5G: Is It Worth It?
Deciding on 5G? Read this first before making a decision.
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The next generation of home internet and mobile connectivity is making waves across Australia, promising faster speeds, lower latency, and a more reliable network for activities like streaming, gaming, and more. 5G offers a lot to consider regarding benefits, coverage, and cost. But is it truly worth it? In short, yes. But first, let’s explore what 5G has to offer, how it compares to different technology types, and what kind of user might find it most valuable so you can justify whether it’s right for you.
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If you need lightning-fast downloads and seamless streaming, 5G delivers superior speeds compared to 4G.
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5G plans may cost more than 4G, so weigh the benefits against your budget.
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Check if your area has strong 5G coverage since availability varies widely across Australia.
What Exactly is 5G?
5G, or fifth generation, is the latest wireless network technology, designed to give you faster download and upload speeds, smoother connections, and the ability to handle more devices simultaneously. It’s an upgrade from its 4G predecessor with speeds that can theoretically reach up to 10Gbps (gigabytes per second). To see what 5G plans are available in your area, check out our article on Comparing 5G Plans.
But what does 5G really mean for the average Australian? Simply put, it’s designed to handle activities like streaming, gaming, and video calls much faster and more efficiently than ever before. Imagine watching high-definition videos on your phone with minimal buffering or lag—or even using your phone as a hotspot without slowing down other devices. Note that your network coverage is dependent on the speeds you get.
24G vs. 5G: What’s the Difference?
There are four general categories that separate 4G from 5G: speed, coverage, bandwidth, and cost.
Speed
5G’s speed is a significant improvement from 4G, making internet activities noticeably faster and more efficient, especially in cities where 5G infrastructure is more prominent. On a 5G plan, download speeds can reach anywhere from 250 to over 1000 Mbps, depending on your network coverage, compared to 4G speeds that reach anywhere from 20 to 100 Mbps. This difference is noticeable if you’re streaming live sports or watching movies in 4K, as it can make for a smoother experience. For example, downloading a full-length film on 4G could take a few minutes, while on 5G, it might finish in seconds—ideal for those who want to catch a quick show on a train commute or need to download large files for work.
Expert Tip
Download speeds vary based on the provider. According to OpenSignal’s 2024 Mobile Network Experience Report, Optus offers an average 5G download speed of 208.7Mbps, comfortably ahead of Telstra and Vodafone, which place in second and third, respectively.
Coverage
5G coverage in Australia is still expanding. Providers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone offer 5G in major cities, with Telstra currently claiming the broadest 5G reach, according to the latest data provided by the ACCC. However, 4G might still be your best bet if you’re outside these areas. Unlike the NBN, which covers the majority of Australian households, 5G is still limited to specific metropolitan and suburban regions. Availability is dependent on your location.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth refers to the network’s capacity to handle many users at once, which is especially useful in areas where everyone’s trying to get online at the same time. With 5G’s larger bandwidth, there’s a lot more “room” for devices to stay connected without slowing down, making it ideal for families with lots of devices or households where everyone is using the internet at the same time.
Cost
The cost of 5G varies depending on the type of service—whether it’s mobile, home internet, or prepaid. 5G plans from providers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone typically include access to faster speeds but can come at a premium compared to 4G plans. For instance, Optus and Vodafone offer entry-level 5G home internet plans starting at around $79 per month, with download speeds of up to 100Mbps. At the same time, Telstra’s premium offerings can reach higher price points for greater speeds and additional features.
3Who Might Want 5G?
5G is appealing to a wide range of users, offering something for everyone, from casual browsers to tech enthusiasts. For professionals working remotely, 5G’s faster speeds and lower latency make tasks like video conferencing, downloading large files, and using cloud-based applications more seamless. 5G is also great for students who rely on a steady internet connection for online learning. Whether they’re attending virtual lectures, working on group assignments, or uploading crucial projects, 5G offers the speed and reliability needed to stay connected.
5G is particularly useful for busy households with multiple devices competing for bandwidth—think smart TVs streaming movies, gaming consoles in an online match, and voice-activated assistants running errands, all at the same time. Technology enthusiasts can also take advantage of 5G technology to keep everything from security cameras to smart home devices in sync.
Lastly, small business owners and retailers can also benefit from 5G. Critical devices like power mobile point-of-sale systems, real-time inventory management, and security systems are needed to operate efficiently, and 5G’s versatility can help businesses operate at a higher level of efficiency, even in regions where traditional broadband isn’t available.
