Technology & Social Media Buying mobile phone Outright or on Plan

Are we just seeing another round of the telcos shoring up their positions prior to the release of 5G? Locking you in to a 4G plan with loads of data, getting new but older technology 4G phones?

 

Not necessarily. 5g isn't exactly an upgrade. It is faster but has a stupidly short range that only works in the inner city.

4g is going to be around for a looking time yet.

 

I want to get the Google Pixel 3 XL.
At JB Hi-FI, this costs $1350. Over 24 months, that is $56 per month.
With Optus, this phone + 30G data with all calls free, their 24 month plan costs $1656.
Unless we can buy the phone overseas for a cheaper price, a plan seems better value.

 

I would see if work allows you to purchase a phone outright and salary sacrifice it.
With the GST usually refunded and depending on your tax bracket, the tax savings could be around 40%.

 

Personally I'd always go with Telstra. Their coverage and strength of reception is superior to all other providers. They may cost a little more, but it's worth it.

If you travel overseas a bit and need to use your phone, then buying outright is probably the best option. It seems the Telcos though are getting better and better at hiding the actual amounts of money you'll end up paying on a plan as it all depends when you upgrade and if you stay or leave them.

 

does JB currently have the rebate offer on new pixels? They also have a pretty good 12 month Telstra "exclusive to JB" contract where they often offer bonuses.

• $45 Mobile BYO Plan (12 months) – Unlimited talk and text, 25GB data (15GB + 10GB bonus) and $200 JB Hi-Fi Gift Card

use the $200 off the phone, and it works out at $1690 over the 12 months. Plus it is
Telstra, not optus..