SIMBA Fibre Broadband

[rubber33]

Or better the first page of the Singapore ISP comparison thread.
https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/singapore-isp-comparisons.6665380/

As of now I will recommend Starhub 5Gbps special offer (with ONT and ONR option) at S$29.55 over SIMBA/WC 10Gbps plan. Please refer to the above threads for my reasoning. But you may come to your own conclusion based on the info provided since I may be biased towards Starhub/M1.

Was trying to read the post. But it’s too much for me. Haha. My current provided is M1 and I’m using Nokia becon 1 for all my rooms.
What your recommendations? Layman thinking since ONT and ONR same pricing and ONR provided wifi 6, ONR seem like a better choice.
If I’m using ONR can I still use back my current hardware ?

 

[xiaofan]

Was trying to read the post. But it’s too much for me. Haha. My current provided is M1 and I’m using Nokia becon 1 for all my rooms.
What your recommendations? Layman thinking since ONT and ONR same pricing and ONR provided wifi 6, ONR seem like a better choice.
If I’m using ONR can I still use back my current hardware ?

If you are using Nokia Beacon 1 without issues, then you will have no issues with Nokia ONR + Nokia Beacon 2 combination.

I call Nokia Beacon 1 the "worst ISP given free router since 2014" along with Singtel AC Plus. So anything is better.

You can also refer to my comments about how to select between the ONR offer and ONT offer in the Singapore ISP Comparison thread.
https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/singapore-isp-comparisons.6665380/

++++++++++++++++
How to choose between the Starhub 5Gbps special offer: ONR offer or ONT option?

xiaofan said:
It all depends on your use case and budget.

1. 5Gbps ONR offer --> good for average users who care more about cost than performance
It is a very good option for average users who do not mind using ONR and just want to have a low cost Fibre Internet plan. Usually they would use the Nokia ONR (AX6000) plus the bundled free Nokia Beacon 2 (AX1800) without buying extra networking stuff.

Some users prefer to use ISP given wireless solutions (because they do not know much about home networking) and they do not want to pay for the higher cost EB810v (S$360) or even HB710 (S$192). In this case, Nokia ONR + Nokia Beacon 2 mesh is quite a good one for them.

If the combination is not good enough, extra Nokia Beacon 2 can be added.

I will not recommend users with difficult floor plan and no LAN ports in the rooms to go with this option. Both the Nokia ONR and Nokia Beacon 2 are dual band WiFi 6 routers which are not good when using Wireless Backhaul.

2. 5Gbps ONT offer --> better for two types of users.
1) Power users who do not want to use the ONR (because of the limited features and other limitations) and prefer to buy their own router and use their own router (or mesh solution) to its full capabilities.

2) Average users who prefers to use ISP provided wireless routers but do not mind paying for EB810v or HB710.

3. More about ONT vs ONR
https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/...cs-of-home-networking.6653421/#post-138363236

 

[rubber33]

If you are using Nokia Beacon 1 without issues, then you will have no issues with Nokia ONR + Nokia Beacon 2 combination.

I call Nokia Beacon 1 the "worst ISP given free router since 2014" along with Singtel AC Plus. So anything is better.

You can also refer to my comments about how to select between the ONR offer and ONT offer in the Singapore ISP Comparison thread.
https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/singapore-isp-comparisons.6665380/

++++++++++++++++
How to choose between the Starhub 5Gbps special offer: ONR offer or ONT option?

But can I use Nokia ONR with beacon 1? As if possible, do not want to spend more money.

 

[xiaofan]

But can I use Nokia ONR with beacon 1? As if possible, do not want to spend more money.

It should work. Whether you need the Beacon 1 or not is another story.

The Starhub 5Gbps at S$29.55 per month offer comes with free Nokia ONR (AX6000) and Nokia Beacon 2 (AX1800). Both are better than the Nokia Beacon 1. So you do not need to spend any extra money anyway.

Reference: https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/singapore-isp-comparisons.6665380/

https://www.starhub.com/personal/st...speed-5gbps-onr-at-2955_ultraspeed-5gbps.html (Special offer 5Gbps plan at S$29.55 per month, Nokia-XS-2426X-A ONR, also bundled with Nokia Beacon 2 to form a mesh with the Nokia ONR).

