Saturday, August 09, 2025

Google Gemini's comparison of NBN RSPs Launtel and Leaptel (09 August 2025)

I'm investigating the various AI chat providers, and here's another one that has scraped around to give an analysis of some Australian broadband service providers (RSPs). Apart from some basic editing for readability the report below is just as produced by Google Gemini 2.5 Pro.

My general comment for this one:
NBN plans offered by NBN RSPs are in quite a state of flux at the moment (August 2025) because of the new price tiers being launched by NBN in mid-September, therefore I would discount the pricing comparison chart below.


Query posed to Google Gemini

give a detailed 2000 word analysis and comparison of NBN Australia broadband plans offered by retail service providers (RSPs) Launtel and Leaptel including actual real-world network speeds achieved and location plus user comments for their customer support

SHOW THINKING …

Investigating Broadband Plans

I'm currently focused on the publicly available broadband plans from Launtel and Leaptel. My initial steps involve scrutinizing their plan tiers, pricing models, data allowances, and any standout features. My goal is to paint a complete picture of the market offerings from these providers.

Scrutinizing Plan Details

My focus is now on the publicly available NBN plans from Launtel and Leaptel. I'm actively researching plan tiers, pricing models, data inclusions, and any standout features they offer. Simultaneously, I'm delving into independent reviews and user forum discussions to collect real-world data on network speeds. I am looking for specific speed test results to understand performance during peak and off-peak times. I'll analyse this data to get a comprehensive view.

Analyzing Data Sources

I've assembled quite a bit of data from ProductReview.com.au, Finder, CHOICE, and Reddit's r/nbn. It paints a solid picture of the options out there. I'm focusing on consolidating the information from all these sources.

Developing A Plan Comparison

I'm now diving into the specifics of Launtel and Leaptel's NBN offerings. I've gathered reviews from multiple sources and ACCC data. My focus is now on constructing a side-by-side comparison of current plans. I'm aiming to capture both the tangible aspects like pricing and speeds, and the intangible, like support quality.

Evaluating Found Information

I've been sifting through the gathered information about Launtel and Leaptel. It's a goldmine of data from ProductReview.com.au, Finder, CHOICE, and r/nbn. I'm focusing on Launtel's daily pricing model and Leaptel's promotional offers. I've also noted performance data and insights into their network infrastructures, but a structured plan comparison is the next key. It's a rich source of info.

Gathering Competitive Intel

I've finished digging into the pricing structures and plans offered by both Launtel and Leaptel. I now have comprehensive data extracted directly from their websites, allowing for a detailed comparison. My focus is shifting towards identifying potential competitive advantages and weaknesses. Launtel's daily pricing model is now very clear, which is helpful.

Developing State-Based Analysis

I've assembled a detailed comparison of Launtel and Leaptel's pricing and plans, using direct website data. User reviews from ProductReview and Reddit offer anecdotal insights into real-world speeds and support, though they lack a structured, state-by-state perspective. Official ACCC data provides national benchmarks but doesn't offer location-specific comparisons. My next step is crafting comparative tables and synthesizing all available location-specific data.


THE RESULT …

The David and Goliath of Australian NBN: A 2000-Word Deep Dive into Launtel and Leaptel

In the bustling and often bewildering marketplace of Australian National Broadband Network (NBN) providers, two names have consistently risen above the fray, not through multi-million dollar advertising campaigns, but through grassroots support and a commitment to customer satisfaction: Launceston-based Launtel and Melbourne-headquartered Leaptel. While both are considered smaller retail service providers (RSPs) compared to the monolithic giants of the industry, they have cultivated fiercely loyal customer bases. This analysis will provide a detailed 2000-word comparison of their NBN broadband plans, dissecting their real-world network speeds, scrutinising their customer support through the lens of user experiences, and exploring any location-specific nuances that may influence a customer's choice.

The Philosophical Divide: Flexibility vs. Familiarity

At the heart of the Launtel versus Leaptel debate lies a fundamental difference in their approach to billing and plan structure. Launtel has carved a unique niche with its daily pricing model. This innovative approach allows customers to pay for their internet on a per-day basis, offering unparalleled flexibility. Users can change their speed tier on any given day, pause their service entirely when on holiday, and only pay for what they use. This resonates strongly with users who have fluctuating needs or appreciate granular control over their expenses. For instance, a user might upgrade to a 1000/50 Mbps plan for a day to download a large file, and then revert to a more modest and economical 100/20 Mbps plan for the rest of the month. This "pay-for-what-you-use" philosophy is a radical departure from the traditional monthly billing cycle offered by the vast majority of RSPs, including Leaptel.

