Top 5 Broadband Plans for Singles: Start Saving with the Cheapest Internet Plans


Single household broadband
Which broadband plan is better for you? We help you figure things out. Photo: Shutterstock

Singles, do you find that your broadband connection requirements differ from those of a full household? Your usage, speed requirements and budget will likely vary because you’ll have fewer devices and your own unique internet needs.

No matter how you spend your time at home, it pays to know you’re getting a broadband service that aligns with your requirements — whether that’s one of the cheapest plans or a plan that offers more features that are right for you. 

Which broadband plan is better for you? Here at Compare TV, we’ll help you figure things out. We explored the cheapest internet plans and the top five broadband plans for Aussie singles. Let’s take a look.

What’s In This Guide?

What Internet is Best for Singles?

Living alone doesn’t mean skipping out on having an internet connection. Instead, you get to decide what makes for your perfect internet setup. Plenty of great plans are available for singles, from Moose Mobile’s NBN to bigger providers like Telstra that offer features suited to small households.

The range of NBN plans and data allowances is large. Still, generally, as an Aussie single, you won’t necessarily need a higher plan like NBN 250 connections to connect multiple devices. This can lead to potentially unnecessary costs that won’t help you save money. Before choosing a provider, check the five broadband providers below to compare your options.

What is the Best Broadband for Singles in Australia?

As outlined above, value is of high importance. So we’re focusing on cost per month, reliability, speed, such as typical evening speed and unlimited data. Bundles aren’t necessary unless they offer something truly unique. Let’s look at the list as we go through internet providers, including Southern Phone, iPrimus, Moose NBN, and Dodo.

Download and upload report screenshot
Source: ACCC.Gov.au

Southern Phone Unlimited Basic Plan

For many reasons, Southern Phone is one of the best broadband options for Aussie singles. In addition to mobile broadband plans, the telco provides unlimited data on the NBN at an affordable price. It’s very budget-friendly for a one-person household at a reasonable price per month, and the Basic internet plan enables you to download as much as you want without keeping an eye on the usage or being tied down to a long contract. 

Choosing the lower speed tier, which doesn’t have data caps, will mean that you can save money while still receiving a reliable internet connection. That said, you won’t be getting superfast download speeds. To upgrade your speed, you can spend extra dollars per month if you need to.

You can use the internet and stream SD video with the lower speed tiers. This basic internet use, therefore, is ideal for Aussie singles who need to access websites or view social media content.

Mobile broadband internet connections are also available with Southern Phone, so you can connect to the internet on the go as an Aussie single. Check what Southern Phone plans are available via their website.

Dodo Unlimited NBN25 Plan

Dodo Broadband is one of the internet service providers offering good value plans to help you save in the long run. One of their cheapest NBN plans is available for a reasonable amount per month. This connection gives you unlimited data on the low-range speed tier with a good typical evening speed. It’s a popular speed tier that is a good enough speed for everyday browsing, streaming, and gaming. 

Looking at the lowest plan in more detail, we can see that streaming SD and HD video is possible thanks to reliable download and upload speeds.

You might also require a phone connection. This option is another feature that Dodo’s broadband plans also include. Plus, other bundles are available with Dodo that suit households with one person, so consult the website for more facts about this.

Dodo Plans

Plan
Inclusions
Price
Home Superfast 245 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • 50% off for first mth. Ends 25/06/24
  • Home Superfast 245 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 245™ Fixed Line
  • Get $20 off Dodo modem
  • Manage account online with MyDodo
  • $55/mth
$55/mth
for first mth, then $110/mth thereafter
Min Cost - $55 first mth (incl. $79 modem cost)

NBN 245 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • $25/mth off for 6 mths. Ends 25/06/24
  • NBN 245 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 245™ Fixed Line
  • Get $20 off Dodo modem
  • Up to $10/mth off when bundled with energy
  • $85/mth
$85/mth
for 6 mths, then $110/mth thereafter
Min Cost - $85 first for the 6 mths (incl. $79 modem cost)

NBN15 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • Get $20 off Dodo modem. Ends 25/06/24
  • NBN15 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 15™ Fixed Line
  • Up to $10/mth off when bundled with energy
  • Manage account online with MyDodo
  • $55/mth
$55/mth
Min Cost - $104.50 for the 1st mth (incl. $49.50 modem cost)

NBN50 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • $15/mth off for 6 mths. Ends 25/06/24
  • NBN50 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 50™ Fixed Line
  • Get $20 off Dodo modem
  • Up to $10/mth off when bundled with energy
  • $65/mth
$65/mth
for the first 6 mths, then $80/mth thereafter
Min Cost - $65 for the 6 mths (incl. $79 modem cost)

