HOT OFFER! Save $180 on selected internet plans + get beIN SPORTS CONNECT included!...Use promo code BEIN30 at checkout! Hurry, limited time only!
5G or nbn: Which One is Better for Your Needs?
Internet & Mobile Security Blog | MATE | 27 August 2024
Wondering whether 5G or nbn is better for your home? The key differences between nbn and 5G come down to speed, reliability, and coverage. If you’re deciding between the two, this guide breaks down the pros and cons of 5G broadband vs nbn and helps you find the best fit for your needs.
Use the table of contents below to jump to each section of this post.
Is 5G or nbn better?
The best option between 5G broadband and nbn depends on what you need from your internet connection. 5G offers flexibility and fast speeds, making it great for gaming, streaming, and mobile use. nbn, on the other hand, provides a more stable and consistent connection, ideal for working from home and heavy data usage.
In case you’re asking yourself ‘what really is the difference between nbn and 5G’, we’ve broken it down to help you decide:
| Feature | 5G Broadband | nbn |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Faster for gaming, streaming, and downloads with speeds up to 250Mbps (depends on plan & location). | More consistent speeds, with options ranging from 25Mbps to 1000Mbps based on nbn tier. |
| Reliability | Can be affected by weather, interference, and network congestion. Best performance in strong signal areas. | Stable and reliable, ideal for consistent high-bandwidth activities like video calls and large downloads. |
| Availability | Expanding across Australia but coverage varies by location. Best suited for metro and some regional areas. | More widely available with fixed-line connections, covering over 98% of Australian households. |
| Best For | Gamers & streamers, people needing internet on the go, renters, and those who don’t want fixed-line installation. | Work-from-home setups, large households, and heavy data users needing stable, unlimited internet. |
Understanding and exploring 5G Broadband
What is 5G Broadband?
5G Home Broadband is an advanced Fixed Wireless internet service that uses 5G technology to deliver high-speed internet straight to your home. Unlike traditional fixed-line connections such as the nbn, 5G Home Broadband eliminates the need for cables and instead connects via nearby mobile towers. It’s a fast, flexible, and convenient alternative for households looking for plug-and-play connectivity.
How does 5G Home Broadband work?
Unlike standard WiFi, which connects devices within your home to an internet modem, 5G Home Broadband serves as your primary internet connection. Here’s how it works:
- A 5G modem receives signals from the nearest 5G mobile tower.
- The modem translates the signal into a WiFi connection, enabling multiple devices — like smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs — to connect wirelessly.
- No technician is required for installation; just plug it in, and you’re online!
Does 5G Home Broadband Include a Phone Service?
5G Home Broadband is primarily a data-only service, meaning it doesn’t include a traditional landline phone. However, some providers offer a Virtual Phone service, which allows you to:
- Forward incoming calls to another Australian number
- Retain your existing phone number if you decide to switch back to nbn or another provider
If you rely on a landline for calls, you may want to explore VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services as an alternative.
Is 5G faster than nbn?
It’s challenging to give a definitive answer. Some 5G connections have been reported to surpass the speeds of nbn plans, with figures reaching as high as 1Gbps. However, the actual speed you experience will depend on various factors, including network congestion and your location. For anyone looking to compare 5G internet and nbn, it’s best to speak to your provider directly and find out what speeds and plans they can offer you — and whether those will suit your needs!
How does network address translation work with 5G?
Both 5G and nbn use network address translation (NAT) to allow multiple devices in a household to share a single public IP address. This process ensures efficient use of IP addresses and provides a layer of security by keeping private IP addresses hidden from the public internet.
What are dynamic public IP addresses and private IP addresses in 5G?
A dynamic public IP address is an IP address that changes every time you connect to the internet. In contrast, a private IP address is used within a private network and is not visible to the public internet. Both 5G and nbn providers offer users dynamic public IP addresses, while devices within a user’s home network will have private IP addresses.
Key features of 5G Broadband
Low latency
Say goodbye to frustrating delays. 5G’s low latency ensures quicker response times, making it ideal for real-time applications like online gaming and virtual reality.
Massive capacity
The 5G network boasts a vast capacity that can handle a multitude of devices simultaneously. Connect smart home devices, laptops, smartphones, and more without compromising on performance.
Download speeds
Imagine downloading an entire HD movie in a matter of seconds — 5G makes this a reality. This speed is a game-changer for data-intensive tasks, such as streaming 4K videos, online gaming, and downloading large files. Whether you’re a professional working from home or a student attending virtual classes, average speeds offered by 5G can significantly enhance your online experience.
Additional features and questions
Better coverage in Australia — 5G or nbn?