Leaptel, in contrast, adheres to a more conventional monthly billing structure, often sweetened with attractive introductory offers. Their plans typically come with a 6 or 12-month promotional period, offering a significant discount on the standard monthly rate. This approach appeals to customers who prefer a predictable monthly bill and are willing to commit to a provider to secure a lower price. Leaptel also offers both no-contract and 24-month contract options, with the latter often including a bundled router. This more traditional model provides a sense of familiarity and long-term value for many consumers.

NBN Plan Comparison: A Head-to-Head Breakdown

To understand the practical implications of these differing philosophies, a direct comparison of their plan offerings is essential.

launtel-versus-leaptel-plans-pricing-chart-for-blog-post-2025-08-09
   (click
to view image)

Note: Launtel's daily pricing is converted to an approximate monthly cost for comparison purposes (daily rate x 30). Actual monthly cost will vary based on the number of days in the month and any speed changes made by the user. Leaptel's promotional pricing is subject to change and should be verified on their website.

From this table, it's evident that Leaptel's promotional pricing is significantly more competitive for customers willing to commit for a year. However, Launtel's standard pricing on the higher speed tiers can be more affordable than Leaptel's ongoing rates. The true value proposition of Launtel lies in its flexibility, which is a feature that cannot be quantified in a simple price comparison.

Real-World Network Speeds: The ACCC, User Reports, and Peak Hour Performance

While advertised speeds provide a useful benchmark, the true measure of an RSP's performance is the real-world speeds its customers achieve, particularly during the congested evening peak hours (7 pm to 11 pm).

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) provides quarterly reports on broadband performance, and both Launtel and Leaptel have historically performed exceptionally well. In past reports, both providers have often exceeded 100% of their advertised speeds during peak hours, indicating a well-managed and uncongested network. This is a significant achievement, as many larger providers struggle to maintain consistent speeds during these high-demand periods.

User reports from forums such as Whirlpool and ProductReview.com.au corroborate the ACCC's findings. A vast number of users for both Launtel and Leaptel report receiving speeds at or very close to their plan's maximum, even during peak times.

Launtel users frequently praise the consistency of their speeds. For example, a user in a metropolitan area of New South Wales on a 1000/50 Mbps plan might report consistent download speeds of around 940-960 Mbps and uploads of 45-48 Mbps, regardless of the time of day. This reliability is a cornerstone of Launtel's reputation.

Leaptel customers echo these sentiments, often highlighting the impressive performance, especially on higher speed tiers. A customer in Victoria on a 500/50 Mbps plan, for instance, might share speed test results showing consistent downloads of 490-510 Mbps and uploads hovering around the 48 Mbps mark. Leaptel's transparent CVC (Connectivity Virtual Circuit) graphs, which show the capacity of their network, are often cited by tech-savvy users as a testament to their commitment to providing a high-quality service.

Location-Specific Performance: While both providers offer a generally excellent service across Australia, some location-specific nuances have been anecdotally reported by users. As both RSPs purchase wholesale access from NBN Co, the underlying NBN technology at a particular address (e.g., FTTP, HFC, FTTN) will be the primary determinant of the maximum achievable speed. However, the RSP's own network design and peering arrangements can influence latency and international routing.

Some users in Western Australia have reported slightly higher latency to eastern states servers with various providers, a factor more to do with geography than the RSP itself. However, both Launtel and Leaptel have a strong presence in major data centres across Australia, which generally results in low latency for most users. There is no widespread, consistent evidence to suggest that either provider has a significant performance advantage in any specific state. The overwhelming consensus is that if you have a good quality NBN connection to your premises, both Launtel and Leaptel will deliver the speeds you pay for.

Customer Support: The Human Element in a Digital World

In an industry often notorious for long wait times, unhelpful support, and outsourced call centres, both Launtel and Leaptel have built their reputations on the back of exceptional, Australian-based customer service.

