Rob has 15+ years experience running price comparison & review websites that empower consumers to find the cheapest cell phone services, cell phone deals, home phone, and internet providers available. He has been published in Forbes, US News, Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, Inc.
MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.
A MiFi service plan is the perfect solution for streaming video, gaming or keeping up with work while away from home.
You can connect tablets, laptops, and more. If you're looking to save money on your data only plan you're in the right place.
Keep reading to find out how to get better prices without sacrificing your reliable network.
This Tello data only plan includes 1GB data for only $6 per month. Tello internet plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Tello review
This US Mobile data only plan includes 2GB data for only $10 per month. US Mobile internet plans offers wireless coverage on the Verizon & T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networks. Read US Mobile review
This Boost Mobile data only plan includes 5GB data for only $5 per month. Boost Mobile internet plans offers wireless coverage on the AT&T & T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networks. Read Boost Mobile review
This Mint Mobile data only plan includes 15GB data for only $20 per month. Mint Mobile internet plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Mint Mobile review
With a Mobile Virtual Network Operator, you'll find cheap data only plans for tablets and other mobile gadgets.
There's a variety of prepaid data plans, so you'll find something suitable for everyone, whether it's for watching Netflix, checking emails, or browsing the internet.
MiFi plans can give you the confidence that when you're away from home, you'll have access to the internet when you need it with connected devices. Whether you get unlimited data or set data, you can stop the worry at every billing cycle as prices are affordable for all budgets.
Low cost: No more expensive bills. You could save up to $600 on your plan with low-cost carriers.
Good coverage: Depending on your location, you'll get the nationwide coverage you're used to, as MVNOs operate on the same major wireless networks.
No contracts: There's no need to be locked to one network or carrier, with prepaid plans, there's no long-term commitment.
Bring your own device: If you love your MiFi device, you don't have to upgrade your mobile hotspot device, just bring your current one with you.
Video streaming: Get access to nationwide 4G LTE data speeds and 5G coverage where it's available, making video streaming and browsing the internet easy.
Mobile hotspot: A data only plan lets you connect to the internet with compatible devices when traveling.
Buy online: Get your MiFi plan sent directly to your door. Simply pick your plan online, and the SIM card is sent to you with easy activation instructions.
You'll want to take a few things into consideration aside from pricing when choosing a mobile hotspot plan. This helps ensure you get the best experience possible from your equipment and service.
Coverage: All three major networks have extensive nationwide coverage. Still, each one features better signal strength in certain areas. Be sure to check any areas you travel to as well since the whole point of MiFi is to have the internet on the go.
Speeds: It's safe to say most of the time, your Wi-Fi hotspot will get 4G LTE data. The best MVNO plans include 5G network coverage at no extra charge. That means you'll get 5G hotspot speeds where currently available. Remember that you need a 5G MiFi or other 5G data-only device to get those speeds.
Data allowance: With a smaller carrier, you can easily avoid overpaying for data you won't use. Their plans offer data tiers to fit virtually anyone's needs. You'll want to read the fine print if you choose an unlimited plan. Even unlimited data-only plans typically include a high-speed data cap. Once you reach it, your internet service may be slowed to 2G or 3G speeds.
Plan and device compatibility: Some plans are designed for smartphones rather than mobile hotspot use. You can check hotspot compatibility with your chosen carrier the same way you check phone compatibility. This is usually done by entering the IMEI (your device's identifying number) into the provider's website.
You may be wondering why you'd want a whole separate device when most modern smartphones have a mobile hotspot feature. The two do have a couple noteworthy differences.
MiFi hotspot
Features a freestanding device that usually runs on your choice of battery or power cord
Requires its own data only SIM card
Has its own monthly plan with dedicated data allotment
Tethering
May use your phone plan's data
Can be hard on your phone's battery life
Avoids the need to carry a separate device with you
How to switch to a cheap MiFi plan
Switching mobile hotspot plans is simpler than ever. Just follow these easy steps.
Pick a plan. Whether you want strong 5G hotspot coverage or need an unlimited data plan, there's something to fit everyone.
Prepare to make the switch. Ensure your current bill is paid off and your MiFi is unlocked for use with another carrier.
Set up your new plan. If you're going to bring your own device, you'll get a data-only SIM card in the mail or at a store. Just pop it into your Wi-Fi device and follow the carrier's instructions to activate your plan.
How we picked the best MiFi plans
MoneySavingPro reviewed the best value MiFi plans available and ranked them based on various factors.
The most important factor we considered was the price of each plan in comparison to other similar plans available in the market. We also evaluated data limits, network coverage, perks, customer feedback, and overall service quality.
We regularly monitor the market to keep track of new products and plan changes offered by carriers. This list is updated at least once a month, or more frequently as necessary.
MiFi plans FAQs
Who has the best MiFi service?
You'll find the best value MiFi plans from Tello, US Mobile, and Mint Mobile.
What is the cheapest MiFi plan?
Tello and US Mobile offer the cheapest MiFi data plans starting at just $6 per month.
Recap: What is the best MiFi plan?
Now that data only plans are cheaper than ever, there's no need to stick with the major carriers.
Choose from a wide variety of mobile hotspot plans that run on the AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon networks.
Switching is easy; you can bring your MiFi device to your new carrier. Compare data only plans to find the best fit for your data usage and budget.
Even better, save money on all your wireless needs by getting your cell phone plan from a cheaper carrier too.
