Smartphone? Hotspot? Router? - Which is Best for Mobile Internet using Cellular Data?

Cellular data is a popular choice for RVers and boaters for online mobile connectivity. To use cellular data you need a device that can share a cellular connection via Wi-Fi, USB, or Ethernet.
The basic options include devices that are purpose-built for this including mobile hotspot devices (also known as a Jetpack or MiFi) and cellular embedded routers - or hot spotting off a smartphone, or using a cellular enabled tablet.
What are the advantages and drawbacks of each? That's what this video covers!
For our companion guide to this video:
www.rvmobileinternet.com/guid...
For getting started with cellular based mobile internet:
www.rvmobileinternet.com/cell...
For getting started with selecting your mobile internet setup:
www.rvmobileinternet.com/gett...
For more information on selecting cellular gear:
Smartphones & Tablets: www.rvmobileinternet.com/smar...
Mobile Hotspots: www.rvmobileinternet.com/hots...
Cellular Routers: www.rvmobileinternet.com/routers
Top Pick Data Plans: www.rvmobileinternet.com/data...
0:00 Intro
0:45 Hotspotting off Smartphones
6:45 Cellular Embedded Tablets
8:30 Mobile Hotspot Devices - Jetpacks & MiFi
12:51 Cellular Embedded Routers
18:04 Wrapping It Up
--------------------------------
The Mobile Internet Resource Center is dedicated to helping mobile travelers (RVers, cruisers, 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.mobileinternetinfo.com.
We are funded by our premium members, who allow us to make this niche topic our focus and offer a ton of free content (like this channel) to the public! Our members get a bunch of extra access to our Q&A forums, in-depth guides, product reviews, courses, insider tips and webinars.
Interested in helping keep us funded to continue creating content? Want to go deeper? Want more interactive guidance?
Consider becoming a member at: www.mobileinternetinfo.com/mem...
The Mobile Internet Resource Center is brought to you by Two Steps Beyond LLC, the consultancy run by Cherie & Chris of Technomadia.com (full time tech nomads since 2006 by RV & boat).
© Two Steps Beyond LLC 2021
See our website for our full terms of use disclaimer:
www.rvmobileinternet.com/term...
AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and weBoost partnership program. We earn from qualifying purchases on Amazon and weBoost. All other links are not affiliate links - we forgo affiliate relationships whenever possible, and instead ask vendors to pass along bigger savings to our premium members.

[@yopoppy3201]

We have learned more in two days of watching this woman then four years of college. Seriously, she's amazing. 💜😊

[@RotaryTeamVincent]

Yes this couple is a great resource.

[@justfollowthatvan6721]

True that!!

[@rootcanal7188]

Puppy, in case you didn't notice, there is a man that works with her

[@AN-fg4cd]

😂❤

[@david_linares]

Really glad this video don’t wave a dislike. She does an amazing explanation.

[@midwestdad133]

I have an iPhone 6 that I am using with Visible for the unlimited mobile hotspot and the way I found to keep the hotspot “active” all the time is to connect an Amazon echo speaker to it as that requires a constant internet connection it keeps the iPhone hotspot active all the time. I just took it camping last weekend and all weekend I was able to connect to it with various devices without ever having to turn the hotspot off and back on again.

[@JohnnyC10071959]

You need a new phone

[@midwestdad133]

@@JohnnyC10071959 I didn’t clarify the iPhone 6 is my old phone I signed up with Visible for as a backup connection/internet option. My daily phone is an iPhone 11 Pro on AT&T but it has a 15GB monthly hotspot cap.

[@RosemaryVercande]

ABSOLUTELY AWESOME INFORMATION!! I got more useable information in less than 5 minutes explaining hot spots than almost an hour in other vids. Thank You!! Only issue I had, not being a boater, was the changing shore line background, kind of motion sick, but otherwise I will watch it again!!!

[@RadioWinnerGuy]

She explained the iOS device hotspot the exact way I do. They do fall asleep and u have to fiddle with it. I’ve found when it falls asleep just go back to ur personal hotspot screen and it wakes it back up.

