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T-Mobile’s New Internet Plan Lets You Travel With It for $160

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Frequently roadtrippin’ people with an RV or who like to camp or are stilling clinging to #vanlife, T-Mobile has a new internet plan for you. Be warned, it is not cheap if you want unlimited data.

Called “T-Mobile Away,” this is an internet plan that costs $160 per month for access to unlimited data, includes a gateway device (that needs to be plugged in), allows for up to 64 device connections at a time, will keep you connected while in-motion, and uses all of T-Mobile’s 5G and 4G network. There’s also a $110 per month version that gets you 200GB of data. Both prices require autopay.

Who really is this plan for? T-Mobile really is suggesting it’s for “frequent travelers like RVers, campers and digital nomads.” As someone who isn’t a part of that crowd today, I don’t know what it’s like to need internet on the road 24-7. In the comparison above, I can see that there are several options to choose from, but T-Mobile is saying (of course) that it’s new Away plan is the best because of its feature set. I’ll let you decide, traveling friends.

The new plan goes live May 8.

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T-Mobile unveils new 5G internet plans for enhanced home and travel connectivity

Published on April 23, 2024

• T-Mobile has announced two new 5G internet plans — Home Internet Plus, available April 26, and Away, available May 8.
• Home Internet Plus offers expanded Wi-Fi coverage and 24/7 tech support for all smart devices and costs $70/month.
• Away provides a secure Wi-Fi solution for travelers, with options for unlimited or 200GB monthly data plans.

T-Mobile has announced two new 5G Internet plans, “Home Internet Plus” and “Away.” Home Internet Plus targets a premium home internet experience with expanded Wi-Fi coverage and 24/7 tech support for smart devices. Away is designed for travelers, offering a flexible Wi-Fi solution that leverages T-Mobile’s extensive 5G network across the nation.

The company describes itself as the fastest-growing internet provider in the U.S., reporting nearly 5 million customers since the 2021 launch of its 5G home Internet service.

Home Internet Plus is designed for households that require seamless, whole-home Wi-Fi. It includes T-Mobile’s latest 5G gateway and a Wi-Fi Mesh Access Point, offering a potential coverage of up to 2,200 square feet.

Additionally, the plan includes unlimited, live technical support through a personal “TechPro.” This support covers Wi-Fi and all connected smart devices in the home, offering assistance with setup, troubleshooting, and general usage.

Pricing for Home Internet Plus starts at $70/month with AutoPay or $50/month with AutoPay and a premium voice line. It will be available beginning on April 26. Customers also benefit from T-Mobile’s Price Lock guarantee, as well as the absence of equipment fees and annual contracts.

T-Mobile’s standard Home Internet plan remains available at $40/month (premium voice plan customers) or $50/month (other voice plans). This means the Plus plan adds extended Wi-Fi and 24/7 support at an additional cost of roughly $120 per year.

Internet on the move

The Away plan is designed to keep travelers connected with a flexible Wi-Fi solution that leverages T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G network. It includes a 5G gateway that can support up to 64 devices at a time — far exceeding the capabilities of typical hotspots or using your smartphone as a hotspot.

Customers have the flexibility to choose either an unlimited data option for continuous connectivity or a plan with 200 gigabytes of monthly data. T-Mobile emphasizes the security benefits of the included gateway compared to relying on public Wi-Fi networks.

Away launches on May 8, and pricing is $160/month (unlimited data) or $110/month (200GB) with AutoPay. The plan also features T-Mobile’s signature Price Lock guarantee and a simple setup process to get you connected quickly.

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The 7 Best Portable and Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel in 2024

Amar Hussain

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Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

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What Is a Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot?

Things to look for in a mobile wi-fi hotspot, frequencies explained: the difference between gsm and cdma, 1. keep in touch wherever you are using the glocalme 4g lte network, 2. rapid download speeds and superfast internet on the go, 3. best for professionals who need to keep connected, 4. a powerful global wi-fi hotspot for use in over 160 countries, 5. compact and capable offering 18 hours of battery life, 6. superfast connectivity in over 135 countries, 7. connect 10 wi-fi enabled devices with this verizon jetpack, final thoughts.

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Whether you want to update your Insta on the go or need to keep in touch with the office, losing your internet signal can be very frustrating.

But it’s annoying (and can be unsafe) to rely on public Wi-Fi signals in every coffee shop you visit, and sometimes when traveling to remote locations, public connections are just not available.

Instead, you can invest in a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot to ensure safe, secure, and reliable internet access anywhere you go. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the best one for you.

A Wi-Fi hotspot is a battery-powered wireless router that travels with you. Designed to be compact and lightweight enough to slip into your purse or pocket, a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot device brings the internet to your phone, tablet, or laptop, no matter where in the world it finds you.

