MiFi is a small portable router that acts as a mobile hotspot for any of your devices (cellphone, computer, tablet, etc.). MiFi devices use 4G or 5G networks to connect to the internet. Instead of copper or fiber cabling like regular internet service, the device connects to a fixed wireless tower to bring you a portable internet connection.
The benefit of this device is that no matter where you are, you will always be able to connect to Wi-Fi instead of relying on cellular data. You can also use multiple devices with MiFi.
On the downside, internet speed with MiFi depends on the strength of your cellular data signal. Also, the more devices connected to a MiFi hotspot, the slower the speed.
MiFi is not the official word for a mobile hotspot device — it’s simply the brand name for Novatel’s pocket router. However, just as “Band-Aid” is the everyday word for an adhesive bandage, MiFi has become the everyday word for a portable hotspot device.
MiFi can refer to either “mobile Wi-Fi” or “my Wi-Fi,” depending on who you ask. Both references explain the use of this type of device.
MiFi is a type of device, whereas Wi-Fi is a type of technology. You use a MiFi device to access the internet (through Wi-Fi) when you are on the go.
We broke down the MiFi data plans’ starting costs and data ranges from AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon. We also included an example of a device cost if you were to purchase a MiFi device from the provider instead of paying for it monthly.
ProviderStarting price (for data)Data range Device cost AT&T$25/mo.20 – 100GB $459.99 T-Mobile$10/mo.2GB – 100GB $264.00 Verizon$20/mo. 15GB – 150GB$79.99Below we break down each provider’s data plans and provide a link to one of their devices. Keep in mind that there are multiple devices to choose from so you’ll have some options when it comes to paying monthly or purchasing a device.
AT&T offers four different data plans with the option to add additional data to each plan at $10 for 5GB.
Nighthawk M6 Pro Mobile Hotspot: $12.78/mo. or $459.99
Those with a T-Mobile plan automatically have access to unlimited 3G speeds for their mobile hotspot device. Add data to your plan to gain access to 5G speeds. Additionally, T-Mobile customers can get 50% off the Inseego 5G MiFi M2000 device when they add a line.
Inseego MiFi XPro 5G: $11/mo. (for 24 months) or $264
Verizon offers both monthly and prepaid data plans. If you know you will need access to mobile hotspots frequently, then choose one of the monthly plans. Otherwise, go with one of Verizon’s prepaid plans. The prepaid plans are attractive for lighter internet users because they do not require you to pay monthly for data.
Verizon Orbic Speed Mobile Hotspot: $2.22/mo. (for 36 months) or $79.99
If you’re looking for the cheapest monthly cost for a MiFi device, then the Verizon Orbic Speed Mobile Hotspot is a good choice. If you want a MiFi device with the fastest Wi-Fi technology, then go for the Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro.
What is a MiFi device?
A MiFi device is a small portable device that acts as your own personal internet hotspot for your devices. It relies on 4G or 5G networks to bring you internet wherever you are.
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How does MiFi work?
MiFi uses 4G or 5G networks to bring you on-the-go internet for your devices. It connects to nearby cell towers to bring you your internet connection.
How much does MiFi cost?
The full retail prices of MiFi are expensive, but if you opt to buy one through your 4G or 5G provider, then you can instead pay a monthly fee. Keep in mind you’ll also need to pay for a data plan when using a MiFi device, so take that cost into account when deciding if it’s right for you.
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Written by:
Ari HowardAssociate Writer, Broadband & Wireless Content
Ari Howard is a staff writer Healthline and spent two years as a writer on the Allconnect team. She specialized in broadband news and studies, particularly relating to internet access, digital safety, broadband-… Read more
Edited by:
Shannon UllmanEditor, Broadband Content
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Hello ratchy99,
Having access to 4G LTE Internet on the go is awesome! You are definitely asking a great question, here! We do have various options available for activating a 4G MiFi device to use at your leisure.
Purchasing a Mobile Broadband device at full retail pricing will give you the liberty of using the device on a month to month basis. Since you will purchasing the device without a 2 year discount; you can activate and deactivate the service line without any penalty or costs. This will have no impact on your current account.
Additionally, I want to mention that most of our Smartphones do have a Mobile Hotspot option! If you have a smartphone on your account you can contact us to access this feature, which will also allow you to connect your wifi capable devices while traveling, as well. The cost of this feature depends on the calling plan that you have. With our new Share Everything plans, this feature is included! http://bit.ly/L3WG2M
I trust this information will prove helpful in your decision making. Please let us know if you need anything further.
Thanks,
TanishaS_VZW
Follow us on Twitter @VZWSupport
For more 4g Mifi Deviceinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.