Launtel's support team, based in their Launceston headquarters, is consistently lauded for its technical expertise, friendly demeanor, and quick response times. User reviews are replete with stories of support staff going above and beyond to resolve issues, from troubleshooting complex router configurations to patiently guiding less tech-savvy customers through the setup process. The ability to speak directly with a knowledgeable Australian who understands the nuances of the local network is a significant drawcard for many. The sentiment is often one of a small, dedicated team that genuinely cares about its customers.

Leaptel's Melbourne-based support team receives similarly glowing reviews. Customers frequently praise their professionalism, efficiency, and proactive communication. Many users have reported being contacted by Leaptel to inform them of a network issue before they were even aware of it themselves. This proactive approach fosters a sense of trust and reliability. Leaptel's support is often described as being on par with the very best in the industry, with minimal wait times and a high rate of first-contact resolution.

User Comments on Customer Support:

  • A Launtel customer from Queensland on ProductReview.com.au: "I had an issue with my connection dropping out, and I called Launtel support. I spoke to a real person in Tasmania within minutes. They were incredibly patient and walked me through a bunch of troubleshooting steps. It turned out to be a faulty cable in my house, but they helped me diagnose it. You just don't get that level of service from the big guys."

  • A Leaptel customer from Victoria on Reddit's r/nbn forum: "I've been with Leaptel for over a year now, and their support is phenomenal. I had a question about my bill, and I used their online chat. I got a response from a real person in Melbourne in under a minute. They were friendly, professional, and sorted out my query instantly. It's a breath of fresh air compared to my previous provider."

The Verdict: Choosing Your Champion

Choosing between Launtel and Leaptel is not a matter of selecting a "better" provider, but rather of aligning with the provider whose philosophy and offerings best suit your individual needs.

Choose Launtel if:

  • You value flexibility above all else: The ability to change your speed daily and pause your service is a game-changer for those with irregular internet usage patterns or a desire for granular control over their spending.

  • You are a tech-savvy user who appreciates innovation: Launtel's unique approach to billing and their transparent network philosophy will appeal to those who like to be on the cutting edge.

  • You want to support a smaller, regionally based Australian company: Their Tasmanian roots and commitment to local employment are a significant draw for many.

Choose Leaptel if:

  • You prefer the predictability of a fixed monthly bill and want to lock in a great price: Their long-term promotional offers provide excellent value for money.

  • You want a straightforward, "set and forget" internet service: Leaptel's traditional plan structure is familiar and easy to understand.

  • You prioritise exceptional, proactive customer service: Their reputation for outstanding, Australian-based support provides peace of mind.

In conclusion, both Launtel and Leaptel represent the pinnacle of what a smaller, customer-focused RSP can achieve. They have proven that it is possible to offer a high-quality, reliable, and fast NBN service while also providing a level of customer support that the larger players in the market have struggled to match. The choice between them ultimately comes down to a personal preference for flexibility versus familiarity, and a desire for either innovative control or predictable value. For Australian consumers, the presence of two such outstanding providers is a testament to the health and competitiveness of the NBN marketplace, offering a refreshing and empowering alternative to the status quo.

Thursday, August 07, 2025

DeepThink said this about a few Australian NBN retail service providers (07 August 2025)

Australia's NBN is launching new broadband plans in mid-September 2025, and there's been lots happening on the RSP front during July and August.

I decided to get DeepThink's analysis about several of the contending service providers, simply because I was curious about what DeepThink would generate. I offer no apologies for the list of RSPs being far from exhaustive.

I threw this post together quickly, with minimal editing, and couldn't be bothered doing the same with ChatGPT or other chatbots.

The queries that I put to DeepThink are highlighted in yellow.

 

is exetel a good NBN Australia retail service provider (RSP)

Exetel is a budget-friendly NBN retail service provider (RSP) in Australia, but whether it's "good" depends on your priorities. Here’s a breakdown of its pros and cons to help you decide:

Pros of Exetel:
  1. Affordable Pricing

    • Exetel often offers competitive pricing, especially for lower-tier plans.

    • Frequent promotions (e.g., discounted rates for the first 6–12 months).

  2. No Lock-in Contracts

    • Most plans are month-to-month, allowing flexibility.

  3. Good Performance on Lower Tiers

    • Suitable for light users (browsing, streaming, small households).