These gadgets are a big bonus for anyone traveling away from public Wi-Fi or those looking for a secure connection. A bit like a cellular device, your Wi-Fi hotspot provides access to invisible signals in the sky, all of which can help you to upload pics or receive your emails on the move.

You will need to pay for the data you use, which can be done in the form of packages or day passes that offer unlimited access for a set period of time.

Bottom Line: Using 3G or 4G (and maybe even 5G in the coming months), these smart little devices emit a reliable and incredibly useful Wi-Fi signal that you can hook your favorite gadgets and devices to while away from home.

Battery Life

Most batteries will run happily for between 5-6 hours at a time. If you are traveling somewhere with easy access to electricity, you should be able to charge overnight to ensure your hotspot works when you need it for your daily adventures. If you spend a disproportionately large amount of time online, you may want to look at a device that offers a longer battery life.

Size and Weight

Your Wi-Fi hotspot should be small enough to be carried everywhere with you. After all, if it’s not entirely portable, what exactly is the point? Slimline, lightweight, and often smaller than the smartphone you are trying to connect to, these devices are compact and clever.

Wi-Fi Support

Because some mobile internet providers are better than others, the coverage you receive from any Wi-Fi hotspot can also vary. For example, 2.4GHz gives coverage at a more extended range but will transmit the data at a much slower speed. A 5GHz band, on the other hand, will provide less range with data transmitted at a much faster speed.

Though they may be small, they are still mighty, and most hotspot devices will have a built-in display. At the very least, the display should indicate remaining battery life and current Wi-Fi signal strength. Others may offer bonus features like SMS messages or touch screen modes.

Card Reader

Some portable Wi-Fi hotspots come with the capability to read MicroSD memory cards, which can be used to store and access files from your laptop or home computer. You can also share your stored files with the people who use your network when you want them to have access.

MicroSD memory cards are not typically included with the purchase of a Wi-Fi hotspot, but they are a useful addition that allows you to send and receive SMS messages and save images, music, and other data-heavy files.

Mobile data is delivered using 1 of 2 types of cellular signals in different countries and regions around the world. These cellular standards allow for communication between individuals; without them, we would not be able to keep in touch on such a global scale.

Known as GSM and CDMA, each standard converts both incoming and outgoing radio waves in entirely different ways. Before you buy a hotspot, you need to understand its function and where you’ll be able to use it.

Global System for Mobile Communication is used in most countries around the world. In the U.S., only AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. GSM uses Time Division Multiple Access (or TDMA), which allocates time slots to multiple conversation streams and alters how phones transmit their information. Doing this requires a SIM card (or “subscriber identification module” card).

It is the SIM card that holds all the information you need to make calls, use mobile internet, and store your contacts. The SIM card tells the device what services you have access to and is vital for GSM communications on the go.

CDMA is used in countries including Russia and the U.S. ( Sprint , Verizon , and US Cellular), and it grants users full access to a wide spectrum of bandwidth, meaning more users can connect at any one time. It also encodes each signal, meaning that every conversation remains protected and filtered.

CDMA does not rely on SIM cards as the device has the technology built into it from the carriers’ networks. This once meant that if you wanted to change carriers, you would need to buy a new device altogether. These days though, many CDMA devices offer the capability to use a SIM card too, especially for those on LTE networks.

Bottom Line: Different countries (and different carriers) use different technologies. In the U.S., Sprint, Verizon, and US Cellular use CDMA, while AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. When it comes to purchasing a hotspot, make sure you understand what type you’re buying, what countries it will work in, and what providers it will function with.

The 7 Best Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel

GlocalMe DuoTurbo 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot

With a global SIM-free connection, you can quickly and easily access the internet without worrying about a local SIM card or roaming charges. The 4G LTE high-speed network connects up to 10 devices at a time. Enjoy an innovative GlocalMe app that uses a dedicated security protocol to ensure your Wi-Fi connection is always safe.

You can also easily manage your data usage from anywhere in the world. With an initial 1.1 GB of global data and 8 GB U.S. data included to see you on your way, you can easily top up your data using the GlocalMe app, which is specifically designed to work in a variety of different countries and regions.

Bottom Line: With 1 Nano SIM card slot and the ability to connect to unlocked Wi-Fi hotspots wherever you are, the G4 will provide you with up to 12 hours of nonstop usage from a single charge.

Huawei E5577Cs-321 4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

Huawei’s Wi-FI hotspot is both affordable and reliable — and it’s good enough to give some of the more prominent brand alternatives a real run for their money.

This hotspot offers rapid download speeds of up to 150 Mbps 4G LTE and 43.2 Mbps 3G download , connection for up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices, 6 hours of working time, and a whopping 300 hours of standby time.

Bottom Line: The TFT-LCD screen with 2D Barcode secure connection is easy to use, and the device itself is unlocked for all networks — you can even choose your SIM card if you want to.