NBN 100 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • $15/mth off for 6 mths. Ends 25/06/24
  • NBN 100 Unlimited - Month to Month
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 100™ Fixed Line
  • Get $20 off Dodo modem
  • Up to $10/mth off when bundled with energy
  • $70/mth
$70/mth
for the first 6 mths, then $85/mth thereafter
Min Cost - $70 for the 6 mths (incl. $79 modem cost)

iPrimus Unlimited Standard Plus Plan

iPrimus’ unlimited data plans are your go-to for singles looking to simplify their internet service. For a reasonable monthly fee, you receive unlimited data running on the low-range speed tier with no lock-in contracts. 

Are you a fan of entertainment streaming? If so, you can bundle Fetch TV for a low fee per month and stream as much as you wish with iPrimus. All internet plans, including their cheapest internet plan, include a landline with pay-as-you-go calls. 

For mobile broadband plans, iPrimus will not disappoint you. You can sign up for several internet connections that grant you access via a mobile device. Each plan has various features and advantages; many run on the Optus 4G network. Get more facts about this service by checking the website.

There are no hassles when you connect to their NBN plans with iPrimus — just amazing internet that doesn’t disappoint at a great price per month.

iPrimus Plans

Plan
Inclusions
Price
Home Ultrafast
  • Save: $20/mth for first 6 mths. Offer ends 25/06/24
  • Free Wi-Fi 6 modem if you stay connected for 12 mths. T&Cs apply
  • Home Ultrafast
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 650™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 650Mbps downstream and 42mbps upstream
  • No set up fees
  • $110/mth
$110/mth
For the first 6 mths, then $130/mth thereafter
Min Cost - Total Minimum Cost is $250 ($130/mth plan fee + $120 modem cost = $250)

Home Superfast
  • Save: $20/mth for first 6 mths. Offer ends 25/06/24
  • Free Wi-Fi 6 modem if you stay connected for 12 mths. T&Cs apply
  • Home Superfast
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 245™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 245Mbps downstream and 21mbps upstream
  • No set up fees
  • $90/mth
$90/mth
For the first 6 mths, then $110/mth thereafter
Min Cost - Total Minimum Cost is $230 ($110/mth plan fee + $120 modem cost = $230)

Premium
  • Save: $10/mth for first 6 mths. Offer ends 25/06/24
  • Free Wi-Fi 6 modem if you stay connected for 12 mths. T&Cs apply
  • Premium
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 100™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 100Mbps downstream and 17mbps upstream
  • No set up fees
  • $80/mth
$80/mth
for the first 6 mths, then $90/mth thereafter
Min Cost - Total Minimum Cost is $210 ($90/mth plan fee + $120 modem cost = $210)

Standard Plus
  • Free Wi-Fi 6 modem if you stay connected for 12 mths. T&Cs apply
  • Standard Plus
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 50™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 50Mbps downstream and 17mbps upstream
  • No set up fees
  • $80/mth
$80/mth
Min Cost - Total Minimum Cost is $200 ($80/mth plan fee + $120 modem cost = $200)

Moose Lite NBN

Moose is best known for their affordable SIM-only plans and mobile broadband, so it only makes sense that the mobile provider has entered the broadband market. Their cheapest plan is perfect for singles, offering decent yet reliable typical evening speeds. 

When signing up for Moose NBN, customers can also take advantage of the Satisfaction Guarantee feature – all you need to do is return your modem within 21 days to get a full refund.

Moose Lite is available for a reasonable price per month if you’re looking for a cheap internet plan. It’s one of the best internet providers for tight budgets, so check the website for specific prices before you choose your broadband plan.

Moose Plans

Plan
Inclusions
Price
Family NBN
  • Satisfaction Guarantee: Return modem within 21 days for a full refund
  • Family NBN
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 100™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 95Mbps
  • Optional modem for $99 w/ free delivery
  • $94.80/mth
$94.80/mth
Min Cost - $94.80 over 1 month

Everyday NBN
  • Satisfaction Guarantee: Return modem within 21 days for a full refund
  • Everyday NBN
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 50™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 47Mbps
  • Optional modem for $99 w/ free delivery
  • $79.80/mth
$79.80/mth
Min Cost - $79.80 over 1 mth

Lite NBN
  • Satisfaction Guarantee: Return modem within 21 days for a full refund
  • Lite NBN
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 25™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 24Mbps
  • Optional modem for $99 w/ free delivery
  • $69.80/mth
$69.80/mth
Min Cost - $69.80 over 1 mth

