Choosing the Right Mobile Broadband Device for You
With so many options for staying connected on the go, it can be tricky to decide what type of mobile broadband device is right for your needs. Here’s an overview of the different types of devices and key factors to consider when making your choice.
Types of Mobile Broadband Devices
- MiFi - A MiFi device creates a miniature WiFi hotspot by taking a cellular signal and broadcasting it as a wireless network. You can connect multiple devices like laptops, tablets, and phones to the MiFi's WiFi network.
- Hotspots - Mobile hotspots are similar to MiFi devices in that they also create a WiFi network from a cellular signal. However, hotspots are directly built into a mobile router device.
- USB modems - USB modems connect directly to the cellular network and plug into a computer's USB port to provide internet access just to that device.
- Mobile hotspots - Many smartphones can be used as mobile hotspots, sharing the phone's cellular data connection with other WiFi-enabled devices.
Key Factors to Consider
Internet Speeds
Mobile broadband devices use 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G networks. Newer generation networks like 4G and 5G offer faster speeds but may have less coverage in rural areas. Check carrier coverage maps for your area.
Number of Connections
Most mobile hotspots allow 5-15 WiFi connected devices. USB modems only connect one computer. If you need to connect multiple devices, MiFi or a hotspot is a better choice.
Battery Life
Depending on usage, mobile hotspot batteries can last 6-24 hours on a charge. For extended trips without power, an external battery pack can provide backup charging.
Data Usage
Many devices provide tools to track data usage and prevent overages. This is especially helpful if you have a limited data plan.
Coverage Area
Check carrier coverage maps if you'll be using your device in multiple locations. Nationwide carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint have the best coverage across the US.
By evaluating your connectivity needs and usage, you can narrow down the ideal mobile broadband device to keep you online anywhere.
Types of Mobile Broadband Devices
There are several types of mobile broadband devices that can keep you connected on the go. The most common options include MiFi devices, hotspots, USB modems, and smartphone mobile hotspots.
MiFi Devices
MiFi devices create a personal WiFi hotspot by taking a cellular signal and broadcasting it to multiple devices within range. For example, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 can connect up to 20 devices like laptops, tablets, and phones to its WiFi network using a 4G LTE cellular signal.
Dedicated Hotspots
Similar to MiFi, dedicated hotspots like the AT&T Unite also share a cellular signal through WiFi. However, the hotspot capability is built directly into a mobile wireless router. Many hotspots allow you to connect 5-10 devices at once.
USB Modems
USB modems provide a direct cellular connection by plugging into a computer's USB port. For instance, Verizon's USB730L is a simple plug-and-play 4G LTE modem. USB modems only provide internet access to the connected computer.
Smartphone Mobile Hotspots
Almost any modern smartphone can be used as a mobile hotspot to share its cellular data connection with other devices over WiFi. For example, on an iPhone you can turn on Personal Hotspot in Settings and connect up to 10 devices.
Comparison
| Device | WiFi Sharing | # Connections |
|---|---|---|
| MiFi | Yes | 5-20 devices |
| Hotspot | Yes | 5-15 devices |
| USB Modem | No | 1 device |
| Smartphone | Yes | 5-10 devices |
Overall, MiFi and hotspot devices offer the most flexibility to connect multiple devices to the internet on the go.
Important Features to Consider for Mobile Broadband Devices
With so many options on the market, it's important to look at factors like internet speed, coverage, battery life, and number of connections when choosing a mobile broadband device.
Internet Speeds
Mobile broadband runs on cellular networks like 4G LTE and 5G. Faster network standards provide better speeds:
- 4G LTE - Offers typical download speeds of 5-12 Mbps and upload speeds of 2-5 Mbps.
- 5G - Next generation network with average download speeds of 50-100 Mbps.
Check carrier coverage maps to see which networks are available in your usage area.
Coverage Area
Nationwide networks like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint have the most extensive coverage across the US. Regional or local networks may have gaps in rural areas.
Battery Life
Depending on usage, built-in batteries can last:
- 6-8 hours for mobile hotspots
- Up to 24 hours for MiFi devices
External battery packs can extend battery life on the go.
Number of Connections
The number of devices that can connect to a mobile hotspot varies:
- Standard is 5-10 devices
- Some MiFi devices allow up to 15
- High-end hotspots can connect over 20 devices
If you need to connect multiple devices, look for a hotspot with a higher maximum.
By evaluating features like speed, coverage, battery life, and connections you can find the right mobile broadband device for your needs.
