Mon-Fri 9AM to 9PM (AEST)Telstra and Optus are the two biggest Australian telcos and so dominate the industry and are well known for their mobile, internet and home phone services. With millions of Australians on their plans and millions of others simply wanting to know more about these two big brands, we decided to put together this guide for you that compares Telstra and Optus home internet plans. We leave it up to you to decide who’s the winner or rather who is more suitable depending on your budget and overall lifestyle preferences.
In this guide we will look at NBN plans, and 5G home internet options and compare the cost, price and flexibility of Telstra and Optus internet deals, to help you compare these two giants of the Australian telecommunications landscape.
Why should I compare internet plans?
When it comes to selecting a home internet plan, it’s important to take the time to compare the plans on offer from providers like Optus and Telstra. Comparing home internet plans allows you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs, budget, and lifestyle, and it could save you hundreds of dollars every year.
By comparing Optus’ wireless broadband options with Telstra’s offerings, you can look for factors that are most important to you, such as data allowances, speeds, and pricing.
How do I find the best internet plan?
The best internet plan for your home is a very personal choice. There are several factors that affect which deal will suit your needs, including cost, speed, coverage, data limits and bundles. Knowing your preferences and priorities in regard to these factors will help you make the right decision. We’ll take a look in a bit more detail below.
When it comes to Telstra internet packages, they offer four NBN speed tiers to suit different household needs:
- Basic (NBN 25): Ideal for light browsing and small households
- Essential (NBN 50): Great for families with moderate internet use
- Premium (NBN 100): Perfect for streaming and gaming across multiple devices
- Ultimate (NBN 250): Best for heavy users who need fast speeds for HD streaming or gaming
These Telstra home internet plans cost between $80 and $140 monthly. They include a Telstra Smart Modem 3, no lock-in contracts, and unlimited calls to Australian mobiles and landlines. This means you get reliable speeds and flexibility with Telstra’s unlimited internet.
Optus offers a wide range of plans, too with five NBN speed tiers:
- Standard (25 Mbps)
- Standard Plus (50 Mbps)
- Premium (100 Mbps)
- Home Superfast (240 Mbps)
- Home Ultrafast (600 Mbps)
Optus offers internet packages ranging from $79 to $139 per month. You can also add extra features like Netflix subscriptions and Ultra WiFi Boosters to your plan. Optus internet packages are a great choice if you want entertainment add-ons or an all-in-one solution.
Compare Telstra or Optus 5G Home Internet
Both providers offer high-speed 5G home internet options, but there are some major differences.
- The Telstra 5G home internet plan costs $85 per month and offers average download speeds of up to 378 Mbps. However, it’s important to note that this plan has a 1TB data cap. If you exceed this limit, your speeds will slow to 25 Mbps. If you need unlimited internet, this plan may not be your best choice.
- Optus 5G home internet offers unlimited data plans with three-speed options:
- Optus Plus Everyday 5G (50 Mbps)
- Optus Plus Everyday Fast 5G (100 Mbps)
- Optus Plus Entertainer Superfast 5G (unlimited maximum speed)
Optus WiFi packages don’t have long contracts or a set-up fee and include a plug-and-play WiFi modem for easy setup. They also offer flexibility and no data limits, making them a great choice for many people.
Compare contract lengths, additional fees and flexible options
While maximum speeds and cost are probably at the top of your mind, it’s important to consider every aspect of the plans.
Contract lengths: Telstra and Optus home wireless broadband plans are on a month-to-month contract. If you break your Telstra contract within 24 months, you must return your modem to avoid a fee. For your Optus home internet plans, minimum spending applies, which you will be liable for if you leave your contract before the minimum amount is reached.
Additional fees: Telstra and Optus internet plans are transparent in their pricing, so you won’t be surprised by any hidden fees. However, there are plenty of add-ons, such as mobile phones, home phones, entertainment, and WiFi boosters, so make sure you understand the cost relating to each extra before you sign up.