Starter NBN
  • Satisfaction Guarantee: Return modem within 21 days for a full refund
  • Starter NBN
  • No Lock-in Contract
  • Unlimited Data
  • NBN 12™ Fixed Line
  • Typical evening speed of 11Mbps
  • Optional modem for $99 w/ free delivery
  • $64.80/mth
$64.80/mth
Min Cost - $64.80 over 1 mth

Telstra Unlimited Data + Standard Speed

Telstra’s NBN plans still offer great value even if you don’t need entertainment extras. For instance, each plan comes with a home phone line that includes unlimited local, national, and mobile calls within Australia.

For those in a single household, Telstra’s unlimited data plan on the low-range NBN speed tier is more than worth its price. You will also receive a no-lock-in contract. The standalone NBN plans also provide extra features and perks bundled in with packages.

Alternative Broadband Providers for Singles

A couple of other providers and home internet options are available and suit Aussie singles. Some options are Aussie Broadband for top speeds, Tangerine NBN plans and Mate internet plans, which also offer good download speeds that are ideal for streaming. 

From NBN 50 to NBN 1000, various speed tiers are available. As an Aussie single, however, a plan on the lower speed tiers may suffice. Choosing one that offers NBN 25, for instance, will suit your internet needs better because you won’t need to connect as many devices to the internet.

Each provider will have different prices for the NBN speed tiers, so it’s worth looking at these costs to determine how to save money or to select the cheapest NBN plan.

Aussie Broadband

The lower plans that Aussie Broadband provides will suit your requirements if you want to browse the internet or send emails. Still, a low to mid-range plan will work if you want to stream videos in standard definition quality, high-definition quality or download files. As an Aussie single, you can comfortably work from home with the mid-range Aussie Broadband speed tiers and play exciting video games online.

Of course, Aussie Broadband does provide higher tiers that are ideal for using multiple devices in the same household, but this may not apply or match your internet use if your household doesn’t feature many people.

If you’re interested in mobile plans, Aussie Broadband is a good option as it provides a range of connection plans that run on 4G and 5G mobile networks. Visit their website for more information about these plans.

If you lack your own modem, Aussie Broadband will provide one. They also offer Fetch TV bundles with multiple channels, as well as numerous other bundle offers that new customers can take advantage of. With an ever-expanding network, Aussie Broadband is only going to get more popular, so get in while you can!

iPrimus logo

Add Fetch TV to any iPrimus NBN Plan

Enjoy an all-in-one box with Free-to-Air, subscription channels & streaming apps in one simple menu. You can even pause, rewind and record live TV! Add it to your iPrimus plan for only $10/mth!

MATE Broadband

For low internet needs, MATE Broadband brings you plenty of plans. Their low-speed tiers work perfectly for small households and internet users who want to send emails, browse the internet and complete video streaming with standard-definition quality.

MATE Broadband has a few higher-speed plans, but these might not align with your internet needs if you only use one device and require low internet speeds. Mobile and home phone bundles are also available with your NBN plan, so visit the MATE website to find ways to save money with their deals.

Customers are consistently satisfied with MATE’s fully Australia-based customer support team. If you’re a single looking for friendly customer service, MATE Broadband are a great choice for your next provider.

mate

Make the switch to MATE NBN!

Get no-fuss unlimited NBN plans, starting at only $55/mth. No lock-in contract, no setup fees & Aussie-based support. 1-month money-back guarantee on all NBN plans.

Tangerine Telecom

Tangerine Telecom’s slower internet speeds are perfect for Aussie singles looking to make savings and get the most from their internet connection. These NBN plans provide unlimited data and no lock-in contracts. The standard connection is free, and there are a few discounts to look forward to. Check the website for more facts about this discount.

Although Tangerine Telecom offers several different NBN speed tiers, the low tiers are ideal for you as an Aussie single. You may be interested in the options that offer good download speed at a good cost and match your SD video streaming, music streaming and social media internet use.

Their mid-range speed tiers provide slightly higher advantages, such as HD video streaming and video conferencing advantages.

While you might not need to stream 8K videos, which is also possible with the higher tiers Tangerine Telecom provides, it’s best to consider the speed tiers that suit you as an Aussie single with fewer devices to connect to the internet.

