let's get you connected
What is MIFI?
What is MiFi actually? So you’re curious about the options to have a Mobile Wireless Internet Connection, either on the go or just as a dedicated hotspot for a particular purpose. Bravo, you have found yourself at just the right place to provide you with the information you need to know, in your process of selecting the best option to suit you. In that case, welcome to our mobile internet resource center. This is where you can find all the relevant information which will lead you to find the best solution for your wireless needs.
But first, in order to find the best MiFi device for you, let’s dig into what MiFi actually is. MiFi originated as a brand name for the first Mobile Wireless Router produced by Novotel. The word has evolved into the name of the concept of mobile wifi and is now being used by copycats that produce replica devices. In essence, MiFi devices tap into local 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G networks to provide the user with a reliable solution for internet connection on the go, anywhere in the world thanks to satellites.
What is the difference between MiFi and WiFi?
The difference between MiFi and WiFi is quite significant. WiFi is the prefix of Wireless Fidelity and is a router connected to a fixed modem that is then connected to a wireless router that gives off the wireless internet connection, in other words; WiFi.
Therefore, MiFi as a concept refers to Mobile Wireless Fidelity. In simple terms; Mobile Wireless Internet, WiFi Hotspot, Mobile WiFi, Mobile Hotspot, or Pocket WiFi. There is no official term, however, given that MiFi is a brand that invented the concept, we shall refer to all similar devices in respect of its namesake.
MiFi Blogs
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The Internet is undoubtedly the pivotal technology of the Digital Age. It has maneuvered its way into the minds and lives of modern society. The… Read More »The Internet’s influence on modern society
MiFi and WiFi have a common goal, to provide an internet connection to the consumer, but they also have differences. MiFi (Mobile Wireless Fidelity) provides… Read More »Mifi vs Wifi
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Smartphone VS Mifi - Which is better to hotspot from?
User Dependency
Number one; user dependency plays a big role when someone’s personal mobile phone is relied upon for an internet connection. Let’s explain why; Mobile Phone hotspots occur when a mobile phone owner enables their tethering hotspot allowing other devices to utilize the internet connection. Essentially the users of this hotspot are reliant on the mobile phone owner’s location. Hence, in the case that the mobile phone owner leaves the vicinity, the other users lose access to the internet connection thus limiting them to the mobile phone owner’s whereabouts.
Battery Life
Consider your cellular phone’s battery life when on the go. In areas where power supply is limited, MiFi is a better option since its power use is more efficient as it serves the sole purpose of providing an internet connection. Whereas your mobile phone processes media in all forms, thus requires a higher use of battery power when used as a tethering hotspot in addition to regular mobile phone use. Hence, using it as a hotspot burns through the battery life faster than usual.
Monthly Mobile Data Use
Your monthly mobile data use is determined by what you personally need on a monthly basis to make daily use of your phone without having to worry about running out of data that is dedicated to the respective month. Using a MiFi device allows you to avoid depleting your mobile data allocated to your monthly use on your mobile phone unless you have unlimited data on your mobile contract. However, your mobile phone would still not be able to match up to the internet speeds provided by Mobile WiFi devices.
Several Devices
A MiFi Router enables you to connect several devices whereas your mobile phone is limited to between 3 to 5 devices at a limited speed. Whereas a MiFi Device enables a minimum of 10 devices at a time. However, some of the latest devices allow up to 30 users simultaneously without compromising the speed of the connection provided.
Stable Internet Connection
Given the fact that MiFi is your dedicated internet source on the go, it means that your connection will not be interrupted by any other activity on the device. Unlike mobile phones which have several functions. For example, if you are sourcing your connection from a mobile phone, and that phone receives a call or streams a video, then your connection to the internet will be interrupted. More, given the fact that MiFi devices are built to provide multiple connections, the signal strength is stronger and more stable than that of a mobile hotspot.
Man in the Middle Hacks
A Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) cyber attack occurs when a third party(the hacker) captures exchanging information between two users on the connection. Instead of information being shared between the server and interest surfer straightforwardly, the connection is broken by a foreign component.
The cybercriminal could then present their own version of a site to show to you, by incorporating their own messages that they want you to see. Anybody utilizing public Wi-Fi is particularly vulnerable to MITM attacks. Since the data sent is, for the most part, unencrypted, your data is just as public as the hotspot you are using. Hence making your information vulnerable and potentially causing undetected harm.
