Portable Pocket WiFi Device Detailed Review & Guide

Do you know that pocket WiFi is quite a revolutionizing idea? You might be wondering what the term “Pocket WiFi” means. Worry not since you will have quite a pretty good idea of what it is at the end of the review. But in a nutshell, “Pocket WiFi” refers to mobile devices that provide WiFi and are easy to carry around. They are lightweight, small and fit comfortably in the pocket – thus the name pocket WiFi.

Although these devices are small, their sizes should not fool you. Pocket WiFi devices are capable of serving users at a radius of 30 to 50 feet. What’s more? With technological advancement and the roll-out of 5G, the devices have increasingly become more powerful. These enhanced capabilities provide the user with a very satisfying experience.

What is a Pocket WiFi?

Pocket WiFi is a mobile hotspot device that can easily fit into your pocket hence the name pocket WiFi. The device is also known as a wireless router, MiFi, Mobile WiFi, Portable WiFi egg, or internet dongle. The device connects internet-enabled devices like tablets, smart phones, and laptops to the internet using mobile networks.

In other terms, a pocket WiFi device turns the cellular network into a Wireless network, which enables you to access the internet. With some pocket WiFi devices like SIM-enabled MiFi, you do not need to tether any cables.

Do not be fooled by the size of a pocket WIFI. It might be small but has a great coverage radius. At any one time, the device can serve up to10 internet-enabled gadgets within a radius of 30 -50 feet.

MIFI is very convenient, especially for surfing the net while traveling. The pocket WiFi also requires password authorization. This means that only the people you have given the password can use the pocket WiFi. It is thus safe from fraud.

Fantastic fact: The term “Pocket WiFi” is a registered trademark of SoftBank, which is a subsidiary of Y! Mobile. However, the name has become so popular that every portable WiFi device is now known as pocket WiFi.

Here Are Some Types of Pocket WiFi

1. SIM Based WiFi Hotspot Devices

SIM-based pocket devices are the most popular of all portable hotspot devices. This type of device uses a SIM card to access the internet. Once you buy it, you have to insert a SIM card and then configure the settings for it to work.

The configuration process is not as complicated, but you have to connect it to your PC. Once the hotspot device establishes a connection, you can unplug it from the computer, and you are set to go!

2. WiFi Hotspot Devices Which Use Modem or USB Data Card

These are other reliable types of pocket WIFI. For these devices, you need to have a USB data card to connect to the net. To make a connection to the internet, you need to plug in the device into the PC. When you turn it on, you will need to configure the device.

Best Portable Pocket WiFi Device For USA People

Now Let Us Compare These Different Types of Pocket WiFi

There are some differences between modem or USB data cards and a SIM-based WiFi device. The first difference is that in most instances, the USB data cards are usually locked to a particular service provider. This means that it is impossible to use a SIM card from another service provider to access the internet using the modem.

As for the SIM-based portable hotspot devices, you can replace the SIM card and use that of another service provider.

However, it is always prudent to make sure that you enquire from your seller if that is the case with your device to avoid nasty experiences.

Which Is the Best Option Among the Types of Pocket WiFi? Let’s Find Out, Shall We?

SIM Based Mobile Hotspots

  • They are smaller in size which makes them convenient to carry around.
  • They have a rectangular shape which makes them easier to handle
  • Since most of them are unlocked, you can use the provider of your choice by replacing the SIM card.

USB Based Hotspots

With USB dongles, you have to connect them to your device for them to work. This means that they are not as flexible as the SIM-based pocket WiFi devices.

Therefore, by far, the SIM-based mobile WiFi is the best MiFi option.

How Does Pocket WiFi work?

Now that we have gotten an idea of what a pocket WiFi is, how exactly does this device work?

The workings of a pocket WiFi is similar to that of broadband WiFi in that: the device allows you to access the internet wirelessly. It acts as a router. However, one advantage that the former has over the latter is that you can move around without losing your internet connectivity.

What Does A MIFI Need in Order Work?

