Verizon MiFi Vs. 3G

The Verizon MiFi device can be connected to up to five devices at once. MiFi is connected like any other wireless Wi-Fi device and can be carried virtually anywhere. Using a 3G network, it is easier to get coverage, and no complicated set up is required. However, MiFi devices can connect in places where 3G networks can't extend to, such as in the mountains or in the country.

Mobile devices have some limitations when using a 3G network. For instance, apps of more than 20mb cannot be downloaded and VoIP apps, such as Google Voice and Skype, cannot be used properly. Since MiFi is registered by a device as a Wi-Fi connection, it has the ability to connect anywhere and download without restriction. Of course, these limitations are set up to protect the user, and it is easy to go over your bandwidth limit without realizing it.

A 3G device is automatically connected to the Internet and will search for 3G service to access the Internet. A MiFi device requires extra set up, as your device must be configured properly to connect to MiFi. In addition, the MiFi device must be carried around, while 3G is set up internally in your device.

The price of both services ends up about the same for similar bandwidth limits, though a Verizon MiFi device must be purchased for $49 with a two-year contract. Verizon MiFi is set up to handle users that use a lot of bandwidth and has a 10GB/month option for $80, but the lowest possible plan is $35 for 3GB/month. 3G costs about $20 a month or less and offers smaller packages.