Huawei  E5576-320  4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Router

This high-speed mobile router and multi-mode wireless terminal is for use in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

The hotspot offers 16 Wi-Fi connections at a time, and the unlocked carrier connection means you can use 3G signals from any provider. Controllable via the innovative Huawei Mobile Wi-Fi app, you can enjoy uploads and connectivity for up to 6 hours using the 1500 mAh battery.

Bottom Line: While this device model will not work in the Americas or the United States, it is an affordable solution for those traveling to other parts of the world.

RoamWiFi 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot Router

The RoamWiFi Mobile Router is a powerful global Wi-Fi hotspot with super-fast 4G LTE speeds that can be used in over 160 different countries and shared to 5 connections. Sleek and stylish, the simple orange hotspot can be stored in your carry-on luggage and will be easy to find when you get there.

By far, the most impressive feature of this particular model is the whopping 18 hours of battery life . 500MB of data can be purchased for as little as $2.90 per day.

Bottom Line: All-in-all, this is a tremendous little Wi-Fi hotspot for your next adventure.

Netgear Unite Explore AC815S Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

This slim 4G LTE-capable device provides super-fast internet and as much as 18 hours of battery life on a single charge to as many as 15 Wi-Fi devices on the go.

Super easy to use, the color LCD screen shows you all the network info you need, as well as displaying battery life and connectivity levels.

Bottom Line: Made by one of the most trusted names in communications, the Unite Explore is a reliable Wi-Fi hotspot for travelers looking for longer battery life.

SIMO Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot

With no contract or SIM card required, this convenient little device will ensure you’re always connected on the go. The virtual SIM technology is compatible with most major carriers, and you can control everything through the handy Solis WiFi app.

You can connect up to 10 different devices with up to 16 hours of battery life on a single charge. As well as keeping you connected, this mobile hotspot doubles up as a power bank, so you’ll never run out of charge.

Bottom Line: With SIMO Solis, users can enjoy day pass Wi-Fi, pay as you go access by gigabyte, or monthly and yearly subscriptions.

Verizon MiFi Jetpack 4620L

Brought to you by the communication experts at Verizon, this MiFi Jetpack offers superior connectivity and speedy internet access virtually anywhere in the world. With the ability to connect up to 10 Wi-Fi-enabled devices in 4G and up to 5 devices in 3G, this is one of the most effective LTE hotspot devices on the market.

Compatible with all major operating systems including Windows, Mac OSX, Android, and iOS, you can quickly and easily connect your phone, tablet, or laptop. The interactive OLED display shows you when you are connected, as well as the connection status and how many users are connected. It can even alert you when you receive a new SMS message.

Bottom Line: With up to 5 hours of usage available from a single charge, this impressive MiFi mobile Wi-Fi device is one of the most effective LTE hotspot devices on the market.

With a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, you are no longer at the mercy of unsecured, cumbersome, and often super-slow public Wi-Fi signals when you take to the road. Your very own Wi-Fi allows you to download data, upload images, and keep in touch with civilization, no matter how far away you go.

Before you commit to a connection, look for a mobile Wi-Fi device that is compact and portable with a large enough battery to last you all day. Your new Wi-Fi hotspot should also be simple to use, easy to connect to, and ideally able to offer a connection to several different devices (especially if you’re traveling with friends).

Lastly, don’t miss these other tech-related product reviews to level up your travel game!

• The Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers for Travel
• What are the Best GoPro Alternatives? [10+ Options]
• The Best Portable Power Bank Chargers for Travel
• Travel Product Reviews – Tech & Photography Focus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best mobile wi-fi hotspot for travelers.

Our vote is for the GlocalMe G4 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot.

With a global SIM-free connection, you can quickly and easily access the internet without worrying about a local SIM card or roaming charges. The 4G LTE high-speed network connects up to 10 devices at a time. Enjoy 50Mbps upload speeds and an innovative GlocalMe app that uses a dedicated security protocol to ensure your Wi-Fi connection is always safe.

Do mobile hotspots work internationally?

Many mobile hotspots do work internationally, but this would depend on what plan your device is on. Many plans include a set amount of international data, while others offer unlimited usage for a set fee.

Can mobile hotspot replace home Wi-Fi?

Although mobile hotspots can be used in place of home Wi-Fi, it usually carries higher usage costs. If you are a heavy downloader or video streamer, you would likely be better off registering for a home Wi-Fi service.

Which is better Wi-Fi or hotspot?

Hotspots usually offer slower speeds and less security than Wi-Fi; however, it is convenient if you’re on the move, and there are no guarantees that you will be able to access a Wi-Fi connection.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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T-Mobile expands travel-focused ‘Coverage Beyond’ benefits

Over the summer, T-Mobile announced its new "Coverage Beyond" suite of benefits for wireless subscribers.