[@SoItGoesCAL34]

Thanks again for putting this uptodate information out there. You folks do a great job. I can't afford to become a member but I watch the ads (muted, of course) to give you a bit of support. Good job, guys

[@saffirechanning7286]

You did an EXCELLENT job explaining the various types of Internet connections in this video! As for me, I just use a mobile hotspot device in my home, which I bought from my cell phone carrier, Metro by T-Mobile. Since I use it for Internet access by myself, it suits my Internet connection needs just fine. My cell phone and Internet services are 'bundled' together every month. Thanks again for explaining everything about various Internet connections!

[@louiswarmoth7354]

I use the exact same setup as you and have been completely satisfied with the arrangement. I have two hot spot devices in addition to the small amount of data available on my cellular phone. Even though I could use the devices for television viewing, I’ve not turned my TVs on in months to give you an idea how much I use my iPad for entertainment. It still cost less than my previous cable and separate cellular bills did. I was very dissatisfied with my Comcast cable service. Free at last, free at last ! I’ve never been happier to kick anyone or anything to the curb in my life…plus I can take them with me thus eliminating the need to use a public wi-fi. Win, win.

[@rayverhelst685]

For those that need a consistent bandwidth pipe, you may want to recommend bonding multiple cellular accounts/sim chips into a single router. The ability to balance connectivity between 2 (or more) accounts from different carriers is a good way to build a consistent bandwidth pipe for both downloading, and more importantly, uploading data. This is critical for streaming. Even the dedicated single chip hotspots still have regular drop-outs that often happen at the most inconvenient times.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Bonding was mentioned in this overview video, we go deeper in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYK0kqCbmaxnec0 and this guide: www.rvmobileinternet.com/bonding

[@alagappanteledata]

Oh What a good presentation…In depth analysis…applicable globally….Amazing ….Cheers!!!

[@4pauledouglas]

Oh yes, well organized and professionally communicated ! Great job!👌🏼👍

[@dannggg]

First time viewer because I had a question about this and she answered my video. Great video. Straight to the point.

[@gordonolson1904]

Thanks for the overview. I just got back from a trip where I thought the wi-fi connection would be better than it was. I liked the step-level breakdown of usages to help me decide where I'm at and what the best devices would be for the coverage needed. 👍

[@celestepalm6949]

Thank you so much!!! I thought I'd have to wait until Starlink was fully operational nationwide but now I more fully understand what options are actually out there now, thanks to you!

[@BenBike]

You are truly a hero, thanks so much for compiling all this info into one easy to understand source! It's amazing 😁

[@sailme2day]

just wow , this video is the best run down of remote and mobile options :)

[@rvingitup]

I loved the great overview, with positives and negatives on each. This was helpful.

[@JohnnyC10071959]

Y'all provide a great service. I consider myself very technical (a BSEE and a PhD in mathematics (field theory)). I've learned some good stuff from y'all

[@criselda.soyosa]

So well explained and wonderfully paced. Thanks for the great content!

[@ThatsJustMyBabyDaddy]

As a single person, my 40 gig mobile hotspot plan is all I need. Lucky me!

[@miranda_imp]

Thank you, I generally use my phone as a hotspot when away from home in the RV. Recently I’ve been looking towards upgrading to something with the option of an external Ariel. This video has given me something to think about, and was very informative giving both the pros and cons. 👍

[@jonifejes6815]

We plan to start RV travel this summer - you are a live saver ❤❤❤❤

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Welcome.. here's our all of our getting started content: www.rvmobileinternet.com/getting-started

[@timhager6817]

Great vid! Thanks for passing on your knowledge. Very clear and educational. Super job

[@mariafahey4124]

Suffice Channing - thankyou for your comments about internet connections, I have been looking for the same thing

[@richardcassar9717]

Great video, very informative, been using a hotspot from my phone and its just not quite good enough, so through your advice I'll be getting a mobile hotspot.

[@rickslife]

Beautiful background! Great informative video.

[@davidchilders2150]

A great, thorough presentation! Thanks!

[@venkatesang.v.4230]

Thanks dear, it was exhaustive and excellent which no one else could've done. Kudos

[@dylangjones3721]

I really appreciate your videos! Very insightful and well done!

[@saywhatsaywhat]

Amazingly thoroughly explained Vlog! Thanks🤩👍🏾👏🏾

[@Lauralietx]

Great Video!!! Easy to understand 😀 Blessed Travels…….

