Comparing the New 4G Mobile Hotspots
2011 has seen the rise of 4G Mobile Broadband to the forefront. The new breed of 4G Mobile Hotspots have quite likely benefited the most from the vast improvements in download speed and network responsiveness offered by the new 4G networks. New pricing plans actually make 4G mobile broadband more cost-effective than ever before.
If you're going to subscribe to a mobile plan, why not get a device that will allow up to five different users or device to share a single 4G data plan? . Nowadays, practically all mobile devices are Wi-Fi enabled, from the iPad 2 and Kindle to wireless printers and Blu-Ray/DVD players. Take advantage of the ultimate in high speed internet on the go with 4G...we're talking speeds up to 15 Mbps, over 1,000% faster than 3G! Why not enjoy it all - when you want it, and now more than ever, wherever you want it.
MobileHotspot.com has created a side-by-side comparison of the five most popular 4G mobile hotspots offered by the "Big 4" (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint). We digest the most important details on the Samsung SCH-LC11 and the MiFi 4510L, both for Verizon 4G LTE, the ZTE MF-61 for T-Mobile 4G, the new Sierra Elevate for AT&T 4G LTE, and finally the MiFi 4082 for Sprint WiMAX 4G.
Comparing 4G Mobile Hotspots
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Mfr. and Model Samsung SCH-LC11 Novatel MiFi 4510L ZTE Wireless MF-61 Sierra Wireless Elevate Novatel MiFi 4082 | |||||
Notable Advantages | Fastest download and uploads of any hotspot tested. | Extremely fast downloads/uploads plus added features; display panel | Loaded with features; Strong Wi-Fi Range & Battery Life Lower cost data plans | Great display panel & battery life; "Dual 4G" ; Excellent 4G Coverage | Built in Micro-SD slot for file storage; GPS Receiver with geo-location apps |
Main Disadvantages | No display panel; Mediocre battery life; Limited availability of Verizon LTE | Cannot be used while charging via USB port; Disabled GPS Receiver | No Wi-Fi "N"; Slower 4G; No data plan overuse options available | Very limited availability of AT&T 4G LTE. No widespread LTE until 2013 | The slowest 4G performance; VERY expensive data overage fees |
4G Technology | 4G LTE | 4G LTE | 4G HSPA+ | Dual 4G LTE & HSPA+ | 4G WiMAX |
Typical 4G Speed (speed as tested) | 8 to 18 Mbps Download 4 to 10 Mbps Upload (13.12 Down / 6.37 Up) | 8 to 18 Mbps Download 4 to 10 Mbps Upload (13.01 Down / 6.35 Up) | 3 to 6 Mbps Download 1 to 3 Mpbs Upload (3.4 Down / 1.77 Up) | LTE :5 - 15 down / 5 -10 up HSPA+: 3 - 5 down / 1 to 3 up (speed not tested) | 2 to 6 Mbps Download 0.4 to 1 Upload (2.3 Down /0.7 up) |
Battery Life | 3 hrs 7 mins | 3 hrs 49 mins | 4 hrs 54 mins | 4 hours | 4 hrs 11 mins |
Wi-Fi Modes and Range | Wi-Fi B/G/N 129 Feet | Wi-Fi B/G/N 122 Feet | Wi-Fi B/G 132 Feet | Wi-Fi B/G/N apprx. 125 Feet | Wi-Fi B/G/N 49 Feet |
Cost of Monthly Plans | $50 for 5GB $80 for 10GB | $50 for 5GB $80 for 10GB | $30 for 200MB $40 for 2GB $50 for 5GB $85 for 10GB | $50 for 5GB $80 for 10GB | (New Structure) $35 for 3GB $50 for 6GB $80 for 12GB |
Data Overage Fee per GB | $10 per GB | $10 per GB | Data Overage Not Allowed * | $10 per GB | $50 per GB ** |
Quick Report Card | Speed: A+ | Speed: A | Speed: B | Speed: B | Speed: C |
* T-Mobile Thottles 4G Data plans to 2G speeds when the monthly data limit is exceeded
** Sprint charges 5 cents per megabyte overage, which equates to $50 per gigabyte.
We break down the most important attributes you should factor in, including as upload/download speeds, WiFi range, cost of data plans and notable standout characteristics, as well as any significant flaws or disadvantages.
While some mobile hotspots stand head and shoulders above other with wicked fast download speeds, others offer the unique benefit of true unlimited monthly usage - proving that one single model may not suit the needs for everyone. The good news is there is finally a great selection of mobile hotspots on nationwide 4G networks that can meet your primary demands, be it performance, economy or ease-of-use.
