Data dongle vs MiFi hub - what's the difference?

Whether we’re at home or on the go – reliable internet feels like a non-negotiable for most of us. We want to be connected wherever we are, whatever we’re doing.

What’s the best way to connect? Do you hotspot from your phone for hours or rely on patchy public Wi-Fi? An internet dongle or MiFi hub could be the answer. But what are they and how do they compare to each other – and to Home Broadband?

We’ve covered MiFi devices in detail in a previous blog, so this time, we’ll focus on data dongles, also known as Wi-Fi dongles. Find out how they measure up to MiFi and home broadband.

So, here’s everything you need to know about data dongles vs MiFi and home broadband.

A data dongle, or Wi-Fi dongle, is around the same size as a USB stick. It plugs into the USB port on your laptop or tablet connecting you to the internet.

Your data dongle is essentially a portable modem. It gives you internet access on the go and can also strengthen your existing connection.

All you need for a Wi-Fi dongle to work is a data plan from your network provider and a mobile signal. 

In simple terms, your Wi-Fi dongle connects to the 4G or 5G mobile network the same way as your smartphone. Just plug it into your computer, laptop, or tablet to use the internet.

Portability

This is their biggest advantage. They’re small enough to fit in your pocket and easy to carry around. They help you stay online wherever there’s mobile phone signal.

Simplicity

With their plug-and-play design, Wi-Fi dongles are super easy to use.  They don’t need charging or a mains power connection - they’re powered directly from your laptop or tablet.

MiFi devices are often confused with dongles, but they connect to the internet differently. They also have their own range of capabilities. So, what’s the main difference?

Unlike a data dongle, which can only be used by the device it’s plugged into, your MiFi acts as a mobile broadband router. Think of it as a smaller, battery-powered version of a home broadband router. It creates a personal Wi-Fi hotspot that lets multiple users share an internet connection.

The main difference between a MiFi device and a data dongle is that with a MiFi hub, you can connect multiple devices at the same time. So, you have the freedom to connect both your phone and laptop if you need to. Not only that, your friends, family, and colleagues can connect their devices too.  

Everyone shares a single connection, rather than arguing over who gets to use the dongle. Perfect for couples, families, friends or colleagues on the move.

Only being able to connect to 1 device at a time can be a real deal-breaker, making MiFi the better option for most people.

Because your Mobile Wi-Fi isn’t physically plugged into your device or a plug socket, you can move it around.  So, whether you’re in a hotel room, co-working space or Airbnb, you can put it wherever the best signal is.

Mi-Fi is versatile – you’re not limited to using devices with USB slots like you are with a data dongle. Instead, you can connect iPads, tablets, laptops, and phones – all at the same time, if you need to.

Dongles are smaller than MiFi devices, making them easy to stick in your pocket. But MiFi devices are still light enough to carry around and take up very little space in your bag.

In terms of a Wi-Fi dongle vs home broadband, it’s clear by this point that they do very different things.

A dongle’s light and portable – perfect for a single laptop user but can’t be used for multiple connections. While home broadband is designed to be plugged in and provides Wi-Fi for everyone in your home.

When it comes to MiFi vs home broadband, the options are more varied.

For a couple or family, it makes a lot of sense to have home broadband for when you’re all at home. And to have a MiFi option for family holidays or if family members are going on work trips.

A home broadband hub stays plugged in, covers a wider range in your home, and connects to our 4G or 5G broadband network. Because it’s plugged in, you don’t need to worry about batteries or charging. And with no landline or engineer needed, it’s quick to install. Three's home broadband also comes with unlimited data as standard.

MiFi is a better option if you travel around a lot. Whether you’re a digital nomad, on a year out backpacking, or similar, it’s one of the leading no contract broadband options.

Want the freedom to connect multiple devices and share your internet access with others? A MiFi router is your best option. It also means you’re not restricted to using devices with a USB port.

Our 4G Plus MiFi provides fast, stable Wi-Fi that you can share with up to 32 Wi-Fi enabled devices. It has maximum download speeds of 300Mbps and can be charged up and taken wherever you go. Perfect for travelling, working on the move or if you don't have access to home broadband.

Only want to connect 1 device or have a laptop with a SIM card slot or a tablet or iPad with 4G or 5G connectivity? Then check out our Data Only SIMs.

We offer Pay Monthly Data Only SIMs and Pay As You Go Data Only SIMs with a range of data allowances and costs. They can also be used with internet dongles – ideal if you’ve already got one you’re happy with.

Looking for unlimited data? You’ll need to pick up a Pay Monthly plan on either a fixed term or rolling monthly basis.

Ready to get online from almost anywhere? Check out our MiFi and mobile broadband deals. Or you can check out MiFi guide to learn more about how portable Wi-Fi works.