The benefits, which launched June 21, include free airline Wi-Fi and expanded high-speed international data coverage, as well as other perks such as free AAA membership, booking deals on Priceline and even some limited gas discounts.

"With summer travel demand up and inflation affecting everyone, we're looking to connect our customers differently," T-Mobile's consumer senior vice president Kevin McLaughlin told TPG in an interview at the time. "We know there's a huge desire to get back to travel, and we're going to help people connect to the world better, and save money, too."

Moving forward, this coverage will now include United Airlines in addition to the three airlines — Alaska Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines — that T-Mobile launched the program with.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Expanded high-speed international data coverage

As part of its Coverage Beyond initiative, T-Mobile will offer its Magenta MAX and Business Unlimited Ultimate plan to customers; it includes 5 gigabytes of free high-speed data at up to 5 GB speeds each month in more than 200 countries worldwide.

The expanded access will be automatic, with no opt-ins or sign-ups required.

"Our customers want to step off the plane with their phone and want it just to work," McLaughlin explained.

If those customers use up the 5GB of data, they can either sign up for a day pass for a fee or continue to use data at 256 kilobytes per second rates.

Regular Magenta customers (and those with most business plans), as well as customers with comparable Sprint plans, will automatically receive 256 KB per second for international data access worldwide. This is double the current speed; it's good enough for email, texting and basic GPS directions, but not much else.

Additionally, customers will have 5 GB of high-speed access in the 11 Deutsche Telecom-covered countries (Austria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania and Slovakia).

This is in addition to current free texting access in all destinations. T-Mobile customers' current benefits in Canada and Mexico (for most plans) will continue with 5 GB of high-speed data and free calls.

Related: What are the best international phone plans?

Free airline Wi-Fi

This launch is a relief for airline passengers facing high Wi-Fi fees and slow access speeds. Beginning June 21, T-Mobile began offering free high-speed streaming access on select Alaska, American and Delta flights, according to McLaughlin.

United has just announced it will join other airlines in offering free Wi-Fi to T-Mobile users. "If you're an eligible T-Mobile customer, starting this fall, you'll get free inflight Wi-Fi on all domestic and international flights," according to United's website. "Availability on flights operated by United Express will soon follow."

Details on United's program start date and eligible plans have not yet been released. It's likely that users will have to be on the T-Mobile Magenta plan to receive this service. Stay tuned for details.

The Wi-Fi access will be available on flights covering a "robust domestic market," McLaughlin explained. This will be based on specific airline carriers' technical capabilities and satellite connections. T-Mobile is currently working with multiple satellite carriers to maximize its coverage across several airlines and airplane types. Some international flights will provide T-Mobile Wi-Fi coverage.

Unlimited free airline streaming Wi-Fi connections will only be available for the full flight length if you are a customer in T-Mobile's top-tier Magenta MAX and Business Unlimited Ultimate plan. Those with equivalent Sprint plans will also benefit.

However, regular customers shouldn't fret: T-Mobile's Magenta plan and others will include free Wi-Fi connectivity for four full flights each year, with a free hour of access on any additional flights. In other words, customers using T-Mobile's existing free or discounted access for services such as Apple TV, MLB Network and Netflix will now be able to stream entertainment on select flights.

Related: What you need to know about airline wi-fi pricing

Bonus travel benefits with AAA, Priceline and Shell

T-Mobile's Coverage Beyond program isn't just for jet-setting international travelers. The company has reserved some benefits for domestic road trippers as well.

With a new partnership, T-Mobile offers free AAA membership (a $60 value) and 24-hour roadside assistance to all customers on Magenta, Magenta MAX and certain business plans. (Note: The AAA membership will auto-renew at market rates unless canceled.)

T-Mobile also included a 25-cent fuel discount at Shell gas stations through the week of Labor Day, and similar offers could be available in the future. McLaughlin told TPG that T-Mobile is expected to continue offering fuel discounts to customers "more in the 10 cents per gallon range" as part of its "T-Mobile Tuesdays" app-based rewards program.

An interesting wildcard in T-Mobile's suite of new benefits is its "T-Mobile Travel with Priceline" discount travel booking program. T-Mobile customers now have access to exclusive Priceline.com hotel and rental car deals; they can book airline tickets through the program as well.

TPG hasn't tested the booking system yet. However, customers have saved $100 per night on Hawaii hotel rooms and received $900 in discounts for a six-day Miami holiday, according to T-Mobile's press release.

Related: Gas prices continue to surge, 5 ways to save at the pump

Bottom line

T-Mobile's new travel benefits will be great for existing subscribers and could be an incentive for others to join the program or upgrade.