 

[htun]

Greeting.
just signed up SIMBA 10Gbps broadband plan and get NLT activated.
But can't connect SIMBA ONT to Google Wifi (1st Gen) with the LAN Cable provided.
Do I need another router in between?
thanks

(I know Google Wifi won't be able to fully utilize 10Gbps speed but thinking to wait for newer version of Nest Wifi which is likely to release in 2025.)

 

[rubber33]

It should work. Whether you need the Beacon 1 or not is another story.

The Starhub 5Gbps at S$29.55 per month offer comes with free Nokia ONR (AX6000) and Nokia Beacon 2 (AX1800). Both are better than the Nokia Beacon 1. So you do not need to spend any extra money anyway.

Reference: https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/singapore-isp-comparisons.6665380/

https://www.starhub.com/personal/st...speed-5gbps-onr-at-2955_ultraspeed-5gbps.html (Special offer 5Gbps plan at S$29.55 per month, Nokia-XS-2426X-A ONR, also bundled with Nokia Beacon 2 to form a mesh with the Nokia ONR).

Yeah. Unless I go source for additional 2 beacon2. Currently I’m having 3 beacon 1.

 

[xiaofan]

Yeah. Unless I go source for additional 2 beacon2. Currently I’m having 3 beacon 1.

No need to buy the Nokia Beacon 2 in that case, just use one Nokia Beacon 1 as mesh node in case the Nokia ONR+Nokia Beacon 2 combination is not good enough.

 

[xonix]

Greeting.
just signed up SIMBA 10Gbps broadband plan and get NLT activated.
But can't connect SIMBA ONT to Google Wifi (1st Gen) with the LAN Cable provided.
Do I need another router in between?
thanks

(I know Google Wifi won't be able to fully utilize 10Gbps speed but thinking to wait for newer version of Nest Wifi which is likely to release in 2025.)

The Google wifi was previously used on which telco ? Did you set it to bridge mode or ap ?

 

[htun]

The Google wifi was previously used on which telco ? Did you set it to bridge mode or ap ?

I am using Google Wifi with Singtel 1Gbps fiber and working fine.
The wifi point to which LAN cable is connected is in NAT (Standard) mode.
Google Home App says Device Mode has been automatically set.

 

[mr168]

Greeting.
just signed up SIMBA 10Gbps broadband plan and get NLT activated.
But can't connect SIMBA ONT to Google Wifi (1st Gen) with the LAN Cable provided.
Do I need another router in between?
thanks

(I know Google Wifi won't be able to fully utilize 10Gbps speed but thinking to wait for newer version of Nest Wifi which is likely to release in 2025.)

i'm on both generation 1 and google nest wifi. google nest router is connected to the ONT and the generation 1 router is connected as part of a mesh network... only getting about 400mbps+ speed...

 

[rubber33]

No need to buy the Nokia Beacon 2 in that case, just use one Nokia Beacon 1 as mesh node in case the Nokia ONR+Nokia Beacon 2 combination is not good enough.

Ok. Just spoke to the starhub guy. Maybe smoke me. Say I can use Nokia ONR with Becaon 1. Anyway most probably will go with it and probably buy a beacon 2 from counsel

 

[xiaofan]

Ok. Just spoke to the starhub guy. Maybe smoke me. Say I can use Nokia ONR with Becaon 1. Anyway most probably will go with it and probably buy a beacon 2 from counsel

No need to buy, if you go with the ONR option, you are supposed to get a Nokia Beacon 2 as well, along with the Nokia ONR.

Nokia XS2426X-A ONR itself has wireless function as well (AX6000 rated). Moreover, the Nokia ONR can mesh with both Nokia Beacon 2 and your existing Nokia Beacon 1.

 

[galliano]

Just signed up and activated my 10Gb Simba (previously on Starhub 1Gb).
Using direct ONT to my Deco XE75 Pro (1 x 2.5Gb port only)

I realize my wireless speeds at home is slightly improved. Am running solely wireless backhaul in my 2-story landed.
Previously: 300-500Mbps
Now: 600-800Mbps

Am wondering if i'm even on a 10Gb fiber plan ..
Sadly i do not have any laptops or routers that support 10Gb, thus unable to check on network speeds directly from ONT.