[@paulkurf3132]

Extremely helpful and so well done! Learning a lot.

[@lauragail1313]

No boat traffic! You must be in timbuktu. Great info. Thank you!

[@michaelpeters5056]

Great overview, thanks for posting.

[@keyplayer5]

Thanks ....that was a great stockpile of information. It helped me to understand what I will be looking for.

[@ChaosinKC]

OMG! I think I get it. Going to buy adaptor & cable now Fingers crossed!

[@Preech.Avangelist777]

Again another freaking classic Thank you so much.... So informative.... I do like a mobile hotspot I've been with T-Mobile since they've been voice stream lol But I have a MetroPCS hotspot line as well

[@yethufaku3505]

wow 1 video for me. and my wi-fi is 10X better. thank you so much🥰

[@Null94]

this was such a well presented and informative video. Glad I found this, thanks!

[@valeriellauke2179]

just a note guys.. I love yu 2 and appreciate you. I am on youtube 20 x a day and i saw this vid only today and it is a week old. today is june 5 2021.

[@rickwheeler7480]

Always great info I can understant. TY

[@jonifejes6815]

I need to watch all of your videos

[@anngentle9371]

This in incredibly helpful, thank you!

[@Davidcentaur]

Straight to the point thank you very informative

[@Lotuslaful]

Excellent! Thank you So helpful! Blessed New Year to you all ; two and four leggeds:)!

[@karenholmes2764]

Very helpful information. Thank you!

[@louiswarmoth7354]

Thanks for enlightening us about the options available. I’m surprised more people aren’t dropping their cable companies and using hot spots at home. I did several months ago and have been delighted. The best part was me getting to kick Comcast in the cajonies !

[@SummerAdventures]

Why would I want to drop our cable company for a hot spot at home?

[@louiswarmoth7354]

@@SummerAdventures Cheaper

[@SummerAdventures]

@@louiswarmoth7354 If I find a hotspot that gives me like for like service at a cheaper price I'll sign up in a heartbeat.

[@louiswarmoth7354]

@@SummerAdventures Check any of your major cellular companies. Mines with T-Mobile. I don’t own a computer because I don’t need all one can do but I use an iPad and do anything I need to do…all with a hotspot. What’s more you can take it with you, if need be, no joining other wi-fi networks. I started with a hot spot on my cellphone and the data was insufficient so I got a separate device, about the size of a cigarette pack. I won’t be going back to cable for internet or TV streaming. I’m talking to you currently on my iPad, on my hot spot.

[@victoriagoebel3851]

Hands down the most helpful resource I've seen yet. For a tablet plan in a van, would you just need a cell booster?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

A cell booster would be the only option for signal enhancement with a tablet - but not optimal. Our guide : rvmobileinternet.com/boosters

[@danielkeke66]

So helpful for sure. Thank you.

[@thecomplimentking]

Very Helpful. Thank You!

[@mcar6592]

Excellent. Very informative.

[@DrStephieRaeGrenier]

That was helpful! Thank you

[@regcrowder9010]

This is very helpful information. Thank you! 😁

[@robertcollins7515]

I just found you again. You changed channels. Great content.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Hmm.. no, we've had this MIRC channel since 2017 - which is our business. We still also have our personal travel channel at Technomadia (since 2009).

[@beverywhereyouare]

Wow - EXCELLENT video !!!!!

[@odd2404]

I watched this a few times and still a little confused between router and hotspot. Is the hotspot the one you can carry with you like in your pocket/bag? I would use one with antenna for home (laptop/gaming consoles), in the car (smartphone to listen to music/gps device/dashcam), coffee shop/hotel/motel (laptop)

[@anotherjoe5675]

Great advice... We recently purchased an omni-directional antenna, a telescoping mast and a cell signal booster in order to use a cellular phone as a hot spot in our RV in areas or RV parks with limited connectivity... Seems to do the job... But here's the rub... Even with an "unlimited" data plan from our cell phone service we've found that going on-line to check your email or bank account balance works just fine but don't even think about streaming a movie or video with this setup... Just can't get there from here... Thanks!...

[@bubba19912]

You can always remove the battery from a hotspot device and just run it off of the power cord that’s what I’ve had to do with my Netgear nighthawk M1 router And it works just fine without a battery

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

There are very few models where it works.. the Nighthawk is one of them. Most require the battery inserted to operate.