Data Plans and Carrier Options for Mobile Broadband
Choosing the right data plan and wireless carrier is key to getting the performance and value you want from a mobile broadband device. Here's an overview of top options.
Data Plans
There are three main types of mobile data plans:
- Unlimited - No data caps, but potential speed throttling after exceeding a usage threshold.
- Shared - Data pool shared across multiple devices on a family or business plan.
- Fixed - Set amount of data per month, additional overage charges apply.
For example, Verizon offers unlimited mobile hotspot plans starting at $30/month, but speeds may be throttled after 50GB of usage. AT&T's 5GB fixed plan costs $10/month with $10 per GB overage fees.
Major Carriers
| Carrier | Coverage | Max LTE Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Verizon | 70% of US | 300 Mbps |
| AT&T | 65% of US | 100 Mbps |
| T-Mobile | 62% of US | 300 Mbps |
| Sprint | 30% of US | 100 Mbps |
Verizon and T-Mobile lead for nationwide coverage. Rural users may need to rely on regional carriers like U.S. Cellular.
Key Considerations
When choosing a carrier consider coverage for where you'll use the device most, what speeds you need, and your budget. Comparing plans ahead of time can help you get the right data limits and pricing.
Top products in 📶 Mobile Broadband Devices
Pros and Cons of Using a Smartphone as a Hotspot
Turning your smartphone into a mobile hotspot is a convenient way to get internet access on other devices when you're on the go. However, there are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Pros
- No extra fees - Creating a hotspot uses your existing phone data plan, with no need for a separate hotspot device and service.
- Easy setup - Enabling the mobile hotspot feature is quick and straightforward on most phones.
- Familiar interface - Connecting to your phone's WiFi uses the same process as connecting to any WiFi network.
Cons
- Drains battery faster - Sharing a connection uses more battery power on your phone.
- Slower speeds - Phone hotspots may be slower than dedicated hotspot devices.
- Limited connections - Typically 5-10 devices can connect depending on the phone.
- Data usage - Other connected devices will use data from your phone plan.
Tips for Using Smartphone as Hotspot
- Monitor data usage to avoid overages.
- Use a portable battery charger to keep phone charged.
- Connect fewer devices if experiencing slow speeds.
- Disable hotspot when not in use to conserve battery.
Using your smartphone as a WiFi hotspot can be a handy solution for quick internet access on the go. But for more robust usage, a dedicated mobile broadband device may be a better long-term option.
Getting the Most Out of Your Mobile Hotspot
Mobile hotspots provide a convenient way to get internet access on WiFi-enabled devices when you're on the go. Here are some tips to maximize performance and get the most out of your mobile hotspot.
Extend Battery Life
Some ways to conserve your hotspot's battery:
- Turn off the hotspot when not in use.
- Close apps running in the background.
- Adjust screen brightness to lower settings.
- Disable automatic app updates over the hotspot.
Also consider carrying an external battery pack for backup charging if outlet access is limited.
Improve Signal Strength
If you're in an area with a weak signal, attaching an external antenna can help pull in a stronger connection. High-gain, directional antennas usually provide the biggest boost.
Manage Connected Devices
Most hotspots allow 5-10 devices to connect simultaneously. For best performance:
- Connect fewer high-bandwidth devices like laptops.
- Use the 2.4GHz band for more stable connections.
- Set bandwidth priorities for critical devices.
Secure Your Network
Prevent unauthorized access by setting up hotspot security features like:
- Password protection
- MAC address filtering
- Firewall
- VPN
- Encrypted network
Monitor Data Usage
Stay within plan allowances by tracking data usage through your hotspot admin dashboard. Set up alerts before hitting data caps.
Optimizing battery life, connections, security, and data usage will ensure you get fast, reliable, and safe internet access from your mobile hotspot.
Tips for Extending Mobile Hotspot Battery Life
Getting the most out of your mobile hotspot battery ensures you stay connected longer while on the go. Here are some useful tips to extend battery life.
Adjust Screen and WiFi Settings
- Lower screen brightness - Sets display to dimmer settings.
- Shorten screen timeout - Screen turns off faster when not in use.
- Disable WiFi when not connected - Turns off wireless antenna when inactive.
These quick setting changes can squeeze out extra hours of battery time.
Limit Connected Devices
Have fewer devices connected to the mobile hotspot at once. The more devices using the hotspot, the faster the battery will drain. Connect just the essentials when you need to conserve power.
