7 Best Pocket WiFi Devices in the Philippines

Last Updated – Aug 30, 2023 @ 9:45 am

In a digital world where being “connected” is a necessity, people are always looking for speedy and reliable internet access.

And from that need, pocket WiFi was born. But as almost every home has an internet connection and most mobile phones can serve as a hotspot, one might be wondering whether or not a pocket WiFi is still a smart buy. 

If you are one of those considering getting one, read on and find out if a pocket WiFi can deliver what you need and which one you should buy. 

What is a Pocket WiFi?

It’s a portable WiFi device that you can conveniently take anywhere and won’t take much space in your bag. You can connect multiple devices to it and is rechargeable, providing you wireless internet access on the go.

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Why Use a Pocket WiFi?

There are many pros to using a pocket WiFi aside from its portability. Compared to using your smartphone as a mobile hotspot, you can connect more devices to a pocket WiFi so it’s a better choice if you’re going to use multiple devices or are planning to use that connection with your family and friends.

Also, if you’re going to heavy data usage, it might be wiser to have a pocket WiFi to avoid the risk of overstepping your postpaid plan or running out of prepaid load.

Additionally, if you’re using your daily driver as a mobile hotspot, it’s battery would be drained faster. That’s not ideal at all, especially if you’re traveling and need your smartphone for multiple tasks. As such, it makes more sense to have a separate device servicing your WiFi needs.

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Best Pocket WiFi Devices in the Philippines

There are a number of pocket WiFis available in the country right now and choosing the right one for you can be confusing.

To help you out with your decision, here are some of the things that you need to know about the best pocket WiFis available in the market. 

Smart Bro

Smart Bro is a subsidiary of Smart Communications that specifically caters to data and broadband services, offering a range of products such as pocket WiFi devices.

Smart Bro’s Pocket WiFi is a portable device that allows multiple gadgets to connect to the internet through Smart’s mobile network. It’s useful for those on-the-go or for areas without a fixed broadband connection.

Pros and Cons

Pros of Smart Bro Pocket WiFi:

• Portability: The device is compact and lightweight, allowing users to bring and use it anywhere, making it especially suitable for travelers or those constantly on-the-go.
• Multiple Device Connection: It allows multiple devices, typically around 5-10, to connect simultaneously. This is great for group outings or if you have several devices yourself.
• Easy Setup: No installation required. Once you have the device, you simply turn it on, and you can connect to it just like any other WiFi network.
• No Fixed Contract: Since it’s mostly used on a prepaid basis, you’re not tied into a long-term service contract. This flexibility means you can use it as much or as little as you need.
• Coverage: Given that it uses Smart’s network, it generally has good coverage in areas where Smart has a strong presence.
• Security: It supports secured WiFi standards like WPA/WPA2, ensuring your connection is private.

Cons of Smart Bro Pocket WiFi:

• Data Caps: Depending on the package or promo you avail, there might be data caps, after which your internet speed can be significantly reduced.
• Battery Life: Being a portable device, it runs on battery. Depending on the model and usage, the battery might need recharging after several hours.
• Signal Dependency: The device’s performance heavily depends on the signal strength of Smart’s network in your area. In places with poor signal, you might experience slow or intermittent connections.
• Cost: Depending on usage, reloading the Pocket WiFi with prepaid data can become expensive in the long run compared to fixed-line broadband services.
• Fair Usage Policy (FUP): Even if some promos claim “unlimited” data, they may be subject to FUP, which can reduce your speeds after consuming a certain amount of data.
• Device Limitations: There’s a limit to how many devices can connect at once. If you exceed this limit, new devices won’t be able to connect.
• Durability: Being small and portable means it can be easy to misplace, and it might not be as robust as larger modems if dropped frequently.