Best internet streaming plan

Best internet streaming plan

Save for the first 6 mths
Save: $5/mth for first 6 months. Offer ends 09/04/2024
iPrimus Premium with save up to $5/mth

Benefits

Save: $5/mth for first 6 months. Offer ends 09/04/2024
Ends 09/04/2024
Free Wi-Fi 6 modem if you stay connected for 12 months
T&Cs apply
No Lock-in Contract
Unlimited Data
NBN 95™ Fixed Line
95Mbps download & 17Mbps upload typical evening speeds
No set up fees
More Details
$90
/mth
Total Minimum Cost is $210 ($90/mth plan fee + $120 modem cost = $210)

How to Improve Your Internet Speed

A slow internet speed can be frustrating because it may interrupt streaming, online gaming, internet usage and browsing quality. However, just a few steps can help you improve your internet speed. Although a typical evening speed for NBN plans can be slower than other times during the day, you can increase the speed by following these instructions.

Place Your Router Near Your Device

If you place your device near your router, you can improve your internet speed. You’ll notice the difference immediately, especially if your device was initially very far from the router. This process doesn’t require you to place the device millimetres away from the router, but it’s always ideal if thick, concrete walls do not intercept the signal between the router and the device.

Despite this, your signal strength might still be low, no matter how close you are to the router. In this case, you may consider the following steps.

Close Any Background Programs or Apps Not in Use

One of the best ways to determine whether bandwidth is the cause of slow internet is to compare your phone’s WiFi speed with your device. If there’s a difference between them and your device’s internet is slower than your phone, low bandwidth can be the cause.

It’s best to close the background programs or applications you are not using in situations like this. You can achieve this by navigating to the task manager, selecting “network”, and finding which application currently consumes the most bandwidth. By choosing the programs and clicking “end task”, you can free up the bandwidth.

Upon restarting your device, it may be the case that the applications restart as well, so consider using extra software to put the apps into sleep mode, which can be a long-term solution.

Clear the Cache

With too much data in your cache, the website or streaming service you wish to load may work slowly or only partially, so it’s important to clear the cache or remove files contributing to a slow loading speed.

Webpage loading time screenshot
Source: ACCC.Gov.au

If you need to clear the cache via Google Chrome, select the three dots at the top on the right. Navigate to more tools and then click clear browsing data. You can select a few options to choose the specific data you want to clear, including cookies, images and browsing history.

Complete a Router Restart

Regularly restarting your router is a fast fix for slower internet speeds. All that’s required is to unplug the router, wait a minute or two and plug it in afterwards. Wait until the lights are on and check if the internet is running as expected.

Now, this process works by resetting the memory storage. It also frees up space. However, if you constantly restart the router, it might be time to reach out to your internet service provider or NBN connection provider to request a new router.

Change or Upgrade Your Connection Type

From fixed line to fibre to the premises, there are multiple connection type options available for Aussie singles. Still, if your internet connection is slow, you might want to upgrade your connection type. For example, although the NBN rollout initially was supposed to only include fibre optic networks for fibre-to-the-premises connection types, several types are available. 

So, if you have fibre to the node, you may consider upgrading the fibre to the premises option, which is the fastest connection type that may increase your customer satisfaction.

How to Choose the Right Internet for Singles?

Getting the right broadband deal from an internet service provider is all about understanding your needs – whether you live alone or with 12 of your closest mates. For singles, living alone is a great way to work out exactly how you’re using the net and choose the ideal plan for the correct monthly fee. 

Figuring out what you use the internet for gives you a great starting point for choosing the most suitable broadband plan for your purposes. Whether you’re streaming video or looking for cheap NBN plans or own multiple devices, or even your daily data usage, there are various ways to choose your internet plan. All these questions make it easier to review and decide on the right internet for a single person.

  • Do you stream video?
  • How many internet-connected devices do you own?
  • Are you a heavy internet user?
  • Do you play online games? Or stream music online?
  • What is your budget?

Selecting Broadband Based on Video Streaming

As a single-person household, you don’t have to put up with people consuming extra bandwidth to watch BINGE. You also don’t have anyone to share the costs with. Therefore, the best deal for wireless broadband options doesn’t necessarily have to include extremely high-speed internet tiers. 

You can afford a low to mid-range NBN plan regarding download speed, which will suffice for HD video streaming. Ensure you save your dollars and find a low-range NBN plan that suits this situation.

Choosing Broadband Plans Based on the Number of Devices

There’s also the question of connection, the number of devices you have connected to the internet, and the specific devices you have hooked up to the WiFi. 

You might have a smartphone, tablet, laptop, a few gaming platforms, or a Smart TV. However, it’s still possible that even in a household with just one occupant, your WiFi could still have up to six devices connected at any one time. Consider the number of devices and types you need to connect before choosing your NBN or broadband plan.

