MiFi and Tethering are two very common options for sharing Internet these days. Both offer solutions you can use to stay connected on the move, but they have differences that may influence your choice.
MiFi vs. Tethering
Below you will find a comparison of MiFi and Tethering connections so that you can learn about their features, technologies, compatibility, as well as their prices to help you determine which one best suits your needs.
Difference between MiFi connection and Tethering
The MiFi is a portable device that allows you to create a Wi-Fi network using your mobile data connection. It is essentially a compact router with which you can connect to 3G, 4G or even 5G networks, depending on the model. In fact, you can connect multiple devices to that Wi-Fi network that has been generated by the MiFi.
Tethering is a feature available on many smartphones that allows you to share your phone’s mobile data connection with other devices, either via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or USB.
Typically, your phone acts as a Wi-Fi hotspot or access point, or as a modem when connected via cable.
Technology and compatibility
MiFi devices typically use mobile network technology (3G, 4G LTE, 5G) to provide internet access. This allows for download speeds that can range from 10Mbps on 4G LTE networks to over 100Mbps on 5G networks, depending on the model and the signal quality at the location.
Speed can also depend on the number of devices that are connected simultaneously, but in general, MiFis are built to handle multiple connections without a significant drop in speed.
However, tethering browsing speed depends entirely on your phone’s mobile data connection, which is usually 4G LTE, although some phones also support 5G.
This means that download speeds can be comparable to a MiFi on 4G LTE networks, but may be slower compared to 5G speeds if your phone is not compatible.
In fact, with tethering you may experience a drop in speed when your phone is connected to multiple devices, or if heavy data usage affects your phone’s overall performance.
Signal quality and stability
MiFis typically have antennas optimized for better signal reception, which can translate into faster browsing speeds and a more stable connection.
Meanwhile, the signal quality for tethering depends on the location you are in and the reception you have on your phone. In areas with good coverage, the speed will be high, but in areas with weak signal, performance can degrade noticeably.
Number of connected devices
MiFis are designed to handle a larger number of simultaneous connections (generally from 5 to more than 30 devices depending on the model you purchase) without causing a significant drop in browsing speed.
On the other hand, tethering is suitable for connecting very few devices as performance often decreases significantly if the number of connections increases, or if you use data-intensive applications.
Battery
MiFi devices typically have longer battery life than mobile phones. This means that your browsing speed will remain relatively stable without battery being an issue. Additionally, the extended battery life allows for a more consistent connection without interference to recharge your device.
Tethering, meanwhile, can drain your phone’s battery quickly, especially during extended browsing sessions.
What’s more, browsing speed can be indirectly affected if the battery runs low and the phone starts to reduce its performance in an attempt to conserve energy.
Prices
In terms of pricing, MiFi devices typically have an initial cost that can range from 50 to 150 euros, depending on the brand, model, and additional features such as battery life or 5G network compatibility that the device has.
Not only that, you will need a mobile data plan that can cost between 10 and 50 euros per month, depending on the provider and the volume of data they offer you.
On the other hand, tethering does not have a direct additional cost if you already own a mobile phone that is compatible with that technology.
However, some mobile operators often charge additional fees for using tethering or limit the use of this feature in their data plans.
Mobile data plans can range from 30 to 60 euros per month, depending on the package you purchase and the service operator you choose.
Conclusion
The choice between a MiFi device and tethering is going to depend largely on your specific needs and budget. If you value portability and don’t mind making a big initial investment, then a MiFi can give you a more robust and stable connection experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer to avoid additional costs and don’t care about the intensive use of your phone’s battery, tethering could be an effective and economical solution.
The most important thing is to first consider your priorities in terms of cost, connectivity and convenience and then make a decision based on what will benefit you best.