[@typhoontim125]

Excellent video.

[@mariafahey4124]

Great video thankyou

[@jupol143]

Nice review

[@my2sons8791]

Great video with very useful information. Sorry if I missed it, but can you comment on the difference (if any) in the cellular signal reception between a mifi like the Verizon 8800L and a lower priced Peplink. I am more concerned with the device reception of the cellular signal than I am of the advanced networking capabilities of the router. Thank you.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

It all comes down to the modem inside - www.rvmobileinternet.com/lte-modems

[@my2sons8791]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter thanks for the reply. I understand that the modems can significantly impact performance. Woukd you expect the Pepwave BR1 mk2 to have better cell signal reception than the 8800L? I believe the Pepwqve is a category 6 device. Thanks again

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

The 8800L is a Cat-18. It would vastly underperform.

[@my2sons8791]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter meaning the Pepwave would underperform, correct, Cat 18 being superior to cat 6. Thanks again for all your replies. I am learning as we go here! BTW, the scenery in your video is awesome. Looks like the everglades or similar area.

[@ENDTIMELIGHT77]

God bless you guys, love all your videos!! I have AT&T Firstnet and is amazing and unlimited service and hotpot service with no cap. Just wanted to let you guys know. Keep doing great videos!!👍

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

FirstNet is a great option for those who qualify by being a first responder.

[@JeffNeckonoff]

Thanks so much for this. I am using my ATT Galaxy S20 Hotspot with 50gigs/month to access a cloud Karaoke subscription in a NYC venue I work at weekly (4 hours a shift). I was curious as to what the other options are. Thanks to you, I am now knowledgeable. Since my phone sits next to my laptop, would you say it's safe to assume that my cell phone is more than adequate for the task at hand?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Only you can determine what is adequate for your needs.

[@BCraze1025]

Soooooo helpful thank you

[@MRSTEEL15]

I just discovered the newer Glocalme device...Think it's the NUMI?...Looks very interesting

[@ourv9603]

Cheri, I dug out my old verizon 7730L jetpack & took it with us on a trip to Idaho. Funny thing-In the campground all I had was 1 bar signal if I moved it around I MIGHT get a 2nd bar but it would come & go So, I placed the device in the cradle of my Weboost Drive Sleek = NO IMPROVEMENT odd.... I turned the device up-down-front-back-on edge-on end all to no avail. most odd, so I had to give it up. FORTUNEATELY, with only 1 bar I was still able to stream KZbin ok. !

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

There are many things that impact cellular data performance, here's our guide: www.rvmobileinternet.com/performance

[@mbodette]

Great information! Has anyone noticed that data usage on MIFI devices includes the LAN data? ie laptop to smarttv. So it's hard to actually know how much actual cellular plan data is being used?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

You can track your usage with your carrier via your dashboard.

[@mbodette]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter That's what I've been doing. But, I use my Nighthawk MR1100 as my local WIFI Router also, and that's been working great. But I'm seeing that when I airplay from my iMac pro to my smartTV, that the local data is also being added to the cellular data usage on the Nighthawk. So I don't have a true representation of Cellular data used. Unless, hopefully not, the local data (from iMac) is going out to the AT&T network and back in to the smarttv. That doesn't make any sense but? If this were true, I'd have to setup a separate router for local wifi and hook the hotspot to that.

[@STSpringerChannel]

So informative! So if I do "basic" things from the road (like googling and emailing) but also need to support Zoom calls, would you recommend a tablet?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Probably - Tablets are a good value right now and a good starting point.

[@danemmerich6775]

Holy information overload. Lol. I am just looking for more/better service while camping/RVing the US. What is your quick best answer? Great video.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our overview of mobile internet options for RVers: www.rvmobileinternet.com/overview

[@rickjaggers]

Kudos, and well done! I am looking for a head-to-head comparison between a dedicated mobile hotspot and a tablet pressed into double-duty. One difference is that the tablet connection might go to sleep in the middle of a Zoom meeting, but it looks like that could be changed in a setting. Unfortunately, you didn't actually test anything. Once a month our HOA meets in a nearby building that does not have Internet access. That means I would have to bring my own Internet. I would like to create a Zoom hybrid meeting. I can bring a laptop and a webcam. But this happens only once a month, for only an hour (or two hours)(or three hours)(🤔). I hate to commit to a data plan for such a limited use since this would come out of my pocket.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Cellular enabled tablets can be great for Zoom meetings if the format meets your needs. All depends on if you have solid cell signal for your carrier however where you need to conduct the sessions. We have more on video conferencing here: www.rvmobileinternet.com/broadcast This video was just an overview of the concepts. We regularly use all options however.

