Wi-Fi is something we all need, but it feels like access to it gets harder to afford every year. Whether you’re locked into a specific Internet carrier or plan that keeps changing, it’s expensive.
These days, there are other ways to get online and access data; some people have even ditched Wi-Fi entirely in favor of using their phones. Curious about how that works? Here’s everything you need to know about using phone data instead of Wi-Fi at home.
How Can You Replace Wi-Fi With Phone Data?
Theoretically, if you’ve got a phone that has unlimited data and hotspot capabilities, that’s not so much different than a Wi-Fi router. If your hotspot is running, you can connect your laptop or other devices to it and access the internet.
In theory, it’s a replacement for a WiFi plan. But is it cheaper? And if it’s more affordable, is it worth it?
What Are the Benefits of Using Your Hotspot Instead of Wi-Fi?
There are ways this can benefit you. For starters, you don’t have to get involved in another contract. In some situations, you may even need to use a separate company from the one you already use for your phone, and now you’re on the hook with two different payments.
If you don’t use the internet much, you can also probably get away with a limited data plan for a cheaper price. That means it’s possible to max out, but these plans are generally more affordable than unlimited plans.
Another benefit, if I may take a moment to bash something I can’t stand, is that you may be able to avoid dealing with Spectrum. Spectrum, in my oh-so humble opinion, has the worst customer service of just about any large company I’ve ever dealt with. To the dozens of Spectrum employees I’ve dealt with over the years, I wish you the worst fate I can imagine: A phone call with Spectrum customer service.
What Are Some Drawbacks to Using Your Hotspot Instead of Wi-Fi?
If your internet usage requires lots of data, this may not be for you. Online gaming is nearly impossible while connected through a hotspot according to some gamers, and streaming services are often slower and displayed in lower resolution.
The truth is, unless you’re just reading some basic text or web articles, you’re probably going to need more power than what a phone hotspot can offer. And if you’re not on unlimited data, you’ll be stunned how fast you fill up that data cap.
How Much Can You Save by Ditching Wi-Fi?
Unfortunately, there’s no definitive answer for this one. Depending on your internet provider, data plan, and location, your internet prices may vary. For example, there was a long while where Spectrum was my only service option for my address. Luckily, T-Mobile showed up last year, and I was able to break off from my nemesis. I’m paying $20 less, too.
Unlimited data plans from mobile providers also fluctuate in price, and often become more expensive after the first year. Here are some common unlimited data pricing plans, according to Allconnect:
- T-Mobile (Plans from $55-$105/month)
- AT&T ($90/month)
- Verizon (Plans from $65-$90/month)
- Mint Mobile ($15/month)
- Visible ($35/month)
If you don’t use the internet much, Mint Mobile’s unlimited hotspot is exceptionally cheap. That said, if you need a lot of data for anything beyond reading, it may not be able to handle the power you need.
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