It's a common question among mobile data users: should I use a mobile hotspot or tethering to access the internet on my other devices? Both options allow you to share your mobile data plan with other devices, but they have their own advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we'll compare mobile hotspots and tethering to help you make an informed decision.
What is Tethering?
Tethering, also known as mobile hotspot tethering, is the process of sharing your phone's internet connection with another device, such as a laptop, tablet or another smartphone. The sharing is done via a USB cable, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, depending on the device and the methods it supports. The device that connects to the tethered phone uses the phone's mobile data plan to access the internet.
One of the main advantages of tethering is that it doesn't require any additional hardware or software as it comes built-in on both iOS and Android devices. Additionally, some carriers allow tethering without any additional cost, while others charge an additional fee for the service.
There are downsides, however, to using tethering. When tethering via Wi-Fi, the connection can be slower than when using a dedicated mobile hotspot, as the phone needs to handle both the internet connection and the hotspot connection simultaneously. Furthermore, tethering drains the battery life of the phone quickly, often resulting in shorter sessions of internet usage.
What is a Mobile Hotspot?
A mobile hotspot, also known as a portable hotspot, is a compact device that allows you to share your mobile data plan with other devices via Wi-Fi. The hotspot device is a separate piece of hardware that you can purchase from your carrier or a third-party retailer.
One of the biggest advantages of using a mobile hotspot is faster and more stable internet connections. The dedicated device does not compete for resources with your phone, such as processing power or battery life, so it can provide more stable and faster speeds. Additionally, multiple devices can connect to the hotspot at the same time, and some models can support a large number of devices.
On the down-side, mobile hotspots require additional hardware, which can be an extra expense. Some carriers may also charge a monthly rental fee for using the device, which can add up to your monthly bill.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Tethering | Mobile Hotspot |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Included in most plans or required extra plan | Requires additional hardware, plus a monthly rental fee with some carriers |
| Speed | Slower due to competition with phone processor power | Faster and more stable connection |
| Number of devices | Limited | Multiple devices can connect |
| Battery life | Drains the phone's battery faster | Does not affect phone battery life |
Conclusion
In conclusion, both tethering and mobile hotspots have their own advantages and disadvantages. Tethering is a convenient built-in tool that doesn't require any additional hardware, but can drain the phone's battery quickly and provide a slower and less stable connection. Mobile hotspots, on the other hand, provide a stable and faster connection with multiple devices support but require external hardware and a potential extra monthly cost.
The choice between tethering and mobile hotspots ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you need a reliable internet connection for your work or entertainment, a mobile hotspot device may be the better option, while if you need something quick and easy for occasional usage, tethering might be the way to go.