How to Choose a Mobile Hotspot Device for RV Mobile Internet (Jetpack/MiFi)

A mobile hotspot device - also known as Jetpacks or MiFis - are portable cellular devices intended to create a personal Wi-Fi network to get your devices online using a cellular data plan. They are offered with data plans on all of the major US cellular carriers - Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile.
They are a common option as part of an RV or boat mobile internet solution.
Join us for a quick overview of this type of cellular device, how it compares to smartphones or routers and the features to look for when selecting a hotspot device. From antennas ports, Ethernet, modems, and more.
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0:23 Intro
0:55 Common Hotspot Features
1:51 Different Names for Hotspots
2:40 Hotspot Pros
4:34 How to Choose a Hotspot
4:53 Carrier Capability
5:53 Entry Level Hotspots
6:33 What Modem is in a Hotspot
7:16 What Generation of WiFi Does the Hotspot Have
8:08 How Many Connected Devices Can it Support
8:24 Antenna Ports
9:36 Ethernet Ports
10:38 Hotspot Batteries
12:02 Data Plans
12:53 Hotspot Considerations
13:25 Wrap-Up
For more on selecting hotspot devices:
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For the pros & cons of smartphones, hotspots & routers:
www.rvmobileinternet.com/cell...
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[About MIRC]
The Mobile Internet Resource Center is dedicated to helping mobile travelers (RVers, boaters, nomads, etc.) keep connected!
This channel is part of the Mobile Internet Resource Center, and you'll find even MORE content (guides, news, courses, reviews, forums, gear and more) on our website: www.rvmobileinternet.com.
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The Mobile Internet Resource Center was founded by Cherie & Chris of Technomadia.com (full time tech nomads since 2006 by RV & boat).
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[@madimakes]

FINALLY a useful guide…thank you! Exactly what I was looking for.

[@ScottWalkerScEdD]

I have been using an ATT-specific Netgear MR1100 with a directional antenna (when needed). It's about 4 years old and the hardware is great. We're happy with it. In fact, it got a bit of seawater in it during a sea kayak trip, and once it dried out it worked fine again. However, what is missing from this video is a discussion on customer service. Oddly, getting it set up with an annual payment plan (about $300/year) took hours of phone calls and visits to several ATT stores. It seems no one at ATT knows what a mobile hotspot is. It's not in their scripted customer service training or something. At first, after we got it running with service, we were charged twice. That then took more time on hold and working with a customer service rep who had no clue what it was. They seemed to think it was a phone and wanted to sell us a phone plan (our phones are T-Mobile). This is likely because mobile wifi is not common here in the US. (They're very commonly used by train commuters in Europe and the UK.) Just some additional info.

[@Bigfishfun333]

I've seen MANY KZbin RV channels refer to THIS particular channel when they want to give their viewers expert advice! That's the best "reference" of all. Keep up the good work. You'll want to subscribe to this channel.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Awww. Thanks.

[@gdbryan]

Thank you for your very informative presentation😊

[@holgermessner851]

Greetings from Panama. I am using a solar wifi router with a SIM card for my surveillance system on my lot with 3 solar cameras. Absolutely perfect and it was only $160. Easy installation and setup. It runs 24/7 since I installed it 2 months ago. It would be easy to install it on an RV or motorhome.

[@miketel01]

I have the Netgear nighthawk m6 I’m pretty happy with it.

[@timf6916]

Good information

[@garryhammond3117]

Thanks fot your awesome cuntent!

[@MrtrenchTrucker]

Do you guys have more in-depth videos on how to pair play USB Mobile Hotspot with the computer, and then pass the internet through the computer via Ethernet cable to a Wi-Fi router?

[@raba650]

I took with me a cudy model in 2022 to Mexico. I, however, made the mistake to not buy an internet plan in the U.S. before leaving & instead I used a local sim card. I thought it was weird that for some reason, I was running out of gigs very fast with normal usage. So in order to avoid any type of scheming, I'll just get a plan before I leave the U.S. next time. Also, I learned that T-Mobile uses the same towers as one of the popular 4g plans in México so in terms of the signal, I had great signal with a cudy device since it had like 6 antennas.

[@SoItGoesCAL34]

Thanks! Interesting video. Looking good!

[@AlexChis88]

Hi Cherie, if you have the posibility can you do a short review and comparison of the Acer Connect ENDURO M3 5G Mobile Wi-Fi. I would like to know how it would stack up against a Netgear for example as they are very expensive in my country. Keep it up!

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

This looks like an interesting device - however it's not available in the US (and we are focused on the US market only - keeps us busy enough).

[@Diana-sr5ub]

I have watched a few of your video’s but am unsure if you are full time RVers. My question to you if you are full time RVers is what do you think on RV parks and some over night rv spots wifi internet? One person said that they have been full time for several years and feel like the WiFi in rv parks is improving. Your thoughts on this?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

The founders of MIRC (Chris & Cherie) have been full time RVers and boaters for 18 years now. Campground and marina Wi-Fi is typically pretty bad - but it has indeed been improving a lot in some places that have made the investment in connectivity.