How to Set Up

1. Insert the Smart Bro SIM (included in the package) in the slot in your pocket WiFi.
2. Launch the browser on your device.
3. Check the IP address found on the product manual in the address bar. 
4. Use the default password “smartbro” and click “login.”
5. From “Quick Settings,” choose “next.” You may change the SSID to your chosen WiFi name, too. 
6. To protect your connection from unauthorized users, add an encryption mode. Choose WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK.
7. Enter your new password and hit next.
8. Click “apply.”

How to Load

You can top up your Smart Bro 5G or LTE pocket WiFi in different ways. 

1. Buy a Smart load card, regular electronic load or Smart’s promos from any Smart retailer or Smart store. If you choose a load card, simply follow the instructions on the back of the card.
2. Purchase load from Smart Online store, Smart’s GIGALife app, or other mobile wallets like Gcash or Maya. 

Smart Bro Promos for Prepaid

Prepaid Promo	Price	Data Allowance
UNLI DATA	P899 (30 days)	Unlimited data for all sites and apps
UNLI FAM	P1,299 (30 days)	Unlimited data for all sites and apps
Giga Power	P149 (7 days) P499 (30 days) P899 (30 days)	20GB (2GB daily limit + 6GB) 84GB (2GB daily limit + 24GB) 132GB (2GB daily limit + 72GB)
PowerAll	P99 (7 days) P149 (7 days) P499 (30 days) P899 (30 days)	8GB (+ Unli Tiktok) 12GB (+ Unli Tiktok) 48GB (+ Unli Tiktok) 96GB (+ Unli Tiktok)
All Data	P50 (3 days) P99 (7 days) P299 (30 days) P399 (30 days) P499 (30 days)	2GB shareable data for all sites and apps 6GB shareable data for all sites and apps 24GB shareable data for all sites and apps 36GB shareable data for all sites and apps 48GB shareable data for all sites and apps
Magic Data	P99 (no expiry) P299 (no expiry) P399 (no expiry) P499 (no expiry) P599 (no expiry)	2GB data for all sites and apps 6GB data for all sites and apps 24GB data for all sites and apps 36GB data for all sites and apps 48GB data for all sites and apps

Smart Bro Promos for Postpaid

Postpaid Promo	Price	Data Allowance
Giga Surf 50	P50.00	1GB + 300MB for iflix, iWant, Dubsmash, Dailymotion, Vimeo, Spinnr, and YouTube + unlimited texts to all networks (3 Days)
Giga Surf 99	P99.00	2GB + 1GB daily for iflix, NBA, YouTube, and more (7 Days)
Giga Surf 299	P299.00	2GB + 1GB for iflix, iWant, Dubsmash, Dailymotion, Vimeo, Spinnr, and YouTube(30 Days)
Giga Surf 599	P599.00	5GB + 1GB daily for iflix, NBA, YouTube, and more (30 Days)
Giga Surf 899	P899.00	8GB + 1GB daily for iflix, iWant, NBA, YouTube, and more (30 Days)
Giga Video	P50.00 / P99.00 / P299.00 / P399.00 / P499/00	1GB / 2GB / 4GB / 6GB / 8GB + 1GB daily allowance for iflix, iWant, NBA, Cignal TV, and YouTube (3 Days, 7 Days, or 30 Days)
SurfMax 995	P995.00	All-day surfing up to 1GB daily allowance (30 Days)

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Skyroam 

Skyroam may not be as familiar to Filipinos as other pocket WiFis but it’s definitely an option that you must consider. This is ideal for those who love to travel as it offers coverage in more than 130 countries. 

There are rental options for Skyroam products from Big Sky Nation along with data packages that start at P190 and vary depending on the package and your destination. If you own a Skyroam hotspot device, you may also opt for a re-charge (daily pass load). 

Pros and Cons

If you are a frequent traveler, you might find Skyroam’s rates cheaper and the connection more reliable, thanks to their wide coverage.

The Skyroam Solis also comes with features like “Smart Assistant”, remote camera, and it also serves as a power bank. Their additional features are great and can benefit a lot of users.

