FriendsOnline vs AmberIT: Local vs National ISP
How does FriendsOnline compare to AmberIT in Magura? Compare pricing, connection fees, service quality, and local support between these two providers.
AmberIT is a well-known national ISP operating across Bangladesh. But how does their service stack up against a locally-focused provider like FriendsOnline in Magura? Let's break it down.
Pricing Comparison
| Plan | FriendsOnline | AmberIT (+ 5% VAT) | |------|--------------|---------------------| | 20 Mbps | ৳500/mo | ৳525/mo | | 30 Mbps | ৳650/mo | ৳683/mo | | 40 Mbps | ৳800/mo | — | | 50 Mbps | — | ৳840/mo | | 70 Mbps | ৳1,000/mo | — | | 100 Mbps | — | ৳1,050/mo | | 120 Mbps | ৳1,500/mo | ৳1,260/mo (125 Mbps) | | 150 Mbps | ৳2,000/mo | ৳1,575/mo |
The Hidden Cost: Connection Fees
This is where AmberIT gets expensive. Their connection (OTC) fees are significantly higher:
- FriendsOnline: ৳500 flat on all plans
- AmberIT Minor+ (20 Mbps): ৳3,000 connection fee
- AmberIT Junior+ (30 Mbps): ৳1,000 connection fee
- AmberIT 50+ Mbps plans: ৳500 connection fee
If you choose AmberIT's entry-level plan, you're paying ৳2,500 more upfront just to get started. That's 5 months of FriendsOnline's 20 Mbps plan.
Service in Magura
Here's the critical issue: AmberIT's coverage in Magura is limited. While they operate nationally, their infrastructure in smaller cities like Magura is nowhere near as developed as in Dhaka or Chittagong. This means:
- Longer installation wait times
- Fewer local technicians for repairs
- Slower response to outages
FriendsOnline serves 6 areas in Magura with local technicians who can reach you the same day.
BDIX & Features
- FriendsOnline: Unlimited BDIX, free FTP server, unlimited YouTube on every plan
- AmberIT: BDIX included, but local content speeds can vary by area
Customer Support
- FriendsOnline: Local office, phone support (Sat–Thu 9AM–10PM), same-day technician visits
- AmberIT: National call center, ticketing system, resolution times of 24–72 hours in smaller cities
The Verdict
AmberIT's monthly prices look competitive on paper, but the high connection fees (especially on lower plans) and lack of strong local presence in Magura make them a less practical choice. FriendsOnline offers comparable or better speeds, a flat ৳500 connection fee, and genuine local support that a national provider can't match in our city.