As the demand for reliable internet grows in Australia, consumers have more options than ever. Two popular choices for rural and regional areas are Starlink and NBN Fixed Wireless. Both offer solutions to areas where traditional wired broadband connections like ADSL or fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) aren’t feasible. But which one is better suited for your needs? This blog post will compare Starlink and NBN Fixed Wireless to help you make an informed decision.
What is Starlink?
Starlink is a satellite-based internet service provided by SpaceX. It operates by launching low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites that transmit internet signals directly to a Starlink dish installed at your home. Unlike traditional satellite internet, Starlink's low-orbit satellites reduce latency and provide faster speeds.
Pros of Starlink:
- Speed: Starlink offers download speeds of up to 100-350 Mbps and continues improving as more satellites are launched.
- Latency: Latency is generally around 20-40ms, significantly lower than traditional satellite services.
- Coverage: Available in areas where NBN’s fixed wireless or wired services aren’t accessible, including remote regions.
- Cost: At the time of writing, Starlink is offering refurbished hardware for $199 AUD. The current residential plan is $139 AUD/month for unlimited data, with a $80 AUD/month plan offering 50GB on ROAM.
Cons of Starlink:
- Weather dependency: Starlink's signal can be affected by rain, snow, and other weather conditions.
What is NBN Fixed Wireless?
NBN Fixed Wireless delivers internet via radio signals from a ground-based tower to an antenna installed at your home, designed for regional and rural areas.
Pros of NBN Fixed Wireless:
- Speed: Offers download speeds of up to 400 Mbps, depending on infrastructure and tower proximity.
- Price: Plans start from $60-$100 AUD/month.
- Reliability: Less affected by weather than satellite systems.
- No setup cost: Installation is usually free, with equipment provided by NBN.
Cons of NBN Fixed Wireless:
- Congestion: Speeds can drop during peak times due to shared infrastructure.
- Coverage limitations: Service is dependent on proximity to an NBN tower.
Comparing Speed and Performance
Starlink provides higher and more consistent speeds than NBN Fixed Wireless, especially during peak usage times. Starlink’s lower latency (20-40ms) makes it ideal for video conferencing, gaming, and large downloads. However, NBN Fixed Wireless can deliver high speeds if the infrastructure is strong and the user is close to the tower, but congestion may impact performance.
Installation and Setup
Starlink requires a dish and modem, easily installed by users with Starlink’s step-by-step instructions. However, professional installation is recommended for optimal dish placement and neat cabling. SMART Data & TV Services offers expert Starlink installations to ensure the best performance.
NBN Fixed Wireless installations are handled by NBN technicians. The process involves mounting an antenna on your home, usually at no cost to the user.
Cost Comparison
Starlink:
- Setup cost: $199 AUD for refurbished hardware (available at the time of writing in October 2024)
- Monthly cost: $139 AUD/month unlimited or $80 AUD/month for 50GB on ROAM
NBN Fixed Wireless:
- Setup cost: Free (for most users)
- Monthly cost: $60-$100 AUD depending on provider and plan
Which One Should You Choose?
- Speed needs: Starlink offers faster speeds and lower latency, ideal for heavy users and gamers (who do not have access to a fibre connection).
- Budget: NBN Fixed Wireless offers a more affordable monthly cost.
- Reliability: NBN Fixed Wireless may perform better in extreme weather conditions.
- Availability: Starlink covers most of Australia, while NBN Fixed Wireless is limited to areas with nearby towers.
Conclusion
Both Starlink and NBN Fixed Wireless offer unique advantages for rural and regional areas. Starlink’s speed and reliability make it ideal for users with high data demands, while NBN Fixed Wireless remains a solid, budget-friendly option.