Picking an internet provider in Australia isn’t always easy. Two names pop up all the time—Aussie Broadband and Optus. Both are popular, both are reliable. But the big question is—who actually gives you better value? Let’s dig in and compare Aussie Broadband plans and Optus internet plans to see who comes out on top. Whether you’re a gamer, working from home, or just someone who watches YouTube all day (no judgment), this guide has got you covered.
Quick Look at the Basics
| Feature | Aussie Broadband | Optus |
| Network Type | NBN, Fibre | NBN, 5G, Mobile |
| Price Range | $69 – $149/month | $69 – $149/month |
| Contract | No Lock-in | Lock-in & No Lock-in |
| Speed Options | NBN 25 to NBN 1000 | NBN 25 to 1000 + 5G |
| Extras | Free trial, BYO modem | Modem + Netflix bundle |
Aussie Broadband Plans: Clean, Straightforward, No Gimmicks
What’s on Offer?
Aussie Broadband keeps things simple. No tricky contracts. No bloated extras. You pick your speed, bring your own modem, and go.
Available NBN Plans
- NBN 25/10 – $69/month
Good for light internet use and a couple of devices. - NBN 50/20 – $79/month
Solid option for small families or video streaming. - NBN 100/20 – $99/month
Works well for big families with lots of devices. - NBN 250/25 – $119/month
Handles 4K streaming and heavy use. - NBN 1000/50 – $149/month
Ideal if you want super high-speed internet at home.
Key Features
- Zero lock-in contracts
- Bring your own modem (saves money)
- 24/7 Aussie support
- Bandwidth graphs (see how your speed performs)
- Optional static IP
- Free trial for new users (when available)
Why It’s Handy
You can switch plans anytime. Need faster internet? Upgrade. Want to save money? Downgrade. No fees or long waits. Super flexible.
Optus Internet Plans: Big Speeds and Even Bigger Bundles
What You Get
Optus is a major player. Aside from NBN, it gives you 5G internet options too. That’s a big plus if you want fast internet without waiting for wires or installation.
Their NBN and 5G Options
- Everyday NBN (50 Mbps) – from $79/month
Unlimited data and modem included. - Entertainer NBN (100 Mbps) – from $99/month
Comes with a Netflix Standard plan. - 5G Home Internet Basic – $69/month
Speeds up to 100 Mbps. - 5G Home Internet Plus – $89/month
Speeds up to 225 Mbps.
Extras Packed In
- Netflix access (with selected plans)
- Free modem with 4G backup
- Optus Sport and OS Fitness access
- Discounts when bundling with Optus mobile
- Data sharing across devices (for Optus mobile users)
What to Watch For
Most Optus plans lock you in for 24 months. If you cancel early, there’s a modem fee you might have to pay.
Side-by-Side: Who Does What Better?
Let’s break this down into chunks that actually matter.
Price and Value
| Usage Level | Aussie Broadband | Optus |
| Basic NBN | $69/month (BYO modem) | $79/month (modem included) |
| Mid-Level | $79–$99/month | $99/month (includes Netflix) |
| High-Speed | $119–$149/month | Not available |
| 5G Plans | Not available | $69–$89/month |
Call: If you’re after raw NBN value, Aussie Broadband plans win. But if you want bundled stuff like Netflix or don’t want to buy a modem, Optus internet plans are appealing.
Speed Options
- Aussie goes up to NBN 1000
- Optus hits 100 Mbps on NBN and up to 225 Mbps with 5G
Call: Need crazy-fast fibre? Go Aussie. Prefer wireless and flexible speeds? Optus nails it with 5G.
Equipment
- Aussie: Bring your own modem or buy separately
- Optus: Modem comes free, plus you get 4G backup
Call: Optus is easier if you want something ready out of the box. Aussie works well if you’ve already got gear.
Customer Service
- Aussie: Aussie-based support, 24/7
- Optus: Mixed reviews, mostly online help
Call: Aussie Broadband is usually quicker and easier to deal with, based on customer feedback.
Who’s a Better Fit?
For Home Users
Choose Aussie Broadband if:
- You want fast fibre speeds
- You prefer no contracts
- You like managing your own setup
Go with Optus if:
- You love perks like Netflix
- You don’t mind a lock-in period
- You want everything bundled
For Gamers
Aussie tends to win with gamers thanks to:
- Lower latency
- Consistent high speeds
- Static IP option (handy for advanced setups)
For Renters or People Who Move Often
Optus 5G internet is perfect if you don’t want to mess with wiring. You get:
- Instant setup
- No drilling or waiting
- Easy to pack and move
Quick Pros and Cons Recap
Aussie Broadband Pros
- No contracts to stress about
- Aussie-based customer service
- Top speeds available
- You control the setup
Aussie Broadband Cons
- No 5G option
- You need to bring or buy your own modem
Optus Internet Pros
- Bundled Netflix and extras
- 5G plans for fast wireless use
- Free modem with backup included
- Mobile plan discounts
Optus Internet Cons
- Locked-in for most plans
- Customer service can be slow
FAQs
Q: Does Aussie Broadband have 5G home internet?
No, Aussie Broadband currently sticks to NBN and fiber only.
Q: Can I use my own modem with Optus?
Yes, but you’ll miss out on features like 4G backup and may not get full support.
Q: Who has better customer reviews?
Aussie Broadband often scores higher, especially for support. Optus reviews can be mixed.
Q: Do either of them offer a free trial?
Aussie sometimes gives a free trial to new customers. Optus doesn’t, though there may be a short cooling-off period.
Q: Which provider is better for gaming?
Aussie Broadband tends to be the favorite among gamers for its low ping and stable speeds.
Final Thoughts
Picking between Aussie Broadband plans and Optus internet plans isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people want blazing speeds with no strings. Others like the ease of bundles and wireless options.
If you want control, speed, and solid support, go Aussie.
If extras and easy setup matter more, go with Optus.
Either way, you’re on the path to faster, more reliable internet. Just choose the one that fits your life best.