Many of the best features are only available for T-Mobile's top-tier (and higher-priced) plans of Magenta MAX and the Business Unlimited Ultimate. However, even regular Magenta subscribers will enjoy notable benefits such as increased airline Wi-Fi, international coverage and AAA membership.

The gas program discounts are marginal at best, but with inflation this summer, every little bit helps.

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Limited time offer; subject to change. Plus taxes and fees. Device Connection Charge ($25 for voice, and $5 for other lines) due at sale.. Not eligible for AutoPay discount or Kickback. Capable device required for some features. U.S. roaming and on-network data allotments differ; see selected service for details. Unlimited talk & text features for direct communications between 2 people; others (e.g., conference, chat lines, iMessage) may cost extra. Domestic use only; additional charges apply for international use, where available. Features available until 30th day; if sufficient balance, services automatically renew at expiration. If balance is insufficient to renew all lines on your account for 120 days, all lines will be suspended for 30 days. If you have an account balance, all lines will convert to Pay As You Go for 30 day increments with $3/mo. for 30 voice min./SMS messages. If funds available, additional minutes/messages @ $0.10/minute or message. After your account balance is depleted, then account is suspended. When you switch between plan options or renew a monthly plan, features or credits associated with your prior plan option will no longer be available, and you are not able to switch back to some plan options. Some plan options will not allow early renewal or permit use of features after included amounts are depleted. If you transfer your number to another carrier, account will be deactivated and no service will be available. Void if not activated within 90 days from purchase. No cash redemption value. Non-refundable. Not for extended international use; you must reside in the U.S. and primary usage must occur on our network.  Video streams at up to 2.5Mbps with Data Maximizer. Optimization may affect speed of video downloads; does not apply to video uploads. For best performance, leave any video streaming applications at their default automatic resolution setting. You may deactivate Data Maximizer on some plans (e.g. T-Mobile Prepaid 10GB) to allow on-device video to stream at speeds that provide HD video capability (max 1080p). Some content providers may not stream their services in HD. HD Day Pass available for T-Mobile Prepaid Unlimited; buy and turn on. Capable device required to experience HD resolution. T-Mobile Prepaid Unlimited : Unlimited high-speed data US only. Not available for hotspots and some other data-first devices. Tethering at max 3G speeds unless you add Plus, which includes 10GB of high-speed data. For customers using over 50 GB per month, primary data usage must be on smartphone or tablet.  T-Mobile Prepaid & Mobile Internet : Partial minutes/megabytes rounded up. Full speeds available up to data allotment, including tethering; then slowed to up to 2G speeds for balance of service period. Certain uses, e.g., some speed test apps, may count against high-speed data allotment or have speeds reduced after allotment reached. Mobile Internet provides data only; does not include voice, messaging, or Wi-FI services. T-Mobile Connect:  Partial megabytes rounded up. Full speeds available up to data allotment, then data unavailable for balance of service period unless you purchase data pass.  Prepaid Data Pass : Service available for time period and/or usage amount provided by Pass. For time period, a day is 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., Pacific time. Usage rounded up to the nearest MB each session. Only one Pass may be active at a time. Account suspended after 365 days of inactivity. Domestic use only for on-demand passes; U.S./Canada/Mexico use only for monthly recurring passes. No U.S. roaming. Data only; does not include voice, messaging or Wi-Fi services. Usage applied first to on demand passes, next to free data, then monthly Mobile Internet allotment. Devices  sold for use on T-Mobile prepaid service are to be activated on that service, not transferred for resale, modification, or export. Stateside International Talk/Text: International calling from U.S./Canada/Mexico to landlines in over 70 countries and destinations, plus unlimited calling to mobiles in over 30 countries. Qualifying service required for each line. Calls/texts must originate on T-Mobile ’s U.S. network or in Canada/Mexico; otherwise standard international roaming rates apply. See T-Mobile .com for countries and rates. Music Streaming: Qualifying plan required. Licensed music streaming from included services does not count towards 4G LTE data allotment on T-Mobile ’s network or in Canada/Mexico; music streamed using mobile hotspot (tethering) service might. Song downloads, video content, and non-music audio content excluded. Coverage  not available in some areas.  Network Management: Service may be slowed, suspended, terminated, or restricted for misuse, abnormal use, interference with our network or ability to provide quality service to other users, or significant roaming. During congestion, heavy data users (>50GB/mo. for most plans) and customers choosing lower prioritized plans (i.e. 30GB & 50GB mobile internet) may notice reduced speeds than other customers due to data prioritization. Smartphone and tablet usage is prioritized over Mobile Hotspot Service (tethering) usage, which may result in higher speeds for data used on smartphones and tablets. See T-Mobile .com/OpenInternet for details. See Terms and Conditions (including arbitration provision)  at  www. T-Mobile .com for additional information. T-Mobile and the magenta color are registered trademarks of Deutsche Telekom AG. ©2022 T-Mobile USA, Inc.