When you compare 5G internet and nbn coverage, nbn is available to a larger portion of Australians. However, 5G coverage is on the rise, especially in metropolitan areas.
Which is more reliable — 5G broadband vs nbn
It’s still too early to make a definitive comparison. While the nbn has had its share of reliability concerns, 5G is still in its infancy, and its reliability in various conditions is still being evaluated. Factors like bad weather, physical obstacles, and local signal interference can affect 5G connections.
Are upgrades planned for both 5G and the nbn?
Both networks are undergoing upgrades. 5G is seeing improvements in coverage, capacity, and technology advancements. On the other hand, nbn Co is focusing on upgrading many residences across Australia to Fibre To The Premises (FTTP) connections to enhance connection speeds and reliability.
nbn: A gateway to seamless internet
What is nbn?
The nbn is Australia’s pride and joy when it comes to high-speed internet. At its core, nbn is Australia’s nationwide infrastructure project designed to provide reliable and high-speed internet access to homes and businesses across the country. It utilises a mix of cutting-edge technologies like fibre-optic cables, fixed wireless connections, and satellite links, creating a robust and diverse network.
Key features of nbn
The nbn network is designed to provide fast, reliable, and scalable internet for Australian homes and businesses. With a range of speed options and widespread availability, it ensures seamless connectivity for everything from streaming and gaming to remote work and everyday browsing.
- Unlimited data — No monthly data caps, perfect for streaming, video calls, and research.
- Reliable connection — Stable fixed-line broadband for seamless browsing and downloads.
- Flexible speed options — Choose from multiple speed tiers to match your needs.
Quick installation — Fast and hassle-free setup with expert technicians.
Unlimited data for unrestricted use
No more fretting over monthly data caps or unexpected billing overages — unlimited data nbn plans are now a common offering by Australian providers. Whether you’re streaming your cherished TV shows, engaging in video conferences, or diving into online research, nbn’s unlimited data plans have you covered. It’s about time you enjoyed the online world without limitations.
Reliable broadband connection
In this era where being connected is synonymous with modern life, a dependable internet connection is more of a necessity than a luxury. In recognition of this everyday essential, nbn delivers a rock-solid fixed-line broadband connection. Say goodbye to dropped video calls and frustrating interrupted downloads. With nbn, you’ll always stay seamlessly connected, exactly when you need it.
Flexible speed options
Whether you’re a casual browser or a hardcore gamer, nbn offers a range of speed tiers to suit a variety of digital lifestyles. For those who demand lightning-fast downloads and uninterrupted streaming, the higher speed tiers of nbn are a revelation. Even for everyday tasks like video calls or online shopping, nbn ensures a smooth and responsive experience, elevating your digital journey.
Quick and hassle-free installation
Gone are the days of enduring a lengthy and complicated installation process. These days, many internet providers—including yours truly, MATE—deploy expert technicians who ensure that your connection is up and running smoothly in no time. Say hello to convenience and wave goodbye to installation headaches.
5G Broadband vs nbn: Speed Comparison
Now that you know what the difference between nbn and 5G is, let’s take a look at their speeds.
Speed is a crucial factor when choosing an internet service. Here’s how 5G Broadband and nbn compare in terms of maximum speeds, real-world performance, and peak-hour reliability.
| Feature | 5G Broadband | nbn |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | Up to 20Gbps (theoretical) | Up to 1Gbps (on high-speed nbn plans) |
| Actual Speed | Varies based on signal strength & congestion | Consistent speeds, depends on nbn tier |
| Typical Evening Speeds | Can slow to around 250Mbps during peak hours | Generally 400–700Mbps on high-speed plans |
| Best For | High-speed needs, gamers & streamers, renters | Work-from-home, large households, reliability |
| Speed Reliability | Can fluctuate based on location & coverage | More stable and predictable speeds |
As we delve into the comparison between the two, let’s unravel the ins and outs of their maximum theoretical download speeds, actual speeds, and typical evening speeds. This should help you determine whether 5G is better than nbn, or vice versa!
Download speeds
- 5G Broadband: Known for its lightning-fast connectivity, 5G Broadband boasts impressive maximum speeds of up to 20Gbps. It’s designed to provide you with a seamless browsing and streaming experience, allowing for swift downloads of large files and smooth multimedia streaming.
- nbn: Offering a range of speed tiers to cater to various needs, nbn can see top speeds of up to 1Gbps. While its maximum speeds might not match the peak capabilities of 5G, nbn’s focus lies in delivering reliable and consistent speeds, ensuring that your online activities aren’t compromised.
