Upfront costs for wireless broadband
Paul Wright16 July 2007, 8:20 AM
Mostly, ads for broadband through the mobile networks focus on the monthly fees, but as the devices needed to access HSDPA are quite sophisticated (they're effectively tiny mobile phones with advanced computer connectivity in a case without a screen), you should also shop around based on the up-front price.
 A phone in modem's clothing: HSDPA modems are basically mobile phones without a screen or audio capabilities |
Mostly, ads for broadband through the mobile networks focus on the monthly fees, but as the devices needed to access HSDPA are quite sophisticated (they're effectively tiny mobile phones with advanced computer connectivity in a case without a screen), you should also shop around based on the up-front price.
Three and Vodafone are currently giving away the hardware needed to get connected as long as you sign up to a 24 month contract. So is Telstra, in fact, but only if you buy under their "Telstra Mobile" brand, not BigPond. Optus is still charging $99 even if you sign a 24 month contract.
Since many people won't want to commit for that long, the pricing on a 12 month contract is worth looking at. Three is the cheapest here, offering hardware for $120. Telstra BigPond and Optus both charge $299, while Vodafone's going to squeeze you for $349. Telstra Mobile won't sign you up at all on a 12 month contract.
Here's a comparison table, based on the assumption that you're signing up for a 1GB or higher plan.
| Provider | 12 Month Contract | 24 Month Contract |
| Telstra Mobile | N/A | Free |
| Telstra Bigpond | $299.00 | N/A |
| Three | $120.00 ($49 plan and above)
$240.00 ($29 plan)
| Free ($49 plan and above)
$240 ($29 plan) |
| Vodafone | $349.00 | Free |
| Optus | $299 | $99.00 |
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