For a MIFI to work, it needs a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card. By using a SIM card, the MiFi or pocket WiFi can connect to a cellular network just like smart phones do. Once the Pocket WiFi connects to the network, it can similarly transmit a signal to the home or office WiFi.

All you will need to do is insert the SIM card in its slot and then power the device. Once you power it on, it will automatically create a WiFi network. Once the network is up and running on the device, and after configuration, you can tether your phone or other internet-enabled devices and surf the net.

The mobile network will come with a pre-set password and name. Once you connect to the network, you will need to enter the password to gain access. You will find the password and the network name under the battery of the pocket WiFi device.

The portable hotspot device uses an internally rechargeable battery. However, you will need to recharge the battery depending on how long it retains charge. Some batteries drain fast while others keep the charges for a long time.

The time the battery lasts depends on the size and usage. Some portable internet devices have larger batteries which mean that they can last for longer. You can also buy additional batteries for the pocket WiFi.

However, recharging the device is easy. Use a USB cable that you can port into your computer or tablet. You can also recharge the device using a power bank. If you are planning on taking an internal trip, then it is crucial to find out if your portable WiFi device can access the internet while in another country apart from the United States.

If your device is network locked, then it is essential to have it unlocked. Otherwise, you might not be able to use it on your trip. At times, the unlocking process might take a week or longer. Therefore, you have to start the process earlier so that the process does not interrupt your travel schedule.

Advantages of a Pocket WiFi

  • One of the most significant advantages of pocket WiFi is its portability. The device is lightweight and fits neatly into your pocket. Therefore, it is very convenient to carry the device with you if you are traveling within or outside the United States.
  • With the mobile hotspot, you do not need to use mobile data, which means that your cell phone battery will remain charged for a more extended time. Apart from tethering to more than 15 devices, the MiFi does not loose internet connection, as is with the case with cellular data.
  • Another advantage of a MiFi is that there is no need for a direct connection between the MiFi and the laptop or whichever device you are using to surf the net. As stated earlier, MiFi works on wireless signals. This means that you can access the internet using gadgets that do not have a USB port like the iPad.
  • With the portable WiFi, you do not need to download any software to start operating the device. The device, therefore, becomes significantly easy to use as all you have to do is power in up and enter the required password, and you are good to go. When using a pocket internet device, you will have very high internet speeds.
  • With pocket WiFi, many people can access the internet (up to 20 depending on the model). Without a pocket WiFi, it means that you will not need to use public WiFiwhen traveling. Public WiFi is very risky because hackers can gain access to your phone or laptop and acquire your personal information or sensitive data like your passwords or your bank details. Therefore, the portable hot spot device keeps you safe.
  • You can use the network to transfer data between connected devices. Let’s say you went out on the beach and captured perfect moments and stored them on your phone as a video or picture file. Using a pocket WiFi signal, you can transfer these files to your laptop for safekeeping or share them with your friends using your social media platforms. This feature comes in handy when you want to transfer large files between your devices. The best thing is that you do not need to have internet access for this transfer to work.

Drawbacks of Pocket WiFi

Despite its many advantages, pocket WiFi has some drawbacks.

  • When several devices use the MiFi’s network, internet speeds are affected and tend to slow down.
  • You will also need to charge your portable hotspot device from time to time if Its battery power drains fast, especially when connected to multiple devices.
  • If you are traveling to different countries, then you will need to change the device’s settings each time you get into a new country. You have to connect your portable hotspot device in to your PC to change the settings. Even though the process is not complicated, it might prove to be a bit tricky to a computer illiterate person.

What Is The Difference Between Pocket WiFi And Broadband WiFi?

The two terms can confuse you, but do not worry since we will help you to differentiate between pocket WiFi and broadband WiFi.

Broadband WiFi is a technology that provides internet access to devices from a fixed hotspot, mainly a router.

On the other hand, pocket internet or a MiFi is a device that provides internet access to devices, and it is portable.

In other terms, broadband WiFi is a technology, while pocket WiFi is a device.

Lets Us See in Detail What This Difference Means. Shall We?

WiFi means “Wireless Fidelity.”