Actual speed vs. maximum speed
- 5G broadband: While 5G Broadband promises theoretical maximum speeds that are exceptionally high, it’s important to note that actual speeds can vary depending on factors such as signal strength and network congestion. As far as real-world usage goes, you can expect to achieve speeds that are considerably lower than 20Gbps.
- nbn: Similar to 5G, nbn’s actual speeds might not always reach the maximum advertised speed due to factors like your chosen plan and network conditions. However, nbn takes pride in providing reliable speeds that are well-suited for both browsing and streaming.
Typical evening speeds
- 5G Broadband: During peak usage hours, 5G Broadband speeds can face congestion, leading to reduced speeds of around 250Mbps, depending on the provider. This is a common phenomenon with any network technology that experiences high demand.
- nbn: It’s common for nbn providers to set realistic expectations for users by advertising typical evening speeds, which reflect the speeds you can actually expect during busy periods—generally between 400–700Mbps for top-tier plans. The typical evening speed approach offers a more accurate representation of the speed you’ll experience during your evening online activities.
In the end, both 5G Broadband and nbn offer distinct advantages in the realm of internet speeds. 5G Broadband shines with its ultra-fast theoretical speeds, making it a top contender for tasks that demand rapid downloads and instantaneous streaming.
On the other hand, nbn stands out with its commitment to delivering consistent and steady speeds across a spectrum of tiers, ensuring that users have a reliable connection for their daily online activities.
While 5G Broadband might dazzle with its peak capabilities, nbn’s strength lies in its widespread availability and its focus on providing a balanced online experience during peak times. Your decision between the two will hinge on your specific needs, whether that’s chasing the fastest speeds with 5G or seeking a dependable, all-around connection with nbn.
Navigating network congestion: 5G Broadband vs. nbn
In the bustling digital realm, battling network congestion is a familiar challenge. Both 5G Broadband and nbn face this hurdle, yet their strategies for handling it differ, shaping the experience you receive.
5G’s connectivity: Near and far
5G’s strength in connectivity stems from its close proximity to nearby mobile towers. The nearer you are to a 5G tower, the more likely you’ll savour optimal speeds. It’s a tantalising advantage, yet one susceptible to signal fluctuations due to physical barriers and environmental factors. These factors can sometimes interrupt the promise of maximum speed, reminding us that even cutting-edge technology isn’t immune to the realities of the world around us.
nbn’s Fixed-Line advantage
The Fixed-Line connection inherent in nbn adds a unique harmony to the internet connectivity symphony. Delivered through dedicated fibre-optic cables, this physical infrastructure ensures that your internet signal travels along an exclusive pathway to your abode (or close to it). This setup acts as a buffer against external interferences, resulting in consistently faster speeds and decreased vulnerability to network congestion, even during peak usage hours.
Cost considerations and value
Keeping everything we’ve learned so far in mind, it’s time to compare 5G internet and nbn costs — and a few other considerations, of course. To determine whether 5G home broadband vs nbn plans are right for you, take a look at the following factors:
| Factor | 5G Broadband | nbn |
|---|---|---|
| Device Compatibility | Requires 5G-compatible devices (smartphones, tablets, or modems), which can add extra costs. | No need for costly device upgrades — works with existing hardware. |
| Monthly Plan Fees | Higher price points compared to traditional broadband. Plans may not include unlimited data, leading to concerns about exceeding caps. | Cost-effective plans with a variety of pricing options to suit different needs and budgets. |
| Data Usage & Caps | Some plans may have data limits, which could result in extra charges or throttled speeds. | Many nbn plans offer unlimited data, ensuring predictable monthly costs. |
| Hidden Charges | Possible excess data fees and non-return fees for 5G-compatible devices. | Transparent pricing with no unexpected charges. |
| Best For | Users who need fast, mobile-friendly internet and live in strong 5G coverage areas. | Ideal for households, remote work, gaming, and streaming, offering a stable, high-speed connection. |
Whether you’re into streaming, online gaming, remote work, or seamless video calls, nbn delivers unbeatable value. It’s where practicality meets performance, all while keeping your budget intact.
So, should you really switch from nbn to 5G?
The decision to switch depends on your specific needs and location. If you’re in an area with strong 5G coverage and are looking for faster speeds, 5G might be a suitable option. However, the nbn offers more widespread coverage and might be more reliable in certain areas.
Final Thoughts: Choosing between 5G Broadband and nbn
Ultimately, the question of ‘is 5G or nbn better’ is a complicated one. Both 5G Broadband and nbn have their strengths — 5G delivers ultra-fast speeds ideal for gaming, streaming, and mobile flexibility, while nbn offers stable and consistent performance for households and remote work.