 

[rubber33]

No need to buy, if you go with the ONR option, you are supposed to get a Nokia Beacon 2 as well, along with the Nokia ONR.

Nokia XS2426X-A ONR itself has wireless function as well (AX6000 rated). Moreover, the Nokia ONR can mesh with both Nokia Beacon 2 and your existing Nokia Beacon 1.

I understand it come with ONR plus one unit of beacon2. The sales rep told me I can’t use becaon 1 current my setup is each room has one beacon 1 so a total of 3 beacon 1. Was thinking to go counsell to buy another 2 beacon 2 then I just set up the same. Anyway very thankful for your recommendation. Probably just go ahead and try the use of beacon 1 and 2 first before buying.

 

[KieranC3]

It should work. Whether you need the Beacon 1 or not is another story.

The Starhub 5Gbps at S$29.55 per month offer comes with free Nokia ONR (AX6000) and Nokia Beacon 2 (AX1800). Both are better than the Nokia Beacon 1. So you do not need to spend any extra money anyway.

Reference: https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/singapore-isp-comparisons.6665380/

https://www.starhub.com/personal/st...speed-5gbps-onr-at-2955_ultraspeed-5gbps.html (Special offer 5Gbps plan at S$29.55 per month, Nokia-XS-2426X-A ONR, also bundled with Nokia Beacon 2 to form a mesh with the Nokia ONR).

Hi Xiaofan,
I am interested in this Starhub 5Gbps at $29.55 per month. I tried looking for the information on Starhub website and all I found is the 5Gbps at $45. It is interesting that the only way to get to the page is through the link you shared. I suppose the offer is still valid and it is for a 24-month contract?

I am a fan of M1 and in my present home, I am on their old 2Gbps plan (1+1). I prefer ONT and am using Asus ROG Rapture AX6000 router + Zenwifi XT nodes for 1 line and Zenwifi XT router + nodes on the other line. I am thinking of aggregating both lines in future.

For the Starhub plan, it is meant for another apartment. The cheapest plan on M1 is 1Gbps at $35.90. As such, this Starhub deal seems like a steal. I don't mind trying out ONR since this will also save cost of getting a router. The apartment is very small and I am sure there will not be any coverage issues since it comes with the router and a mesh node. Thanks for sharing this cheapest plan from an established telco.

 

[xiaofan]

Hi Xiaofan,
I am interested in this Starhub 5Gbps at $29.55 per month. I tried looking for the information on Starhub website and all I found is the 5Gbps at $45. It is interesting that the only way to get to the page is through the link you shared. I suppose the offer is still valid and it is for a 24-month contract?

I am a fan of M1 and in my present home, I am on their old 2Gbps plan (1+1). I prefer ONT and am using Asus ROG Rapture AX6000 router + Zenwifi XT nodes for 1 line and Zenwifi XT router + nodes on the other line. I am thinking of aggregating both lines in future.

For the Starhub plan, it is meant for another apartment. The cheapest plan on M1 is 1Gbps at $35.90. As such, this Starhub deal seems like a steal. I don't mind trying out ONR since this will also save cost of getting a router. The apartment is very small and I am sure there will not be any coverage issues since it comes with the router and a mesh node. Thanks for sharing this cheapest plan from an established telco.

Yes the offer is still valid and it is with a two years contract.

M1 2Gbps plan is a dual 1Gbps plan and you can use Dual WAN Load Balancing to get up to 2Gbps download speed for some applications. Upload is only up to 1Gbps.

Starhub 5Gbps plan is a true 5Gbps plan (symmetrical 5Gbps download/upload).

I would not recommend you to go with the Nokia ONR setup in this case as ONR feature is pretty limited and the mesh node is a lousy one. You can go with the ONT option and use the nice Asus setup, even though it limited the total bandwidth to 2.5Gbps since both ROG-GT-AX6000 and ZenWiFI XT only have 2.5G WAN port. In terms of total bandwidth, it is still a better one than your current M1 2Gbps plan and much cheaper.

ONT option gives you the full flexibility -- you can upgrade the main router in the future to a better Asus once the pirce goes down.

In general I would not recommend people with existing good 2.5G capable router to go with the ONR option.