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Home » T-Mobile RV Internet

T-Mobile RV Internet

Getting connected on the road has always been a challenge. These days, however, you have more options—including 5G mobile internet from cell providers like T-Mobile.

T-Mobile offers speedy 5G plans and generous data caps (including some unlimited options) that can make RV internet an actual pleasure to use.You have three main ways to use T-Mobile for RV internet: cell phone plans, dedicated hotspot plans, and 5G home internet service.

Each T-Mobile service has its pros and cons, and any of them could be a great RV internet option. But how does T-Mobile stack up against other tried-and-true options like satellite or Wi-Fi boosters? Let’s find out.

• T-Mobile cellular plans for RV
• T-Mobile hotspot data plans for RV
• T-Mobile home internet for RV

Alternatives to T-Mobile for your RV

Why t-mobile for rv internet.

RV internet has long been dominated by satellite internet and, if you’re lucky, the occasional campground Wi-Fi network. However, as mobile internet has improved, it’s brought new options to campers and road warriors for connecting on the go.

Compared to satellite internet or campground Wi-Fi, T-Mobile (and other mobile providers) often offer faster speeds—and compared to most satellite plans, the data caps are significantly more generous. In fact, T-Mobile’s top plans offer unlimited data with up to 50GB of that at high speeds.

In fact, of the major satellite providers, only Starlink offers performance in the same ballpark as 5G mobile internet. Of course, you’ll pay for it—Starlink is very expensive and still difficult to get.

There’s also the possibility of future enhancements as T-Mobile continues to improve its cellular technologies. 6G is coming , eventually, and while we don’t know what it’ll look like yet, one thing is sure—it’ll be fast .

T-Mobile compared to other cellular providers

Compared to the other major mobile internet providers, T-Mobile is the only one to offer unlimited hotspot data, which is what you’ll be using to get your devices connected. Although AT&T and Verizon both offer plans with more high-speed data, once that’s gone, you’ll need to pay to continue using the internet. With T-Mobile, you can keep using it (albeit at a reduced speed) as much as you like.

T-Mobile also offers exceptionally wide coverage with its 5G networks, which means travelers should have coverage in more remote places. You can check out the T-Mobile coverage map for more specific details on the areas you frequently visit.

T-Mobile cellular plans

T-Mobile, like most providers, has simplified its offerings in recent years. It currently offers three cellular plans: Essentials, Go5G, and Go5G Plus.

Of the three, the Go5G Plus plan is probably the best for most RV users, particularly if you intend to use your internet connection a lot—the difference between the high-speed 5G data and the slower unlimited data can be substantial.

Note that these are cell phone plans, so you’ll be using your phone as a mobile hotspot. This generally works just fine, but it does drain the battery quite a bit. This might make it a less-than-ideal solution if you need to use the hotspot away from power.

T-Mobile hotspot data plans

If using your cell phone as a hotspot isn’t practical, or you simply need more high-speed data than what the cell plans offer, T-Mobile also offers tablet and hotspot plans that can supplement your RV internet usage. These plans are highly affordable and offer a lot of data that can be used with either a cellular-enabled tablet or a dedicated hotspot device, either of which can be purchased from T-Mobile.

There are three plans to choose from, starting at $10 per month. The plans don’t have names the way the cell packages do—instead, they’re simply sold based on price and data.

The $30 plan is definitely the best deal in terms of cost per GB, and it’s also the most usable due to the higher limit. That said, if you can get away with less, you can save some money with one of the cheaper options.

T-Mobile Home Internet

Finally, T-Mobile offers a 5G home internet service, called T-Mobile Home Internet (creative, we know ). This is an excellent service overall, with fast speeds and wide coverage at a great price—particularly if you have a qualifying T-Mobile cell plan. There are three tiers of T-Mobile Home Internet. The plans aren’t too different—the only variances are the price and a few perks, based on which T-Mobile cell plan you have.

As you can see, people with no existing T-Mobile cell plan pay more for the service and don’t get any perks, while those with higher-tier plans get a better deal. However, even the $60 for the most expensive package is a steal compared to many other home internet options. Speeds can easily match cable in the right places. That’s the catch, though: the speed you get varies widely from spot to spot, depending on T-Mobile’s infrastructure in your area.

The other issue with T-Mobile Home Internet is that you’re required to provide the address you’ll be using the service at when you activate it. This is the only address that’s approved by T-Mobile. Some users online have managed to get around this restriction, but it’s technically a violation of the terms of the service, so we don’t advise it. 

For that reason, T-Mobile Home Internet is probably best left to your actual home, rather than your RV. However, there may be one scenario where it makes sense—if you spend a lot of your RV time in a single location, you could register this address for the service and use a hotspot when you’re away from this travel base. 

