6 Best Pocket WiFi Devices in the Philippines

Last Updated – Nov 2, 2022 @ 2:43 pm

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.

Contents

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.

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.

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.

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.

Product	Max. Number of Devices Connected	Internet Speed	Coverage	Additional Features	Price
Skyroam Solis	Up to 10 Devices	4G/LTEUp to 150Mbps	130+ countries	Built-in Camera, Mic, and Speaker	From P5,999 (Lazada)
Skyroam WorldFi	Up to 5 devices	4G/LTEUp to 150Mbps	100+ countries	Built-in powerbank	From P2,434 (refurbished at expansys) or for rent at Big Sky Nation

There are rental options for Skyroam products from Big Sky Nation along with data packages that start at P150 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

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

Globe

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. It offers LTE connection of up to 42 Mbps and allows you to connect up to 10 devices at the same time.

With the purchase of the device, you’ll get one of their free promos, GoWATCH399, which gives you 10GB that you can use for video streaming for up to 30 days.

Price

You can buy Globe’s pocket WiFi for P999 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.

As with other pocket WiFi devices, internet connection speed depends on your location.

How to Set Up

Turn your Globe pocket WiFi device on.
Make sure the computer’s WiFi is also on.
You’ll be asked to enter the SSID and password. You can find these at the back cover of your pocket WiFi.
To change the WiFi name or password, open the web browser and enter 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.8.1.
Use “admin” for username and password.
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
GoSURF15	P15.00	100 MB + 30MB for Instagram (2 Days)
GoSURF50	P50.00	2GB +1GB daily for GoWATCH&PLAY, GoLISTEN&DISCOVER, or GoSHARE&SHOP and 1GB for GoWiFi (3 Days)
GoSURF299	P299.00	2GB + 10GB for GoWATCH&PLAY, GoLISTEN&DISCOVER, or GoSHARE&SHOP + 1GB for GoWiFi + GCash voucher (30 days)
GoSURF599	P599.00	5GB + 10GB for GoWATCH&PLAY, GoLISTEN&DISCOVER, or GoSHARE&SHOP + 1GB for GoWIFI + GCash voucher (30 Days)
GoSURF999	P999.00	10GB + 10GB for GoWATCH&PLAY, GoLISTEN&DISCOVER, or GoSHARE&SHOP + 1GB for GoWiFi + GCash voucher (30 Days)
GoSURF1299	P1299.00	15GB + 10GB for GoWATCH&PLAY, GoLISTEN&DISCOVER, or GoSHARE&SHOP – 1GB for GoWiFi + GCash voucher (30 Days)
GoSURF1999	P1999.00	30GB + 10GB for GoWATCH&PLAY, GoLISTEN&DISCOVER, or GoSHARE&SHOP + 1GB for GoWiFi + GCCash voucher (30 Days)
GoSURF2499	P2499.00	50GB + 10Gb for GoWATCH&PLAY, GoLISTEN&DISCOVER, or GoSHARE&SHOP + 1GB for GoWiFi + GCash voucher (30 Days)
SUPERSURF50	P50.00	800MB unlimited surfing (1 Day)
SUPERSURF120	P120.00	800MB unlimited surfing (3 Days)
SUPERSURF200	P200.00	800MB unlimited surfing (5 Days)

Smart Bro LTE Pocket WiFi

Smart Bro LTE pocket WiFi is available in prepaid and postpaid varieties. Whichever you choose, you can enjoy up to 42Mbps of internet speed.

The device can support up to 5 devices at the same time for about 5 hours or so of straight use.

Smart claims their latest pocket WiFi device to be twice as fast as their previous device with its LTE 700mHz promising better indoor coverage.

Price

You can get the prepaid pocket WiFi from Smart for P1,295 (currently available fo P999 with free SURFMAX 250). available at all Smart stores and retailers nationwide.

You can also buy it from Lazada, Shopee, and GrabMart, among others. Meanwhile, postpaid plans range from P499 to P999 per month with data allocations of 6GB to 15GB with free iflix access.

Pros and Cons

Smart Bro Prepaid LTE Pocket WiFi used to be more expensive than other brands at P1,295 but as mentioned above, it’s now priced at P999 as well.

