As remote work continues to grow, access to fast, reliable internet is more important than ever for professionals working from home or on the move. Nigeria’s internet landscape in 2025 offers a mix of options tailored to diverse needs, with Starlink, Airtel 5G Router, and MTN 5G Router standing out.
This guide compares these three services to help remote workers make informed decisions.
Pricing and subscription:
The Starlink Mobile Regional (roam unlimited) plan, which allows customers to use Starlink kits beyond their home or office within Nigeria, increased from ₦49,000 ($29.4) to ₦167,000 ($100) monthly.
The mobile global roaming service is now priced at ₦717,000 ($429.5) monthly.
The standard residential plan now costs 75,000 Nigerian Naira (US$45.60) per month, up from N38,000 ($23.10)
New Starlink kits have also experienced a price hike of 34%, rising from ₦440,000 ($263.6) to ₦590,000 ($353.4).
Airtel 5G Router
Airtel 5G Router: The device is priced around ₦60,000, with varying data plans as convenient as possible. As of July 12, 2024, Airtel Nigeria’s 5G Router Unlimited offer is still N20,000 for a 30-day unlimited data plan with up to 20 Mbps.
MTN 5G Router: The device costs ₦80,000 for the device, with varying data plans as convenient as possible depending on much data one consumes monthly. It also comes with free 100GB valid for 30 Days. You also enjoy 100GB data bonus valid for 30 days on your next two broadband data subscriptions of 100GB and above.
What you should know
Starlink is significantly more expensive upfront but offers unlimited data, making it ideal for heavy users. Airtel and MTN, on the other hand, provide budget-friendly plans for users.
Location
Starlink: Operates nationwide, with excellent performance in rural and underserved areas.
Airtel 5G Router: Coverage is strongest in urban centers like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Rural areas may have limited or no 5G access.
MTN 5G Router: Similar to Airtel, MTN’s 5G network thrives in metropolitan areas but lacks rural penetration.
Facts
- Starlink is the clear winner for remote workers in rural locations.
- Airtel and MTN shine in urban settings.
- The question is to know where you fall to determine your best plan.
Setup
Starlink: Requires a satellite dish and a clear line of sight to the sky. The setup process can be DIY but may involve additional effort.
Airtel 5G Router: Plug-and-play setup. Simply insert a 5G SIM card and connect to power.
MTN 5G Router: Also plug-and-play with minimal installation requirements.
Airtel and MTN offer a simpler setup compared to Starlink’s satellite-based system.
Power Usage
Starlink don’t have an in-built battery and might increase the cost of usage in places with little or no power supply.
The 5g routers come with a small power bank, and due to their simplicity can easily be charged with an external power bank. Starlink would work better with an inverter, so you might want to keep that in mind.
Speed
Starlink: Download speeds of up to 250 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 50 Mbps.
Airtel 5G Router: Download speeds range from 100 Mbps to 300 Mbps, with upload speeds of 30–50 Mbps.
MTN 5G Router: Similar speeds to Airtel, offering consistent performance in strong coverage areas.
Airtel and MTN provide comparable speeds, but Starlink excels in rural areas where traditional networks struggle.
Subscription
Starlink: Subscriptions are managed via the Starlink app, with flexible monthly payments.
Airtel 5G Router: Rechargeable through Airtel’s app, website, or USSD codes.
MTN 5G Router: Subscriptions are accessible via the MyMTN app or USSD codes.
All three options offer easy subscription processes, but Starlink’s app-first model may appeal to tech-savvy users.
Number of users
For example, up to 128 people can connect to Starlink, only 32 devices can connect simultaneously to MTN and Airtel 5G Routers.
Hence, Starlink is best suited for offices and large gatherings.
How to renew data on my MTN 5G Router
You can activate Broadband Router plans via USSD Platform.Dial USSD code *461*1# and follow the menu to select the bundle of your choice. Your primary number will be charged for the bundle and your Broadband Router device gets the data benefits.
To renew your Airtel 5G router data in Nigeria, you can dial *370# from your Airtel line and follow the menu to select the bundle of your choice or by visiting airtel.com.ng/broadband, choosing a router plan, and clicking “Buy Now”.
Shortcomings
Starlink: High cost and can be affected by the weather. When it rains Starlink’s network can be reduced by a whopping 75%..
Airtel 5G Router: Limited to areas with strong 5G coverage, making it unsuitable for rural users.
MTN 5G Router: Similar coverage issues as Airtel, with added concerns about network congestion during peak hours.
Best Practices for Remote Workers
1. Evaluate Coverage: Choose a provider based on your location. Starlink for rural areas, Airtel or MTN for cities.
2. Budget Wisely: Consider long-term data costs, not just initial setup expenses.
3. Backup Plans: Keep a mobile hotspot or purchase two different Routers for emergencies.
4. Optimize Usage: Use data-saving tools like cloud file compression and video call optimizations to maximize your subscription.
Commentary
- For Nigerian remote workers, Starlink offers unmatched rural reliability but at a premium price. Airtel and MTN 5G routers are cost-effective and high-performing for urban users.
- Choosing the right option depends on your budget, location, and internet needs as you embark on a productive 2025.