  4. Self-Service Options

    • Online account management is straightforward.

  5. No Excess Usage Charges

    • Unlike some budget providers, Exetel doesn’t charge extra if you exceed data limits (plans are unlimited).

Cons of Exetel:
  1. Customer Support Issues

    • Mixed reviews on support responsiveness (long wait times, offshore support).

    • Limited phone support hours compared to larger RSPs like Telstra or Aussie Broadband.

  2. Network Congestion Risk

    • As a budget provider, Exetel may have higher contention ratios during peak times, leading to slower speeds.

  3. Limited Premium Features

    • No free Wi-Fi modem (unlike TPG or Optus).

    • Fewer perks (e.g., no streaming subscriptions bundled).

  4. Speed Variability

    • Some users report inconsistent speeds, especially on cheaper plans.

Who Should Consider Exetel?
  • Budget-conscious users who want a no-frills NBN plan.

  • Light to moderate internet users (not heavy gamers or 4K streamers).

  • Those who don’t need top-tier customer support.

Alternatives to Consider:
  • Aussie Broadband (better support, reliable speeds).

  • Superloop (good performance, competitive pricing).

  • Telstra/Optus (premium support but more expensive).

Verdict:

Exetel is decent if you prioritize price over performance and support. However, if you need consistent speeds, better service, or premium features, consider paying slightly more for a mid-tier provider like Aussie Broadband or Superloop.

 

is spintel a good NBN Australia retail service provider (RSP)

Spintel is a budget-friendly NBN Retail Service Provider (RSP) in Australia, but its quality depends on your needs. Here’s a balanced review:


✅ Pros of Spintel:
  1. Cheap Plans

    • One of the most affordable NBN providers, especially for basic speeds (NBN 12, 25, 50).

    • Often has promotions (e.g., first 6 months discounted).

  2. No Lock-in Contracts

    • Most plans are month-to-month, giving flexibility.

  3. Unlimited Data

    • No excess charges, even on cheaper plans.

  4. Australian-Based Support (During Business Hours)

    • Unlike some budget providers, Spintel has local call centers (9 AM–5 PM AEST).

  5. Self-Service Options

    • Online account management is simple.


❌ Cons of Spintel:
  1. Mixed Customer Support Reviews

    • Some users report slow responses outside business hours.

    • Limited phone support (weekdays only).

  2. Potential Network Congestion

    • As a low-cost provider, Spintel may have higher contention ratios, leading to slower speeds during peak times (7–11 PM).

  3. Limited High-Speed Plan Options

    • Not the best choice for NBN 100 or NBN 250/1000 if you want consistent performance.

  4. No Free Modem

    • You may need to buy or rent a modem (unlike some competitors like TPG).

  5. Slow Fault Resolution

    • Some users report delays in fixing connection issues.


Who Should Consider Spintel?

Budget-focused users who want the cheapest possible NBN.
Light internet users (browsing, emails, occasional streaming).
Those who don’t need premium support or ultra-fast speeds.

Who Should Avoid Spintel?

Gamers or 4K streamers (risk of peak-time slowdowns).
Households with heavy internet usage (better options like Aussie Broadband or Superloop).
People who prioritize customer service (consider Aussie Broadband or Telstra).


Alternatives to Spintel:

Provider
Price Range
Best For

Aussie Broadband
Mid-high
Reliability & support

Superloop
Mid
Speed & value

Exetel
Budget
Cheap but better than Spintel

TPG
Budget-mid
Free modem & decent speeds


Final Verdict:

Spintel is a decent budget option if you want the cheapest NBN and don’t need high performance. However, if you can spend slightly more, Exetel, Superloop, or TPG offer better value with fewer compromise

 

is launtel a good NBN Australia retail service provider (RSP)

Launtel is a premium, high-performance NBN provider with a unique daily billing model, making it ideal for users who prioritize flexibility, speed, and reliability. Here’s a detailed breakdown:


✅ Pros of Launtel

1. ⚡ Best Performance in Australia
  • Consistently ranks #1 for speed and low latency (independent testing by ACCC, WhistleOut).

  • Uses high-quality CVC (backhaul) provisioning, meaning minimal congestion even during peak hours.

  • Excellent for gaming, 4K streaming, and WFH.

