Mifi vs. WI-Fi – Which performs Better

Both Wi-Fi and Mi-Fi provide wireless internet connectivity, the major difference is that Wi-Fi utilizes a fixed hotspot while Mi-Fi is a portable hotspot.

Internet connectivity has enabled easy access to information on a global basis; research has been simplified given that some of the most relevant information are digitized. The development of artificial intelligence has propelled the world to greater lengths when it comes to problem-solving not to forget the current wave of smart homes, where applications like Siri and Alexa can get dinner going as you get off work.

The above can only be made possible with the internet lack of which the world is one dark place, interesting don’t you think. Well, if you need to stay updated you have to ensure that you have internet connectivity everywhere you go, the reason we have the Mifi, which can also be referred to as the mobile Wi-Fi.

The latter will ensure that you stay connected as you travel or even when having lunch or dinner at a cafeteria. We then have Wi-Fi, a reliable and affordable way of accessing internet connectivity for the office, and homeowners. To understand more about Mifi and Wi-Fi below is a comprehensive guide.

What are the differences between the Mifi and Wi-Fi?

Mifi vs. Wi-Fi – How do they compare?

Data speeds

When you talk about Wi-Fi the first thing that comes to mind is a router, take for example when you enter a home, the first thing you would ask is whether there is Wi-Fi, that is assuming there is a router. So if we are to talk of the Wi-Fi speeds from a router point of view, then you can expect it to be considerably high, meaning high upload and download speeds.

For the Mifi things are a little bit different, for one it can work exceptionally well but don’t expect the speeds to be as high when compared to using WiFi on routers. Wi-Fi speeds can be affected because of the high number of devices connected, or if most of the connected devices are engaging the bandwidth-intensive applications or when it is blocked by walls or placed close to an electronic device.

So when it comes to Data speeds, Wi-Fi is the best because it is fast and you can even enhance the speeds using a range extender.

Connected Devices

The capacity of a Mifi device and Wi-Fi are significantly different with Mifi accommodating only 10 devices. Wi-Fi, on the other hand, can cater to about 200 devices or more, simultaneously and users even have the option of prioritizing some of the devices in their network to be provided with faster internet signals.

Wi-Fi is, therefore, the better option, to use at home or in the office because it will allow you to connect many devices when compared to Mifi, what’s more, is that it is customizable when compared to Mifi.

Portability

Wi-Fi is not portable when accessed from a router, but very portable when accessed from a Mifi device. The Mifi, which is at times known as the pocket Mifi, is a small device with the provider’s sim card that allows connectivity in certain geographical areas, where the service providers are established, meaning that you could be restricted to use if you cross the geographical boundary.

Wi-Fi, on the other hand, comes with limits and can only offer internet speeds up to a specific distance, meaning that if you move out of that zone, you will be offline. Mifi in this case is the better unit because you can use it anywhere for as long you are within the service provider’s coverage area.

Mifi vs. Wi-Fi – A comparison overview

Mifi Overview

Mifi has been configured to get access into the 3G, 4G and 5G mobile phone networks and it is through this connection that it builds a mini wireless broadband hotspot or cloud. The latter then allows internet to be shared, between the various internet-enabled devices.

Now one thing that you have to realize though is that Mifi isn’t cheap at least when compared to Wi-Fi and here we are not talking about the hardware but the internet packages. But if you comb the markets you will definitely find a good 30-day plan with reliable internet speeds.

Pros

• Can accommodate up to 10 devices
• Allows users to have an internet connection while being mobile
• Users can change the sim cards of service providers when in a foreign country
• Compact and portable

Cons

• Initial installation costs are high
• Some are limited to the carriers sim card and service

Wi-Fi Overview

Wi-Fi is a wireless IEEE 802.11 standard and can be used on most devices, which work as hotspots. Depending on the device that you are using Wi-Fi offers faster internet speeds, and can suffice different devices simultaneously. Whichever, device that you decide to use, to get your Wi-Fi signals you will be able to know the speeds by conducting a speed test using the relevant application.

Routers that are known to use Wi-Fi work best when placed in open spaces, and even better is that you can enhance their coverage using the range extenders.

Pros 

• Offers a fast and secure connection
• Connects a large number of devices, over 200
• Enables productivity
• Wi-Fi is scalable

Cons

• Power dependent
• Can be costly if user has to purchase the repeaters and range extenders

Verdict: So, which one is better-Mifi or Wi-Fi?

Mi-Fi is better because it works just as Wi-Fi but it is more portable with the relevant security features.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use Mifi for home internet?

Yes, you can use but you must know that it will be more expensive than when compared to the home broadband.

2. How can I boost my home Wi-Fi?

Ensure that your Wi-Fi device is exposed, but away from other electronic devices, and you can also use a less crowded wireless channel.