However, if you’re going to use it mainly as a backup in case your home internet connection fails and you won’t be traveling abroad often, buying or renting Skyroam could be a lot more expensive compared to other options.

How to Set Up

1. Turn on the device.
2. Download the Solis WiFi app on your mobile device or connect to a.skyroam.com for guided set-up instructions.
3. Choose your WiFi plan. (If you’re renting the device from Big Sky Nation, it comes pre-activated with your chosen data plan).

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Globe MyFi LTE

Globe has had a few pocket WiFi devices in the past few years but the one they currently offer is the Globe LTE Mobile WiFi (MyFi). It offers LTE connection of up to 100 Mbps and allows you to connect up to 12 devices at the same time.

Price

You can buy Globe’s pocket WiFi for P1,499 from Globe’s online shop, Globe stores, and all accredited retail outlets. They’re also available at Lazada and Shopee.

Pros and Cons

One of the best things about Globe’s pocket WiFi is its availability and how easy it is not only to buy the device itself but to get load for it, too.

There are also a lot of promo options that you can choose from. Battery life is decent as the device lasts for about 4-5 hours of straight use.

One downside is Globe’s pocket WiFi device doesn’t support 5G connection speed.

How to Set Up

1. Turn  your Globe pocket WiFi device on.
2. Make sure the computer’s WiFi is also on.
3. You’ll be asked to enter the SSID and password. You can find these at the back cover of your pocket WiFi. 
4. To change the WiFi name or password, open the web browser and enter 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.8.1.
5. Use “admin” for username and password.
6. You can then go to either Advance Settings or WLAN Basic Settings which you can find on the dashboard, change the values to your preference and then click “apply.” 

Note that you also have the option of simply connecting the pocket wifi to your device using the cable that comes with the package.

How to Load

There are several ways to buy load and avail of Globe’s promos for your pocket WiFi.

• Using GlobeOne app
• Using Globe At Home app
• By dialing *143# and selecting Surfing then GoSURF or SUPERSURF
• By sending your chosen Globe promo name to 8080
• By using the “Buy Load” feature on the GCash app

Globe’s Promos for LTE Mobile WiFi

Promo	Price	Data Allowance
GoSURF30	P30.00 (2 days)	300 MB all-access data + 50 MB for Facebook, Instagram, Viber, or Snapchat
GoSURF299	P299.00 (30 days)	2 GB all-access data + 10 GB for your choice of GoWATCH&PLAY, GoSHARE&SHOP, GoLISTEN&TRAVEL, or GoLEARN&WORK + 1 GB GoWiFi access
GoSURF599	P599.00 (30 days)	5 GB all-access data + 10 GB for your choice of GoWATCH&PLAY, GoSHARE&SHOP, GoLISTEN&TRAVEL, or GoLEARN&WORK + 1 GB GoWiFi access
GoSURF999	P999.00 (30 days)	10 GB all-access data + 10 GB  for your choice of GoWATCH&PLAY, GoSHARE&SHOP, GoLISTEN&TRAVEL, or GoLEARN&WORK + 1 GB GoWiFi access
GoSURF1299	P1299.00 (30 days)	15 GB all-access data + 10 GB for your choice of GoWATCH&PLAY, GoSHARE&SHOP, GoLISTEN&TRAVEL, or GoLEARN&WORK + 1 GB GoWiFi access
GoSURF1999	P1999.00 (30 days)	30 GB all-access data + 10 GB for your choice of GoWATCH&PLAY, GoSHARE&SHOP, GoLISTEN&TRAVEL, or GoLEARN&WORK + 1 GB GoWiFi access
GoSURF2499	P2499.00 (30 days)	50 GB all-access data + 10 GB for your choice of GoWATCH&PLAY, GoSHARE&SHOP, GoLISTEN&TRAVEL, or GoLEARN&WORK + 1 GB GoWiFi access

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TP-Link

TP-Link is a brand known for its WiFi networking devices, including pocket WiFi devices. They currently offer four models for different user needs.