4The Pros and Cons of 5G
Like any technology, 5G comes with its pros and cons. To make it easier, we’ve broken down some key points you should know about 5G so you can decide whether it’s right for you.
The Pros of 5G
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Faster speeds than 4G.
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Low latency for real-time interactions.
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It can be a great alternative to NBN for some users.
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Expanding 5G networks means more locations have access to high-speed data.
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Ideal for managing smart devices while on the move.
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No $300 NBN development fee if nbn is not installed
The Cons of 5G
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Limited coverage in rural or remote areas.
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It can be more expensive than some 4G and NBN plans.
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Not all devices are 5G-compatible, which could require a device upgrade.
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High-speed plans often come with data limits, increasing costs for heavy users.
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Real-world speeds differ significantly from advertised “up to” speeds depending on location.
The Cost Factor: Is 5G Worth the Price?
Let’s break down one of the most talked-about topics surrounding 5G—the cost. For residential consumers, the benefits of 5G are clear—lightning-fast speeds, reduced lag for streaming and gaming, and a reliable connection. If you frequently stream movies, play games online, or work remotely, the fast speeds could make the upgrade well worth it.
But if you’re currently satisfied with your 4G home internet speeds and aren’t experiencing many delays or buffering issues, you might not notice a huge improvement with 5G—at least not enough to justify the extra cost right now. As 5G becomes more common, though, prices will likely become more affordable, which means waiting might work in your favour. Think about how much speed and connectivity matter to you daily; if you’re using data primarily for light browsing, sending emails, and social media, you might be fine sticking with 4G or NBN for now.
Expert Tip
Compare providers wisely—different telcos offer varying 5G speeds, pricing, and perks, so shop around for the best fit.
A 5G home internet plan can provide high speeds and reliable connectivity in areas with strong network coverage, making it an excellent choice for tech-savvy households or remote workers. The setup is often plug-and-play, meaning no installation fees or long wait times, which could be a major convenience factor if you’re in a hurry to get connected.
One key consideration is the cost of hardware. Several 5G home internet plans require a 5G modem, which can be included in the plan but may come with setup fees or require you to stay with the provider for a minimum contract period. Additionally, if you live in a newly developed area without NBN infrastructure, opting for 5G can save you the $300 NBN new development charge. As mentioned before, 5G home internet is location-specific, meaning it’s locked to the address you sign up with, which might be a limitation for renters or those who move frequently.
6Can I Take My 5G Home Internet Anywhere?
Generally, 5G home internet is generally restricted to a single address, meaning it’s locked to the specific location where you set it up. Unlike a smartphone, which lets you connect to the internet on the go, 5G home internet plans are designed to be operable at a single address. Telcos like Telstra enforce this by linking your modem to the address registered when the service is set up, so moving the modem or taking it to another location would sever the connection. If you relocate, you’d need to cancel your current plan and determine whether your new address is eligible for a new 5G home internet plan.
7Mobile 5G Internet
In Australia, 5G internet comes in a few different forms, each designed to suit specific needs. One popular option is data-only SIM cards designed for use in tablets, portable hotspots, or dongles. This type of 5G mobile broadband offers flexibility, allowing users to stay connected while travelling or when traditional fixed-line internet isn’t offered. It’s quick to set up, doesn’t rely on NBN infrastructure, and can deliver speeds that rival some traditional home internet plans. Unlike home internet setups, 5G mobile broadband is focused on mobility, making it a practical choice for people on the move, whether commuting, staying in temporary accommodation, or simply needing a backup for home internet.
The Bottom Line
In the end, deciding whether 5G is worth it depends on how you use the internet, what your budget is, and whether it’s a better alternative than other technology types. If you’re looking for fast speeds, low latency, and a reliable connection for streaming, gaming, or working remotely, 5G could be a good fit. However, if you’re content with your current setup or live in a region where 5G isn’t as prominent, it might be worth waiting until your area is fully supported. Not sure where to start? Speak with an internet broker at Internet Monster to explore your options, compare plans, and find a tailored internet plan for a fair price.
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Author
Benjamin TomBenjamin is a utility specialist passionate about creating informative content about the energy, internet, and solar markets. With extensive experience in the telecommunications industry, Benjamin drives our unique blog posts, articles, and reviews. He is focused on breaking down the technical jargon so our readers can better understand the telco market and industry. Whether he is comparing the latest internet deals or creating unique guides, Benjamin takes great pride in creating helpful, easy-to-read content.
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