[@rickjaggers]

​@@MobileInternetResourceCenter Thank you for taking the time to reply - and replying so promptly! My only interest would be to use the tablet as a wi-fi hotspot instead of using a dedicated device. I have no interest in running the Zoom meeting from the tablet. I prefer the tools in my laptop for that. Nor am I worried about the cell signal because I am in an urban area. Hmm... If the dedicated device is the better choice, then I could buy both devices and transfer the SIM card based on what I need at the time. The next obvious question is how powerful does the tablet have to be? Does processor power and RAM make any difference for only a pass-through Internet connection? PS; You may want to edit the link in your reply. It returns a "Page-Not-Found" error.

[@timliscum2861]

What do you recommend for improving the data download from my Ford Ranger Hotspot. Its ATT, I use it for my iPad which I run radar on continuous loops and Google maps when Storm chasing.. for redundancy the iPad also has Verizon Cellular.. So something that would improve data download.. love your channel..

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our guide to cellular data performance: www.rvmobileinternet.com/performance

[@EarlBalentine]

My travel trailer is prewired for the King Wifi Max. Basically there is a mini coax on the roof and inside by the tv. I prefer not to use the "King" solution, there's got to be a better cheaper system for a wireless router 2.4 & 5ghz system. Can you recommend a stem that has a wireless router and a omni antenna for the roof? I'm also T-Mobile cell phone customer. The RV park wireless network is only 2mg download and I spend most of my time just using hotspot on my phone. We have 2 T-Mobile phones, 1 wifi TV and 1 laptop. I like streaming netflix and other providers. What do you think would work for us?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

We'd recommend starting with our collection of getting started resources to help you assess your unique needs and the options out there. If you're one of our members, please do feel free to utilize our forums to ask questions you have so our team can assist: www.rvmobileinternet.com/getting-started

[@bdmenne]

thorough

[@STinyHouse]

Hi, we have bought The TP-LINK M7350 as a router to use in the field but it seems that it is not the best solution for us. The diffirence with a mobile Hot spot is not big enough. We are looking for a way to Improve our internet connection when we are in the field or in the forest without 220V power supply and even with a poor 4G/5G connection. What would you recommend?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our guide to selecting routers: www.rvmobileinternet.com/routers - if you're a member, our team is happy to answer further questions in our forums.

[@brattl7453]

I work remotely. What do you recommend for remote work when out of wifi range at campgrounds etc. Not a full time RVer , but like to travel and work in RV. Please let me know your suggestion for the setup for working remote . Thank you. Love your videos

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our collection of content for working remotely to start your research: www.rvmobileinternet.com/working-remotely. If you're a member, please do post in the forums if you have questions as you dive in.

[@butchbusby8696]

I've been watching your videos and learning a lot. But my question is. Is there a affordable external antenna booster out there and do they boost cell signal or just Data? Most times I only get 1 bar of signal and I have problems with cell signal and data signal.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our guide to cellular data performance: www.rvmobileinternet.com/performance

[@jim7953]

Wondering if you can guide me with a good booster equipment for home use and which travel mobile Hotspot that I can carry with me. In case of a low signal

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

We only cover mobile internet options - so we don't have any content on residential cellular boosters. For our guide to hotspots, follow up at www.rvmobileinternet.com/hotspots. If you're one of our premium members, feel free to follow up in our forums for any additional guidance you'd list assistance with.

[@jim7953]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter thank you for getting back to me I will follow up soon

[@ryankipkiruikoech4813]

Just to say thank you.

[@flyingtirebicycle8781]

Thank You

[@carpenterfamily6198]

NETGEAR - Nighthawk M1 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router - considering this older unit, but read online manu users have trouble getting setup. Your thoughts ?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our gear center entry for that device with guidance: www.rvmobileinternet.com/nighthawk

[@allanstrand638]

Netgear M1 - 1100 Can use some 5G?!

