Staying connected and having access to the Internet anytime, anywhere has become essential. That is why more and more people are turning to portable WiFi or MiFi as a convenient way to take their Internet connection with them.
In this article, we explain everything you need to know about MiFi, as well as the best portable Internet plans, so you can make the most of this technology.
What is portable WiFi or MiFi, and what is it used for?
Portable WiFi, also known as MiFi, portable Internet or mobile Internet, is a solution that allows you to access the Internet anywhere using a device such as a WiFi router or modem.
If you are wondering what a MiFi device is, it is a small wireless router with a SIM card that connects to 4G or 5G mobile networks and creates a WiFi network. Devices such as your phone, tablet or laptop can then connect to it without any cables.
So, what is MiFi used for? Its main purpose is to provide high-speed Internet access wherever you are, making it an ideal option for remote working, travelling or enjoying online entertainment without interruptions.
It is also a flexible and portable alternative to satellite Internet and other limited types of connection.
What is the difference between portable WiFi and MiFi? Are they the same?
Many people wonder what MiFi is and whether it is the same as portable WiFi. Although the two terms are related and are sometimes used interchangeably, there are some key differences.
Portable WiFi is a broad term that refers to any solution that allows you to connect to the Internet without a fixed connection. This includes portable routers, mobile hotspots and even using a smartphone as a hotspot.
MiFi, on the other hand, was originally a trademark used for MiFi WiFi devices that work as wireless routers with a SIM card, allowing a mobile data connection to be shared with several devices at the same time.
Over time, the term MiFi has become widely used to describe any device of this kind, although technically not all portable WiFi routers are MiFi devices.
Benefits of portable WiFi
The main benefits of portable WiFi include:
- Connect anywhere: a MiFi router connects to 4G or 5G mobile networks, giving you Internet access wherever there is coverage. You do not need to rely on fixed WiFi networks.
- Faster speeds: 4G and 5G networks generally provide faster and more stable browsing than public WiFi.
- Easy to use and set up: simply switch on the router, insert a SIM card with mobile data and you are ready to go. Your devices will detect the WiFi network created by the MiFi router.
- No contract: mobile plans such as Lowi’s 5G plans do not require a minimum contract period. This makes them ideal if you only need a MiFi device for a few months. You can also reuse the SIM card in a tablet or another device.
- Portable and easy to carry: portable WiFi routers are lightweight and compact, with built-in batteries that make them easy to take anywhere without having to keep them plugged into a power supply.
- Connection outside Spain: as you may already know, Lowi’s 5G plans include roaming. If you travel outside Spain, you can take your portable MiFi router with you and stay connected wherever you go.
- Connect several devices: you can connect smartphones, laptops, tablets, speakers and games consoles at the same time.
- Security: most portable WiFi routers allow you to protect the network with a password and include a firewall.
Their ease of use, portability and ability to connect several devices make portable WiFi an excellent solution for both travel and everyday use. If you are looking for a flexible option with no long-term commitment, a portable MiFi router is a great choice.
Uses and applications of portable Internet
Portable WiFi has become a popular solution for a wide range of uses, including:
- Working as a digital nomad or working remotely from anywhere.
- Providing Internet access in temporary accommodation, such as a caravan.
- Having an Internet connection while travelling by car, caravan, boat or another form of transport.
- Staying connected with Internet at your second home or in a location without fibre coverage.
- Creating a portable WiFi network at events or business meetings.
- Sharing an Internet connection in areas with limited coverage.
- Keeping children entertained on long journeys by giving them Internet access.
- Playing online on a games console wherever you are.
- IRL streaming, an increasingly popular type of content on streaming platforms.
Whether you are travelling, need a stable connection at a second home or want to enjoy activities such as streaming and online gaming, a portable MiFi router gives you Internet access anywhere with mobile coverage.
5G plans for MiFi
Lowi’s 5G plans are ideal for MiFi devices, with competitive options to suit different usage needs.
| Plan | Mobile data | Calls | Monthly price | Recommended uses |
| 25GB mobile plan | 25GB | Unlimited | €5 | Occasional use, basic browsing and social media |
| 50GB mobile plan | 50GB | Unlimited | €8 | Everyday use, music streaming and occasional video calls |
| 100GB mobile plan | 100GB | Unlimited | €10 | Remote working and frequent MiFi use while travelling |
| 150GB mobile plan | 150GB | Unlimited | €15 | Connecting a holiday home and high-quality streaming |
| 300GB mobile plan | 300GB | Unlimited | €20 | Intensive use and several devices connected simultaneously |
All prices are monthly and include VAT.
Each plan is designed for a different level of use. Whether you need a plan for occasional use or want to provide Internet access to an entire home, you can find an option that suits you: Not sure which one you need? Our guide on how much mobile data you need can help.
- 25GB of mobile data: suitable for occasional use, including web browsing, social media and occasional video calls.
- 50GB of mobile data: a good balance for everyday use, with enough data for music, social media and video calls when you are away from home.
- 100GB of mobile data: designed for people who work away from home or frequently travel with a MiFi router. This option provides more data for everyday needs.
