Pre-paid wireless is finally clearing the way for those wanting wireless without the 24-month contract. We look at how Telstra's new plans stack up against the competition, including Optus and Virgin re-paid wireless.
[UPDATE: See our story Is pre-paid wireless broadband good value?]
This week's announcement that Telstra is offering pre-paid wireless is welcome news if you've been considering going wireless, but have been put off by the 24-month contracts.
Fresh after launching their new Turbo 7+ Series USB Modem, Telstra has announced pre-paid Next G, the new pre-paid deal includes a start-up pack ($149 including modem). Credit costs anywhere from $10 to $100 for 6GB. The pricing is not online yet (will be offered in 4 days time on the 22nd) but you can see Telstra's wireless page here.
Better value at Virgin
While Telstra's advantage is network coverage, Virgin looks to be the better value option for 5GB or more.
Virgin has come to the party with $179 pre-paid 3G wireless start packs, including modem. Top-ups start at $15 for 1GB, $30 for 2GB, $50 for 5GB (over 60 days), or $100 for 8GB (over 90 days).
Optus pre-paid
Meanwhile, Optus' prepaid wireless deal is the same for 2GB at $30, but the modem's a bit more expensive at $199. Keep in mind Optus has also copped some flak for its policy of charging certain portions of useage in 10MB increments.
Optus does have a 3GB for $40 plan, which is something Virgin doesn't seem to offer. The cost for 5GB is the same as Virgin at $50, but with Virgin this is over 60 days.