30 September, 2024

Starlink vs NBN Fixed Wireless Internet: Which Is Better for Australian Homes?

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 is known for offering download speeds of up to 100-350 Mbps and is continually improving its service as more satellites are launched.
  • Latency: Latency for Starlink is generally around 20-40ms, which is significantly lower than traditional satellite services.
  • Coverage: Available in areas where NBN’s fixed wireless or wired services aren’t accessible, including extremely remote regions.
  • Cost: The Starlink Gen 3 standard dish is currently priced at $299 AUD at major retailers, making it more affordable than previous models.

Cons of Starlink:

  • Monthly fees: Starlink offers two monthly plans — $50 AUD/month for 50GB or $139 AUD/month unlimited.
  • Weather dependency: Starlink's signal can be affected by heavy rain, snow, and other weather conditions, leading to potential disruptions in service.

What is NBN Fixed Wireless?

NBN Fixed Wireless is a service offered through the National Broadband Network (NBN) and is designed for regional and rural areas. Instead of relying on satellite, NBN Fixed Wireless delivers internet via radio signals from a ground-based tower to an antenna installed at your home.

Pros of NBN Fixed Wireless:

  • Speed: NBN Fixed Wireless plans claim to achieve download speeds of up to 400 Mbps, but actual performance depends on the quality of the infrastructure and proximity to an NBN tower. Personally, I have never seen an NBN Fixed wireless connection achieve speeds anywhere near 400mbps in my area (Darling Downs, Queensland)
  • Price: NBN Fixed Wireless offers lower monthly costs compared to Starlink, with most providers offering plans starting from around $60 to $100 AUD.
  • No setup cost: The installation of the fixed wireless equipment is often provided by NBN for free as part of the service.

Cons of NBN Fixed Wireless:

  • Congestion: From my experience as a field technician, I have rarely seen an NBN fixed wireless connection provide speeds above 50mbps in a real world scenario in my area and it is often a lot lower.
  • Congestion: Since NBN Fixed Wireless relies on shared tower infrastructure, users in highly populated areas may experience reduced speeds during busy times. This is more common than you may be lead to believe by your ISP.
  • Coverage limitations: Not all regional or rural areas are covered by NBN Fixed Wireless, as it relies on proximity to an NBN tower. Additionally, users far from a tower may experience reduced speeds due to signal degradation.

Comparing Speed and Performance

In our experience with real-world testing Starlink outperforms NBN Fixed Wireless in terms of raw speed at 100% of the sites we have been to. However, it is important to note that NBN Fixed Wireless speeds can vary significantly due to congestion and proximity to the tower. Starlink’s advantage lies in its consistently higher speeds and lower latency (20-40ms), making it a strong option for tasks like video conferencing, gaming, and large file downloads.

In contrast, NBN Fixed Wireless can be a good option if you’re within close range of an NBN tower, but its performance can be more prone to slowdowns during peak times.

Installation and Setup

Starlink requires users to purchase and install a Starlink kit, which includes a satellite dish and modem. The dish must have a clear view of the sky for optimal signal reception. The installation process is relatively simple for most homeowners, and Starlink provides clear instructions for self-installation. For those who prefer a professional setup, SMART Data & TV Services offers expert installation services, including dish mounting and cable management.

On the other hand, NBN Fixed Wireless installation is handled by NBN technicians. The process involves mounting an antenna on your home, which connects to a nearby NBN tower. The installation is typically free of charge, and the equipment remains the property of NBN, meaning you won’t need to invest in hardware upfront.

Masthead Amplifier Types

Cost Comparison


Starlink:

  • Setup cost: $299 AUD for the dish and modem kit
  • Monthly cost: $50 AUD/month for 50GB or $139 AUD/month for unlimited data

UPDATE: Starlink Gen3 V4 dishes are no longer on sale @ $299 but you can now get the first month for free if you order your Starlink kit directly from Starlink using our referral link https://www.starlink.com/residential?referral=RC-108876-56783-26

NBN Fixed Wireless:

  • Setup cost: Free (for most users)
  • Monthly cost: $60 to $100 AUD (depending on the provider and speed plan)

When considering costs, NBN Fixed Wireless remains the more affordable option, both in terms of setup and monthly fees. However, Starlink offers unlimited data and generally faster speeds, which could make the higher cost justifiable for those who need high-speed internet for heavy usage.

Which One Should You Choose?

When deciding between Starlink and NBN Fixed Wireless, consider the following:

  • Speed needs: If you require fast internet speeds for online gaming, 4K streaming, or remote work, Starlink is the better option. Its higher speeds and lower latency make it a strong competitor in the rural internet market.
  • Cost-consciousness: For those who are looking for a more budget-friendly option and can tolerate slower speeds, NBN Fixed Wireless is the better choice. It offers a lower monthly price and free installation.
  • Reliability: Actual download speeds vary more significantly with NBN Fixed Wireless compared with Starlink. In our opinion, Starlink is more reliable connection.
  • Availability: Starlink covers almost 100% of Australia, whereas NBN Fixed Wireless is only available if there is a tower nearby. If you're not in an area covered by an NBN tower, Starlink is your only option!

Conclusion

Both Starlink and NBN Fixed Wireless offer unique advantages for Australian homes in rural and regional areas. Starlink offers faster speeds and lower latency, making it ideal for users with high internet demands. However, NBN Fixed Wireless remains a cost-effective option for those who are on a tight budget.

So is Starlink faster than NBN in regional areas? To see a direct comparison, take a look at this real-world case study we did in regional Queensland https://www.smartdatatv.com.au/starlink-vs-nbn-case-study-geeham/

Would you like to get your first month of Starlink for free? If you order your Starlink kit directly from Starlink using our referral link https://www.starlink.com/residential?referral=RC-108876-56783-26 you will get 1 months connection for free!



Need help installing your Starlink system?

For professional installation of your Starlink system, or if you need help setting up a robust wireless network, SMART Data & TV Services is your go-to partner. Contact us today or book an appointment online to ensure a smooth, hassle-free setup. You can now get the first month for free if you order your Starlink kit directly from Starlink using our referral link https://www.starlink.com/residential?referral=RC-108876-56783-26