“WiFi” is a name that is a trademark of the WiFi Alliance. WiFi connects different devices in a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) based on specific standards. Many devices that create wireless network hotspots have come be known as WiFi. The way a WiFi works is by providing wireless internet through a router.

A wave pattern indicates the strength of a wireless network and has a dot at the bottom. The higher the wave, the greater the network strength.

Mi-Fi Or Mobile WiFi Or Pocket Internet.

The term MiFi generally means mobile WiFi. As earlier stated, MiFi is a trademark of one of Y! Mobile subsidiaries. A MiFi device creates an internet hotspot wherever you go. This means that you do not have to be in a specified place, as is the case of a WiFi router.

When the wireless network is active, you can then tether your device to the MiFi. That means no router needed to connect your devices to the internet as it acts as a router. Another difference between a broadband WiFi network and a MiFi is that the latter uses a SIM card since it gets its signal froma 3g or 4g cellular network and converts it into a wireless signal. Therefore, for a portable hotspot to work, it must have a SIM card.

Although the name “MiFi” is a trademark and is used to refer to portable hotspot devices, these mobile hotspots have an in-built modem and a WiFi router. The modem connects to the cellular network, which can either be 3G or 4G. The router connects to the devices that tether to the MiFi. The strength of the network on a MiFi is indicated by horizontal bars similar to those found on a Smartphone. The more the bars the stronger the network.

What Are the Implications of The Two Types of Wireless Network Types?

A broadband wireless network provided by an ISP (Internet Service Provider) through a router is fixed. This means that you can use it in an office setup or at home. The best thing with this broadband network is that most providers offer unlimited data or high data cap.

This means you can use the internet without worrying that you will run out of data. You might still prefer to use a MIFI in your home setting, but it has its limitation when it comes to the amount of data cap.

Most carriers give a certain data cap on their plans, and this might not serve you well, especially if you are a heavy internet user.

Factors to Consider While Buying A Pocket WiFi Device

Before you make any purchasing decision, it is only prudent for you to make an informed decision. However, you cannot be well informed unless you do due diligence and find out all you can about the product. Some of the factors that you should consider before making a purchasing decision of a pocket WiFi device in the US are:

  • Quality of the device
  • Speed of the device
  • Price
  • Reliability

If you do your research based on the above consideration, then you are bound to make the right choice. You might conduct your research and find a device that fits your requirements perfectly. But you might not be entirely sure if the product will perform as advertised. One of the best ways to know about a product is to find out the experience of other people who are using the product. One way to gather this information is by asking your friends or relatives about the effectiveness of the device.

As it might happen that none of your friends or relative uses a MiFi.

Turn to the internet.

There are many forums where you can find information on almost any product. Try sites like Quora and Reddit and other websites to see what people are saying about the device you want to purchase. No product can satisfy every customer, but the positive reviews on some products far outnumber the negative reviews.

Therefore, check what people are saying about the device you want to purchase. If the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, then the device performs as advertised.

To make your purchasing decision even easier while selecting the best portable pocket WiFi, here are some more factors that you should consider.

1. Does It Support 4G/LTE?

If you want high speeds, which we are sure you would not mind, go for a mobile router that supports 4G/ LTE. Some routers will not support 4G, and the highest network that they support is 3G, which is considerably lower than its successor. There are also different LTE network categories. These categories determine the maximum upload and download speed.

  • Category 1: supports 10mbps speeds of downloads and 5 Mbps of upload speeds.
  • Category 2: supports 50mbps speeds of downloads and 25 Mbps of upload speeds.
  • Category 3: supports 100mbps speeds of downloads and 50 Mbps of upload speeds.
  • Category 4: supports 150mbps speeds of downloads and 50 Mbps of upload speeds.
  • Category 5: supports 300mbps speeds of downloads and 75 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 6: supports 300mbps speeds of downloads and 50 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 7: supports 300mbps speeds of downloads and 100 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 8: supports 3000mbps speeds of downloads and 1500 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 9: supports 1450mbps speeds of downloads and 50 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 10: supports 450mbps speeds of downloads and 50 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 11: supports 600mbps speeds of downloads and 50 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 12: supports 600mbps speeds of downloads and 100 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 13: supports 400mbps speeds of downloads and 150 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 14: supports 400mbps speeds of downloads and 100 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 15: supports 4000mbps speeds of downloads and 1500 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 16: supports 1000mbps speeds of downloads and 150 Mbps of upload speeds
  • Category 17: supports 1100mbps speeds of downloads and 150 Mbps of upload speeds