[@kwinthewild3753]

Great info. My company has IP phones via landlines. I am looking to go mobile with one of these phones / Travel and work and connect to my company etc,etc,etc, Need to go WI fi iguess. Do you suggest that router you were holding? Ethernet from my phone to the router - wifi to my company? Suggestions?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Would recommend assessing your needs and then considering the current options on the market - here's our collection of resources focused on remote work: www.rvmobileinternet.com/getting-started. (the router used in this video as a prop is quite likely now discontinued).

[@Tom-xp7dl]

I would like to see you test the Netgear LG lte (Lm1200). I am wanting to try it with my verizon (grandfathered) unlimited card. I have a Netgear home router that I use because I use a generator when out in the woods and I use an inverter in the truck, so 120volt power is not a problem. And I live in the trailer as well as camp/ travel with the same. My goal is to get away from the mifi 7730l. When I have a poor signal they overheat and not last long. Lm1200 says verizon as well as at&t.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our overview of that device... we've tested prior models. At only a Cat-4, it's just not worth our time, or our member's funding, to test. That's pretty darn low end and will greatly underperform that 7730. www.rvmobileinternet.com/gear/netgear-lte-modem/

[@Tom-xp7dl]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter I dont usually post anything, glad I did today. i never knew about the CAT numbers. But it looks like my 7730L is a CAT 9....so to go down to a cat 4? Glad I posted and thank you SO much for the reply. Can you imagine my frustration if I had bought something that much lower? I own the 7730L because of you all, now wanting to upgrade. Thank you again.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Our guide to hotspots linked in this video / description goes over selecting them, including the categories - there's even a video :)

[@hasangenc6400]

Hello, I have a mobile modem. When you are in the same room, the wifi is very good, but the wifi signal drops from other rooms. There are ts9 tipped antennas sold, would it be helpful if I bought them? How can I increase the distance of the wi-fi signal on the mobile modem? Thanks.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Mobile hotspots have a limited range for Wi-Fi broadcast, they're not designed to provide coverage for a typical household. The T-S9 antennas are for receiving cellular.

[@entertainmentWeekly19]

My phone does everything it needs to do ❤

[@MarcKlark]

Quick question. I am using one phone for google maps. Sometimes I can see the destinations real time on the android auto of the phone that is hooked up as android auto. Both phones use the same gmail. Sometimes i can not see the destination real time. Sometimes i do. Do you understand my concern and can you explain ?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

This is a video about mobile internet access, not GPS.. which is not a topic we cover.

[@johnhulen1877]

Do you know how mobile 5G routers like the Pepwave Max BR1 Pro 5G are treated by carriers? Are the treated just like hotspots, or like a cellphone for data plans?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

They need data device plans .. we have a guide to that at: www.rvmobileinternet.com/peplink-data-plans

[@rootcanal7188]

How about using a USB modem, to plug into a computer? Thanks.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

They are few and far between these days... but is an option.

[@WeddingDocumentary]

What are some good mobile routers on the market right now? I want to use it for Livestreaming video so needs to be pretty robust

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our guide to selecting routers, with some featured routers listed - you can dive further into our gear center for more options: www.rvmobileinternet.com/routers

[@AkashdeepSingh-ht9uj]

Does hotspot provide or receive better signal from towers? I travel a lot and play multiplayer games on 120 ms ping with my phone hotspot. Does hotspot can do better job? Is it worth buying for like daily 2 hour use only??

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

There are many factors that impact data performance: www.rvmobileinternet.com/performance

[@dannyp2684]

Why are there antenna ports on the jet packs? If a jet pack has 4internal antennas, then what’s the point of using an external antenna? Do external antennas have better signal reception?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

External antennas can have better reception - but with a 4x4 MIMO device with dual antenna ports, you need to test which is better in each location. The ports are usually on the side of the Jetpack as shown in the video.

[@Bwanar1]

Interesting, I've never heard of that. How does the size of an antenna port on the back of a router allow you to get an antenna outside up higher, as opposed to plugging the same antenna into a modem?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

T-S9 ports on hotspots are really small, and thus have to use thinner cable, which can't be very long without lots of signal loss.

