Recommendation for Modem/Router around $150- $200

Llogy on 12/03/2021 - 10:31

Hi Fellow OzBargainers!

I am hopeless when it comes to technology so I was hoping that you can help me to understand/have better idea on what to buy.

The background is I am moving to new apartment and I need a modem/router (no clue what is the difference) so I can use internet.
New place: 2 bedroom apartments and it is NBN ready (checked on NBN website and it says NBN HFC has been used in the connection to the broadband access network).
Current place: studio apartment, Superloop 50/20, ZTE ZXHN H268A (which was left by the landlord so I can't take this with me).

Please correct me if I am wrong but I guess the NBN connection box is the modem?

My needs are quite simple:

  • Provide internet connection (either via ethernet cable and wifi)
  • Costs around $150-$200
  • I will be using it with few phones, tablet, 2 laptops, android TV and ChromeCast

I was thinking either getting separate modem/router or getting TPG so I can get free modem.
Does anyone know if I can keep the modem if I stop my connection with TPG?
But honestly, for someone who never rent on my own, Superloop customer service was flawless, hence why I was reluctant to switch to other ISP for the time being.

Thank you for your feedback/comments/ideas and Happy Friday 😊

Computing

Comments

  • FlipCrank on 12/03/2021 - 14:05

    Is it possible to wait until you move to buy the equipment? I'd test the wired connection for max speed and use an existing Wi-Fi router to see how range fairs.

    • logy on 12/03/2021 - 15:42

      Hi! Thank you for your reply 😊

      The thing is, the current router belong to my landlord. If I want to test connection, this would mean I have to connect to ISP first and "borrow" the router and test it.
      But I guess I can try that method!
      I just like to get everything ready beforehand.

      Do you have any recommendations on basic modem/router?
      A friend of mine is with TPG and using their modem and have no issue (but he lives in a studio room in the city). That's why I'm also considering moving to TPG since they provide "free" modem.

      Thanks!

      • FlipCrank on 12/03/2021 - 16:22

        I think I'd get the D-Link DIR-853. I've never used/seen a HFC connection but supposedly NBN installs a modem with the connection therefore you should only need a router. I do remember TPG requiring VLAN configurating so not 100% sure if its compatible.

        • logy on 13/03/2021 - 14:39

          Thank you so much for this recommendation. It is definitely budget friendly but I think I need to check if there will be NBN box so I can get this. Thank you!

        • Twix on 14/03/2021 - 17:57

          That is accurate re: HFC installation and TPGs VLAN 802.1q requirement.

    • Twix on 14/03/2021 - 17:49

      HFC maximum down/up speed details can be found here

  • roonie on 12/03/2021 - 17:08

    We used to be Tpg for adsl (and mobile). I got tired of their fees and contracts. When HFC was offered, I was reluctant to commit to a provider (with a free contracted modem) so chose superloop (month by month) and bought my own netgear Orbi mesh system (functionally a wifi router). That’s going to be out of your price bracket but I’m sure our colleagues on this forum can make HW recommendations. Do you need Ethernet at points away from the NBN connection box? 18 months later I have zero interest in churning- I’m on a 50/20 plan and typically get 52/18 throughout the (2 storey) house using wifi

    • logy on 13/03/2021 - 15:01

      Hi! Thank you for your reply.
      Orbi mesh system is so pretty and expensive :(
      Honestly, I am not sure the difference between FTTP FTTB or HFC but I am also reluctant to sign up a contract with ISP and their "free" modem.
      Hmm I guess so, the connection likely will be in the living room and I will need it for computer room. But I definitely will look into a mesh because it sounds like it is a good investment!
      Thank you again :)

      • Twix on 14/03/2021 - 19:55

        Mesh is great for a property with many walls, you can't install Ethernet wiring for various reasons and to fix bad Wi-Fi spots and slow speed. In an apartment a router in a good spot is all you need. My picks between $150 and $200 are the TP-Link Archer AX20 and Asus RT-AX55 and a OzBargain mesh favourite is the TP-Link Deco M5.

        HFC = NBN install the connection box and you purchase a router. A hybrid of fibre outside and coaxil cable in your home. Everyone can get 100/40 with some premises being able to get a maximum of 1000/50.

        FTTP = NBN install the connection box and you purchase a router. Fibre goes all the way into your home, best for stability and a maximum of 1000/400 with room for more speed improvements.

        FTTB = NBN don't install a connection box and you purchase a VDSL2 modem & router. Fibre to the basement of your building and copper into your home and a maximum of 100/40.

        • logy on 15/03/2021 - 10:39

          Hi Twix,
          Thanks for this! I checked on NBN website and it says previously my address use HFC and after your explanation, I get more ideas on what is it about XD
          I'm more convinced to get M5 at this point because just like what you said, it's OzB's favourite.
          I know this is pushing it because everyone has been helping me with <$200 router, but I checked and 2 packs M9 is currently on sale on wireless1 for $276 and M5 is $210 (I missed the sale!!) .
          For 2 bedroom apartments, do you recommend M5 or M9? I thought it's fine to get better one as it's an investment for a long term anyway.
          Dilemma of the year!
          Thanks again :D

          • Twix on 16/03/2021 - 22:15

            @logy: I recommend both the M5 and M9. Use Officeworks price beat guarantee against Wireless 1 on the M9 for $262.20. I found the M5 for $160.64 delivered @ Amazon AU

            The main difference is that the M9 uses a dedicated band for Wi-Fi traffic which will help in apartments. The M5 is still suitable.

            M9 has Tri-band AC2200 with 8 antennas on each node and a Quad-core processor @ 717MHz & 512MB of RAM.

            M5 has Dual band AC1300 with 4 antennas on each node and a Quad-core processor @ 638MHz & 256MB of RAM.

  • Platinumtelecom on 12/03/2021 - 17:36
    +2

    You can go straight for a mesh router. A 2 pack should be enough, so not only you get a router but also you are guaranteed to have good wifi coverage.

    The good thing is, it is super easy to set-up with an app.

    I suggest TP-Link Deco m4 or m5. Go to officeworks and price match against bunnings or Pcbyte.

    In regards to the provider, to make you life easier, go with a provider that has Ipoe connection. So you don't have to enter credentials in the router. Aussie Broadband is what I recommend.

    Feel free to PM me if you want me to guide you

    • logy on 13/03/2021 - 15:33

      Hi! Thank you for your reply and detailed explanation for a mesh router. After reading your comment and roonie comments, I am considering getting a mesh router, especially the ones that you mentioned, they are definitely within my budgets!
      I am inclined to get the m5 because it is newer gen and I guess that should be better?
      Thank you also for the ISP recommendation. I will check their plan.
      Thanks!

      • roonie on 13/03/2021 - 18:18

        I have an Orbi base and satellite, which both have Ethernet ports. I’m not personally familiar with VoiPsmarts recommendation but the two node mesh he recommends, with either SL or ABB as your RSP sounds like a great way to go

        • logy on 14/03/2021 - 19:50
          +1

          Yes, I think I will do this. Getting the M5 sounds like a great way to go!
          Thank you :)

  • Twix on 14/03/2021 - 17:47

    On HFC the NBN connection box is the modem.

    Do I have to return the included Wi-Fi Modem Router if I cancel my service?

    No, the modem is yours.

    • logy on 14/03/2021 - 19:50
      +1

      Thank you for answering my questions :)

      • Laryy on 18/03/2021 - 16:17
        +1

        The nbn Modem have to stay in the same property tho

  • jv on 16/03/2021 - 22:44

    If you're on a budget, the Tenda meshes are good value…
    Each node also allows an ethernet connection.

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