For the best experience in terms of top speeds, buy a MiFi which supports category 6 or higher. Professionally, Cat 6 and above is called LTE advanced or 4G plus. If the network reception is not that great, then you can get a device in which you can attach an external antenna. The antenna will help the device to access the signal better.

2. Battery Size

Another vital factor to consider while shopping for a pocket internet device is how long its battery lasts before you need to charge it again. The higher the battery voltage, the longer it can go without the need to recharge. This is an essential feature since you do not want your portable hotspot do die on you. Although the devices have power level indicators, it is still better to have a device that can go for long without a recharge.

3. Is the Mobile Hotspot Locked Or Unlocked?

If the price of the pocket WiFi is very low, then there is a very high chance that it is a locked device. The problem with a locked device is that you cannot change your service provider. The better route is to buy an unlocked pocket WiFi router, although it might cost more initially. The good thing with an unlocked device is that you can change service providers as you wish.

4. Data Plans

At times, you might decide to go the locked device route for one reason or another. In such a case, find out the data plans that the service provider offers. Do they have prepaid and post-paid plans? How much do you have to pay for each plan? Some providers might lure you with a low price only for you to end up paying a lot of money afterward because they only have expensive plans. To avoid such a scenario, make sure that you research the various data plans of every provider.

5. The Number of Devices That You Can Connect at Any Given Time

The more devices you can tether to your pocket WiFi device, the better. Some devices allow up to 20 people to tether. Therefore, if you have a large family, then it is advisable to go for devices that support many users.

6. Which Service Provider Do You Use?

A significant factor to consider while buying a portable hotspot device is the service provider that you will be using most of the time. The signals of some service providers are not as strong, which means that you will have low internet signal or none at all. In addition, some service providers do not offer services in all states across US. Therefore, before you settle for a service provider, make sure that their signal is strong enough in your residential state.

7. Power Source

To make sure that the device does not die on you, you will need to keep it charged. Select a device that you can charge using a USB cable as well as an A/C power output. In this way, you can charge your device using any A/C charging output or by using a USB charging port.

8. Choose A Device with A Rechargeable Battery

Not all portable hotspot devices come with rechargeable batteries. We cannot overemphasize the importance of rechargeable batteries. If you buy one which does not have rechargeable batteries, it means that you will have to fix it at a power source at all times. In case the power goes off, and then the internet goes off as well, which is not a very pleasant experience.

Which Is the Best Carrier to Use For Pocket WiFi Network?

There are four national carriers in the US, which include AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Sprint. All these carriers offer mobile hotspots. Other carriers or virtual operates also offer mobile hotspot services. In terms of network speed, Verizon and AT&T are in the lead at present.

Apart from the national carriers, you can get mobile devices from subsidiaries of the Big Four as they are known. You can get the device from Net10 (Verizon), Boost (Sprint), Karma (Spring) and NetZero (Sprint). The plans on these providers range from:

  • $25 for 25GB/ month,
  • $40- $50 for 5GB/month
  • 10 GB for $90 /month.

You can add your pocket WiFi line to your service provider’s plan. Most of the carriers have deals that you can take advantage of and get more data. However, most unlimited plans do not carry over to mobile hotspots.

With Verizon, you get 15 to 20GB of data if you add your hotspot to your unlimited plan. With AT$T and Sprint, you will get 22GB of data and with T-Mobile, you get 50GB of data. All the carriers give you high-speed data.

After the offer data bundles are finished, the companies reduce your pocket WiFi speeds. T-Mobile and Sprint also downgrade video streams to low quality once the offer bundles expire.

