Everything Goes Better with a MiFi

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Tags : Laptop Gear, Mobile Phone Gear, WiFi and Wireless Gear

Everything Goes Better with a MiFi

Posted on 20 November 2009 by Jason Reese

geardiary_mifi_goodness

A few weeks back I finally broke down and got a MiFi. Yeah, you’ve certainly read plenty about the mobile hotspot device. I got to put the MiFi to the test over the last few weeks. While I own a separate 3G aircard, and have tethered my BlackBerry using Tetherberry to frequently to surf when a good (free ) wireless hotspot was not available, I have to say…the MiFi is all that! In fact, I hear Judie’s got one on the way — so you know it’s good.

So, what do I like about it? During my week-long trip last week the MiFi proved itself to be the best gear in my bag. That is no exaggeration. I had the MiFi in my bag and was able to connect and stay on top of work (and posts!) no matter where I was. Venture out of the hotel? No problem. I wasn’t scouring for a coffee shop or checking for an open (and unsecure) network. I was able to enjoy some sight-seeing one afternoon and still able to respond to critical emails — while enjoying a break and taking in the scenery of the San Francisco bay. Back at the conference, when many attendees were lamenting the constant drops from the WiFi provided by the hotel (that they had to pay for, no less) — I was able to help a few fellow participants by letting them hop on my MiFi connection.

Since up to 5 device connections can be used simultaneously, the MiFi was able to get a few other people out of a bind. Plus, when my other carrier data connection (cough) was a bit spotty in areas, I found using the MiFi as my hotspot provided a steady, fast, and reliable way to ensure I was always online via my laptop, Bold, or iPhone. Sure, there’s a 5GB cap (and the service is not cheap with the $60 monthly service fee …plus taxes) — but the MiFi has certainly replaced my 3G aircard. Being able to just throw it in a bag (or my jacket pocket) and surf or respond to email from any location was, really, pure bliss. If the MiFi started running out of juice — I would get about 4 or so hours out of it before needing to recharge — I would simply plug it up to my laptop via the micro-USB cable. Sure, I couldn’t share the connection if it was plugged in to the laptop, but the MiFi would charge and let me surf in tethering mode.

This MiFi is definitely a keeper

This post was written by:

Jason Reese - who has written 396 posts on Gear Diary.

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http://www.geardiary.com Judie Lipsett
Thanks for this Jason! Mine came in while I was gone, and I am just now getting it set up. Already impressed with its small size and speed; it is definitely a keeper!
Larry Greenberg
Loved it when I had it but just could not deal with constantly worrying about the 5 gig cap.
Jason Reese
Yep. I was a little worried about the cap — especially after downloading a video on iTunes while sitting at the airport. Then again, when I shared my MiFi connection with a few folks. But, so far I’m still not hitting the cap. I don’t feel too bad since it’s the same restriction as aircards or usb sticks (and, really, the same restriction if I tethered).
Honestly, I was set on going with a CradlePoint unit and just using my Bold’s 3G connection (don’t think CPs are yet compatible with iPhones…) but then I was in an area where I was getting very spotty service. So, I bit the bullet and went with the MiFi. Cancelling my aircard and can still use tethering in a pinch, but I’m pretty much a convert to this device. Being able to be my own roaming hotspot is just pretty awesome. Better if it was truly unlimited, but it’ll do
Joel McLaughlin
I am wondering Jason if you had 2 laptops or a netbook and a laptop if you could use Windows Filesharing between the two?
Jason Reese
Not sure. I can give it a go this weekend to see…
BBusyb
I agree, devices like this are definately a great tool when you are out and about.
I got the Huwaie Version of this when it came out in the Uk, and have to say its been a great experience. Being able to hook up any device to it via wifi, without having to install the $%^& software is a boon.
One advantage we have here (One of the few we get) is that we can actually get it for Prepaid, so there is no need for a monthly contract if we don’t need one. So For when I do I can get 3GB for £15($24) or pay more for additional bandwith when I need it( No overage charges. Just stop working when you reach the limit). Also if you get a Monthly plan, its even cheaper with 7GB for around £20($30).
qwerty58
Less bars in more places.
AT&T – Your world disconnected.
It’s a sad reality. Good thing Verizon offers 5x more 3G coverage