10 Best Pocket WiFis in the Philippines 2022 | Globe, Smart, and More

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.

**Prices may vary depending on the website and their campaign period**

To give you a rundown, here are our top 3 picks for the best pocket WiFis you can buy online:

1. GlobeLTE Mobile Wifi
2. Smart Bro Prepaid LTE Pocket WiFi
3. TP-Link 4G LTE Mobile WiFi Modem

Check out the table below to further compare the characteristics of these three pocket WiFis as well as the other seven that made it to our list.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Consider the data plans on locked devices.
2. Go for the data connectivity that suits your purposes.
3. Opt for an unlocked pocket WiFi for more freedom in connection.
4. Check how many devices can connect.
5. Get a device with better battery life.
6. Consider the data plans on locked devices.

For more information, read through our buying below.

Pocket WiFis are widely available in the market and may come in different types. You can choose among SIM-based, USB modem-based, and USB dongles. Each has its advantages, so let's see how it can benefit you.

Taking a closer look, SIM-based and modem-based pocket WiFis function the same where they both use a SIM card and share the internet over WiFi. Some SIM-based pocket WiFis are locked, requiring a specific SIM card from the service provider to function; anything else won't operate the device.

For a more flexible option, you can opt for an open line SIM-based device that will allow you to connect to the internet regardless of what SIM network you are using. This type is preferable if you want to travel abroad.

A USB modem-based pocket WiFi, on the other hand, is commonly locked to a specific service provider and may not work if you are in another country. It provides internet to WiFi-incapable devices such as desktops through hotspot connections. 

The USB dongle device comes with a built-in hotspot option that needs to be connected to the computer all of the time. Although it may not seem convenient for travel purposes, it definitely makes a great alternative if you want to have a backup internet connection at home.

The speed of your data connection may vary depending on the network you are using. Some may provide a faster connection at a pricier tag, while others offer decent and budget-friendly data connectivity. There are two primary options in the market, 4G and 5G: you can choose depending on how you will use them.

For a decent internet connection that won't cost a fortune, opt for a 4G connectivity. It refers to network technology that allows 4G-compatible devices to connect to the internet at a faster rate with lesser delays. It is also the most common network connectivity in the country, along with the Long-Term Evolution (LTE).

While LTE is not technically the same as 4G, it progresses under 4G networks. LTE refers to a cellular access network that offers high bandwidth efficiency and short round-trip time (RTT), making your surfing experience more efficient.

If you want a more competitive network connection that can match your fast pace internet requirements, a 5G network can get the job done. This frequency band allows devices to communicate with other devices at faster and more stable speeds compared to the 4G network, but of course, at higher price rates. 

However, there is a drawback. It’s very vulnerable to obstacles and the range is very short due to the lesser number of satellite antennas currently available. Additionally, it's not yet accessible everywhere in the country, so you might want to consider the location before getting a 5G compatible device.

Some pocket WiFi routers may be locked to a specific SIM card. Telecommunication companies usually provide these devices, so it only works on their own services with a contract, which can be a big hassle for tourists and business travelers.

If you need more freedom in connection, opt for an unlocked pocket WiFi router that allows you to switch to any network provider when necessary. This type is also perfect if you want to go travel outside the country.

Most pocket WiFis allow up to five devices, which is a reasonable number. But there are pocket WiFis in the market that can support more than five devices at a time, which is perfect for those who use their device as a hotspot connection to other people.

However, multiple device connections may affect the speed of the internet and eat up a lot of bandwidth, maxing out your data limit. For bigger families or larger offices, this may not be the ideal routing system, so we suggest getting a standard router system for this matter. 

Tourists and business travelers are constantly on the move, so they always carry all their belongings with them wherever they go. If being connected online 24/7 is part of their job, like a social media manager or a travel vlogger, pocket WiFi with reliable battery life is a must-have.

It is ideal to have at least a 5000mAh rechargeable battery that can last up to a day of continuous usage. Also, look for a device that can be easily charged via a USB or an AC power source. A spare fully-charged battery will also come in handy if you wish to have an uninterrupted connection.

If you opt to use a locked pocket WiFi, check the offered data plans by the service provider. Some come in post-paid contracts with a certain period of commitment. In comparison, others are in pre-paid modes that provide flexibility in connection, allowing users to discontinue use when not needed.

Some data plans may also come with additional features such as vouchers, load, extra bandwidth, and more. But regardless of your data plan choice, note that a cheaper plan may not always guarantee that you will have a speedy internet connection, and the same goes for a higher data plan. 

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.

No, you should not use your pocket WiFi while it's charging. When you use the pocket WiFi while charging, the battery gets charged and discharged simultaneously. As a result, this damages the circuit responsible for charging, reducing the life span of the battery.

Yes, you can definitely bring pocket WiFis abroad! But there's a catch; regardless of whether it's SIM-based or USB dongle, the device must be unlocked. This will allow users to change network providers whenever necessary.

Like the standard routing system, pocket WiFis also offer varying internet speeds. And yes, some of its kind can be good for gaming, especially those that provide a high number of Mbps. In some instances, you might not have a problem with internet speed, but you can get caught in the number of bandwidth available in your data plan.

Most pocket WiFis offer limited bandwidth, which is not ideal for extensive gaming activities. Fortunately, there are high-end pocket WiFi devices in the market that offer high Mbps and bandwidth at the same time that can meet your gaming needs, so be sure to go after them.

You can stay connected with your family and friends with these nifty gadgets that you can purchase online. Check out the latest mobile devices via the articles below.

Choosing a pocket WiFi should not always be a challenge. Whether you’re a jet setter or a tourist, you can still find ways to stay online and be connected virtually even when you’re someplace else. Just follow our buying, and you will never go wrong. Stay safe and happy travels!

Author: C. Lacson

Re-Editor: E. Hubilla

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