Advantages of using a MiFi Device
In summary, the advantages of using a MiFi Router are:
- MiFis are dedicated and reliable internet sources wherever you go
- Avoid using your mobile data allocated to monthly use
- Save your cell phone battery
- Safely tether a connection to a minimum of 10 devices at reasonable internet speed
- Continue working for extended periods without losing internet connection as you would using a public hotspot
- Work anywhere, watch sports and television anywhere, game anywhere.
Disadvantages: There are none! As long as you have a power supply, all you need is your device and you are set to surf the web.
Why you should use a MiFi
Now that we have the name figured out, the reasons why you should use MiFi are only beneficial. So, let’s dive into when they come in handy. But first, let’s acknowledge the way the world is changing, thanks to the Global pandemic; home offices have become the new normal along with suitable trends revolving around it.
In fact, home offices do not need to be limited to actually staying at home. With MiFi, you can create your home office anywhere in the world. Be it in the park, at the beach, somewhere in the desert, or even somewhere up a tree hut, in the middle of a rainforest.
MiFis are an ideal solution for Wireless Internet away from home. Several users can connect to it at the same time, even if it is for different purposes whether it be for work or entertainment. For example, the same MiFi device can be used for someone streaming a live football match, while another person is editing a document on Google Drive, while another person can be online shopping, it can all happen simultaneously. Devices that are supported by MiFi are smartphones, tablets including iPads and iPods, laptops, e-book readers, and portable gaming devices or any other WiFi-enabled device.
Find the best MiFi Device for you
Select the best device based on your needs: don't worry, we have broken down to simplify your selection process!
3G, 4G and 5G
3G, 4G or 5G? Your buying process should kick off with determining your specific needs, starting with the type of connection you require or desire in order to perform your internet activities on the go. Let's see which is the most suitable for your needs.
3G is the third generational broadband cellular network technology and in technical terms known as the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS). These networks facilitate data rates of 1Mbps. These connections are reliable and sufficient for basic use of the internet and were initially developed in order to accommodate the development of smartphone features as their functions advanced. They are suitable for browsing on the internet such as online shopping or or research, working online via Google Drive, sending and receiving emails, playing music and streaming playing low definition videos comfortably.
4G is the fourth generational broadband mobile network technology and in technical terms is known as Long term Evolution (LTE). It has increased the data rate to facilitate ten times the data rates than that of 3G, that is; 10mbps and a potential to reach 40mbps depending on your MiFi device. This rate of data enables comfortable High Definition Video Streaming with minimum glitches.
5G is also known as the fifth generational broadband mobile network technology and is based on a modern radio and core network infrastructure that boosts internet speeds to 1Gbps. These types of connections are suitable to run Virtual Reality Applications. 5G was developed to accommodate emerging trends on the tech market which require a heavyweight of bandwidth in order to function optimally. 5G connections are unfortunately limited to certain areas worldwide, however, if you were to make use of it, you would have access to the fastest internet available right now.
Roaming Abroad versus International Prepaid Sim Card
Depending on the country(es) you will visit, you will have to weigh up your options with network providers to decide whether you will subscribe to a data contract that you will pay for on a monthly basis or whether you will opt for a prepaid sim card in every country you will visit. Let’s explore the options:
1. International Roaming Data
Pros: This is the most convenient option in terms of setting up your MiFi device as it requires none. All you need to do is, turn on the international roaming setting on the MiFi device, and it will connect to the most viable network in the vicinity.
Cons: The downside, however, is that this option is most commonly the most expensive one. The reason behind this derives from the fact that network providers charge each other fees to make use of each other’s networks. This fee is then imposed on the individual user, that would be you. These charges have no limit as to how much they can cost given the fact that there is no competition, hence no incentive for them to charge low prices.
In fact, roaming is a niche that is exploited by network providers as one can end up in a sticky situation while travelling and have the urgent need to make use of their roaming data. Having said that, roaming data is the most convenient, yet is the least recommended due to inflated prices of its usability.
2. Prepaid Sim Card
Pros: Purchasing a prepaid sim card in the destination country is the most cost-effective option as it gives you all the benefits of using local networks such as having customer service at your fingertips when you need help and being able to top up your data bundle quickly and easily at the rate you choose to do so.
Cons: However, the downside of a prepaid sim card is that you would have to do your research in order to find the network with the best deals.
- You would not have access to using the sim card straight away.
- You would probably have to stand in a line right after your flight, depending on your mode of travel.