TP-Link Pocket WiFi Models

Pocket WiFi Model	Price	Internet Speed
M7200	P2,480.00	Up to 150Mbps
M7350	P2,910.00	Up to 150 Mbps
M7450	P5,399.00	Up to 300 Mbps
M7650	P7,600.00	Up to 600 Mbps
TL-WR902AC AC750 Wireless Travel Router	P1,599.00	Up to 433 Mbps

TP-Link pocket WiFi devices are available at Asianic, VillMan Computers, PC Express, and Shopee.

Pros and Cons

The range of prices means there’s something for every budget. However, their cheapest model, M7200 is still comparably more expensive than other brands.

The devices last for about 8 to 15 hours of straight use and could support up to 32 devices at once. 

With the exception of the M7200, the pocket WiFi devices come with a slot for microSD that can be used for wireless sharing of files across a network and a screen display.

TP-Link pocket WiFi devices can also be used in most countries as they support most networks. Using this device also means you have the liberty to give different networks a try without having to buy multiple pocket WiFis.

How to Set Up

1. Using a USB cable, you can connect the pocket WiFi to your laptop or desktop. The driver will then be installed on your device automatically. 
2. Once you see the message “Your device is ready to use,” just wait for the red “x” or yellow “!” by the network icon to disappear, which means you’re connected to the internet.

How to Load

Depending on the network you’re going to use, you can follow the instructions provided for topping up with either Globe or Smart.

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ZTE

ZTE pocket WiFi devices are also an option for those looking for an open line device that they can use to try different networks or take with them when they travel.

There are several models available in the country right now. These are available at VillMan Computers and other online shops.

Pocket WiFi Model	Max. Number of Devices Connected	Price	Internet Speed
ZTE MF90 4G LTE MiFi	Up to 10 devices	P3,588.00	Up to 150 Mbps
ZTE MU5002 5G WiFi6 Pro	Up to 32 devices	P17,016	Up to 1.78 Gbps

Pros and Cons

ZTE pocket WiFi devices are all open line, so you can choose the network you want wherever you may be.

Most models last up to 8 hours of continuous use. They can support up to 10 devices simultaneously.

In comparison to devices limited to local networks, ZTE pocket WiFi devices are quite pricier.

How to Set Up

1. Insert your SIM card on the slot in your pocket WiFi.
2. Turn on the pocket WiFi.
3. Make sure that your device’s WiFi is on.
4. Search for available networks.
5. Choose your WiFi device (This is the SSID of your pocket WiFi) and click “connect.”
6. Enter the WiFi password (found on the label of your pocket WiFi) and hit “OK.”
7. Wait for your device to be connected.
8. If using a laptop or desktop, you may also choose to directly connect the pocket WiFi using the included USB cable.

How to Load

Follow the instructions for topping up for your chosen network provider.

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Huawei 5G

Huawei’s 5G Mobile WiFi Pro device is open line so you can opt to use either a Globe or a Smart SIM with it when you’re in the country, and just change it when you travel abroad. 

Price

You can get it for P27,000 from online stores like Lazada and Shopee.

Pros and Cons

This device can support up to 11 devices at once and offers speed of up to 1.65 Gbps.

It also has a 40 W super fast charging technology and an 8,000 mAh battery.

How to Set Up

1. Remove the device’s back cover to reveal the SIM slot. Insert the SIM and the battery and cover it again.
2. You may have to charge the pocket WiFi before using it for the first time. You can do so by connecting it to your computer using the USB cable. You may plug it into a socket, too. 
3. Turn the pocket WiFi on. You can do this by pressing and holding the power button for about 2 seconds or so.
4. Wait for your device to connect to the network.
5. Choose the SSID and enter the WiFI key that’s on the bottom label of the pocket WiFi.
6. Configure your pocket WiFi by launching your browser and entering http://192.168.1.1.
7. Log in using “admin” for both the username and password.
8. Set the parameters.