Since You Know All About Hotspot Service Providers and Their Plans, Let Us Look at The Best Pocket WiFi Devices in The Market.

But First:

As technology advances, so have the carriers upgraded their network capabilities, which means that you will get much better service on the newer pocket WiFi mode.

The most advanced mobile modems in the market now are the Qualcomm Snapdragon X20 or X24. You will find them in the MiFi 8800 and MiFi 8800L and the HTC 5G Hub.

T-Mobile and other prepaid resellers are still selling the older models, which are slower and have lower signal strengths. However, these devices do offer 4G capabilities, which are slower than 5G. But 4G speeds are nothing to complain about unless you want superfast internet.

For a better experience, ensure that you have a pocket WiFi that supports 5 GHz WIFi, which is less congested than the 2.4GHz hence offers higher speeds.

If you have a larger hotspot, it probably means that it has a bigger battery too. If that is the case, you can use your mobile hotspot as a power bank. If the hotspot has an SD card slot, then you can use it to share large files on laptops or smart phones tethered to the device’s wireless network.

Are You Going for An Overseas Trip? Here Is What You Need to Know

US pocket WiFi device offers roaming services to Mexico and Canada. But there is a catch. These rates are higher. To be on the safe side, though, confirm with your service provider if they have this facility on their mobile router.

If you plan to travel further than Mexico or Canada, the best option for you is the Skyroam Solis Lite. This portable hotspot has LTE coverage almost everywhere in the world.

Review of The Top Pocket WiFi Brands

Let us start with 5G pocket WiFi devices

1. HTC 5G Hub ($ 600)

The first mobile hotspot on our list is the HTC 5G Hub. Sprint offers this fantastic 5G mobile hotspot, which has a 5-inch touch screen for easier interaction. The device is also compatible with Android 9. The device also offers a complete internet solution.

The pocket WiFi has a Qualcomm X50 modem that supports Sprint’s 5G and 4G LTE networks. This modem gives you high speeds even when you are out of the 5G range. It also has a gigabit Ethernet port.

htc 5g hub pocket wifi

It has a 7,660mAh battery, which means that it can sustain power for a long time without the need to recharge. According to HTC, the portable hotspot can support up to 20 devices at a go.

However, all these functionalities come at a cost. The portable hotspot is larger than most other devices.

PROS
  • Has a 5-inch touch screen
  • Compatible with android 9
  • Has 4 GB RAM
  • It has a large battery which retains the charge for longer
CONS
  • It is larger than the other devices
  • Does not have a very high display resolution

2. Inseego 5G MiFi M1000($649.99)

The second pocket internet device on our list is the Inseego 5G MiFi M1000. The device is a combination of the old and the new. The Inseego is not a new hot spot device, but it uses Verizon’s 5G network to give you pleasant surfing experience. Although Verizon’s 5G networks is not as widely spread, the router works perfectly well where the network is available. Even if you are not in a 5G zone, the mobile hotspot 4G works perfectly well.

Inseego 5G MiFi

The device has a 4400 mAh battery, which should provide you with enough power to see you through the day. It is a great hotspot device and offers fast internet speeds, especially on 5G zones.

PROS
  • Its battery does not drain fast
  • It offers fast speeds both on 4G LTE and 5G networks
  • It is compact thus easy to carry
CONS

4G LTE Modems

1. NIgthhawk LTE Mobile Hotspot Router by AT&T ($ 249.99)

The nighthawk mobile hotspot is also considerably large and measures4.14*4.14*0.75-inchand weighs 8.5 ounces. Due to its size, the portable hotspot accommodates a removable battery. It has a 5,040 mAh battery. However, its display screen is small, measuring 1.4 inches.

It has an Ethernet port, a USB -C port that you can use to tether your laptop if you so wish and also charge your phone. And finally, USB port to use as storage and can also use it to charge other devices.

NIgthhawk LTE Mobile Hotspot Router

The Ethernet Port on this portable hotspot is input only. You can only use the Ethernet port to access the internet from a wired network.