- You would need assistance setting it up and run the risk of facing a language barrier, again, depending on the country you find yourself in.
- You would probably have to do this for each country you visit.
3. International Roaming Data Plan
PROs: If you opt for an Internation Roaming Data Plan, you would need to predetermine your internet usage needs beforehand in order to get the best deal out of it. You can do so by discussing this with your network provider and be able to make the best decision based on your needs with professional advice.
- You would have immediate access to the use of data by simply activating your roaming data in the settings of your device.
- You pay a consistent price to have a consistent amount of data to use. Along with an overview thereof which you can monitor on the mobile network application that applies, depending on the network provider. Yet most networks these days have applications dedicated to user-friendliness and transparency of their data plan usage.
Cons: You might still have a glitchy connection considering your sim card is from your network provider at home.
- If something goes wrong, you will have to contact customer service in your home country which could incur extra costs on your behalf and you would have to take time zone differences into account when contacting your service provider.
4. So, what is the best option?
All in all, it can be stated that the most convenient option would be to sign up for an International Roaming Data Plan from your provider at home, given the fact that this will work in the majority of the countries you intend on visiting. Moreover, you eliminate the hassle of standing in lines at airports after a long flight and having to make yourself understood in a foreign language, simply to get connected to the internet. Preparing yourself to stay connected anywhere in the world beforehand, saves you from incurring unnecessary expenses in the long run, we are talking about both money and headaches.
WHAT IF I HAVE A LOCKED MOBILE?
But first, let’s clear up what it means to have a locked mobile phone and why it is locked in the first place. Well, it basically boils down to mobile networks selling mobile phones that are either locked to a specific network, country, or subscriber identity module (SIM card) to stop the phone user from using another network while on contract with the providing network.
Locked phones are sold to the user at discounted prices, usually on a contract basis with the aim of earning revenue through the provision of network services such as mobile data, mobile calls, and text messaging - in essence, a mobile phone plan. Locked phones can be used seamlessly when the user does not divert from using the internet service provider.
Therefore, when considering a MiFi device it is important to establish whether your phone is locked or unlocked as it determines the option you have in your buying process. Hence, we have picked out the best unlocked MiFi options especially for you.
TOP 3 UNLOCKED MIFI DEVICES
High End
NETGEAR NIGHTHAWK MR1100
The Netgear Nighthawk range is of the best MiFis on the market. This particular device makes use of 4G connections and boasts the best features within its price range.
Specifications:
- Size: 4.2" x 4.2" x 0.8"
- Weight: 8.5 ounces
- Battery life: Up to 11 hours
- Connections: Up to 20 simultaneous devices
- Coverage: Global
Mid range
Glocal Me G4
GlocaMe literally makes it their business to innovate devices for international travel. If you are willing to spend a little extra, you can't go wrong with the G4 Pro device. 4
Specifications:
- Size: 5.4" x 2.8" x 0.5"
- Weight: 6.7 ounces
- Battery life: Up to 15 hours
- Connections: Up to 5 simultaneous devices
- Coverage: 100+ countries
Budget
Huawei E5577
The Huawei E5577 hotspot can be used with any unlocked phone, this is a perfect budget option for on-the-go MiFi.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.75"x2.2"x0.56"
- Weight: 4 ounces
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours
- Connections: Up to 10 simultaneous devices
- Network: 4G
Best MiFi Brands
The best MiFi brands boast the latest technology with the most innovative features, robust hardware, and of course the fastest internet available.
5G by Qualcomm
If you are tech-savvy, then you probably want to learn more about how MiFi devices are built and why they can lay the claims to the high speeds of internet connection they provide. Well, hotspot technology is advancing faster than we can keep up with it. In fact, over the last four years, the industry has witnessed exponential innovation of wireless internet service.
With 5G connectivity emerging around the globe, tech experts were forced to develop fast enough to accommodate the fastest network ever. We won’t dive too deep into the complexities of the technology, but we will pay tribute to the innovators of such incredible technology that make our daily lives more convenient.
Opting for 5G means that you have access to utilizing the latest technology designed and built by Qualcomm, the pioneers and world’s leading wireless technology innovator. Qualcomm innovates technologies that transform entire industries and enable ones that are emerging.