Flexible options: Both providers allow you to upgrade your plan anytime with their month-to-month contracts. However, fees may be payable if you are considering downgrading your Telstra or Optus wireless broadband plans. Before choosing a Telstra or Optus internet plan, consider your current and future needs carefully to avoid unnecessary costs.
Bundling and Perks
Bundling is a great way to save, and both Telstra and Optus offer some excellent options:
What is included in Telstra or Optus bundles?
Telstra bundles
- Home internet – NBN or 5G
- Mobile phone data plan
- Mobile phone device
- Telstra Smart Modem 3
- Entertainment – Binge, Apple TV+, Disney+, Flash, Foxtel and Telstra Box Office
- Sports – Kayo
- Gaming – Xbox All Access and Xbox Game Pass
Optus bundles
- Home internet – NBN or 5G
- Mobile phone data plan
- Mobile phone device
- Optus WiFi Modem 6
- Entertainment – Optus SubHub for discounts on Netflix, Binge, Prime, YouTube and more Disney+, Flash, Foxtel and Telstra Box Office
- Sports – Optus Sport
- Home security – devices and installation from the O Team
These bundles can save you money and make managing your bills easier.
Speed and Performance During Peak Times
Telstra internet packages are known for providing consistent speeds, even during busy times, which makes them an excellent choice for heavy internet users. On the other hand, Optus may have slower speeds during peak times in some areas but generally performs well in most urban locations. If you’re worried about buffering or lag, Telstra’s reputation for speed might make them the better choice.
Environmentally Friendly Initiatives
Both Telstra and Optus are taking steps to be more environmentally friendly. Telstra aims to use 100% renewable energy by 2025, while Optus focuses on using sustainable packaging and recycling old equipment. This could be important if you prefer a more sustainable internet provider.
Future-Proofing Your Internet: Telstra vs. Optus
In today’s rapidly advancing world, choosing an internet provider that can keep up with your evolving needs is important. This is where future-proofing comes into play. When comparing Telstra and Optus home internet services, you want to consider which provider is better positioned to support your household’s internet usage not just today but also five or ten years down the road.
Find cheap Telstra or Optus broadband plans
Finding an affordable broadband plan that suits your needs can be time consuming. If you are interested in a stand alone, unlimited NBN or 5G option, then Optus is the cheaper choice. Of course, with so many options available, it’s important to consider all the other factors on offer to ensure you make the right decision.
Get the Best Coverage
When comparing Telstra and Optus broadband plans, it’s crucial to assess the coverage and availability in your area – there’s no point saving money with an Optus plan if you can’t use it! While Telstra is known for its extensive coverage, Optus has made significant strides in expanding its network and now covers 98.5% of the Australian population. By ensuring reliable coverage, you can make the most of your broadband connection.
Your Internet Usage Requirements
Before committing to a Telstra or Optus home wireless broadband plan, consider factors such as data allowances, download speeds, and additional features. Optus wifi plans are all unlimited, with a range of speed options for both NBN plans and 5G connections. Telstra also has a range of NBN speed tiers, but their only option for 5G, with a capped data limit.
Assessing Your Individual Needs and Lifestyle
You should consider the broader range of offerings from each provider to determine which option is cheap for you overall. Telstra and Optus wifi plans can be bundled with services like mobile phone plans, entertainment options, and home security devices. Assess the included features in each bundle and the associated costs to see which one is the best fit for your home.
By carefully evaluating these factors and comparing Telstra and Optus internet packages, you can find the cheap option that meets your requirements. Remember to consider the available bundles to go with your Telstra or Optus Optus home wireless broadband options to get the best value for your money.
The Growing Role of 5G in Home Internet
5G technology is causing a stir in the telecom industry, and for good reason. Telstra and Optus are going all in on expanding their 5G networks across Australia. The magic of 5G lies in its ability to deliver lightning-fast speeds, minimal lag, and support many connected devices all at once. With the increasing demand for faster and more reliable internet due to smart home gadgets, streaming services, and online activities, having a robust 5G network is essential for future-proofing your home internet.