For more info about Starhub 5Gbps plan, please go to the following thread.
https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/starhub-ultraspeed-5gbps-plan-launched.7024290/page-115

 

[xiaofan]

Just signed up and activated my 10Gb Simba (previously on Starhub 1Gb).
Using direct ONT to my Deco XE75 Pro (1 x 2.5Gb port only)

I realize my wireless speeds at home is slightly improved. Am running solely wireless backhaul in my 2-story landed.
Previously: 300-500Mbps
Now: 600-800Mbps

Am wondering if i'm even on a 10Gb fiber plan ..
Sadly i do not have any laptops or routers that support 10Gb, thus unable to check on network speeds directly from ONT.

You can check with your Deco app to see if it has built-in OOkla Speedtest app, some of the Deco models have such function. In that case, you can probably get up to 2.37Gbps because of the limit of 2.5G WAN port.

You can also get 2.5Gbe or 5Gbe USB adapter for your laptop. If your laptop has USB 4 port, then you can also get 10Gbe adapter at reasonable price.

More about the 5Gbe/10Gbe adapters here.
https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/5gbe-and-beyond-ethernet-adapters.7068236/

 

[xiaofan]

Greeting.
just signed up SIMBA 10Gbps broadband plan and get NLT activated.
But can't connect SIMBA ONT to Google Wifi (1st Gen) with the LAN Cable provided.
Do I need another router in between?
thanks

(I know Google Wifi won't be able to fully utilize 10Gbps speed but thinking to wait for newer version of Nest Wifi which is likely to release in 2025.)

You should not need another router since SIMBA uses ONT.

ONT --> Google WiFi router 1st gen -- wired/wireless backhaul --> Google Point

The Google WiFi router should be set up in router mode. You may have set it up in bridge mode since you may use Singtel ONR. When using Singtel ONR, the usual recommendation is to set up your own router in bridge/AP mode.

In your case, maybe you want to set up your Google WiFi rotuer one more time.

 

[galliano]

You can check with your Deco app to see if it has built-in OOkla Speedtest app, some of the Deco models have such function. In that case, you can probably get up to 2.37Gbps because of the limit of 2.5G WAN port.

You can also get 2.5Gbe or 5Gbe USB adapter for your laptop. If your laptop has USB 4 port, then you can also get 10Gbe adapter at reasonable price.

More about the 5Gbe/10Gbe adapters here.
https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/5gbe-and-beyond-ethernet-adapters.7068236/

Sadly i found out that the Deco app for XE series does not have a built-in speed test. Damm weird.

 

[KieranC3]

Yes the offer is still valid and it is with a two years contract.

M1 2Gbps plan is a dual 1Gbps plan and you can use Dual WAN Load Balancing to get up to 2Gbps download speed for some applications. Upload is only up to 1Gbps.

Starhub 5Gbps plan is a true 5Gbps plan (symmetrical 5Gbps download/upload).

I would not recommend you to go with the Nokia ONR setup in this case as ONR feature is pretty limited and the mesh node is a lousy one. You can go with the ONT option and use the nice Asus setup, even though it limited the total bandwidth to 2.5Gbps since both ROG-GT-AX6000 and ZenWiFI XT only have 2.5G WAN port. In terms of total bandwidth, it is still a better one than your current M1 2Gbps plan and much cheaper.

ONT option gives you the full flexibility -- you can upgrade the main router in the future to a better Asus once the pirce goes down.

In general I would not recommend people with existing good 2.5G capable router to go with the ONR option.

For more info about Starhub 5Gbps plan, please go to the following thread.
https://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/threads/starhub-ultraspeed-5gbps-plan-launched.7024290/page-115

Thanks Xiaofan for your advice and detailed information.

I will take your recommendation and go for the ONT version. The Starhub plan is for a new apartment while I will keep ROG-GT-AX6000 and Zenwifi XT for my present home under M1 plan. The M1 contract started only about half a year ago.

I had purchased quite a number of cheap Zenwifi XT units from a seller in Carousell more than a year ago. If I do the Dual WAN Load Balancing, I will be able to free up two units of Zenwifi XT which I can use for the new apartment. I suppose this will be a much better set-up compared to the Nokia ONR + Beacon 2 Mesh. I have been using Asus routers for the last 20+ years.