Need a MiFi router? A mobile WiFi router comparison

What is a MiFi router?

A MiFi router is a small, mobile router. The router uses a data-only SIM to connect to the mobile network and then creates a local WiFi signal. You can use this WiFi on your laptop, tablet, or smartphone. A MiFi router is especially useful on holiday or as an extra backup network at home.

Types of MiFi routers: 4G, 4G+ and 5G

There are three main types of SIM card routers: 4G, 4G+, and 5G. The choice depends on how fast you need your internet to be and how many people will use the connection at the same time.

4G MiFi routers

A 4G MiFi router offers download speeds up to 150 Mbps. In practice, this is often between 20 and 50 Mbps. This is more than enough for video streaming, video calls, and browsing. Coverage throughout the Netherlands is excellent, and in most cities abroad you’ll also have a 4G signal.

Advantages of 4G:

• Longer battery life
• Reliable coverage almost everywhere

4G+ (LTE-A) MiFi routers

4G+ is an improved version of 4G, reaching speeds up to 300 Mbps. This type of sim router is a better choice for heavy users who often stream in HD or upload large files.

Advantages of 4G+:

• Faster than standard 4G
• Good coverage in the Netherlands and abroad

5G MiFi-routers

A 5G router offers speeds up to 1 Gbps. In practice, this is usually 100–300 Mbps. This is still much faster than 4G. The big advantage? It’s future-proof. If 5G is not available, the device automatically switches to 4G, so you'll have a reliable signal almost everywhere.

Advantages of 5G:

• Much higher maximum speed
• Better performance with many users at the same time
• Future-ready

MiFi routers with or without a SIM card

You can buy a router and a SIM card separately and insert your own SIM, or choose a package with a subscription included. Most routers are unlocked, so you can use them with the provider of your choice.

Configuration requirements

• Most routers use a nano or micro SIM card.
• Some MiFi routers also support eSIM. This makes it easier to switch to a local connection when abroad.
• APN settings are usually configured automatically.

What to look for when buying a MiFi router

Battery life

Battery life is especially important if you use your MiFi router a lot when traveling. The exact battery life depends on the brand and model you buy. With a budget model, you often get a battery life of up to 10 hours. With more expensive models, this is 15 to 24 hours. Keep in mind that 5G uses more power than 4G.

Tips to save battery:

• Use 4G-only mode if you don’t need 5G
• Connect fewer devices at the same time
• Use sleep mode
• Plug into external power whenever possible

Number of Devices

Most routers support use of 10–15 devices simultaneously. Keep in mind that the devices share the available bandwidth. Using multiple devices at the same time will affect the speed.

Ports and Connections

Extra ports make the router more flexible:

• Ethernet port for a stable wired connection
• USB port for use as a power bank
• External antenna port for better signal in weak areas

SIM Card Options: Prepaid vs. Subscription

Prepaid

• No monthly contract
• Full control of costs
• Top up when needed

Subscription

• Lower price per GB
• Automatic monthly renewal
• Often better abroad

Prepaid vs. subscription comparison with costs

Fixing Problems With Your MiFi Router

No connection?

• Check if the SIM card is inserted correctly
• Make sure you have coverage
• Turn the router off, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on

Slow internet?

• Move the router for better signal
• Reduce the number of connected devices
• Switch from 5G to 4G if unstable

WiFi problems?

• Check the WiFi password
• Move closer to the router
• As a last option, you can reset the device to factory settings

MiFi SIM Card at Simyo

At this time, it’s not possible to use a Simyo SIM card for a MiFi router. Simyo does not offer a data-only subscription with a 097 number. Our SIM cards are always linked to a (Dutch) mobile phone number, starting with 06. “You can still use your phone as a mobile hotspot to connect your laptop or tablet.

Frequently asked questions