If you’re shopping for a router, you may have come across a mobile hotspot and wondered whether a router vs hotspot is better. In addition to multiple ports for network cables, the best router will provide a robust wireless connection. Ultimately, the choice between a router and mobile hotspot largely depends on how portable you need your private network to be.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- While connected to a modem, a router connects with devices over Wi-Fi or Ethernet, thus linking users to the internet or local network.
- A hotspot connects devices to the internet using a cellular network, typically in a mobile data plan.
- For portability or travel, go with a hotspot. That said, if you need stability and speed, go with a traditional router.
Comparing Routers and Hotspots
The most significant difference between routers and a Wi-Fi hotspot is whom you pay for internet service. Hotspot usage relies on cellular signals, and users can even add hotspots to their cell phone plans. Your router connects to the modem and passes the internet to your connected devices. In addition, wireless internet service providers sell a specific internet plan based on your data needs.
If you just need a bit more range for your wireless devices around the house, consider checking out our guide to Wi-Fi routers vs. extenders.
Insider Tip
Connect to your router via Ethernet for the fastest internet speeds if you are on a home network.
Speed
For the best download speed, a cellular connection cannot compete with a router’s wired connection. Some routers support up to 1Gbps speed over an Ethernet cable, and even Verizon 5G cannot come close. That said, mobile rates keep getting better, and mobile data is good enough for most tasks.
If you want the possible top speed for your router, learn the differences between AC vs. N wireless routers.
Stability
A router offers more stable connection speeds due to its ability to form a physical connection via an Ethernet port. That said, with a mobile hotspot, you won’t have to worry about ISP outages. While connection over a cellular network is unlikely to fail, slower speed due to network congestion is possible.
Portability
If you’re looking for portability, a hotspot is unquestionably the best pick. While home routers provide Wi-Fi signals, they won’t help if you want to take your connected device on the go. A mobile hotspot lets you work or enjoy the internet from anywhere with a cellular network. That said, with a hotspot, you have to keep battery life in mind.
Cost
If you’re looking for the lowest price, you want to consider a standard Wi-Fi router. While a mobile router is convenient and portable, cellular service is more costly than a typical internet service provider. That said, if you want the best speed for a private network, you’ll need to invest quite a bit for a premium router.
Warning
If you use your hotspot during high-traffic hours, you may notice severely decreased download speeds.
F.A.Q.S
How Are Travel Routers Different From Hotspots?
A portable router creates a private network out of available public wireless networks. By comparison, a mobile hotspot makes a private Wi-Fi network using a mobile network.
Do you need a hotspot, or is your smartphone enough?
A smartphone is good enough if all you want is to use social media or google some stuff. That said, for more intensive work on the go, you should invest in a mobile hotspot.
How do I add more data for my mobile hotspot device?
To increase the limit for your cellular data connection, you need to upgrade your plan. In addition, if you use a lot of data, you may consider different data plans for your hotspot and smartphone.
STAT: As of 2019, households worldwide own more than 10 billion devices capable of connecting to a home router. (source)