[@Bwanar1]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenterThanks, I understand that. That's why you use an adapter, with a proper cable for the antenna and distance required, right?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

That's an option - but adds some signal loss that negates the gain. But also many hotspots have internal 4x4 MIMO, but only two external ports - effectively cutting off half the signal ability.

[@Bwanar1]

@@MobileInternetResourceCenter Ahh....I can see where that would make a difference. The height limitation of the antenna was what threw me, predicated on the type of ports. Thanks for the response.

[@timmorris6396]

Is there any device available to enhance I phone hotspot for streaming data? I would like to use my phone hotspot for our Roku set up in our RV but I've tested this at our home which I have a good signal but it won't always play a movie ?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Only option for smartphones is using a cellular booster.. and most smartphones plans have hotspot caps too that make them not suitable for streaming.

[@sunroameroverland]

So with a router, If i have a smart phone plan, all i would have to do is add a line on my carrier and install that sim in the Router for it to be used? that way i could lower the current plan on my phone and get a bigger one for the router (second line)

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

You would need to add a data only line for routers.

[@zoilabarraza286]

Hello, my husband and I have been watching yours and your husband's videos, they are very informative, thank you. We have a question that we hope you could answer, we are doing live streaming by the beach and hopefully soon by the mountains, we use duo monitors, 2 microphones and a camera connected to the lap top, we need strong internet to transfer the life stream to different platforms. We use "Alcatel" a portable wifi Hot spot from Teamobile and the videos come out very pixalated at times and choppy. We saw in your video that you mentioned a router with a built in modem and antennas, can you please help us by recommending us one that would fit our needs, by name. Also you mentioned these routers having duo sim card holders with different carriers, do we need to sign up with 2 carriers? And again, can you please advise us on which modem to get within the $300 to $500 range? Thank you so much in advance for your help! Hope to hear from you soon. God Bless you both! Martin & Zoila

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our guide to routers, with some of our current top picks and a link to our gear center for further research. If you're one of our members, please do ask in our forums and our team can further provide guidance: www.rvmobileinternet.com/routers Also, for broadcasting tips - here's our guide to that: www.rvmobileinternet.com/broadcasting

[@zoilabarraza286]

Thank you for replying, we appreciate it. We will look into the links.

[@nobrand7957]

I'm hosting my own websites on my own Windows Server 2019 in my house. I have fiber directly into my home to my firewall to my server & network. This is very fast & very reliable. My challenge is if my fiber connections goes down, or is cut. I'm looking for an internet device that I can immediately move my Internet connection to and be back online. What would you recommend?? Thank you.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Depends, but this is usually accomplished with a multiwan router that supports instant failover. We can't give you specific recommendations as we focus on mobile connectivity.

[@BrentNorris]

Sorry, I know you've answered this a million times... Can I take the sim from my phone and put it in the jetpack 7730 and or 8800? I'm on a grandfathered verizon plan.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Depends on the exact plan and SIM card size, but most smartphones plans will inherit the hotspot cap when put in data only devices.

[@giselsanchez3277]

I'm mew to this and I got a question, I have a laptop that I need to use when I'm not home, I don't want to use my cell phone Hotspot since it not strong enough, is a mobile Hotspot device good for my application?

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

All depends on your unique needs.. the differences are covered in this video.

[@DennisWintjes2]

Thanks Cherie! Like #149.

[@MrJeffDemme]

I have a Moto G 5G phone and T-MOBILE. Even with good signal the hotspot is too slow to even check emails. Is something wrong? Or are some phones better? It is a budget phone.

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Many things can impact cellular data performance, here's our guide to that: www.rvmobileinternet.com/performance

[@THE_ORIGINAL_I-SEARCHdotFUN]

Hi enjoyable content Sherrie. I recently purchase a 5g mi fi. Works good but you mentioned one that is 299. The Mi Fi does have a removal sim. The Verizon rep said it cannot be used on other carriers. But when I found the sim wass removal I was pretty happy. I need your advice on getting a hotspot that I can use internationally. I am on a prepaid account. Whats your best pick. Thanks CJ the speed clocked 83down /21

[@MobileInternetResourceCenter]

Here's our guide to selecting hotspots: www.rvmobileinternet.com/hotspots For international, you have to compare frequency bands of the device to the bands of the countries you want to visit.