Opting for Broadband Plans Based on Internet Usage

When selecting a plan, it’s important to consider what you rely on for your broadband. If you work from home or with small businesses, you might send and receive emails frequently, some with large attachments. This usage will require reliable internet connections, so consider your options carefully. 

Alternatively, if you also partake in heavy internet usage, you may want to select an internet provider that offers greater download speeds.

If you don’t have a broadband bundle with a home phone line, you might be relying on VoIP. Suppose a home phone is essential for you when communicating with friends and family. In that case, some internet providers bundle the phone line and all calls at no extra cost – undeniably great value.

Considering Broadband Plans Based on Streaming Entertainment

Streaming entertainment might be important to you as an internet user. You might stream the latest streaming TV shows or indulge in online gaming. When you have people over, you might stream music, watch movies, or download your music directly. If these preferences apply to you, many internet providers, such as Telstra, offer entertainment streaming services you can listen to and enjoy. 

Whether you’re looking for a home wireless broadband connection that offers Xbox services for online gaming or music streaming services, many NBN speed tiers will suit your requirements. So, compare plans and each NBN provider to choose the best option.

Finding Broadband Plans Based on Budget

If you need a budget-friendly broadband connection, comparing cheap internet plans from each broadband provider to find the option that provides the most features is best. All NBN providers offer different internet speeds, so if you want to switch internet plans to receive a home wireless service or a cheap NBN plan, select an option that matches your budget.

Higher NBN or a faster plan is often more expensive, which will not affect your choice if you are only interested in slower internet download speeds. If you only want to browse the internet or email, you can use a plan with a smaller data allowance – which will cost less than the best NBN plans that offer larger data allowances that provide options to download large files.

Top 5 Broadband Providers for Singles: Key Points to Remember

If you’re looking to select a broadband provider suitable for singles, you’ll notice that there are several connections available and cheap internet plans to sign up for. The features of most plans may vary, but the options we have gathered here constitute some of the best providers for internet users with one or two devices.

We recommend that you read up on service availability in your area, the critical information summary and the total costs of any options or added extras you choose from an internet provider. In particular, keep an eye out for area-specific setup fees, installation costs, customer service rates and terms of use to get better value for your money.

Once you’ve considered this information, you can easily select a plan matching your internet consumption and requirements. Compare internet plans and broadband providers for singles to find the internet plan that works for you. Use Compare TV’s helpful guides to make your internet connection choice with minimal effort.

Top 5 Broadband Providers for Singles – FAQs

Looking for further facts about how to choose broadband providers for Aussie singles? Review the answers to these common questions to decide which provider will work best for you.

Which Factors Should You Consider When Selecting the Best Internet Provider for Aussie Singles?

A selection of factors come into play for any and all internet connections. For example, factors such as loading times and how many devices you can connect simultaneously are all essential to consider. Taking into account reliability, speed, cost, data limits, and latency is also crucial for ensuring your internet plan is the best one available to you.

What Makes an Internet Connection Reliable?

Reliability is a big deal for people living alone. You don’t want to be in the position of dealing with unreliable connections that slow down during wet weather. Of course, a fault-tolerant connection will depend on a lack of interrupting signals or your home’s wiring. Being close to the exchange can also enhance the reliability of the internet connection.

How Fast Should My Wi-Fi Be For One or Two Devices?

If you have two or more devices connected to the WiFi and will require moderate internet use, your internet connection should offer at least 12Mbps. The speed refers to how fast the data moves from the provider to your modem and vice versa. If you work from home, your internet speed is even more important

Does Location Affect Internet Speed?

Yes, location affects internet speed. If your device is farther from the router, the signal strength will reduce, and the speed will slow down. Location is hugely important due to how the internet is distributed in Australia. WiFi is first sent to an exchange point, then distributed to each individual home for their internet connection.

How Much Data Do Aussie Singles Need from an Internet Provider?

In our article on everyday downloading, we calculated that downloads could account for about 50-60GB of data each month, not including data used up by daily browsing, Skype calls, gaming or watching streaming TV services, all contribute to data usage. So it’s safe to say that you probably won’t need as much data as a full household unless you’re heavily involved in streaming.

What Do Providers Mean By Typical Evening Speed?

A typical evening speed is a peak-time speed that tends to be when most multiple users consume internet data via the NBN network. The typical evening speed, therefore, equates to a slow speed, and many internet provider options will advertise this download speed to inform you how fast their connection will run during peak time.