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The internet is more of a necessity today and one of the first things people look for in a new place. Having an internet connection while you travel is also just as important, with all the remote work, education, and other priorities on the line.  All of this has contributed to the rise of portable Wi-Fi hotspot devices, which you can carry on the go and always stay in touch with the online world.

This blog discusses the use of portable Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots for the internet and their ever-rising popularity. So let us get to it!

What is a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot?

A portable Wi-Fi hotspot is essentially a small carry-on router, which uses the services of a cellular network to get internet to your phone or computer. Most smartphones have a Wi-Fi hotspot option that you can activate if you are subscribed to LTE or 5G data, but using a Wi-Fi hotspot device is better and more energy efficient.

A Wi-Fi hotspot helps you and devices around connect to the internet on a safe and secure network. Plus, you can choose a plan and provider of your liking to get the best internet experience.

How do Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot Devices Work?

A hotspot device uses a cellular internet connection to build a Wi-Fi network that any device can connect to.  A mobile network that works on LTE or 5G is perfect for this Wi-Fi internet and can help you do whatever you like. Stream your favorite shows and movies, work remotely, get your homework done, and more without worrying about anything. All you need is a good amount of data and a decent speed that can support all that you wish to do.

Portable hotspots usually come with a battery and you can choose the size you want. These devices are typically rechargeable so when your unit’s battery runs out, you can easily recharge it via USB.

Advantages of Using Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots

The question remains, why use these portable Wi-Fi hotspots at all? And, the answer is pretty simple. Not only does the easy and mobile design make portable hotspots super convenient but there are other reasons too. These include:

  • Network Safety: Wi-Fi hotspots can sometimes not be secure, especially if they are open networks in public places such as those seen in coffee shops and malls. Portable Wi-Fi hotspots allow you to connect to the internet safely without having to worry about online threats.
  • Affordability: Since mobile hotspots are widely available and you can choose the data plan you want, most portable Wi-Fi services come out to be cheaper than wired internet services.
  • Energy-efficient: Portable mobile Wi-Fi allows you to save your phone battery, which would otherwise quickly drain. Portable hotspots are easy to recharge, can be carried around, and do not weigh down too much on your phone battery.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Wi-Fi Hotspot Device

If you are considering getting a portable Wi-Fi device, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Before you choose a device, there is a checklist that would help you pick a favorite. Some of the factors that you ought to consider include the following.

Wireless Carrier Network & Availability

Most urban areas receive good internet and cellular networks throughout. However, depending on where you live, suburban or rural areas may not always be so fortunate. This is because most remote areas get sporadic network coverage at best. Under such conditions, using a Wi-Fi hotspot with your wireless carrier for a stable internet connection may not be the right option.

Do check the availability map for your carrier’s network to decide whether you will be able to get good coverage in your area, and regions you visit frequently. Most major cellular networks such as AT&T, Verizon, and T -Mobile, supply almost the entirety of the U.S. and there are few missed zones, if any.

Carrier Limitations & Features

There are at least half a dozen cellular networks available in most cities but what do you pick? That can be a very pressing question. Well, it is ideal to go for an option that has good coverage in your area and has generous data plans.

Go through the offerings of all the good options in your area and choose whatever fits you best. You need to be mindful of the speeds offered, the data allowance, whether the carrier throttles speeds, and any other perks you might get; so be sure to read all the fine print carefully. Pose any questions you have to the customer service agents on your chosen carrier to make sure there are no unwelcome surprises.

Number of Connected Devices

Different hotspot devices have different capabilities when it comes to the maximum number of connected devices. Take a look at the supported bandwidth and such considerations to make the best choice for your home and on the go, especially if you keep a bunch of devices.

Adding too many devices or connecting them to a single hotspot may hog the bandwidth and reduce the speed available speed for each device.

Wireless Capabilities (3G, 4G & 5G)

The connectivity capabilities of different portable Wi-Fi hotspot devices can vary considerably. While most devices are comfortably able to handle 3G and 4G, few handle 5G connectivity. This difference in the supported wireless technology for the internet is an important factor that decides both the price of the device and the internet plan.

If you are looking for an economical Wi-Fi hotspot device, a modest prepaid device that supports 4G or simple 5G networks would work like a charm. It is good enough for most tasks that you do online and the plans are pretty affordable.

However, if you are the one to use the most recent technologies, going for a 5G hotspot device is not a bad idea either. You can enjoy faster speeds than ever and connect multiple devices without any problems. Even so, you will need to pay a higher price for both the speed and the device you use, so make sure you know what you are getting into. 

Battery Life of Device

Any hotspot device you pick should have a reliable battery and long life. This is so you can ensure you are able to handle all your internet needs at any given time. Some of the factors that may shorten a hotspot’s battery life include higher data throughput and a large number of connected devices.

If you have a hotspot device that does not have a long battery life, you may want to consider investing in a good power bank. This will help keep your device powered on the go, even if it has a small battery, and keep you connected at all times.

Popular Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot Options in the U.S.

There are quite a few mobile Wi-Fi options in the U.S. since cellular network coverage is so dense and wide. Some of the most popular options include:

  1. AT&T Wireless: One of the largest cellular and internet providers in the U.S. Pick a plan of choice and enjoy unlimited data across all phone lines, 5G speeds, an online security suite, and a whole lot more. You can even choose a device from AT&T itself and help your portable connection!
  2. T-Mobile: Another carrier of cellular services with nationwide coverage. Get unlimited calls and texts, unlimited data, and more. Choose a T Mobile hotspot device and make things easier.
  3. Verizon: Enjoy national coverage with unlimited data, 5G prices, and a lot more. Choose from a selection of prepaid Wi-Fi hotspot devices and carry your internet on the go!

Conclusion

So here you go! Those were some of the most important things to know about portable Wi-Fi hotspots. Just get a device with a good battery from a carrier that has good national coverage and supports all cellular internet technologies. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots are a good way to seek a secure connection on the go and offer reliable internet services for some of the best prices in the country.

Don’t want to get a portable Wi-Fi hotspot? Learn about the best wired internet services in your area or call 855-349-9328 now. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a portable Wi-Fi hotspot faster than a traditional Wi-Fi service?

A Wi-Fi internet connection is typically faster since there is less network congestion, is wired, and supports higher bandwidth. However, 5G internet can also support very high speeds where available.

Learn about the fastest internet plans in your area. Call 855-349-9328 now.

How to use a Wi-Fi hotspot?

A Wi-Fi hotspot is easy to use and simply utilizes a SIM card or eSIM from a carrier of your choosing. Once it is set up you can access the internet on any device like you would a normal internet Wi-Fi connection.

Choose the best internet services for your home. Call 855-349-9328 now.