While mobile broadband deals may seem like a strange concept, they actually fulfil a frequent need for a large group of people who either don't have traditional broadband available in their area or temporarily need an internet solution.
Very simply (as you've most likely guessed from the name) mobile broadband is internet that you can take on the move. It most commonly comes as a hub that you can connect your phone, laptop and other gadgets to. However, there are a few different options available, including dongles, routers and SIM cards.
With PAYG options, contracts and big upfront spending plans all available, there is a lot to consider when investing in any mobile broadband deal.
And right now, mobile broadband has never been more useful. However, Mi-Fi isn't for everyone and anyone with a big data mobile phone deal or SIM only deal will likely find mobile broadband redundant thanks to tethering abilities and anyone needing it for their home will find 4G home broadband to be a better option.
That said, for parents trying to keep kids entertained on long trips, people trying to work on trains or people who simply travel abroad a lot, mobile broadband deals could well be a logical option for you.
Think Mi-Fi might be right for your needs? Or do you have questions about how the technology works? Well, this is the guide for you. Here, we've answered all of your popular questions about mobile broadband and revealed the very best deals on the market.
What is mobile broadband and how does it work?
Mobile broadband is, in essence, a portable internet router. It can come in multiple forms - dongles, hubs, SIM cards etc - and simply provides you reliable internet when you're out and about.
Unlike regular broadband deals, fibre broadband deals or even 4G home broadband plans, the major pro of these routers is the ability to take them on the move. It doesn't (in most cases) require a plug or any power and most options are small and portable.
Depending on what kind of option you choose, you can use it on multiple devices simultaneously or even get unlimited data on the move.
The main and most popular form is where a SIM card and a router are combined. The SIM card provides your internet access and the router boosts its power and range throughout your house.
Mobile broadband from Three:
Mobile broadband from EE:
Mobile broadband from O2:
Mobile broadband from Vodafone:
Can I get 5G Mi-Fi plans?
While 5G is still a relatively new concept, a number of networks have already jumped on it. As you can see in the deals we've highlighted above, EE and Vodafone now offer 5G Mi-Fi options.
However, with Three, getting access to 5G will mean upgrading to a home broadband plan. For what it's worth though, we do think that Three's 5G home broadband deals are among the best on the market today, so they're well worth taking a look at if you're desperate for 5G and you're not fussed about a solution that's completely portable (it needs to be plugged in to work).
How is Mi-Fi different from Wi-Fi?
There are a few key differences between the two. Firstly and most obviously, with broadband deals you need to have a landline and go through the set-up process. That means that broadband can only be installed in a home, office or stable location.
Mobile broadband on the other hand can be taken on the go and requires no set-up to get started. While Mi-Fi will remain faster than ADSL (slower broadband) in most cases, it will struggle to match full fibre packages in its consistency and speed. That said, mobile broadband packages can be quicker than entry level fibre broadband deals (particularly 5G mobile options), you'll just need to check what speeds are like where you live.
Overall though, if you can get a home broadband deal where you are, we would advise that as your main Wi-Fi connection due to its affordability, consistency and overall performance. Can't get it where you live? Mobile broadband could be the perfect option.
Are Mi-Fi routers faster than regular broadband?
Sadly, there isn't a 'yes' or 'no' answer to this one. Allow us to explain...
Lots of broadband deals are out there at the moment, and they range from painfully slow ADSL options right the way through to gigabit-capable and lightning fast deals. How quick is mobile broadband? Well, it falls somewhere in between.
Mobile broadband deals will easily outperform ADSL packages and will usually be quicker than basic fibre packages. However, they will also be outperformed by faster fibre and gigabit-capable options.
So, although it's true that some mobile broadband options will be quicker than your current home connection, they might also be considerably slower. If speed is a concern for you, then it's worth asking your chosen provider about whether they offer a minimum speed guarantee.
Still want more options? Then head to our main broadband deals guide for all the best tariffs out there right now.
