Spark Smart Modem 1 > Spark Smart Modem 3

Forums › Spark New Zealand (including Skinny and BigPipe) › Spark Smart Modem 1 > Spark Smart Modem 3

quickymart

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#318894 2-Mar-2025 21:29

I'm currently using an original Spark Smart Modem with the 300/100 plan. It goes fine but it's starting to get a little bit long in the tooth now and I'm toying with upgrading to the latest model.

However, I'm curious as to what are the benefits of getting a version 3 modem, apart from Wifi 6 (assuming any of my devices would support it)?

Bung

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#3349295 2-Mar-2025 22:38

Spark currently have this on their modem page

"The Spark Smart Modem 3 is not currently available in all Spark stores and Spark Business Hubs. Check with your nearest Spark store or Business Hub for stock availability."

I don't know whether this just means there's a shortage or the Smart Modem 3 is being replaced.

mattwnz

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#3349296 2-Mar-2025 23:16

I got one after my previous versions failed twice. Never had modems just die like this before. I found out my Dell laptop can’t see it. But I do have wired Ethernet I can use instead. Wifi seems to have better range with it

quickymart

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#3349514 3-Mar-2025 10:21

Hmmm so it might be worth upgrading from 1 to 3 then? Or is there a "4" on the way?

Bung

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#3349521 3-Mar-2025 10:40

I have 2 SM1 linked together. On Thursday wifi on 1 of them seemed to disappear. We went away for weekend and when we got back it was back to >600Mbps.

I had been considering a SM3 and mesh unit but now things look OK I'll hold off. I don't want to end up with a mesh unit that is an orphan if the SM3 dies.

quickymart

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#3349756 3-Mar-2025 21:44

https://www.spark.co.nz/online/shop/broadband/spark-smart-modems?srsltid=AfmBOor7GgkQ_fUVRtfYOy0a00ZISvLAq_kqlc2nrG-wcFcfEsGyk7Xr

I checked just now and it looks like the pricing has changed - I'm sure it used to be either $100 or $150 for Spark customers, and $199 for everyone else, now it looks like it's $199 for everybody.

If it was discounted or free (like it used to be) with a contract I would be interested, but I think I'll leave it for the moment.

farcus

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#3349772 4-Mar-2025 00:04

quickymart:

Hmmm so it might be worth upgrading from 1 to 3 then? Or is there a "4" on the way?

I doubt there is a 4 happening in the immediate future. The 3 hasn't been around that long (just a few months)

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Bung

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#3349778 4-Mar-2025 00:46

Longer than you think, 1st mention here September 22 so try 30 months.

quickymart

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#3350068 4-Mar-2025 19:14

I might try asking and see if they can do some sort of deal for me anyway. They probably can't/won't but no harm in trying.

mail2mm

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#3359959 2-Apr-2025 23:41

You might try a Spark Smart Modem 2 (SM2). They are available on TradeMe for $40 to $100. They have WiFi 6 as does the SM3. They are a considerable upgrade from the original Spark Smart Modem (SM1) particularly in WiFi performance. If you need extended coverage the SM2 and SM3 are compatible with the Spark Smart Mesh 2. he Smart Mesh 2 is available on TradeMe for $50 to $100.

I have been using two SM2s, at two locations, for more than two years with Chorus/Spark Fibre 300/100. Pleased with performance and reliability.

toejam316

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#3359988 3-Apr-2025 08:19

If you're near Hamilton, I happen to have a Smart Modem 2 and a Smart Mesh 2 I'm trying to rehome, if you're interested in making an offer (sounds like $90 might be a fair offer)

Join Quic Broadband with my referral - no sign up fee and gives me account credit

Anything I say is the ramblings of an ill informed, opinionated so-and-so, and not representative of any of my past, present or future employers, and is also probably best disregarded.

EviLClouD

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#3359991 3-Apr-2025 08:33

I upgraded from a SM1 to a SM3 - to be honest there's not much difference. I feel as though there is stronger wifi coverage primarily in the 5Ghz space but unsure if that's placebo or not.

Keep an eye out on TM or Marketplace, that's where i got mine for considerably cheaper than new.

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quickymart

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#3360007 3-Apr-2025 09:57

Sorry, forgot to update this - I did end up getting a brand new 3 model from Spark in the end (with a small discount). After a bit of tweaking I've noticed an improvement in the wifi signal/range so that's a good thing.

I held onto my 1 as well, will keep it as a backup.