[@unknownwolf8555]

I ordered me Tmobile home internet it coming today since my current provider UScellular wouldn't let me upgrade home internet to 5G

[@EarlBalentine]

My T-Mobile Home Network Gateway is only used in our RV when we travel the southwest camping. We usually camp one week out of each month. We need internet service to watch Netflix. My data plan usage is around 25gig per month when camping for a week. The TM Gateway is about $30 per month and will go up to $35 per month but I keep hearing that TM maybe cutting this roaming use off because it was only meet for home use. Would the TM Jetpack be a better choice for us? We also have 2 iPhone with TM and both have 40gig Hotspot on them. Looking for an alternative, maybe a cheap cellular router?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Should T-Mobile enforce fixed location on the home internet plan - there are many other options out there. We recently did a live broadcast going over some of them: kzbin.infokXG-gJixMts

[@MP-OutdoorAdventures]

Great information! I boutght a weboost drive reach and would like to pair a mobile hotspot to extend the wifi range. Do I need to pay for activation and data plan using the mobile hotspot? Also, what hotspot unit you recommend for AT&T?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Cellular boosters can help (some, not much) with cellular data signal - not Wi-Fi range. And yes, you need a data plan to use a cellular mobile hotspot device - it is a cellular device. Here's our guide, with featured options: www.rvmobileinternet.com/hotspots

[@MP-OutdoorAdventures]

Thank you so much for quick reply...I really appreciate it. I want to avoid paying for hotspot plan through AT&T is there a way I can convert cellular to wifi without paying for the hotspot service? I already have unlimited data/hotspot plan with AT&T so I don't really want to spend more money if I can avoid it.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

You can hotspot off your phone and use your existing data. But if you want to use another device as your hotspot, you'll need a dedicated data plan for it.

[@KageShi]

Might I inform you of a product called an "industrial cellular router". They are easy to install via hardware to power and external antennas you mount in a high location. Many have WiFi and most all have Wired connections to connect the rest of your network hardware. They are designed for vibration and temperature swings more so than normal consumer devices. Take care.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

We track, test and report on many mobile cellular routers as well.. here's our guide to selecting them www.rvmobileinternet.com/routers

[@KageShi]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter Thanks but I am more a power user than a normal consumer, I was informing you there is an entire level of industrial appliance for network connectivity. Units designed to be exposed to moisture, vibration, dust all thile accepting 9-48v DC. Had one way back ago that took 4 sim cards of any carrier and mashed all connections into one. As signal comes and goes none of the devices notice long as one sim still has service. Mine is useless now as it was only 3g however you can get them in 4g/5g models for under $300.

[@MrtrenchTrucker]

I actually just got an Inseego hotspot with Calyx. It's a 5g router on T-Mobiles network. Truly unlimited data and cheaper than anything T-Mobile offers with the tax discount. I plan on using it in my semi OTR and at home with my wifi router via ethernet port. Eventually I want to modd it to access the 4x4 MIMO antennas. Only downside is no access to antennas on the outside.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Calyx is a great plan and Miffing X Pro is a great mobile hotspot device. Here's our information on it: rvmobileinternet.com/nonprofit

[@MrtrenchTrucker]

@MobileInternetResourceCenter I actually did my research on you're videos and website! Even put in the discount code for am extra month! Thanks for the amazing videos! So far so good! Calyx is working as advertised. Once I get everything set up in the RV with my current wifi router via Ethernet and external antennas I'll let you know but quick basic testing is showing about 50ms ping, about half a gig down, and 20-50mbps up. Would be nice if the upload speed were faster but modified external 4x4 antennas will fix that.

[@SoItGoesCAL34]

Can I use a cellphone exclusively as a hotspot? I have an unlimited hotspot plan and would like to use a phone I never us and have it be the hotspot. Can I keep it plugged in to usb for power?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our guide on using different types of cellular devices - including smartphones: www.rvmobileinternet.com/cellular-devices - most smartphone plans have caps on hotspot data.

[@bluebaybonaire-boatrentals7191]

Can you use this hotspot in motion (when driving)? To use google maps?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Yes, hotspots can be used in motion - as long as there is solid cellular signal it can receive.

[@yungpthegreat]

I’m trying to go out and I need a portable Wi-Fi what would you recommend?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

It's impossible for us to recommend a solution - you really need to assess your unique mobile internet needs against the options out there. You can start here: www.rvmobileinternet.com/getting-started

[@yungpthegreat]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter how about for streaming irl content what can I use?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

You'll find our guide to TV & movie streaming within the link provided. If you're one of our members, our team will be happy to assist you with questions in our forums.

[@LightandDark92]

I use my phone as router using the tethering usb. Actually i am going to change it, which one smartphone would you suggest me to buy? i was thinking between iphone 15 pro and asus rog 8 pro

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Phones are so much a personal preference thing between size, camera, OS, etc. Here's our member guide with some considerations: www.rvmobileinternet.com/guides/smartphone-selection-tips/

[@LightandDark92]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter i don't have preferences. I care only about performances that could affect mainly - in this case - the internet speed etc (excluding the operator in self).

