Pocket WiFi will connect your portable devices safely and securely to the internet while you’re out of town or travelling globally. You can compare and choose top pocket WiFi with one of the top internet providers i.e., Club HDTV. Pocket WiFi is an expensive internet option but can assist your internet connection rather than becoming your major source of internet. In this write-up, we have explained about pocket WiFi and why it is important for you.
Pocket WiFi Overview
Pocket Wi-Fi devices, also known by various names like mobile hotspot, mobile Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi dongle, MiFi, portable Wi-Fi hotspot, and portable Wi-Fi router, are compact and portable gadgets that enable you to connect your devices, such as laptops, to the internet. Despite their name, you don’t need to physically carry them in your pocket; they offer the convenience of a Wi-Fi connection wherever you go, making them a versatile solution for staying connected while on the move.
Who Requires Pocket WiFi?
Pocket Wi-Fi is a convenient choice for staying connected on the move. It works with devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
However, if you already have a data plan for your smartphone, you may not need pocket Wi-Fi for it. But when travelling abroad, using your smartphone’s data plan can be costly. In such cases, getting a data plan for pocket Wi-Fi might be a more budget-friendly option.
Most commonly, people use pocket Wi-Fi to connect their laptops to the internet. It provides a secure and reliable connection, reducing the need to rely on public Wi-Fi networks.
Top Pocket WiFi
If you stick with your current cell phone carrier, you can usually find the most affordable data plans for your portable Wi-Fi. Here are the best pocket Wi-Fi options from major carriers:
- Best AT&T Pocket Wi-Fi – NETGEAR Nighthawk LTE Mobile Hotspot Router
Price – $249 upfront or $6.95/month (36 months)
This device, made by NETGEAR, is a strong choice when paired with AT&T’s reliable network. It has a long-lasting battery and fast charging capability, keeping you connected throughout the day. The Nighthawk 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router can connect up to 20 devices simultaneously.
- Best T-Mobile pocket Wi-Fi – Alcatel LINKZONE 2
Price – $90 upfront or $3.75/month (24 months)
The Alcatel LINKZONE 2 is an affordable option directly from a major carrier. While it lacks some premium features, it’s lightweight, compact, and offers all-day battery life. It can connect up to 16 devices at once.
- Best Verizon mobile Wi-Fi – Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L
Price – $199.99 upfront or $8.33/month (24 months)
The Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L is a solid choice, especially for rural areas with limited broadband options. It can connect up to 15 devices and provides fast, user-friendly connectivity. With a powerful battery, it can keep you online for up to 24 hours.
These devices offer flexibility and connectivity, making them great choices for staying connected while on the go.
Pocket WiFi Plans
Here are the simplified pocket Wi-Fi plans offered by major carriers:
- AT&T Hotspot Plans
- 25GB data for $50 per month
- 40GB data for $75 per month
- $10 for every 2GB of data over the limit
- $10 monthly discount with Autopay
International Options
- 2GB for $70 (30 days)
- 6GB for $140 (30 days)
- $30 per GB over the limit
- T-Mobile Pocket WiFi Plans
- 500MB for $5 per month
- 2GB for $10 per month
- 5GB for $20 per month
- 10GB for $30 per month
- 30GB for $40 per month
- 50GB for $50 per month
- 5G data included at no extra cost
- Data slows down after reaching the limit
No international option for pocket Wi-Fi users.
- Verizon Pocket WiFi Plans
- 30GB for $85 per month (without a mobile phone plan) or $30 per month (with an existing mobile phone plan)
- 15GB for $75 per month (without a mobile phone plan) or $20 per month (with an existing mobile phone plan)
- Speeds are significantly reduced after reaching the data limit
- No overage fees
Please note that these plans may have additional taxes and fees, so the final cost may be slightly higher than the base price.
Prepaid Pocket WiFi
Here are simplified pay-as-you-go and prepaid pocket Wi-Fi options from Skyroam and GlocalMe.
- GlocalMe Hotspot
- 2GB for 1 day at $6.99
- 10GB for 30 days at $36
- 24GB with no day limits at $59.99
Offers international packages for specific regions/countries, like:
- 12GB for Japan valid for 365 days at $34.50
- 3GB for Europe valid for 30 days at $30
- Skyroam
- Pay-as-you-go at $8 per GB
- 1GB per 30 days (can top up anytime) for $6
- 20GB per 30 days (then slowed) at $49
Skyroam also provides international plans covering over 135 countries, such as:
- Pay-as-you-go at $12 per GB
- 1GB per month (can top up anytime) for $9
- 20GB per month (then slowed) at $99
- Global Daypass with varying high-speed limits by country for $9
These options are flexible and don’t come with overcharge fees since you either pay as you go or prepay for your chosen data packages.
Final Verdict
Pocket Wi-Fi is a valuable tool for maintaining internet connectivity on the go, offering flexibility and convenience for various portable devices. Major carriers provide a range of options and devices, each catering to specific needs and preferences. Pay-as-you-go and prepaid pocket Wi-Fi solutions from providers like Skyroam and GlocalMe offer cost-effective alternatives, ensuring you stay connected without overcharge concerns. In a world that demands constant connectivity, pocket Wi-Fi remains a significant solution, empowering travellers and mobile professionals to stay online with ease. Consider your needs and budget to make the best choice among the available pocket Wi-Fi options.