Close Unnecessary Apps
Apps running background tasks can drain the battery over time. Force close or disable any apps not being used to optimize battery life.
Turn Off Automatic Updates
App updates over the hotspot connection eat into battery reserves. Toggle off auto-update options for apps and device software.
Use Airplane Mode Selectively
Engage airplane mode when you don't need an active connection to suspend battery drain. Just re-enable WiFi as needed.
Carry a Backup Charger
Consider packing an external battery pack while traveling to recharge your hotspot on the go when outlets are scarce.
With some adjustments and best practices, you can maximize your mobile hotspot uptime before needing to recharge.
What is the use of Amazon Prime for a regular buyer of Mobile Broadband Devices?
For frequent shoppers of mobile broadband devices like MiFi hotspots and USB modems, an Amazon Prime membership can provide some nice benefits and savings.
Free Two-Day Shipping
One of the biggest perks of Amazon Prime is free two-day shipping on millions of items. This means you can order a mobile hotspot, wireless router, or modem and receive it quickly without paying shipping fees.
The fast shipping is useful when you need a new device right away or want to take advantage of a limited-time deal. No more waiting over a week for standard shipping.
Free Returns
Amazon Prime also provides free returns on eligible items. If you order a mobile broadband device and it doesn't meet your needs or work as expected, you can return it at no cost.
This makes it easy to try out new hotspot models risk-free until you find the right one.
Access to Exclusive Deals
Amazon Prime members get 30-minute early access to Lightning Deals, which often include steep discounts on mobile tech and electronics. You can take advantage of hot deals on WiFi hotspots before non-Prime members.
There are also Prime-exclusive deals throughout the year on brands like Netgear, Verizon, and AT&T.
For regular shoppers of mobile broadband devices, an Amazon Prime subscription can really pay for itself through the shipping and return benefits alone. The access to exclusive deals is just icing on the cake.
What Are The Most Popular Mobile Broadband Devices Available In The Market?
Here are some of the most popular mobile broadband devices available in the market:
- Inseego 5G MiFi M1000
- HTC 5G Hub
- Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro Wi-Fi Router
- TP-Link M7350 V4 4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi
- Orbic Speed 5G UW Mobile Hotspot
- Huawei Mobile WiFi 3s (E5576-320)
- TP-Link M7200 Mobile Wi-Fi Router
These devices offer fast and secure internet connections almost anywhere in the world. They are battery-powered modem routers that can connect to multiple devices simultaneously. Some of these devices support 5G data speeds with WiFi 6E connectivity, making them ideal for business travelers and remote workers. They also come at a range of price points and can be added on as an extra line to your current phone plan, minimizing extra costs for data.
What Are The Differences Between Mobile Hotspots And Mobile Wi-Fi Routers?
Mobile hotspots and mobile Wi-Fi routers are both devices that allow users to connect to the internet wirelessly. However, there are some key differences between the two:
Mobile Hotspots:
Mobile Wi-Fi Routers:
In summary, mobile hotspots are smaller, portable devices that create a private Wi-Fi network out of a cellular connection. Mobile Wi-Fi routers are battery-powered modem routers that can connect to multiple devices simultaneously and create a private network out of available public wireless networks.
What Are The Advantages Of Using A Mobile Hotspot Over A Mobile Wi-Fi Router?
Here are some advantages of using a mobile hotspot over a mobile Wi-Fi router:
- Portability: Mobile hotspots are small and portable, making them easy to carry around wherever you go. They can fit in your pocket or bag, and you can use them anywhere you have a cellular signal.
- Security: Mobile hotspots provide a more secure connection than public Wi-Fi, which can help significantly reduce the risk of network security threats like malware and man-in-the-middle attacks. They are essentially private networks, which means that they are less vulnerable to hacking and other security breaches.
- Flexibility: Mobile hotspots are more flexible than mobile Wi-Fi routers because they can be added on as an extra line to your current phone plan. This means that you can use them on the go without having to worry about finding a Wi-Fi network or carrying around a separate device.
- Reliability: Mobile hotspots rely on cellular networks, which means that they can provide you with a reliable connection in a wider range of locations than Wi-Fi. With the development of 5G technology, many hotspots can now deliver faster speeds and lower latency than they could while using less advanced networks.
In summary, mobile hotspots offer portability, security, flexibility, and reliability, making them a great option for people who need to stay connected on the go. They are easy to use, and they can provide a fast and secure internet connection almost anywhere in the world.
