NZ's ADSL Vs VDSL: What Is The Difference and Which Is Better?

ADSL and VDSL use copper wiring to deliver broadband services to households and businesses around New Zealand.

As ADSL and VDSL are the most common types of broadband available in New Zealand, we examine the two and compare their key differences.  

What is ADSL?

ADSL stands for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. Due to its accessibility, this is the most commonly available broadband type in New Zealand. In terms of speed, ADSL may not meet the requirements of more internet reliant households. Depending on several factors including your provider and location, download speeds can reach up to 24Mbps.

This level of speed is adequate for basic internet usage such as simple web browsing but if you are downloading or streaming media, it is recommended that you upgrade to VDSL or Fibre.

What is VDSL?

VDSL stands for Very High Bitrate Digital Subscriber Line. VDSL runs over existing copper lines and delivers much faster download and upload speeds in comparison to ADSL. VDSL is capable of reaching download speeds of more than 50Mbps, and upload rates are approximately 10Mbps. The greater speed is reached via more efficient use of phone lines that reduce the distance that the signal has to travel. VDSL is available for roughly 60% of New Zealand households and installation is much quicker and more convenient compared to Ultrafast Broadband.

In certain situations, some VDSL users experience greater speeds compared to entry-level Ultrafast Broadband but this is dependent on several factors such as your location and provider. 

What is the difference between ADSL and VDSL

The main points of difference between ADSL and VDSL are speed, availability and price. VDSL greatly outperforms ADSL in terms of upload and download speeds. In terms of availability, only about 60% of households have access to VDSL.  Pricing options can vary depending on the internet provider you work with. If you sign up for longer-term contracts, some providers offer VDSL at the same price as ADSL. You can use the glimp Broadband Comparison tool to find the best internet deals in your area for free!

Simply enter your location and broadband usage requirements to compare the top broadband providers in New Zealand. As performance is 5 times faster than ADSL for downloads and 10 times faster for uploads, it is highly recommended that you make the switch to VDSL.

VDSL delivers a better overall internet experience compared to standard ADSL. For some households, VDSL can also be a better option than opting to upgrade to a basic Ultrafast Broadband plan.

Using Fibre Broadband

Fibre broadband is the fastest internet available in New Zealand. It is now available in the majority of households. Fibre broadband speeds can range from as low as 30 download and 10 upload to as fast as 950Mbps download and 500Mbps upload. If you want a reliable and fast connection, then you need to switch to fibre broadband today. You can check out our different fibre broadband providers here.

Whether you’re looking for the cheapest broadband deal or an internet plan with no contract, compare our broadband providers here.