When choosing a new mobile plan, you’ll find a wide range of options to consider. In Australia, there are numerous providers, hundreds of plans, and new promotional deals released every week. This abundance of choices can make finding the right provider and plan that suits your needs a challenging task.
To simplify the decision-making process, consider these three key questions:
- What is your preferred price range?
- Are you looking for unlimited or limited talk and text? How much included data do you require?
- Are you looking for a plan that includes a new phone or a SIM-only option? Would you prefer postpaid or prepaid?
- Do you need additional features, such as international call inclusions or data rollover?
- Which phone network do you prefer: Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone?
Mobile Phone Plan Types
When you are considering a mobile phone plan, you need to decide whether you want a SIM Only BYO plan or a plan with a new phone. Once you have decided, you can be looking for what specific type of mobile plan you would like.
There are few types of mobile plans you can be looking for:
- SIM only plans: The plan does not come with a new phone and suitable for those who already have a phone or you buy a phone outright. Typically, SIM only plan includes voice, data and text messages and was divided into two categories – Prepaid plans and Postpaid plans. Compare SIM-only plans
- Prepaid plans You will pay/recharge for your plan before use it. Normally, it gives you freedom with no lock-in contract and flexibility to change your plan.
- Postpaid plans You will pay/recharge for your plan after use it. You will receive a bill every month and pay plan fee plus any cost of excess calls or data use.
- Plans with new phone: These are postpaid plans with a contract ( Usually 24 – 36 months). During the contract term, you will pay monthly bill includes your handset repayment. If you would like to cancel the contract early, you will need to pay the balance of your device repayments.
How to compare Mobile Phone Plans
- Price plays a pivotal role in determining the best provider when services and features are comparable. It allows you to save money by opting for fewer features or switching to a more budget-friendly plan when your contract ends. You can find affordable mobile plans ranging from under $10, $10 – $20, and $20 – $30.
- Data The amount of included data should be based on your needs and the additional costs if you exceed the limits. Typically, a basic plan includes 0–25GB of data, with prices ranging from $4 to $25. A medium plan usually offers 25GB to 60GB, with prices between $25 and $40. For plans with more included data, the price will generally be higher.
- International Calls / SMS Included To make international calls, verify whether an overseas package is included and check the costs for the specific country. Some plans offer unlimited international SMS, while others provide a limited number of minutes for selected countries. However, these plans typically come at a higher cost compared to those without international minutes.
- Mobile Network Coverage Check the provider’s mobile network coverage and speed in the areas where you spend most of your time, such as your home and workplace. This is a critical factor, as different mobile networks have signal towers in various locations, and the speed and quality of the connection depend on the distance between your mobile device and the tower. Additionally, the availability of 5G coverage may vary between networks in different areas.
- Included phone handset If you prefer not to pay a higher upfront cost for a new handset, you can opt for a contract that includes the phone. However, buying a mobile phone outright may be cheaper in the long run compared to purchasing it on a plan. On the positive side, a plan allows you to spread the cost of the phone over monthly installments, making it easier to manage your budget. Some plans also come with added benefits, such as extra data, unlimited calls, or discounts on accessories. Additionally, some providers offer the option to upgrade to a new phone before the contract ends, helping you stay up-to-date with the latest models. While buying outright can save you money over time, a plan with a phone offers the convenience of manageable payments and extra perks.
