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Lloyd Kelly Miralles chevron_right
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Why Do You Need a Pocket WiFi Anyway?
Alright, let’s be real—Singapore is a hyper-connected city. Whether you’re on the MRT, chilling at a café, or working from a co-working space, having reliable internet is a must. Sure, our mobile data plans are pretty generous here, but have you ever had to juggle between multiple devices (laptop, tablet, phone) while using your phone’s hotspot? It’s like trying to share a kaya toast with five other people—something’s going to get cold.
That’s where pocket WiFi comes in. It's the unsung hero of portable internet, allowing you to connect multiple devices at once without burning through your phone’s data plan. If you're in Singapore and want to stay connected without constantly fighting for data, here's how you choose the right one for you.
Understand Your Data Needs
First things first, you need to figure out how much data you need. Singapore’s mobile data is fairly affordable, especially with all those SIM-only plans available. But, depending on how you use the internet, some plans might be more suited to your needs than others.
- Light Use (Social media, browsing): If you’re mostly checking emails or scrolling through Instagram, you can get by with a low data plan (1-3 GB per day). You’ll find pocket WiFi options in the SGD 8-12 range per day.
- Moderate Use (Streaming, video calls): Streaming Netflix on your commute or video-calling your friends? You’ll want 5-10 GB per day. Look for devices in the SGD 12-18 per day range. This should give you enough bandwidth without blowing your budget.
- Heavy Use (Gaming, heavy work tasks): If you're the type who loves gaming or working on large files while on the go, look for 15 GB or more. Expect to pay around SGD 18-25 per day for solid performance.
Pro Tip: Singapore is well-covered by 5G in most parts of the city, but if you're heading into areas with weaker coverage (like underground MRT stations), 4G will still do the job. But make sure you’re not overpaying for a 5G plan if you don’t need it.
Consider How Many Devices You’ll Connect
Let’s face it—most of us have multiple devices. And having your phone, tablet, and laptop constantly fighting for bandwidth is no fun. So, before picking a pocket WiFi, think about how many devices you'll need to connect.
- Solo Use: If it's just you, your phone, and maybe a laptop, you’ll be fine with a basic device that supports 2-3 connections. These tend to be more affordable, ranging from SGD 80-150.
- Sharing with Family or Friends: If you’re travelling with family or a group of friends, you'll want something that supports 10 or more devices. You might need to bump up your budget to around SGD 150-250.
Pro Tip: Look at the device's maximum device support when comparing options. The last thing you want is to have everyone fighting over Wi-Fi!
Battery Life Matters
You don’t want to be caught without Wi-Fi halfway through the day, especially when you're out for hours. Whether you're meeting up with friends in Chinatown or working from a cafe in Tiong Bahru, battery life is key.
- Basic Battery Life: If you're using the WiFi only for a few hours here and there, a device with 5-8 hours of battery will likely be enough. These devices typically cost between SGD 80-150.
- Longer Battery Life: For a full day of use (think: long meetings, days out exploring Singapore, or working remotely), you’ll need a pocket WiFi with 8-12 hours of battery. Look for models priced around SGD 150-250 for better performance and longevity.
Pro Tip: In Singapore's humid weather, pocket WiFi devices can heat up, which can shorten battery life. Keep it in a cool, well-ventilated place, like your bag’s outer pocket.
Portability and Design
We all know Singapore’s weather can be a bit… unpredictable. One minute you’re walking around in the sun, the next you’re caught in a sudden downpour. So, having a lightweight, portable pocket WiFi is a must, especially if you're commuting on the MRT or running errands.
Compact Devices: If you're a solo traveller or just need it for personal use, go for mini pocket WiFis that fit easily in your pocket or bag. These devices usually have a small screen or LED indicators, and they’re easy to carry around.
Bigger Devices: If you’re travelling with a group, you might need a larger device that can support more connections and has a stronger signal range. These devices can be a bit bulkier, but they still fit into most bags.
Pro Tip: Consider the design—does it have a nice screen to show your data usage and battery life, or is it just a bunch of lights? A simple LCD can be more user-friendly, especially if you want to check your connection or remaining data quickly.
Look for Deals
Now, let’s get to the fun part—buying your pocket WiFi. Singaporeans love a good deal, especially when it comes to 9.9 or 11.11 mega sales. Here are some tips for snagging a good deal:
- Shopee SG, Lazada SG, and Qoo10: These platforms are packed with flash sales, discounts, and cashback offers. If you’re looking for a pocket WiFi, check these sites for deals during mega-sale periods. You might find bundles with mobile plans or additional perks.
- Carousell: Looking for a bargain? Carousell can be a great place to find second-hand pocket WiFi devices. Just make sure to check reviews and test the device before committing.
- Amazon.sg: If you want to go for global brands like NETGEAR, TP-Link, or Huawei, Amazon can be a good option. Sometimes, you can find special deals, especially with international shipping discounts.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check for return policies, especially if you’re buying a second-hand device on Carousell. Make sure you're covered in case the device doesn’t meet your expectations.
Check Compatibility with Local Networks
Lastly, make sure the device supports Singapore’s mobile networks. Singtel, StarHub, and M1 are the big three here, and your device should be compatible with their network bands.
- 4G vs. 5G: While most pocket WiFi devices today support 4G, if you want to future-proof yourself, consider going for a 5G-compatible model. This will come in handy as Singapore continues to expand its 5G coverage.
- eSIM Support: Some newer devices support eSIM, which is handy if you’re a frequent traveller. It allows you to easily switch between local and international plans without needing a physical SIM card.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pocket WiFi comes down to your data needs, how many devices you need to connect, and your budget. If you’re mostly using it for solo tasks, a smaller device with less data will do. But if you’re travelling with a group or need something more powerful for long days out and about, don’t skimp on a higher-end option with more data and a longer battery life.
Check out Shopee SG, Lazada SG, and Qoo10 for deals during sale periods, and always keep an eye on Carousell if you’re looking to score a second-hand bargain.
Whatever you choose, the most important thing is to find a device that fits your needs, so you can enjoy the seamless internet experience Singapore is known for, without ever having to worry about running out of data.