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Then focus on the modem inside and terms of your data plan for hotspot usage.

[@robbdenisedrellich7324]

I see Amazon has a 8800l version for like $40. Are they worth it?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

It's a discontinued obsolete device - here's our review of it: www.rvmobileinternet.com/8800l

[@DZ_RV]

I've had many mobile hotspots, but I much prefer my home internet router. All of the major carriers are offering them for around $100. They plug into a 120v circuit, but most actually run on 12 volts. I wish carriers would offer them as an option with mobile data plans, and can't quite figure out why they don't. I suspect they're not aware of the desire. I'll bet the first carrier that pilots one, will be surprised by the demand.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

The home internet cellular services are only offered in areas where the carriers have excess capacity to meet the demand. Mobile data users are constantly moving in and out of areas with and without capacity - thus the different plan offerings.

[@DZ_RV]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter Please note that I said: "as an option with mobile data plans"

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Until the carriers enforce their terms of service about the fixed location requirement for home internet plans - there's probably little market for them to sell limited mobile data plans (on any device) when you can get unlimited for $30-60/mo.

[@Provocateur3]

What does Calyx call their device?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Calyx currently has 3 devices depending on your Membership Level. You can get more details here: www.rvmobileinternet.com/gear/sprint-non-profit-unlimited/

[@Provocateur3]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter: Awesome. Thanks much.

[@Unplugged704]

Just want to make sure I understand. - So my iPhone with ATT cell service. - mobile hotspot device, connects to my phone’s cell/data service and then broadcasts wifi signals - other iPhones can then connect to the hotspot device and have wifi service. Is that right? Last year I was in Thailand, in a city with poor cell service, so I had no phone signal/service. A friend had one of these devices, and he allowed me to connect to it. He told me I now had wifi service.. I was confused because we were damn out in the boonies 😂😂

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

No, mobile hotspot devices do not connect to your phone's service. They have their own SIM card / data plan and connects to your cellular carrier as a source of internet.

[@Unplugged704]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter Oh ok. But it broadcasts wifi? Meaning anyone around me can connect to it as a wifi device..?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Anyone with the SSID and password.

[@schmonsequences]

I use the Inseego M2000 from T-Mobile. Complete garbage.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

That's now considered an older device for T-Mobile's network - older modem, and lacks Ethernet and antenna ports.

[@andyackerman7123]

I bought the $1k netgear device, and put it on t mobile… it’s very hit and miss, and I often reach the data caps. You get NOTHING after you reach your cap. Also, I bought netgears antenna for it… it doesn’t make a difference in the signal, at all.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Data caps are a function of your data plan, not the device.

[@andyackerman7123]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter correct. I didn’t make that claim

[@InssiAjaton]

I have used one now for several years. The big + for me to choose it was the 5G speed. My other prior hot spots (for use in European travel) were limited to 4G - or the very first one even to 3G. The minus for this Inseego device has been frequent running the battery down and shut off. That happened at home, where I used to get 0 to 1 bar field. Nowadays I seem to get mostly 2 bars. But the real solution to the battery issue has been to turn the Inseego off when I am home, using my cable Internet. However, the hot spot was, after starting to get the 2 bars signal, faster than my cable, until I recently upgraded my cable contract. Now the Inseego saves my day, whenever the cable is down for any reason.

[@Assassin1959]

Why get a hotspot when T-Mobile has the Home Wife for $50 per month and unlimited download?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

There are several reasons why that might not work for some - including it's not authorized for mobility (not currently enforced), and the Gateway device is large and not portable. And many nomads need more options than just T-Mobile on the road.

[@davemac521]

More advice on Mobile Internet from KZbinrs. Does anyone remember when all these KZbinrs recommended NOMAD Internet. Do your own research. Don't trust KZbinrs who may or may not get kickbacks!

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

The Mobile Internet Resource Center was founded 10 years ago with a goal of being an unbiased educational resource - we are primarily funded by our premium members so that we don't have to chase affiliate kickbacks or depend on them. Our goal is not to recommend anything in particular, but instead give our audience the tools to make informed decisions for their unique needs.

[@h3video1ravenshadow]

Inseego MiFi X PRO 5G UW verizon hotspot 2 years payed I want to pay for 2 years of it is it unlimited (unlimited high speed) is there a monthly data cap? is it truly unlimited? can I download 2 50 to 100 gb games or back up years of cloud storage to my machene and still have unlimated data for the month whats the speed test on it download and upload how is it for gaming on the go how is it naton wide us and global I used to use the ACP afordible connectivity program for internet service but that might be ending later 2024 its 3/21/2024

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

The device purchase and plan cost are separate. Plans are monthly, and have a data cap. Here's our guide to the current top pick plans: www.rvmobileinternet.com/planpicks Performance will vary widely depending on many factors, here's our guide to that: www.rvmobileinternet.com/performance