Cheap NBN Deals in Australia: What You Need to Know Before Switching
If you’re looking for cheap NBN plans in Australia, you’re not alone. With the cost of living on the rise, many Aussies are hunting for ways to save on essential services like internet. But before jumping onto the cheapest plan you see, it’s worth understanding a few key things about how the NBN network works — especially if you're in Western Australia (WA).
In this post, we’ll break down what affects your internet performance and help you make a smart switch without getting locked into the wrong deal.
1. How NBN POPs Affect Your Speed — Especially in WA
Ever wondered why two NBN plans with the same speed can feel completely different? It often comes down to where your provider connects to the NBN Point of Presence (POP).
Each NBN provider connects to the national NBN infrastructure at different POPs across Australia. If you're in Perth or regional WA, but your provider's POP is in Sydney or Melbourne, your data travels across the country before reaching your home. This can cause increased latency, slower performance during peak hours, and a less stable connection.
When comparing cheap NBN providers, always ask where their POP is located. For WA residents, choosing a provider with a local or closer POP can make a huge difference in performance.
2. International Speed Differences — What You Should Know
Another factor that can impact your internet experience is international bandwidth. Some cheaper NBN providers save money by limiting the amount of bandwidth they allocate to international traffic. This can mean slower speeds when you're streaming from overseas services, video calling friends abroad, or downloading content hosted outside Australia.
Big-name providers often have more robust international links, but some smaller providers with well-managed networks can also deliver excellent performance. It’s important to read reviews or ask your provider about their international peering and capacity.
3. No-Contract NBN Plans: More Flexibility, Less Risk
One of the best things about the current NBN market is the rise of no-contract NBN deals. These give you the freedom to switch providers without penalty if the service isn’t up to scratch.
Some of the cheapest NBN plans in Australia are now month-to-month with no lock-in terms. This flexibility means you can test out a provider, compare speed and reliability, and move on if needed.
However, be cautious: some providers offer a low first-month rate that increases significantly after the promo period. Always read the fine print.
4. iPOE vs PPPoE: Why It Matters When You Switch NBN Providers
Not all internet connections are created equal. There are two main ways NBN connects through your modem: PPPoE and iPOE. Here's why it matters:
PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet) requires a username and password to log in. It's older and more prone to issues with speed and performance, especially on high-speed plans.
iPOE (IP over Ethernet) is simpler, faster, and doesn’t require login credentials. It’s also easier to switch between providers, since the modem often doesn't need to be reconfigured.
If you’re planning to switch NBN providers, opting for one that uses iPOE can make your life much easier.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Cheap NBN Plan in Australia?
The best NBN plan isn't just the cheapest one. It comes down to:
Network coverage and POP location
Data and speed needs for your household
Ease of switching, modem compatibility, and international performance
If you're in Western Australia, make sure you're choosing a provider that delivers consistent performance locally and has decent international capacity. Always check for contract terms, POP locations, and modem restrictions before signing up.
Still unsure which plan is right for you? At Churna, we help everyday Aussies cut through the confusion and find the best NBN and mobile deals for their needs. We even offer in-person help across Perth.
Need help switching to a cheaper NBN plan? Contact us at www.churna.com.au and we’ll help you compare, choose, and switch — stress-free.