2. Unique Daily Billing (Pay-As-You-Go)
  • Change speeds or pause service daily (great for travellers or temporary needs).

  • No lock-in contracts; billed only for the days you use.

3. ️ Premium Support & Transparency
  • Australian-based, highly responsive support (rare for smaller ISPs).

  • Real-time network monitoring (you can see if issues are NBN-wide or Launtel-specific).

4. Gamers & Power Users Love It
  • Lowest latency among Australian ISPs.

  • Static IP included (great for hosting servers, VPNs).

5. Top-Tier Network Infrastructure
  • Uses Aussie Broadband’s high-quality network (but with better configurability).


❌ Cons of Launtel

1. Expensive (Premium Pricing)
  • Most expensive NBN provider (e.g., NBN 1000 costs ~$150/month).

  • Daily billing can add up if you don’t adjust plans frequently.

2. ‍♂️ Not Ideal for Casual Users
  • Overkill if you just browse/email.

  • No bundled extras (e.g., no free modem, no streaming subscriptions).

3. Requires Active Management
  • If you forget to downgrade/pause, you’ll keep paying for a high-tier plan.


Who Should Choose Launtel?

Gamers (lowest ping, no lag).
WFH professionals (Zoom/cloud without drops).
Tech-savvy users who want control over their connection.
Temporary users (e.g., renters, travellers).

Who Should Avoid Launtel?

Budget users (cheaper options like Exetel or TPG).
Casual users (no need for premium speeds).
Those who want "set and forget" plans.


Best Alternatives to Launtel

Provider
Best For
Price Range

Aussie Broadband
Best all-rounder (great support)
$$

Superloop
Speed-focused, good value
$$

Leaptel
Low latency, good pricing
$$

Exetel
Budget-friendly
$


Final Verdict: Is Launtel Worth It?

✅ YES if:

  • You need the fastest, most reliable NBN.

  • You’re a gamer, streamer, or WFH professional.

  • You like flexibility and control over your plan.

❌ NO if:

  • You want the cheapest NBN.

  • You don’t need ultra-low latency.

  • You prefer a simple, fixed monthly plan.

Recommendation: If you can afford it, Launtel is the best-performing NBN provider in Australia. But if you’re on a budget, Aussie Broadband or Superloop are great alternatives.

 

Is Leaptel a Good NBN Provider in Australia?

Leaptel is a highly regarded mid-tier NBN provider known for its excellent performance, low latency, and strong customer support. It’s a great alternative to premium ISPs like Aussie Broadband and Launtel but at a slightly lower price. Here’s a detailed breakdown:


✅ Pros of Leaptel

1. ⚡ Excellent Performance & Low Latency
  • Consistently top-ranked for speed and reliability (similar to Aussie Broadband and Superloop).

  • Great for gaming, 4K streaming, and video calls due to low congestion.

  • Uses high-quality CVC (backhaul) provisioning to avoid peak-time slowdowns.

2. Competitive Pricing (Better Value Than Aussie BB)
  • Slightly cheaper than Aussie Broadband for similar performance.

  • No long-term contracts (month-to-month plans).

3. ️ Reliable Australian-Based Support
  • Local customer service with good responsiveness (better than budget ISPs like Spintel or Exetel).

  • Helpful for troubleshooting connection issues.

4. Gamer-Friendly Features
  • Static IP included for free (useful for hosting servers, VPNs, or gaming).

  • Low ping times, making it a strong choice for competitive gaming.

5. Transparent Network Management
  • Provides real-time usage stats and network status updates.

  • No sneaky throttling or hidden slowdowns.


❌ Cons of Leaptel

1. ❗ Limited Plan Variety
  • Doesn’t offer NBN 250/1000 (Ultrafast) plans in all areas (check availability first).

  • Fewer bundled perks (e.g., no free modem or streaming subscriptions).

2. Less Brand Recognition
  • Smaller provider compared to Telstra, TPG, or Aussie Broadband.

  • Fewer physical stores (online-only support).

3. ⏳ No Short-Term Flexibility (Unlike Launtel)
  • No daily billing option (Launtel offers this).

  • Less suitable for temporary users.


Who Should Choose Leaptel?