- 150GB of mobile data: ideal for intensive Internet use, such as providing a connection at a holiday home for several days and using multiple devices at the same time.
- 300GB of mobile data: our most comprehensive plan, designed for heavy use and several devices connected simultaneously. It is ideal for families travelling together or locations without a fixed Internet connection.
Whichever plan you choose, you can change it whenever you want. In addition, any data you do not use with your portable router will roll over to the following month.
Types of portable WiFi or MiFi routers
There are several types of MiFi routers, classified according to the technology they use to connect to the Internet:
5G MiFi routers
These are the fastest and most advanced devices currently available.
5G MiFi routers connect to fifth-generation mobile networks and can provide download speeds of up to 2Gbps, making them ideal for intensive use or connecting a large number of devices.
By combining these routers with our 5G plans, you can enjoy an excellent browsing experience.
4G MiFi routers
4G MiFi routers connect to 4G LTE networks and provide browsing speeds of up to 150Mbps. They are popular because they offer good value for money and are suitable for most everyday connectivity needs.
3G MiFi routers
3G MiFi routers connect to 3G networks, which provide lower speeds than 4G and 5G but are sufficient for browsing and using basic applications. They are most suitable for areas with limited 4G or 5G coverage.
WiFi-only routers
These routers create a WiFi network, but they must be connected by cable to an existing network to provide Internet access. They are useful for sharing a fixed connection but are not suitable as portable solutions.
It is always important to consider factors such as connection speed, network coverage and intended use to ensure that the device you choose meets your specific needs.
Features and technical specifications of portable routers
When choosing a portable WiFi router, portable MiFi router or 5G MiFi device, you should consider several key features to ensure a stable, fast and secure connection.
Speed and coverage range
A 5G MiFi router is the best option if you are looking for maximum speed, reaching up to 2Gbps on fifth-generation networks. 4G LTE models, meanwhile, provide speeds of up to 150Mbps, which is sufficient for smooth browsing and streaming.
Depending on the model and network conditions, these devices can provide WiFi coverage across an indoor area of up to 250m².
Battery life
Portable MiFi routers feature long-lasting batteries, providing between 6 and 24 hours of battery life. This makes them an excellent solution for anyone who needs Internet access while travelling or in areas without access to a power supply.
Some models can even charge other devices via USB, allowing them to function as a portable power bank.
Size and weight
A portable WiFi router is usually compact and lightweight, measuring approximately 100mm and weighing between 100 and 250 grams. This makes it easy to carry in a backpack, handbag or suitcase.
Larger models with a wider signal range are also available and are designed to connect more devices simultaneously.
Connections and ports
These devices may include USB ports for sharing files or charging devices, Ethernet ports for connecting to the Internet by cable, a SIM card slot and an external antenna connector.
Security
A portable MiFi router must provide a secure connection.
That is why most devices include a firewall, advanced WPA2/WPA3 encryption and custom passwords. Some models also include content filters, allowing you to control access to certain websites and connected devices.
Tips for choosing the best portable WiFi router
When buying a portable WiFi router, keep the following tips in mind:
- Choose a 4G LTE or 5G router for high speeds. 3G networks are now outdated in terms of browsing speed, although 3G routers are generally the most affordable option.
- Consider the coverage you need and how many devices you want to connect.
- Make sure the battery provides the level of autonomy you need. Around eight hours is usually sufficient.
- Compare speed, number of connections, signal range and security features across different models.
- Look for a compact, lightweight design that is easy to carry.
- Make sure it is compatible with your mobile provider’s frequency bands. Ideally, it should support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
- Unlocked routers work with any SIM card, giving you greater flexibility.
If you want greater flexibility, an unlocked portable MiFi router will allow you to use any SIM card, making it ideal for travelling or switching mobile providers.
Use your phone as a router
Another way to access portable Internet is to use your own smartphone as a WiFi router by sharing your mobile data connection. You can also use an old phone as a portable Internet device.
Simply activate the hotspot or WiFi sharing option in your phone’s settings. You can then connect your other devices via WiFi or a USB cable.
Take a look at Lowi’s 5G plans, which include options such as the cheapest mobile plan and the mobile plan with the most data. Find the Lowi plan that best suits your needs when sharing mobile data from your phone.
It is convenient and does not require you to buy another device, but it can drain your phone’s battery quickly. Portable routers are therefore a better option for prolonged use.
With a portable WiFi router in your pocket, you will no longer need to depend on fixed networks or lose access to your favourite content and apps.
However, you should bear in mind the limitations of sharing data from your phone. Thanks to its antennas, a portable 5G router offers a wider coverage range, faster connection speeds and support for more devices connected simultaneously.
Frequently asked questions about MiFi and portable WiFi routers
Copywriter creativo. Graduado en Comunicación Social y especialista en Paid Media, con más de dos décadas de experiencia en SEO y SEM. He trabajado como copywriter en prensa, radio, televisión y campañas publicitarias galardonadas en inglés y español, además de publicar literatura de ficción.
