Jio is currently India's largest and number 1 telecom company, with the highest number of mobile users in the country.
Competition in India's telecom sector is intensifying daily. While private companies continuously launch expensive premium recharge plans, the government-owned telecom company BSNL remains in the market with cheaper and affordable recharge options. This raises the question: Does BSNL genuinely offer cheaper plans compared to Jio, or is it merely a perception?
This report will comparatively analyze some key recharge plans from BSNL and Jio to understand which service is more beneficial for average consumers.
Jio vs. BSNL: Market Position
Jio has become the largest telecom company in India. This Reliance group entity launched in 2016 and since then has revolutionized the telecom market with low prices and high-speed internet service. This forced Vodafone, Idea, and even Airtel to reduce their plan prices.
On the other hand, BSNL is a government-owned Indian company launched in 2000. Although it lags in the 4G and 5G race, it remains a reliable and affordable service provider for millions of customers.
- Comparison of 28-day validity plans
- Jio's 28-day plan
- Price: ₹249
- Validity: 28 days
- Data: 1GB per day
- Calling: Unlimited
- SMS: 100 per day
This plan offers unlimited calls and internet for 28 days without interruption. It also includes access to Jio apps like JioTV, JioCinema, JioCloud, etc.
- BSNL's 28-day plan
- Price: ₹184
- Validity: 28 days
- Data: 1GB per day
- Calling: Unlimited
- SMS: 100 per day
This plan offers the same features as Jio, but with a price difference of approximately ₹65. While BSNL lacks Jio's additional app benefits, it proves more economical for customers needing only calling and internet.
- Comparison of 365-day validity plans
- Jio's 365-day plan
- Price: ₹3599
- Validity: 365 days
- Data: 2.5GB per day
- Calling: Unlimited
- SMS: 100 per day
This annual plan offers 2.5GB of data daily along with unlimited calling and SMS. Free access to all Jio digital platforms is also included.
- BSNL's 365-day plan
- Price: ₹1999
- Validity: 365 days
- Data: 3GB per day
- Calling: Unlimited
- SMS: 100 per day
This plan offers customers a lower price and more data than Jio. BSNL provides 3GB of data per day, 0.5GB more than Jio. This plan is approximately ₹1600 cheaper.
Technical Differences: 4G vs. 5G
It's noteworthy that while Jio offers 4G and now 5G services nationwide, BSNL lags in 4G rollout. However, the government recently provided BSNL with a ₹1.64 lakh crore package to establish a 4G network, aiming for nationwide 4G service by 2025.
Currently, customers seeking high-speed internet might find Jio a better option, but those primarily needing calling and basic internet access will find BSNL a ber, cheaper alternative.
Customer Service and Network Coverage
Jio's network coverage is robust across India, especially in urban areas. BSNL's network is considered ber in rural areas, but often faces complaints of call drops and network issues in cities.
In customer service, Jio is known for its technology-driven, fast solutions, while BSNL still operates on more traditional methods. However, BSNL has begun improving its digital systems.
Who to Choose: BSNL or Jio?
- If your usage is limited and you don't consume much data, BSNL might be a better choice.
- If you need high-speed internet, streaming services, and a better app experience, Jio is more suitable.
- For customers seeking a long-term plan, BSNL's ₹1999 annual plan is a great deal.
- Conversely, if you prioritize data usage and high speeds, Jio's ₹3599 plan is also attractive.