If T-Mobile isn’t for you, there are plenty of other ways to get internet in your RV. Here are some of the best portable internet options :

• Other mobile internet providers: Verizon and AT&T both offer their own mobile and hotspot plans. These are fairly similar to T-Mobile’s, although only T-Mobile offers truly unlimited hotspot data (that we’re aware of). Verizon also has a solid home internet option .
• Campground or other public Wi-Fi: Although the quality varies widely, many campgrounds and RV parks these days offer public Wi-Fi to guests. And, in a pinch, you can always hit up the local coffee shop. You can also use Wi-Fi boosters in your RV to improve the signal of any available networks.
• Satellite internet: Satellite internet offers a way to get internet nearly anywhere, including in an RV. There are no cell towers or other infrastructure to worry about—all you need is a clear view of the sky (and the right equipment). The downside is that satellite tends to be slow or expensive or both.

There’s not a single right answer for which RV internet option is better. Cellular providers are affordable and have wide coverage, but there will inevitably be dead spots—especially in remote areas. Campground Wi-Fi is often free, but the performance can be lacking. Satellite is available almost anywhere but suffers from steep data caps and high costs.

Ultimately, the best solution may be a combination of two (or even all three) of these. For example, you could use T-Mobile or another mobile internet on the road, and then connect to Wi-Fi in campgrounds that have poor reception.

Rev up your RV internet with T-Mobile

T-Mobile offers several compelling options to help you stay connected on the road . Whether you opt for a cellular plan, a dedicated mobile hotspot, or a home internet package, you’ll find a T-Mobile package that fits into your RV life and budget

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How-To Geek

T-mobile is adding new home internet plans.

You have a few tiers to choose from.

T-Mobile's home internet service gives you unlimited 5G data for your home, with relatively few catches and super simple pricing. There was also only one plan to choose from, but T-Mobile is now changing that with the introduction of two additional options.

T-Mobile has introduced two new internet plans for its 5G Home Internet service, which the company says are aimed at addressing different connectivity needs. On top of the regular Home Internet plan, there is a new "Home Internet Plus" tier and an "Away" plan for travel.

Home Internet Plus focuses on providing comprehensive Wi-Fi coverage for households dealing with increased online activity and the use of smart devices. It's the same thing as the Home Internet plan network-wise, so if you want to get this thinking you'll get faster internet out of this, you'll probably be disappointed. This plan includes not only T-Mobile's latest 5G gateway but also a Wi-Fi Mesh Access Point, which extend coverage throughout the home, with up to 2,200 square feet of additional coverage. Comcast, Google Fiber, and other traditional ISPs already offer routers with additional access points, so it makes sense that T-Mobile would also do that.

The Home Internet Plus also includes better support than what you would get with the regular Home Internet tier, offering unlimited 24/7 tech support for connected devices. You also get all those nice perks and benefits like Price Lock, no equipment fees, and simple self-setup. The plan is priced at $70 a month with AutoPay, so it's a bit more expensive than the regular plan, so you'll have to think whether the benefits are worth the added costs. Again, there's no improvements network-wise. Both plans feature unlimited 5G data.

The new Away plan, on the other hand, targets travelers who require connectivity on the go. The plan offers nationwide coverage on T-Mobile's network, ensuring that customers can stay connected wherever they travel. Away includes a 5G gateway with security features, allowing customers to connect up to 64 devices simultaneously. You can take your gateway wherever you want, rather than forcing you to keep it installed in your household. It's significantly more expensive, though. The Away plan will be available starting May 8, just in time for the summer travel season, with options for unlimited data at $160 a month with AutoPay or 200 gigabytes of data for $110 a month with AutoPay.

Source: T-Mobile

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The 6 Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots of 2024

These handy devices keep you connected with ease.

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

We're fortunate to live in an era where cell coverage reaches 95 percent of the population, according to the International Telecommunications Union. And that makes staying connected while traveling to most on-the-grid destinations a breeze. Many cell phone carriers offer some level of international data plans, which allows you to use your devices abroad — for a fee, of course.

But if you're working on the go, traveling in a group, or attempting to preserve your phone's battery, you might want to look into getting a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, which often provides more data to more devices. "Portable hotspots will use data just like cell phones do, and coverage will really depend on the carrier and the coverage they offer in the area," Best Buy mobile supervisor Thomas Walker told Travel + Leisure. "Since hotspots require data, they also require a plan, something to remember as you consider buying a portable hotspot."

Best Overall

Skyroam solis lite.

The device comes with a free lifetime global data plan.

1GB of monthly data will go by very quickly; you'll have to pay up for more.

