Linear and nonlinear characteristics of superlattice perpendicular conduction are examined from a balance‐equation theory recently developed for miniband transport [Lei, Horing, and Cui, Phys. Rev. Lett.66, 3277 (1991)]. Analytical expressions are given for linear mobilities due to impurity and due to optic‐phonon scatterings. Attention is focused on the temperature dependence of low‐field miniband mobility and the behavior of drift velocity versus electric field, derived from the balance‐equation theory, as well as from Esaki–Tsu and Boltzmann theories. Good qualitative agreements are obtained in comparison with experiments, but more accurate measurements are needed to appreciate the differences between these two types of theories.