NURO Hikari Disadvantages: A Comprehensive Analysis
PRODUCT
- Product
- NURO Hikari
- Provider
- Sony Network Communications Inc.
- Price
- 2ギガプラン: 2,090円/月(マンション、3年目以降3,850円/月)、10ギガプラン: 3,490円/月(マンション、3年目以降4,400円/月)
Dr. Bravo
NURO Hikari is a fiber optic internet service that boasts incredible download speeds of up to 2Gbps to 10Gbps. The 2-gigabit plan is particularly attractive, offering the first two years at an astonishing ¥2,090 per month for apartments. With no contract commitment, you have the freedom to cancel anytime. Plus, you'll get a cashback of ¥25,000 to ¥35,000, and one free setup support session—perfect for beginners. This high-performance network can easily handle simultaneous activities like remote work, online gaming, and 4K video streaming.
BooLab Reviewer Negative Reviews
While the first two years are definitely affordable, the size of the price increase after year three is concerning. For apartments, going from ¥2,090 to ¥3,850 monthly is about 1.8 times more. The construction fee is effectively free over 24 months, but if you cancel early, the remaining balance is billed all at once. When you calculate the real cost including cashback, it only becomes cost-effective with long-term use. Not suitable for short-term contracts or people who might move.
The "up to 2Gbps" speed figure certainly has impact, but this is purely a theoretical maximum. In real-world conditions, speeds vary greatly depending on building structure, time of day, and number of users. Apartment-type plans are especially susceptible to shared infrastructure effects. You need to understand the reality of "environment dependency" hidden behind the flashy spec sheets. It's dangerous to judge based on catalog numbers alone.
The 1-2 month installation period for detached houses can be seen as evidence of quality-focused construction work, but it tests the user's patience. Delays can be even longer during moving seasons and busy periods. The long gap between application and service start means you'll need alternative solutions like mobile Wi-Fi during the wait, adding extra costs. Careful planning is essential when applying.
The service area being limited to Hokkaido, Tohoku (10-gigabit only), Kanto, Tokai, Kansai, Chugoku, and Kyushu is a major constraint for rural residents. The unavailability of the 2-gigabit plan in Tohoku is particularly inconvenient. Even within covered areas, construction may be impossible depending on the building or location. Considering you might not be able to continue service after moving, this isn't ideal for those seeking lifestyle flexibility.
Negative Review Summary
Dr. Bravo
Looking at the analysis from our four Boo analysts, the most prominent concerns are the lengthy installation period and limited service areas. The 1-2 month installation time for detached houses is particularly challenging for those who need internet immediately. Also watch out for the significant price increase after year three, and the remaining construction fee debt if you cancel within 24 months. The service area is limited, making it unavailable for many rural residents. There are also concerns that the advertised speeds are theoretical, and actual speeds may vary significantly depending on your environment.
What People Are Saying
BooLab Survey: April 1, 2026
Not Recommended For
Dr. Bravo
People who need internet access immediately (can't wait up to 2 months for installation)
Residents in areas outside the service zones (outside Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Tokai, Kansai, Chugoku, Kyushu)
Anyone who might move or cancel within 2 years (remaining construction fees apply)
Those who want to avoid monthly price fluctuations (¥1,760-850 increase after year 3)
Users who prioritize stable speeds above all (actual speeds may vary by environment)
BooLab Picks Just for You
auひかり
¥3,354High-speed communication via proprietary network. Wider service area than NURO Hikari with relatively shorter installation times. au smartphone users can save even more with bundle discounts.
Go to Purchase Page
ドコモ光
¥3,060Uses NTT Flets fiber network covering nearly all of Japan. Strong points are broad service area and smooth installation. docomo users can save up to ¥1,100 monthly with bundle discount.
Go to Purchase PageA Different Perspective
Dr. Bravo
However, these disadvantages become more understandable when you look at them from a different perspective. The lengthy installation time is evidence of thorough, high-quality network construction. The limited service area reflects a cautious expansion strategy focused on maintaining service quality. The price increase after year three is simply a return to standard pricing after a heavily discounted two-year promotional period. When compared to high-speed plans from other providers, it's still competitively priced. And precisely because there's no contract commitment, you have the freedom to make decisions on your own terms.
Recommended For
Dr. Bravo
Online gamers and streamers seeking high-speed connections
Large families with multiple devices connecting simultaneously
People planning to stay at the same address long-term
Those in service areas who can account for the installation period
Remote workers who regularly transfer large amounts of data
Convinced After BooLab's Analysis?
Choose with confidence, backed by thorough analysis
Dr. Bravo says
After reading BooLab's thorough analysis, there's no need to hesitate. Go ahead and choose with confidence!
NURO Hikari
Sony Network Communications Inc.
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