- Go with 5G if you need high-speed, on-the-go connectivity and live in a strong coverage area.
- Choose nbn if you prioritize reliability, steady speeds, and a seamless experience for multiple users.
Your choice ultimately depends on your speed needs, location, and online habits — so weigh the options and pick what works best for you!
Discover nbn plans that keep you connected
Navigating the world of internet plans can be overwhelming, but with MATE, the choice is clear. As a trusted internet provider, we offer a range of nbn plans tailored to meet the diverse needs of Australian users. Whether you’re a casual browser or a digital enthusiast, MATE ensures you get the most out of your nbn connection, all while enjoying the perks of unlimited data and exceptional Aussie support.
Check out our unlimited data nbn plans
- Crikey nbn 25/10 ($70/month): This plan is perfect for a small household of 2–4 members. It offers average evening speeds of 25Mbps and is designed for light online activities such as browsing, social media engagement, and streaming HD content on a single device.
- Ripper nbn 50/20 ($80/month): This plan is crafted for medium-sized households with up to 6 members. It boasts average evening speeds of 49Mbps, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and general internet usage..
- No Worries nbn 100/20 ($90/month): With typical evening speeds of 97Mbps, this plan is tailored for larger households with over 6 users. It supports activities like online gaming, streaming multiple HD videos or a single 4K video, along with routine tasks like browsing and music streaming.
- You Beaut nbn 100/40 ($100/month): Similar to the No Worries package but with double the potential upload speed, this plan is a dream for content creators who frequently upload to platforms like YouTube and social media.
- Fair Dinkum nbn 250/25 ($115/month): Designed for the tech-savvy, this plan offers average evening speeds of 231Mbps. It caters to all basic internet needs while supporting simultaneous 4K video streaming and high-speed uploads for smooth video calls.
Key features of all MATE nbn plans
- No Contracts — Enjoy total flexibility with no lock-in commitments or penalties for changing or cancelling your plan.
- Unlimited Data — Stream, game, and browse without limits or speed throttling.
- Award-Winning Aussie Support — Get help from our 100% Australian-based customer service team.
- No Hidden Fees — No setup or plan change fees, just straightforward pricing.
- 1-Month Money-Back Guarantee — Not satisfied? Get a full refund within the first month.
When it comes to selecting the ideal nbn plan, MATE stands out with its customer-centric approach, diverse plan offerings, and commitment to excellence. Whether you’re a solo user or have a bustling household, we have a plan tailored just for you. So, why wait? Dive into the digital world with MATE nbn plans and experience the internet like never before.
Frequently asked questions
Is 5G faster than the nbn?
It’s challenging to give a definitive answer. Some 5G connections have been reported to surpass the speeds of nbn plans, with figures reaching as high as 1Gbps. However, the actual speed you experience will depend on various factors, including network congestion and your location.
How does network address translation work with 5G and nbn?
Both 5G and nbn use network address translation (NAT) to allow multiple devices in a household to share a single public IP address. This process ensures efficient use of IP addresses and provides a layer of security by keeping private IP addresses hidden from the public internet.
What are dynamic public IP addresses and private IP addresses in the context of 5G and nbn?
A dynamic public IP address is an IP address that changes every time you connect to the internet. In contrast, a private IP address is used within a private network and is not visible to the public internet. Both 5G and nbn providers offer users dynamic public IP addresses, while devices within a user’s home network will have private IP addresses.
Which has better coverage in Australia: 5G or nbn?
As of now, the nbn is available to a larger portion of Australians compared to 5G. However, 5G coverage is on the rise, especially in metropolitan areas.
Are there any reliability concerns with 5G compared to the nbn?
It’s still early to make a definitive comparison. While the nbn has had its share of reliability concerns, 5G is still in its infancy, and its reliability in various conditions is still being evaluated. Factors like bad weather, physical obstacles, and local signal interference can affect 5G connections.
Are upgrades planned for both 5G and the nbn?
Yes, both networks are undergoing upgrades. 5G is seeing improvements in coverage, capacity, and technology advancements. On the other hand, NBN Co is focusing on upgrading many residences across Australia to Fibre To The Premises (FTTP) connections to enhance connection speeds and reliability.
Should I switch from nbn to 5G?
The decision to switch depends on your specific needs and location. If you’re in an area with strong 5G coverage and are looking for faster speeds, 5G might be a suitable option. However, the nbn offers more widespread coverage and might be more reliable in certain areas.
How do 5G and nbn handle high-data-usage activities like streaming and gaming?
Both 5G and nbn are capable of supporting high-data-usage activities. However, the actual performance will depend on the specific plan you choose and the network conditions in your area.
4.4 from 1495
reviews
