Internet Plan Switch Savings

Switching broadband plans: the cost per Mbps test

The headline price tells you less than you'd think. What actually lets you compare offers is the cost per Mbps: price / bandwidth_Mbps. Work out the yearly saving with (plan_old - plan_new) × 12, then go back and account for the installation fee, any loyalty (fidelidade) clause, and bandwidth caps. Most of the Brazilian market runs on FTTH (fibre-to-the-home) plans in the 100-500 Mbps range for R$ 50-150/month. The big names are Vivo Fibra, Tim Live, Claro NET, but a growing pool of regional ISPs (provedores) will often undercut all of them.

Two consumer rights work in your favour. Landline portability is free (ANATEL Resolução 460/2007), and a fidelidade clause cannot exceed 12 months, with any penalty charged proportionally (Resolução 632/2014). Capitals and metro regions see the fiercest competition; in smaller towns a regional fibre provider may be the only decent option you have. And compare the guaranteed minimum speed too (40% of the contracted rate under ANATEL Res. 575/2011), not just the advertised peak.

Applications

Household budget review, weighing offers before a contract renewal, choosing between a bundle (combo) and an à-la-carte plan, and putting a number on the yearly payback of switching once you factor in the hassle of migrating.

FAQ

How is the saving calculated? Multiply the monthly difference by 12. If you're switching mid-fidelidade, subtract whatever installation fee or early-termination penalty applies.

Is regional fibre as good as big carriers? On price-per-Mbps it usually wins. Before you sign, look up the provider's complaint rate on ANATEL's Indicadores de Qualidade dashboard.

Does switching ruin my landline number? No. Number portability is a consumer right and costs nothing, and the new carrier handles the migration for you.