MiFi SIM card: everything you need to know about mobile Wi-Fi

What is a MiFi SIM card?

A MiFi SIM card is a data-only SIM card for mobile routers. You can't simply use a standard SIM card for a mobile phone. MiFi SIM cards are linked to a 097 number, which is used for data-only plans.

In the Netherlands, it's actually not allowed to use standard mobile phone SIMs just for data. According to the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets , 097 numbers are specifically meant for 'Machine-to-Machine' (M2M) use. This also includes MiFi routers. Those SIM cards only provide a data connection.

Is your Simyo bundle suitable for MiFi?

Right now, Simyo plans are not suitable for MiFi routers. The reason is simple: we currently do not offer data-only plans. All Simyo SIMs, are tied to a phone number (starting with '06'). In the Netherlands, you are not allowed to use a SIM with a phone number for your MiFi router.

If you need mobile Wi-Fi with your Simyo plan , you can, of course, turn on a mobile hotspot via your smartphone.

Which type of SIM fits in a MiFi router?

Most MiFi routers need a nano or micro SIM card. There are no specific MiFi SIM cards: you need a data-only SIM card.

eSIM options for MiFi routers

Newer MiFi routers, launched from 2024 onwards, often support eSIM as well. With an eSIM in your MiFi router, switching between providers is much easier. This is especially useful when traveling outside the EU. You no longer have to swap physical SIM cards.

MiFi SIM cards: Prepaid vs. plan

MiFi routers work with both Prepaid and plans. Both have their own pros and cons. This mostly depend on how much data you need.

MiFi Prepaid SIM card

Prepaid is especially useful if you only use your MiFi router occasionally. This way, you're not paying during the months when you're not using your router. You pay in advance and only for what you use. Prepaid data bundles often are more expensive per gigabyte than plans, though. With regular use, costs add up quickly.

Advantages of plans

Plans offer more data for less money, especially with heavy use. And the larger your bundle, the lower the price per MB. So if you use your router regularly, a MiFi SIM card with a plan will be cheaper.

How much data do you need for a MiFi router?

The data usage of a MiFi router naturally depends heavily on what you're doing and the number of connected devices. Using the MiFi router by yourself for work requires a different data bundle than sharing it with your family on vacation.

If you've used the hotspot on your smartphone before, you should have a good indication of how much data you need. With a separate MiFi router, you'll have to keep higher usage in mind.

Your usage also determines whether you are better off with Prepaid or a plan. If you use the router occasionally, 1 GB per month might be enough. With that, you can do the most important basic tasks, like checking your email and visiting websites.

For business use, choose 5 GB or more. Especially if you share large files, upload files to the cloud, or need to make video calls. If you use the MiFi router as a family on vacation, 15 to 20 GB is the right amount. Do you use multiple devices at the same time and watch online videos? Then data adds up fast.

Roaming advice for MiFi SIM cards

Within the EU, 'Roam Like at Home' applies. This also covers data-only SIM cards, so you can use your Dutch bundle without extra costs.

Outside the EU, roaming costs can add up quickly: up to € 5 per MB. The exact price depends on the country zone. In that case, buying a local SIM card or eSIM during your trip is the best solution.

Installing and activating your MiFi SIM card

Step 1: Choose the right SIM card for your router, nano or micro. Just like regular SIM cards, you can pop out a data-only card to the right size for your MiFi router.

Step 2: Place the SIM card in the MiFi router. Make sure the router is still turned off.

Step 3: Switch on the MiFi router and wait until it connects to the mobile network. Configure the APN settings via the router's settings if necessary.

Step 4: Set up your Wi-Fi network. Connect your device to the MiFi router.

Activation time of a MiFi SIM card

It takes about 5 to 15 minutes to activate your MiFi SIM card with the steps above. Is your connection not working? Then check the APN settings first. This is the most common cause of connection problems. Also make sure the MiFi router can receive a mobile network signal.

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