Best hotspot plans in 2020
You don't always have access to Wi-Fi when you need it.
There are times you may need to log on for work, send a few emails, or access something online while out and about. A mobile hotspot plan makes doing so a breeze.
With a simple pocket-sized device and an affordable mobile data plan you can hop on the internet on your computer, tablet, or any other connectable device no matter where you are.
Cheapest Sprint Hotspot Plans
Sprint vs Tello Price Comparison
Keep your Sprint phone, number & coverage: Save $540 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sprint | Sprint 4G LTE | Unltd* | $60/mo | $720/yr |
| Tello | Sprint 4G LTE | 4GB | $15/mo | $180/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $45/mo | $540/yr | |
Cheapest T-Mobile Hotspot Plans
T-Mobile vs US Mobile Price Comparison
Keep your T-Mobile phone, number & coverage: Save $600 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | T-Mobile 4G LTE | Unltd* | $70/mo | $840/yr |
| US Mobile | T-Mobile 4G LTE | 5GB | $20/mo | $240/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $50/mo | $600/yr | |
Cheapest AT&T Hotspot Plans
AT&T vs Red Pocket Mobile Price Comparison
Keep your AT&T phone, number & coverage: Save $420 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | AT&T 4G LTE | Unltd* | $75/mo | $900/yr |
| Red Pocket Mobile | AT&T 4G LTE | 20GB | $40/mo | $480/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $35/mo | $420/yr | |
Cheapest Verizon Hotspot Plans
Verizon vs US Mobile Price Comparison
Keep your Verizon phone, number & coverage: Save $720 per year
| Carrier | Network Coverage | 4G LTE Data | Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | Verizon 4G LTE | Unltd* | $80/mo | $960/yr |
| US Mobile | Verizon 4G LTE | 5GB | $20/mo | $240/yr |
| *Don't waste money on unlimited data - Avg. data usage is only 3-5GB | Savings | $60/mo | $720/yr | |
MVNOs Offer Big Coverage at Small Prices
One way to get a great deal is to go with a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), also known as alternative carriers. These companies sell service on the big four networks at better prices.
Other benefits of going with a MVNO include:
- No contracts.
- Custom packages - pay only for what you need.
- Solid customer service support.
- Bring-your-own-device prepaid mobile hotspot options.
Key Considerations for Mobile Hotspot Plans
In addition to price, the right mobile hotspot data plan for you depends on several factors:
1. Coverage
Mobile coverage used to be a big deal. Now, all of the major mobile networks boast very similar coverage areas. When you're shopping for a data only plan for your internet capable devices, you'll want to look at the LTE coverage in the locations where you spend the most time. If you travel and need mobile data usage during those times check those zip codes as well.
2. Speed
You're probably wondering just how fast your data only plan will be. The good news is that most carriers deliver a 4G LTE high-speed internet connection to enabled devices. This means that if your hotspot device or smartphone is capable of handling LTE speeds then you will have a high-speed connection. Of course as with your smartphone, your speeds will depend upon signal strength.
The caveat (sorry, sometimes there is one!) - read the fine print. Particularly with unlimited mobile hotspot plans, if you exceed your data allowance you may be throttled to 3G. As with any mobile monthly plan, whether for your cell phone or another device, know exactly what you're getting before you buy.
3. Data Allowance
Your mobile hotspot usage will inform your decision as to what data allowance you need to buy. Packages are available in various sizes to meet all data usage needs, from 500 MB to unlimited. Of course the smaller the data bucket the less you'll pay, and you can always add more data if necessary.
Best Unlimited Mobile Hotspot Data Plan: Tello
Mobile Hotspot vs. Tethering Your Phone
It's easy to confuse the two functions, but there is a difference:
Mobile Hotspot
- Connects to a cellular network to provide internet access to Wi-Fi compatible devices.
- Can be a separate device with its own SIM card or activated through a smartphone.
- Provides internet to multiple devices - phones, tablets, computers, etc.
- Includes its own separate data allowance.
Tethering
- Connects one computer or other devices to the internet via a USB cable to your smartphone.
- Does not support multiple connections.
- May count against your cell phone data allowance.
Note that whether you're tethering your phone or using it as a hotspot, the battery will drain more quickly than usual so be sure to bring a charger along.
Recap
The takeaway from all of this information is that MVNOs are changing the mobile data landscape. You have more options than ever for cheap plans that meet your needs.
If you prefer to consolidate all of your data needs into one package rather than purchasing separately, consider building your own cell phone plan.
Tablets can also act as a mobile hotspot, and activating them is similar to their cell phone counterpart. To get started, take a look at some of these tablet data plans.
