Expats often prioritize the following when choosing a provider:
- Reliability: MEO is a top choice for reliable services and high customer satisfaction.
- Cost: NOWO offers the most affordable plans, but expats should confirm coverage in their area.
- Flexibility: Providers like MEO and NOWO offer no-contract options for short-term residents.
- Speed: For remote workers or tech enthusiasts, MEO’s 1 Gbps package provides the fastest and most consistent speeds.
- Customer Support: MEO’s reputation for low complaint rates makes it a safer choice for those unfamiliar with local systems.
A guide to Wi-Fi and TV providers in Braga, Portugal based on experience
Moving to Braga, Portugal, or simply upgrading your current TV and internet services? Through my own efforts to set up a new flat in Central Braga, I’ve gathered valuable insights to share. This guide will help you navigate the best Wi-Fi and TV providers in Braga, including pricing, packages, quality ratings, and other concerns relevant to residents and expats alike.
Available Providers and Their Offerings
MEO
MEO is one of the leading telecom providers in Portugal, known for its extensive coverage and high customer satisfaction ratings.
- Basic Package: 30 Mbps fiber internet without a landline for €25.99/month.
- Suitable for basic internet usage, light browsing, and streaming.
- Bundled Option: 500 Mbps internet, TV, and voice services for €61.99/month (24-month contract).
- Includes 100 GB of mobile data.
- Ultra High-Speed Package: 1 Gbps internet, TV, voice, and unlimited mobile data for €66.99/month (24-month contract).
- Perfect for families or individuals requiring ultra-fast speeds and heavy internet usage.
MEO is consistently rated highly for its reliable service and has the lowest complaint rate among major providers.
NOS
NOS is another major player, offering a range of packages for different needs.
- Affordable Option: 500 Mbps internet and TV with 180 channels for €40.99/month.
- Suitable for moderate streaming, gaming, and household internet usage.
- High-Speed Packages: Available for customers needing ultra-fast speeds or more extensive services.
However, NOS has faced some criticism for higher complaint rates compared to competitors
NOWO
NOWO is recognized for its budget-friendly pricing but has limited coverage in some areas.
- Budget Option: 250 Mbps internet and 140 TV channels for €29.99/month.
- Ideal for cost-conscious customers with standard internet needs.
- Limitations: Customer reviews often highlight inconsistent service and limited availability, especially in rural areas.
Pricing Comparison
| Provider | Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| MEO | 30 Mbps | €25.99/mo | Basic internet |
| MEO | 200 Mbps + TV + Voice | €45.99/mo | Balanced option for moderate use |
| MEO | 1 Gbps + TV + Unlimited Mobile | €66.99/mo | Ultra-high speed, mobile included |
| NOS | 500 Mbps + TV | €40.99/mo | Affordable for standard needs |
| NOWO | 250 Mbps + TV | €29.99/mo | Budget-friendly |
Quality Ratings and Customer Feedback
MEO
- Awarded “Recommended Brand of the Year” in the communications category.
- Lowest complaint rate among major providers.
- Highly rated for reliability and customer service.
NOS
- Competitive pricing and packages, but highest complaint rate in 2021.
- Customer support and service interruptions are common issues.
NOWO
- Budget-friendly, but reviews indicate limited service coverage and occasional interruptions.
Why I decided to go with MEO
Choosing the best Wi-Fi and TV provider in Braga depends on your specific needs. For reliability and high-speed internet, MEO is the leading option. I personally opted for MEO for my flat in Braga for several reasons:
- I continue to have business interests in the US that require regular video calls and the sharing of large files and information.
- We have a rental license for our flat (though we have yet to rent it) and want any potential guest to have a positive experience. Our main target is digital nomads.
- For both of the reasons above, customer service is essential. Therefore, the reliability of MEO made it an obvious choice for me personally.
Budget-conscious customers can consider NOWO, while NOS offers competitive mid-range plans. Expats moving to Braga should weigh factors like coverage, pricing, and contract flexibility to make an informed decision.
Contact your chosen provider directly to confirm availability and any ongoing promotions in your area.
*Prices as of late 2024 and are obviously subject to change. I will aim to update articles like these once a quarter.