Optus has boldly introduced unlimited 5G home internet plans, catering to heavy users and tech-savvy households eager to embrace this cutting-edge technology. If you’re already using smart devices like connected thermostats, home security systems, or voice assistants, or plan to do so soon, unlimited 5G data ensures your network can handle the increased demand without missing a beat. Optus is also committed to broadening its 5G coverage in urban areas, making it a top choice for city dwellers wanting to stay at the forefront of technology.
Meanwhile, Telstra is forging ahead with its 5G network, offering rapid speeds and extensive coverage, particularly in rural and remote areas. Although Telstra’s 5G home internet plan comes with a 1TB data cap, its reputation for network reliability and strong coverage in hard-to-reach places gives it an advantage for users who prioritize a stable connection, no matter where they are. As Telstra continues to expand its 5G infrastructure, its network is expected to become even more robust, ensuring you have access to the latest technology as soon as it’s available.
Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart Homes
When preparing your internet for the future, it’s important to consider the increasing use of smart home devices. These devices, such as smart speakers, smart TVs, smart lighting, and connected appliances, will require a fast, stable, and reliable network. Both Telstra and Optus are well-equipped to support this trend, but your choice will depend on how much you plan to expand your connected home.
Telstra’s Smart Modem 3 comes with 4G backup, ensuring that your smart home devices stay connected if your primary internet connection goes down. This feature is particularly important for security systems or essential appliances that rely on the internet. It can provide added reliability as your household becomes more dependent on technology.
On the other hand, Optus focuses on providing Ultra WiFi Boosters, which ensure a strong signal throughout your home, even in areas with weak coverage. With the increasing number of devices connecting to your network, having seamless WiFi coverage becomes crucial. This means that you can place smart devices in any room without worrying about weak connections or dropped signals.
Speed Demands of the Future
As 4K and even 8K streaming become more common, and online gaming grows in popularity with services like cloud gaming, the demand for high-speed internet will continue to rise. Optus and Telstra both offer plans to meet these increasing demands. It’s important to consider which plan can keep up with your household’s growing appetite for data-heavy activities. Optus’ unlimited data plans and Telstra’s high-speed 5G capabilities are designed to meet these increasing demands.
If you want unlimited data and smooth connectivity at home, Optus might be your best choice, especially if you live in a city. However, if you value reliable network coverage, especially in rural areas, Telstra’s strong infrastructure and 4G backup feature could make it the better option for you. Both providers are ready for the future, so your decision will depend on your specific needs and location.
Conclusion: Which One’s Better – Telstra or Optus?
Deciding between Telstra and Optus depends on what you need. Consider Telstra’s home internet if you want reliable coverage, consistent speeds, and great customer service. On the other hand, if you prefer flexible options, unlimited data, and family-friendly bundles, Optus home internet might be better for you. You can decide if Optus or Telstra is the right fit for your home by comparing speed, price, and bundled services. If you’re still unsure, our team at CheapBills can assist you in finding the ideal plan.
Hopefully you can see by reading our guide that neither Telstra or Optus is better but rather it depends on you, the consumer, your budget, your lifestyle and even your personal preference when it comes to choosing a brand. Many customers go for brands that they know and trust, others go for brands that offer them great customer service and incentives. In all Australia’s two biggest telcos are very similar and you’ll find that many Telstra customers have been Optus customers and vice versa. When it comes to price Optus is cheaper than Telstra but they differ on inclusions such as home entertainment and home security add-ons.
Still unsure about Telstra or Optus or just want to find out more about internet deals? Then chat to our team who are more than willing to help you find the best internet deal from our panel of providers. Contact CheapBills today and we will walk through a range of affordable internet plans, including some great value Optus internet deals.
Please note: CheapBills does not compare plans from all providers on the market. We will compare a range of products from our preferred internet providers, including Optus, TPG, Foxtel, Tangerine, More Telecom and Aussie Broadband.