PROS
  • Has a long battery life
  • Connects to WiFi5
  • Has multiple ports
CONS
  • It is on the heavier side
  • Does not have a touch screen

2. Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800($240)

If you are a Verizon subscriber or you fancy a Verizon MiFi, then the Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800 is the best choice.

The device has one of the best 4G capabilities in the market. It has an oval shape, which makes it unique and also has a plastic covering. It comes with a 2.4-inchcolor touch screen. The MiFi measures 4.45*2.80*0.75 inches and weighs 5.71 ounces, which makes it lightweight.

Verizon Jetpack MiFi

To boost its network reception, the pocket WiFi has two external antennae ports. It also comes with a USB- C port, which you can use to charge other devices.

The device has excellent performance, even on weak signal areas.

PROS
  • It is lightweight
  • Has excellent 4G capabilities
  • Has two external antennae ports
CONS
  • Does not get to the maximum speed

3. Skyroam Solis Lite ($119.99)

Do you want a mobile hotspot that you can use internationally? If the answer is yes, then you should go for the Sky roam Solis Lite. The mobile hotspot is available for sale or lease. With the mobile hotspot, you get unlimited LTE coverage in more than 130 countries.

You can buy the Sky roam Solis Lite for $119.99, excluding the data. You can either decide to go for monthly or daily unlimited data plans. Daily unlimited data plans cost $9, while the monthly data plans cost $99. You can also subscribe for 1 GB of data for $6/month in the US and Europe. In other countries, the subscription rate s $9 for the 1GB/ month. When you exhaust the 1 GB, you can get subsequent 1GB data at $9.

Skyroam Solis Lite

If you do not want to buy the Solis Lite, you can rent it. The rent charges are $8.99 per day, inclusive of taxes and unlimited data. You can pick the device from the airport, or it can be delivered to your home. The most significant advantage is that the company does not limit your internet speed, no matter the amount of data that you use.

Design

The portable hotspot measures 3.5 inches in diameter and is less than an inch in height. It is cylindrical and has a distinct orange color. It weighs 5.44 ounces.

It has incredible battery life and can run the whole day without the need to recharge with three connected devices.

PROS
  • It is an international portable hotspot
  • You can either buy or rent the device
  • Has a great battery life
  • Supports 4G LTE network
CONS
  • Rejects most third-party USB- C charge cables

Best Hotspot Plans in The US

Now that you know about the different hotspot devices and features let us take a peek at some of the best mobile hotspot plans in the US.

As we have already seen, the major carriers in the country sell standalone pocket WiFi devices. Do you want to know more? Below is a peek at the best of these plans.

Verizon Pocket WiFi Data Plans

  • 1GB of data for $15/month if the only device you have from the carrier is the portable router. However, for any extra GB, you will have to pay $10.
  • 10GB of data/month for $60 to 40GB/month for $150.
  • Unlimited data for $80 per month. However, the internet speeds reduce when you use 15GB of 4G LTE data.

The four mobile hotspots that Verizon sell are:

  • Inseego 5G MiFi M1000 hotspot (Reviewed above)
  • Franklin Wireless MNS900L
  • Inseego Jetpack 8800L
  • Verizon Global Modem USB 730L (this is a USB modem where you have to plug it into the PC to access the internet)

AT&T Data Plans

AT&T is the second-largest carrier in the US, and once you buy a mobile hotspot device from the carrier, you can enjoy any of the following data plans:

  • For $50 you get 10GB/month
  • For $70 you get 15GB/month

Prepaid plans:

  • Get 3GB of data for $25/month
  • Get 10GB of data for $50/month
  • Get 18GB of data for $75/month

The three mobile hotspots that AT&T offers are:

  • AT$T Wireless Internet
  • Harman Spark
  • AT&T global Modem USB800

T – Mobile Plans

The third-largest carrier in the country is T-Mobile, and their data plans are as follows:

  • 2GB of Data for $10 per month
  • 6GB of Data for $25/ month
  • 10GB of data for $40/month
  • 14GB of data for $55/month
  • 14GB of data for $75/month

The carrier offers the following Pocket WiFi devices:

  • Signal – costs 48 dollars, but you can pay for 24 months at $2 per month.
  • T9Mobile Hotspot – costs $84-you can pay in 24 months at $3.50/month

Sprint Plans

Sprints are the last of the big four companies and offer three plans if you buy a portable hotspot and use it on their network.