Its partnership with Grab makes it easier for customers in Metro Manila to get their hands on their own pocket WiFi as they can avail it via GrabMart and have it delivered to their homes on the same day.

It’s also easier for users to manage their data usage with the new Smart App, which lets you keep track of your online activities.

One con is that it can only accommodate up to five users simultaneously.

How to Set Up

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

How to Load

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

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 at the back of the card.
Purchase load from Smart Online store or other online channels like Lazada and Shopee.

Smart Bro Promos for Prepaid

Prepaid Promo	Price	Data Allowance
Home Boost 15	P15.00	1GB (1 Day) * This requires Giga Surf 50 or other SurfMax Plus promos
SurfMax	P50.00 / P85.00 / P250.00/ P500.00/ P995.00	800MB for all day surfing (1 Day, 2 Days, 7 Days, 15 Days, or 30 Days)
Giga Video	P50.00 / P99.00 / P299.00 / P399.00 / P499.00	1GB / 2 GB/ 4GB / 6GB / 8GB (3 Days, 7 Days, or 30 Days) + 1GB daily allowance for iflix, iWant and Cignal Play, NBA, and YouTube + unlitext to all networks
Giga Video+	P75.00 / P100.00 / P149.00 / P199.00 / P449.00 / P549.00 / P649.00 / P749.00	1GB / 2GB / 4GB / 6GB / 8GB (3 Days, 7 Days, pr 30 Days) + 1GB daily allowance for iflix, iWant and Cignal Play, NBA, and YouTube + unlimited texts to all networks and unlimited calls to Mart/Sun/TNT
Giga Games	P50.00 / P99.00 / P299.00 / P399.00	1GB / 2GB / 4GB / 6GB / 8GB (3 Days, 7 Days, or 30 Days) + 1GB daily allowance for Mobile Legends, Arena of Valor, Clash Royale, COC, and FB Gaming
Giga All-In	P125.00 / P249.00 / P649.00 / P749.00 / P849.00	1GB / 2GB / 4GB / 6GB / 8GB (for 3 Days, 7 Days, or 30 Days) + 1GB daily allowance for iflix, iWant and Cignal Play, NBA, and YouTube + 1GB daily allowance for FB, IG, and TikTok + unlimited calls and texts to all networks

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)

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	P2,750.00	Up to 150Mbps
M7350	P3,420.00	Up to 150 Mbps
M7450	P5,200.00	Up to 300 Mbps
M7650	P6,350.00	Up to 600 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

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.
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.

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	Price	Internet Speed
ZTE MF65+Pocket WiFi	P2,380.00	Up to 21.6 Mbps
ZTE MF65 MIFI Pocket WiFi	P2,590.00	Up to 21.6 Mbps
ZTE MF920T 4G/LTE	P2,890.00	Up to 150 Mbps
ZTE MF62 With LCD Display	P2,990.00	Up to 21.6 Mbps
ZTE MF63 Mobile WiFi hotspot	P2,990.00	Up to 21.6 Mbps
ZTE MF90 4G LTE MiFi	P3,588.00	Up to 150 Mbps

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

Insert your SIM card on the slot in your pocket WiFi.
Turn on the pocket WiFi.
Make sure that your device’s WiFi is on.
Search for available networks.
Choose your WiFi device (This is the SSID of your pocket WiFi) and click “connect.”
Enter the WiFi password (found on the label of your pocket WiFi) and hit “OK.”
Wait for your device to be connected.
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.

Huawei

Huawei’s current pocket WiFi device, the Huawei E5573 Mobile WiFi 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 as low as P2,190 from online stores like Lazada, Shopee, and Poundit.

Pros and Cons

This device can support up to 11 devices at once and offers speed of up to 150 Mbps.

This particular model is actually the one used by Globe for their pocket WiFi offering so it shares the same features.

The promos you can use, of course, depend on the network you choose to use with it.

How to Set Up

Remove the device’s back cover to reveal the SIM slot. Insert the SIM and the battery and cover it again.
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.
Turn the pocket WiFi on. You can do this by pressing and holding the power button for about 2 seconds or so.
Wait for your device to connect to the network.
Choose the SSID and enter the WiFI key that’s on the bottom label of the pocket WiFi.
Configure your pocket WiFi by launching your browser and entering http://192.168.1.1.
Log in using “admin” for both the username and password.
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.

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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