How to Load

As it is open line, you’d simply have to follow the loading instructions for your chosen network provider. 

Related: Online Privacy Tips: How to Secure your Personal Information

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Netgear Nighthawk M5

The Netgear Nighthawk M5 is a mobile hotspot device that was notable for its support for 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi 6 technology, giving users faster speeds with lower latencies, and increased capacity even with multiple connected devices.

Device	Max. Number of Devices Connected	Internet Speed	Features	Price
Netgear Nighthawk M5	Up to 32 devices	1.8 Gbps	5G connectivity; Wi-Fi 6; Touchscreen; Up to 13 hours of battery life	P46,920

This pocket Wi-Fi is also compatible with any local SIM here in the Philippines (Globe, SMART, DITO).

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Pocket WiFi FAQs

How does pocket WiFi work in the Philippines?

Pocket WiFi in the Philippines works by connecting to local cellular networks (like Globe and Smart) and then broadcasting a WiFi signal that other devices can connect to.

How can I buy pocket WiFi in the Philippines?

You can purchase pocket WiFi devices from local telecom stores, online shopping platforms (like Shopee & Lazada), or electronic shops in major cities and malls.

Which telecom providers offer pocket WiFi services in the Philippines?

Major providers include Globe and Smart.

What are the data plans available for pocket WiFi?

Providers usually offer prepaid, postpaid, and pay-as-you-go data plans. The specifics vary between providers and are frequently updated.

For reference, you can check out the following resources:

• Smart Prepaid Data Plans
• Globe Prepaid Data Plans
• DITO Data Plans

Can I use my pocket WiFi outside of the Philippines?

Yes, provided it’s an unlocked device and compatible with international frequencies. You would need a SIM card from the destination country or a global SIM card.

How many devices can connect to a pocket WiFi at once?

Typically, 5-10 devices can connect simultaneously, but this depends on the specific model.

How fast is pocket WiFi in the Philippines?

Speeds can vary based on the network provider, location, signal strength, and number of connected devices. 4G/LTE/5G connections are commonly available in urban areas, with speeds ranging from 150 Mbps to 1000 Mbps.

How do I top up or reload my pocket WiFi data?

Most telecom shops, convenience stores, mobile apps (Gcash & Maya), and online platforms offer reloading options. The method depends on your provider and plan.

Is there unlimited data available for pocket WiFi?

Some providers offer unlimited plans, but they might come with fair usage policies that can reduce speeds after a certain amount of data is consumed.

What should I do if my pocket WiFi isn’t working?

Check the signal strength, ensure the device is charged, and consider restarting it. If problems persist, contact your provider or visit a service center.

Can tourists rent pocket WiFi in the Philippines?

Yes, many companies cater specifically to tourists, offering short-term pocket WiFi rentals at airports or online for pick-up/delivery.

Is pocket WiFi secure?

Most pocket WiFi devices offer WPA/WPA2 encryption, which is secure when set up with a strong password. Always ensure your network is password-protected.

How long does the battery last on pocket WiFi devices?

On average, the battery can last anywhere from 5 to 12 hours, depending on the model and usage.

Are there any areas in the Philippines where pocket WiFi might not work?

While coverage is extensive in urban and populated areas, there might be limited or no signal in remote or mountainous regions.

Always ensure to check the latest information with telecom providers or rental services, as details might change over time.

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Final Thoughts

With all the issues users are experiencing with internet service providers, it’s always a good idea to get yourself a pocket WiFi as a back-up.

This is especially important if you are currently working remotely or enrolled in online classes. It also gives you the flexibility to stay connected and continue your online tasks wherever you go. 

Of course, the choice of what particular device you should use depends on your needs and your budget.

Also, it’s worth noting that the performances of these devices also depend on the network you choose, as well as your location.

It might be wise to consult with trusted family and friends in your area to find out which one works best for them.

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