  • 10GB at $30/month
  • 50GB at $50/month
  • 100GB at $60/month

The four mobile hotspot devices that Sprints sell include:

  • HTC 5G, whose full price is $600.
  • Coolpad Surf at $144, does not have monthly installments
  • MiFi 8000 mobile hotspot -at $ 2.50 per month. Full price is $240
  • NetStick USB Modem at $180. It does not have monthly installment payments.

Other Carriers That Offer Pocket WiFi Devices Include

  • US cellular – Inseego MiFi 7000 ($191.52)
  • Boost mobile – Coolpad Surf ($49.99)
  • Metro by T-Mobile- MetroSmart Hotspot ($24.99)
  • Cricket Wireless- Cricket Turbo ($99.99)
  • NetZero – NetZero MiFi ($59.99)
  • Net10Wireless – ZTE Z291DL ($9.99)
  • Karma – Karma Go and Karma Black (From $199 – $249)

FAQ – Portable Pocket Wifi Devices

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the best pocket devices in America, let us review some other issues that you should consider.

1. Should you go for the 5G enabled pocket WiFi devices?

Although 4G is quite effective, 5G is much better. With increased and more bandwidth capabilities, 5G enabled MiFi can support more devices and offer a better experience to the users. With the network, you can use the device in a small office setting.

2. Can Hotspots Replace Home Internet

One of the prohibiting issues which will make it difficult for pocket WiFi to become the primary home WiFi provider is the high data package prices. A DSL or cable setup is way much cheaper per byte than pocket WiFi deals. With Sprint’s NetZero, their data plans range from “free” 200MB per month. The reason as to why this is not as free is because you have to buy a mobile hotspot from the carrier. The devices cost upwards of $100. The best plan, though in the market right now is from this company. Go for the 100GB plan where you pay $60 per month.

Note: If you are in a position, buy an unlocked device because you can use different service providers as opposed to being tied to one provider. Unlocked devices give you freedom.

According to statistics, the average US broadband user consumes more than 190 GB of data/month. Netflix and Hulu are some of the video streaming services that account for such huge data spending. If you are not a video or music streaming enthusiast, then pocket WiFi will suffice for your internet needs. Otherwise, you will run out of data pretty fast if you were to use mobile hotspot for music and video streaming.

3. Who Benefits The Most From Pocket WiFi?

Although pocket WiFi is beneficial to everyone, some people will appreciate it more! If you are a business person and your job entails a lot of traveling, then 4G mobile hotspot is the perfect solution for your internet needs. You can tether several devices on the mobile router, which means that there is no reason to use your phone to surf the internet, thus saving its battery life. Another advantage of pocket WiFi is that they are more secure and reliable than public WiFi or hotel WiFi.

If you travel for leisure in your RV or your car or motorcycle, then pocket WiFi is an ideal solution.

Final Thoughts

It is a fact that pocket WiFi is a revolutionary idea. With it, you no longer have to worry about your cell phone battery running out on you while traveling because it has run out of power while surfing. Mobile hot spots also allow a user to tether more than one device to access the internet. This feature makes pocket WiFi ideal since you can surf the net even as a group while using one device. Pocket WiFi devices are easy to carry around, which gives you the liberty to go on trips either for work or on vacation.

But before you pop in to the store and get that mobile hotspot, it is essential to conduct due diligence and find one that fits your needs perfectly. Factors like price, durability, compatibility, battery life, number of supported devices, and the network capabilities are significant to consider before making the purchasing decision.

You can decide to buy your device from different carriers in the market. Their prices differ, and they also offer other data plans.

We believe that now you know quite a lot more about pocket WiFi than you did earlier. We also believe that you will be able to make an informed purchasing decision when it comes to pocket WiFi.

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