Gamers & streamers who want low latency and reliability.
WFH professionals needing a stable connection for Zoom/cloud work.
Tech-savvy users who value transparency and performance.
Those wanting a balance of price and quality (better than budget ISPs but cheaper than Launtel).

Who Should Avoid Leaptel?

Users needing NBN 1000 (Gigabit) speeds (check availability).
Those who want bundled extras (e.g., free modem, Netflix).
Casual users on a tight budget (cheaper options like Exetel exist).


Best Alternatives to Leaptel

Provider
Best For
Price Range

Aussie Broadband
Best all-rounder (premium support)
$$

Superloop
Speed-focused, good value
$$

Launtel
Best performance (but expensive)
$$$

Exetel
Budget-friendly
$


Final Verdict: Is Leaptel Worth It?

✅ YES if:

  • You want high performance without paying premium prices (e.g., Aussie Broadband).

  • You’re a gamer, streamer, or WFH professional.

  • You prefer a no-nonsense, reliable ISP with good support.

❌ NO if:

  • You need NBN 1000 (Gigabit) speeds (check coverage first).

  • You want freebies like a modem or streaming subscriptions.

  • You’re on a very tight budget (consider Exetel or TPG).

Recommendation: If you want better-than-average speeds, low latency, and good support at a fair price, Leaptel is an excellent choice. However, if you need ultra-fast gigabit speeds or more bundled perks, consider Superloop or Aussie Broadband.

 

Is Aussie Broadband a Good NBN Provider in Australia?

Short answer: Yes – Aussie Broadband is one of the best NBN providers in Australia, particularly if you value reliability, customer service, and transparency. Here’s a detailed breakdown:


✅ Pros of Aussie Broadband

1. Excellent Performance & Reliability
  • Consistently ranks among the fastest and most stable NBN providers (ACCC reports, WhistleOut tests).

  • Minimal congestion due to high CVC (backhaul) provisioning (unlike budget ISPs).

  • Great for 4K streaming, gaming, and WFH.

2. Outstanding Australian-Based Support
  • 24/7 phone and chat support with short wait times (unlike many budget ISPs).

  • Helpful, knowledgeable staff (no frustrating offshore call centers).

3. Transparent Network Management
  • Public live network status page (shows outages and maintenance).

  • No hidden throttling or sneaky slowdowns.

4. Gamer & Power-User Friendly
  • Low latency (great for online gaming, video calls).

  • Static IP available (useful for hosting servers/VPNs).

5. No Lock-in Contracts
  • Month-to-month flexibility.


❌ Cons of Aussie Broadband

1. Slightly More Expensive Than Budget ISPs
  • Not the cheapest (e.g., NBN 50 starts at ~$79/month vs. $65–$70 with Exetel/Spintel).

  • No free modem (unlike TPG/Optus).

2. Limited 5G Home Internet Options
  • Focuses on NBN (unlike Telstra/Optus, which offer 5G alternatives).

3. No Major Bundled Extras
  • No free subscriptions (e.g., Netflix, Binge) like some competitors.


Who Should Choose Aussie Broadband?

Gamers (low ping, stable connection).
WFH professionals (Zoom/cloud without drops).
Households with heavy internet usage (4K streaming, multiple devices).
Those who value customer service and reliability over price.

Who Should Avoid Aussie Broadband?

Extreme budget seekers (cheaper options like Exetel exist).
Users who want freebies (modem, streaming bundles).
Those in areas with poor NBN infrastructure (Aussie can’t fix NBN’s physical issues).

Best Alternatives to Aussie Broadband

Provider
Best For
Price Range

Superloop
Similar performance, slightly cheaper
$$

Leaptel
Low latency, good value
$$

Launtel
Best performance (but expensive)
$$$

Exetel/TPG
Budget-friendly
$

Final Verdict: Is Aussie Broadband Worth It?

✅ YES if:

  • You want the best mix of speed, reliability, and support.

  • You’re willing to pay a little extra for quality service.

  • You hate dealing with bad customer support.

❌ NO if:

  • You’re on a very tight budget (consider Exetel or TPG).

  • You want freebies like a modem or streaming subscriptions.

Recommendation: If you can afford it, Aussie Broadband is one of the best choices for NBN in Australia. If you want similar performance for slightly less, try Superloop or Leaptel.


AI-generated, for reference only