What is a Pocket Wi-Fi Router: Is It Profitable to Use It

Yesim Team •03 Jan 2025

5 minutes to read

Pocket Wi-Fi: how does it work
How to use a pocket Wi-Fi router
Pros and cons of a pocket Wi-Fi router
Conclusion
What is Pocket Router?

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In this article we will delve into the subject of what is a pocket Wi-Fi, learn how it works and how to use it. We will also consider the pros and cons of a pocket device and discuss an alternative option for connecting mobile Internet. This information will be of particular interest to those who often travel and look for a way to stay connected anywhere in the world.

What is Pocket Router?

Pocket wi-fi router and how does it work?

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A pocket Wi-Fi router or mobile router is a portable device that receives 3G and 4G signals and creates a local wireless Internet network for several gadgets simultaneously. More modern versions also support 5G.

Such devices are used for communication in places where it is not possible to connect to a wired network. Mobile routers are usually compact, they are the size of a smartphone. They easily fit into your pocket and do not take much space in your bag. You can take such a device to nature, to travel abroad or on a business trip.

The cost of a mobile Wi-Fi router in Europe is from 35 to 300 €. It is also possible to rent a device. In almost every country you can order delivery of the equipment to the hotel or pick it up at the delivery point right at the airport. The rental price depends on the period of use, delivery and return options. Each country has its own prices. For example, a week's rental of a pocket router with a traffic limit of 1 GB/day in France will cost 50.20 €, and in Italy — 48.65 €.

At the same time, there is a high risk of forgetting, breaking or losing the device. In such a case, you will most likely have to reimburse the full cost of the equipment to the rental company. However, with an eSIM virtual card, you won't need any additional equipment at all. You will be able to connect to the wireless network through the mobile app.

Pocket Wi-Fi: how does it work

A mobile router is a converter of a 3G, 4G or 5G mobile connection into a Wi-Fi signal. It can support several modes.

Wi-Fi router mode. Just like a regular router, a pocket device creates a local wireless network that allows devices to connect to the Internet.
Client mode. A device connects to an existing wireless network from a regular router.
As a repeater. Amplifies the wireless network signal from another router, providing a wider coverage range.
3G/4G/5G router mode. Receives signals from mobile networks via micro-SIM.

How to use a pocket Wi-Fi router

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Most models allow you to connect up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices to your wireless network: smartphones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, speakers and cameras. Before buying or renting a device, make sure it supports local wireless frequencies.

To access the Internet, you need to make sure the router is charged, insert a SIM card and authorize. If you are traveling, you will have to look for a local operator card of the country you are in. This is an additional cost and inconvenience. Because of the language barrier, you may find it difficult to understand data plans. In addition, if you travel to another country, you will have to change your SIM card again.

If your pocket device has a LAN input for cable connection, you can use it as a regular router. For this, you will have to look for a wired network connection. But, as a rule, in hotels and hostels they already have the Internet, and outside the hotel you will stay without any connection.

A more reliable way to ensure you have mobile Internet while traveling is to install Yesim.app and activate a virtual eSIM card. This way you will be connected in most countries of the world. On this page, you can check if your smartphone supports eSIM technology.

Pros and cons of a pocket Wi-Fi router

Let's see the pros and cons of a mobile Wi-Fi router.

Pros:

Small size and light weight allow you to carry it even in your pocket.
Compatibility with a variety of Wi-Fi enabled devices.
Provides connection for several devices at the same time.
Availability of a rechargeable battery, which will be enough for several hours of autonomous work.
Sufficiently large range of action — an average of 20-30 meters.
The ability to connect to a computer via a USB cable and work in modem mode.

Mobile router is a device that has a number of disadvantages:

The quality of the connection depends on the signal of the cellular network, and in some places can be poor.
It needs to be charged which can be inconvenient on long trips.
High cost of quality models.
Because of their compact size, Wi-Fi routers can n be lost or forgotten, that means in case you rent a device then heavy fines can be imposed.
Limited signal can be a problem when traveling in a group. For example, if a group decides to split up while camping, those without a router will stay without connection.

An eSIM virtual card is a more convenient solution than renting a pocket Wi-Fi router, especially if your trip is long. All you need to do is install the Yesim app on your smartphone, activate the virtual card and activate the data plan for the country you need. You can easily switch between countries right in the app and enjoy high-speed internet anywhere in the world.

Conclusion

Pocket Wi-Fi router offers a convenient and portable solution for accessing the internet on the go, especially for travelers, an eSIM may present an even better option. eSIM technology allows users to activate a cellular plan directly on their devices without the need for physical SIM cards or additional hardware. This can lead to seamless connectivity, as travelers can easily switch between different carriers or plans based on their location and needs.

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eSIMs provide the advantage of eliminating the hassle of carrying extra devices and managing battery life, which is particularly beneficial for those who prioritize minimalism and efficiency while traveling. Additionally, eSIMs often offer competitive data plans, allowing users to avoid high roaming charges and access local networks more easily.

While Pocket Wi-Fi routers are a solid choice for mobile internet access, eSIM technology stands out as a more streamlined and flexible solution for travelers seeking reliable connectivity without the added bulk of extra devices.

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FAQ

What is pocket Wi-Fi?

Pocket Wi-Fi is a portable device that provides wireless internet access by creating a personal Wi-Fi hotspot. It typically uses a SIM card to connect to a mobile network, allowing users to access the internet on multiple devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops simultaneously. Pocket Wi-Fi is especially useful for travelers or individuals who need internet access on the go, as it can be easily carried in a pocket or bag and used in areas without fixed broadband connections.

Which is better: a pocket router or eSIM technology?

eSIM technology is better because it allows you to connect to a wireless network directly from your phone and use the Internet at a better price. You don't need to buy additional equipment, look for a local SIM card in each country and understand the data plans of foreign operators.

Will the mobile router work without a SIM card?

A mobile router will work without a SIM card if it has a LAN connector for cable Internet connection. It is not very convenient to use such a gadget when traveling: hotels and hostels usually have Internet access, but when you are on the road or on a tour, you will be without Internet connection.

How does the pocket WiFi work?

Pocket Wi-Fi works by connecting to a mobile network and creating a personal Wi-Fi hotspot that allows multiple devices to access the internet wirelessly. It uses a SIM card to connect to the cellular network, and then it broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal that nearby devices can connect to, enabling internet access wherever there is mobile coverage.