plan | Cost / Month | Typical Evening Speed | Additional Plan Information |
|---|---|---|---|
Activ8me | $49.95 | 25 Mbps | Unmetered; 25GB 4 PM - Midnight VPN/Video streaming |
Activ8me | $59.95 | 25 Mbps | Unmetered; 35GB 4 PM - Midnight VPN/Video streaming |
Activ8me | $69.95 | 25 Mbps | Unmetered; 50GB 4 PM - Midnight VPN/Video streaming |
Activ8me | $84.95 | 25 Mbps | Unmetered; 65GB 4 PM - Midnight VPN/Video streaming |
Source: Providers individual websites. Actual offers may vary. Actual speeds may vary. This comparison does not include all providers, products, or plan features. Typical evening speed 7pm-11pm and subject to change. Valid June 2024.
Sky Muster Plus Premium plans are perfect for users who are looking for a satellite broadband plan that is similar to a wired nbn connection. Sky Muster Plus Premium plans deliver the fastest speeds available on the nbn Sky Muster network, reaching up to 100Mbps. With unlimited unmetered data, you'll no longer have to worry about monthly caps that are on other Sky Muster plans. While Sky Muster Plus Premium plans come at a higher cost, they offer the best performance for those who are looking for a great satellite internet experience.
| Provider + Plan | Cost / Month | Typical Evening Speed | Additional Plan Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ipstar | $65 | nbn 50/5 | unmetered data |
 Southern Phone | $70 | nbn 50/5 | unmetered data |
Activ8me | $74 | nbn 50/5 | unmetered data |
| Clear | $74 | nbn 50/5 | unmetered data |
| Ant | $79.95 | nbn 50/5 | unmetered data |
 Skymesh | $79.95 | nbn 50/5 | unmetered data |
Source: Providers individual websites. Actual offers may vary. Actual speeds may vary. This comparison does not include all providers, products, or plan features. Typical evening speed 7pm-11pm and subject to change. Valid June 2024.
Sky Muster Satellite is a good choice for people who live in very remote places, but if you live within a few kilometres of a nearby phone tower, NBN Fixed Wireless is a great alternative.
Sky Muster Satellite internet uses two geostationary satellites to transmit your data over vast distances, possibly thousands of kilometres apart. Making Sky Muster a great option for users who live in truly remote areas, or those who live far away from existing mobile networks and transmission lines.
If you do live in an area with good mobile connectivity, NBN Fixed Wireless is a better alternative. NBN Fixed Wireless uses existing mobile towers and radio signals to connect to your home.
Here are some advantages of using NBN Fixed Wireless over Sky Muster Satellite:
Low Latency: Because of the shorter distance travelled and direct connection, your experience will be more seamless and quicker.
Unlimited Data: Most NBN Fixed Wireless plans will come with unlimited data, regardless of time of day or what activity you’re doing.
Weather-proof: NBN Fixed Wireless will keep a stable connection even during turbulent weather.
What satellite does Sky Muster use?
Sky Muster is powered by two geostationary satellites (GEOs) that provide coverage for all of mainland Australia and surrounding island populations.
Starlink is changing the landscape of internet access across remote Australia. Powered by the starlink constellation, a network of thousands of low orbit satellites, Starlink can provide you with high-speed broadband with lower latency than traditional satellite internet services. With this capability Starlink users can stream movies, work from home, or game online, Starlink's impressive speeds and generous data plans ensure a seamless experience. Say goodbye to slow connections and hello to reliable, high-performance internet even in the most remote corners of Australia.
While Starlink's initial hardware cost may be higher than some NBN satellite options, it offers significant speed and performance advantages. With download speeds exceeding 100 Mbps and latency as low as 25ms, Starlink often surpasses fixed-line internet connections in metropolitan areas. For individuals and businesses in remote Australia who require fast, reliable internet access, Starlink's performance and innovative technology make it the premier choice. If you can afford the initial $599 installation fee and monthly $139 subscription plan.
Choosing between Starlink and Sky Muster for your remote internet needs depends on your priorities. Here's how they compare:
Starlink Advantages:
Sky Muster Advantages:
Bottom Line:
Before you decide if Satellite internet is the best choice for you, we have listed some of the major pros and cons, to help you make the right decision for your household.
Satellite Internet Pros:
Satellite Internet Cons:
All equipment will be provided to you when you sign up to a NBN Sky Muster plan on your scheduled appoint date. This date is usually 2-4 weeks after your application with your chosen Sky Muster internet provider.
A satellite dish will be installed on your property to capture and transmit signals to the Sky Muster satellites. This dish connects to a satellite modem inside your home via coaxial cables. The modem converts the satellite signal into a usable internet connection, which is then distributed throughout your home by an indoor router. Proper installation and alignment of the dish will be necessary to have the best connection, no need to worry though, this is done for you by expert technicians.
Sky Muster offers two speeds, 12Mbps or 25Mbps download speeds with a monthly metered data cap. The prices for these speeds are dependent on the Internet Service Provider (ISP) you decide to order Sky Muster from.
If you’re looking for unlimited data with faster speeds, you will need Sky Muster Plus, or Sky Muster Plus Premium, these plans costs more than the standard Sky Muster plans but have burst speeds from 25Mbps to 100Mbps.
Sky Muster is powered by two geostationary satellites (GEOs) that provide coverage for all of mainland Australia and surrounding island populations. These satellites transmit data from large satellite ground stations to these GEOs, who then re-transmit this data to your NBN satellite dish that is installed outside your home.
If you can afford to pay the high set-up and delivery costs, you will find more stable and faster speeds with Starlink. However, if you just need something in a budget, you can find great options with Sky Muster, some options are near the performance of traditional NBN wired internet. In this case Sky Muster would be your choice.
You can use a VoIP service through NBN Sky Muster. Keep in mind that not all internet providers have a VoIP service that will be able to provide a home phone number through the NBN Sky Muster service.
For those living in areas without fixed-line connections, satellite internet can be a viable solution. This type of internet works by transmitting signals to satellites from fixed ground stations, which then relay the signals back to satellite dishes installed at properties in rural areas. Depending on your service provider, you might receive a self-installation kit or have a professional come to your property to set up the necessary equipment.
Satellite internet is a form of internet connection that allows you to do most online activities, such as browsing social media, streaming Netflix, or gaming. However, some satellite internet connections may not be fast enough to provide a buffer-free streaming experience, depending on the plan and provider.
Yes, unlimited satellite internet plans are available in Australia. Providers like Sky Muster Plus Premium and Starlink offer unlimited and unmetered plans. Some plans may have exceptions for certain content, such as video streaming or VPN usage. Check with your provider to ensure you get a plan that suits your needs.
Bad weather, such as hail or thunderstorms, can disrupt the signal for Sky Muster satellite internet. Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do in these situations except wait for the weather to clear.
You can maintain your copper wire telephone connection on an NBN satellite plan or opt for a VoIP phone line through your NBN provider. Unlike other NBN connections that may lead to the termination of your copper line, this isn't the case with NBN satellite plans.
For remote Australian homes, NBN satellite offers the best option, despite being more expensive compared to urban NBN deals. It provides a stable connection where other options are unavailable. The overall internet landscape in Australia is improving, with advancements like 5G potentially enhancing NBN satellite services over time.
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