Where can I buy a hotspot device?

Mobile hotspots keep your devices connected to the internet while on the move. These devices are portable, reliable, and easy to use. So, where can you buy a hotspot device?

If you regularly move and require a reliable internet connection, investing in a Wi-Fi hotspot device is a convenient way to keep your devices connected to the internet without draining your cellular data plan and phone’s battery. Additionally, standalone mobile hotspot devices allow fast and stable internet speeds and support more devices than phone-based hotspots. They are perfect for anyone who is always on the move and requires internet connectivity.

Generally, you can buy a hotspot device from any network provider. As a result, many people prefer adding a line of data for their hotspot from their current carrier, instead of creating a new account with a different wireless carrier.

How much is a hotspot?

A standalone mobile hotspot device is a compact and portable device that allows various devices to connect to the internet while you are out and about. These devices are small enough to fit in your pocket or backpack and support 3G, 4G, or 5G networks. There are various types of hotspot devices available in the market that serves multiple connectivity needs. They support the latest LTE CAT technology to provide high-speed internet and are easy to install. Some of them even double up as power banks while others come with wireless LAN ports.

Network carriers offer a wide variety of hotspot devices depending on your connectivity needs and budget. You may opt for the pay-as-you-go hotspot plan, or you can choose a monthly or yearly plan. For instance, if you only intend to use the hotspot for internet browsing and staying on top of work emails, you do not have to spend much of data. However, suppose you plan to use your device to stream high-quality videos and connect multiple devices. You have to purchase a sufficient hotspot data plan to avoid any additional data charges.

Furthermore, you may choose to buy the device separately and get a data-only SIM card for it specifically, with which you may opt to take out a long-term contract with your network carrier for one, 12, 18, 24, or 36 months. It is worth noting that long-term network contracts with your carrier may mean that you get the hotspot device for free.

Where can I purchase a hotspot?

Mobile hotspot devices are available from any network carrier, including Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, Alcatel, Vodafone, EE, Three, O2, and Virgin Mobile, among many others. Each of these carriers offers different hotspot devices, and varying hotspot data plans to meet their customers’ data needs. As a result, you must conduct thorough research to compare the different plans and devices available on the market.

A mobile hotspot device is practically worthless if your provider does not guarantee strong coverage, preferably 4G LTE network where you reside or plan to travel. We recommend using a coverage checker to pick a deal from a network that offers fast and reliable 4G or 5G coverage, depending on the areas where you want to use your hotspot. It is also worth checking for hotspot plans and devices from your current mobile network, as they are likely to offer existing customers with exclusive deals.

Mobile hotspot vs. tethering your phone

Aside from using a standalone hotspot device, you can also opt to tether your phone. Most modern smartphones have a wireless hotspot feature that allows it to share its internet with other devices, like tablets, laptops, and other phones, through Bluetooth, USB cables, and Wi-Fi. As a result, you can use your phone as a hotspot device for free. Although, some carriers require you to notify them when using your phone for tethering as they can enable or disable the feature from their end.

Similarly, when using a phone-based hotspot, you share your cellular data plan with other devices, meaning if you reach the maximum limit, the speed of the connection reduces drastically. Additionally, hotspots drain the battery life of phones relatively fast, making it difficult to perform other tasks.

As a result, if you do not want the potential disruption or limited bandwidth as experienced on smartphones, it is best to invest in a standalone hotspot device. These devices can support up to 32 connected devices compared to 5 devices when using phone-based hotspots. A dedicated hotspot device is perfect for frequent hotspot users as they run longer and free up your phone for taking calls, sending messages, and doing other work.

Conclusion

Just about every smartphone can act as a hotspot and share its internet connection with laptops, tablets, and other devices. However, if you are on the road often and require internet access, it is best to invest in a mobile hotspot as it provides a more reliable connection that the phone and its battery will last much longer. Likewise, the benefits of the device outweigh its cost and the hassle of carrying it everywhere you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a mobile hotspot device replace a home network?

You can use a mobile hotspot device as a home network if you are a light data user and do not perform heavy tasks like streaming videos.

Which carrier offers an unlimited hotspot?

All wireless providers provide hotspot data plans, but Verizon, AT&T, and Visible offer the most value of high-speed hotspot data.