FAQs About Telstra and Optus WiFi Plans
Telstra has a bigger market share than Optus as well as a larger infrastructure. As the largest telecommunications company in Australia, Telstra has extensive network coverage across the country, providing approximately 19 million fixed-line, mobile, and broadband services to millions of customers.
Optus is a significant second in the Australian telecommunications market, with a range of services on par with Telstra’s offerings and 98.5 percent coverage throughout the country.
Telstra and Optus are the leaders in the pack when it comes to mobile coverage in Australia.
- Telstra plans internet coverage: 99.4 percent of the population (4G/5G)
- Optus plans internet coverage: 98.5 percent of the population (4G/5G)
Both providers cover a significant portion of urban, regional and remote locations. To find out if your home is covered by Telstra, Optus mobile broadband plans, or both, use the coverage maps available online.
- Coverage map for Optus mobile broadband plans
- Coverage map for Telstra mobile broadband plans
Take care when looking at coverage maps – the network signal available at your home can also be impacted by other factors such as terrain, buildings and the distance from the mobile towers. You can also look at customer reviews and feedback on online forums, social media and review websites for real-life user experiences on coverage in specific areas.
In the end, the right provider for you will be the one that provides strong, reliable network coverage in your intended usage areas.
When comparing Optus and Telstra, there are various factors you should consider, such as coverage, pricing, bundles, speed and customer service.
Optus offers competitive pricing on their unlimited Optus plans Internet Everyday and Family Entertainer. For NBN plans Optus provides fast and reliable speeds with flexible, month-to-month contract options. Their customer service receives positive reviews for both their call centre support and online, self-service options including the MyOptus app.
Telstra offers the largest network coverage in Australia with a variety of unlimited NBN plans and a 5G home internet option. Unlike Optus, their 5G plan is not unlimited, however, the 1TB data cap will be sufficient for the majority of customers. Telstra plans are more expensive than the equivalent from Optus. Their customers report satisfactory service through their call centres for account management and technical support, as well as the online My Account features and app.
Ultimately, the “best” provider depends on the specific factor you are comparing and how it can meet your unique needs.
If you have decided on Optus plans internet is available throughout Australia. International roaming is available for Optus mobile broadband plans to be used overseas. For home internet and NBN plans Optus is available in Australia only.
Yes, your Optus mobile data and calling will work internationally. You should refer to the fees of your plan to make sure you understand the additional fees involved before you use your phone and data overseas. Optus internet bundles are available for international roaming from $5 per day.
Telstra’s Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) coverage offers an extensive network reach across Australia. Telstra provides access to its robust infrastructure, with reliable mobile services to many internet providers, covering a broad geographical expanse, including major cities, regional areas, and even remote locations.
MVNO customers experience the same excellent call quality and fast data speeds as Telstra customers. Some of the mobile and internet providers that use the Telstra network include:
- TPG Mobile
- Boost Mobile
- Kogan Mobile
- ALDI Mobile
- Belong Mobile
- Woolworths Mobile
Optus Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) coverage gives a comprehensive network reach across Australia, allowing other internet and mobile providers to offer plans throughout Australia. Optus MVNO coverage includes major cities, regional areas, and remote locations, allowing customers to stay connected across the country. With Optus’ robust network, MVNO customers can expect the same reliable call quality and fast data speeds as Optus customers.
Optus’ MVNO partners offer a variety of plans and services tailored to different needs and budgets. Some of the internet providers that use the Optus network include:
- Dodo
- amaysim
- Exetel
- iPrimus
- Spintel
- OVO Mobile
Telstra is one of the largest telecommunications providers in Australia and has built a reputation as the ‘premium’ brand, and with that comes a premium price tag.
The cost of network coverage compared to other providers depends on various factors, including the type of plan, data allowances, contract terms, and additional features. Different providers have different pricing structures, and individual needs and preferences play a crucial role in determining the best option.
You can use your mobile internet data from your Telstra, Vodafone or Optus deals outside Australia, but roaming fees will apply. You should refer to your specific plan inclusions and the country you are travelling to to find out home much your roaming fees are. With Optus internet bundles, international roaming is available for $5 per day.