Opting for a 5G MiFi Device will not limit you to 5G networks. All 5G devices will still be able to connect to 3G and 4G networks in regions where 5G connectivity is not available. In fact, if you had a mobile phone that only accommodates 4G networks, then connecting it to a 5G enabled MiFi device would give you access to the internet speed provided by 5G broadband technology.
5G versus Wi-Fi 6
5G and Wi-Fi 6 networks are complementary to each other rather than competitive. We will explain why as soon as we have cleared up the difference between the two:
5G Antenna
The 5G Antenna makes use of massive multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) antennas that send and receive more data simultaneously than any internet technology before its time. The size of the antennas are similar to that of 4G, however, they will transmit a higher frequency of the signal.
5G networks will provide 50 times more speed and 10 times more latency and 1000 times more capacity than 4G. This indicated that 5G is able to supply more devices and transmit more data and faster than ever was possible. If you wish to utilize the 5G network, you will need a 5 G-enabled device.
VS.
WiFi 6
WiFi 6 has been developed to reduce the issues associated with connecting multiple devices from the same network. Although it claims to have an even faster speed than 5G networks, that is not the initial purpose for which WiFi 6 was built. Instead, the main focus is to maintain a more stable connection with several devices feeding off the cellular data network along with a high-quality signal.
Wi-Fi 6 delivers 4 times the highest capacity and 75% lower latency. As mentioned before, Wi-Fi 6 is geared towards stabilizing the connection at higher speeds rather than increasing the potential speed of the connection.
The difference between WiFi 6 and 5G
However, WiFi primarily remains the connections that feed home-based networks to support multiple devices that are hungry for data like Smart Television, Gaming Consoles, streaming devices to name a few. Moreover, offices are more likely to utilize WiFi as they are in most cases bound to a specific location.
Whereas 5G is more dedicated to supplying mobile cellular data networks on the go such as Mi-Fi devices or even just mobile cellular connectivity to users on the go such as mobile phone users or travelers who seek a Dedicated Mobile WiFi source. As mentioned before, many industries utilize mobile networks more than we realize such as paramedics in Health Care, construction workers to communicate across large and loud construction sites, or Government agencies like the Police Force and the Fire Brigade. Below we have listed the best 5G MiFi Routers available in different price ranges.
TOP 3 5G MIFI DEVICES
High End
NETGEAR M5 MR5200
Netgear NightHawk 5G Mobile Hotspot Pro is considered the best device available at the moment with the latest features, the fastest signal and the widest coverage.
Specifications:
- Size: 4.1" x 4.1" x 0.82"
- Weight: 8.6oz
- Battery life: 12 hours
- Connections: 32
- Network: 5G
Mid range
INSEEGO 5G M2100
As the groundbreakers of the 5G MiFi devices, the Inseego M2000 offers the latest MiFi features in a robust case.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.9” x 2.2” x 0.7”
- Weight: 7.4
- Battery life: 12 hours
- Connections: 30
- Coverage: 5G
Budget
The main difference between theM2100 and the M2000 is that the M2100 enables more than double the amount of battery life before charging.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.9” x 2.2” x 0.70"
- Weight: 7.4oz
- Battery life: 11 hours
- Connections: 30
- Network: 5G
The fastest MiFi device for intense usage
Internet users looking for the fastest and most stable connection will have to be the gamers and streamers of 4K videos, as these internet activities transmit the largest volumes of data while running, therefore, the connection requires both optimal strength and speed in order to function sufficiently. Both of these features can only be found in the best of the best MiFi Routers in 2021.
Fastest MiFi for Streaming
Wanting the Fastest MiFi for Streaming is not such a tall order these days. As we mentioned before, technology keeps advancing to facilitate our first-world needs. Depending on the quality of streaming you prefer, the speed will vary accordingly. Hence, HD streaming merely requires a speed of 5Mbps. However, if you wish to stream higher quality videos, such as HDR or 4K, you will need at least 10Mbps to start with and for the optimum streaming experience, 40Mbps is recommended. Below, we have selected the best MiFi device dedicated to streaming high-quality videos. With this device, there is nothing you will have the best mobile streaming
Inseego 5G MiFi M2100
Streaming on the go is a luxury, lets admit it. Any router that reaches speeds above 40Mbps will do for streaming 4K, however if you want to guarantee you will have the best streaming quality, we recommend you go for the M2100 as it has a battery life of 24 hours.
- Size: 5.9” x 2.2” x 0.7”
- Weight: 7oz
- Battery life: 24 hours
- Connections: 30
- Network: 5G