There are many things the Simo Solis Lite does well, but the real showstopper here is the company's lifetime global data plan that gives you 1GB of data each month for as long as your device functions. And this plan truly is global, as the device works in 135+ different countries . That said, 1GB isn't much data at all. Depending on your usage, you might need to upgrade to a more robust data package, which typically costs anywhere from $6 to $109, or potentially more, per month. On the plus side, you don't need to change SIM cards in this hotspot — you can add those plans via an app.

As for the other stats with this device, the 16-hour battery life is well above average. We love that you can charge other devices with this hotspot — although that will reduce its battery life, of course. Up to 10 devices can be connected to the Solis Lite, which is likely suitable for most users, but it's an unremarkable number compared to other products on the market. Similarly, 4G connectivity is serviceable but doesn't earn any special accolades. If you're traveling with a large group of people, you may want to consider other options depending on how connected you need to be.

One other standout feature of this Wi-Fi hotspot is true 24/7 customer support — this is especially valuable for travelers who need internet access at all hours across various time zones. 

The Details: 16-hour battery life | 10 devices | 4G connectivity | 5.98 x 4.69 x 1.73 inches | 10.2 ounces

Best for SIM Cards

Netgear nighthawk m6 pro.

It has Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.

13 hours of battery life is good, but not great.

If you need a fast and reliable internet connection just about anywhere, Netgear's Nighthawk M6 Pro might be the solution. It's compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon in the U.S., and it works in more than 125 countries when swapping in a new SIM card, supporting both 5G and Wi-Fi 6E. You can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, allowing an entire team of remote workers to stay connected. And if you're on the move, you'll enjoy a more secure connection with the Nighthawk than public Wi-Fi. 

Beyond its uses for remote work around the world, the Nighthawk M6 Pro could even replace a standard internet connection at your home or office. Because it can function with both a wired and wireless connection, you won't lose connectivity due to internet or electricity outages. And with 13 hours of battery life, you'll have time to wait for the outage to end. That said, increased battery life would be ideal, especially for remote workers and travelers. But whether you're in a home office or off the grid, it's hard to beat this product's speed.

The Details: 13-hour battery life | 32 devices | Wi-Fi 6E connectivity | 4.1 x 4.14 x 0.85 inches | 0.56 pounds

Most Versatile

Glocalme numen air 5g.

There's no SIM card required.

The battery life and number of devices could be better, but are likely fine for most users.

The GlocalMe Numer Air 5G works in more than 140 countries on more than 100 operator networks — that means you'll be covered just about anywhere. It doesn't need a SIM card to work, thanks to its CloudSIM technology. Upon purchase, you'll automatically receive 1GB of global data for a 90-day period, and additional data can be added easily via the mobile app. There are thousands of flexible data plans from which to choose, including pay-as-you-go options with no contract. In other words, this is a convenient mobile hotspot to take with you while you travel, since it's designed to be useful in a wide variety of cellular settings and situations.  

Stat-wise, we consider the 12-hour battery life to be good, but not especially impressive. That said, it may be plenty of time depending on how you intend to use the device. You can connect up to 16 devices, which is probably plenty for most users but may not be ideal for an office setup. 

The Details: 12-hour battery life | 16 devices | 5G connectivity | 6.1 x 2.8 x 0.6 inches | 6.8 ounces

RoamWiFi Portable WiFi Device

It's not just the device that's a good value — some data plans are fairly low-price.

Only five devices can connect to the hotspot at a time.

This 4G LTE mobile hotspot router delivers a surprising amount of power and flexibility inside an affordable package. The device itself is priced under $200, and a variety of data plans are available at all price points, ranging from a $3 day pass to a $299 90-day pass. No SIM card is needed, and the device works in more than 160 countries (there's a complete list about halfway down the Amazon product page). The whopping 18 hours of battery life outperforms every other battery-powered hotspot on our list. 

That said, there are some limitations that come with the lower cost. The device does not connect to 5G networks, so internet speeds won't necessarily be the fastest. Also, you can only connect five devices to this hotspot which is plenty for the average solo user, but may not be suitable for groups or families. 

The Details: 18-hour battery life | 5 devices | 4G connectivity | ‎4.96 x 2.68 x 0.57 inches | 6.3 ounces

Best Unlocked

Netgear nighthawk m1.

It works on all major domestic carriers, including GoogleFi.

Netgear doesn't publish battery life.

Able to connect and share data with 20 devices at once, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 Mobile Hotspot can handle multiple tasks at once without sacrificing power or speed. It's an unlocked device that uses GSM SIM cards, compatible with AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and GoogleFi in the United States, and can serve as a backup internet connection while not traveling. It's equipped with fast 4G LTE broadband and offers up to one gigabit per second (Gbps) of download speed. Worried about how much data you've used? Its LCD screen clearly displays how much data is remaining, calculates when it will run out, and keeps count of the devices connected.

While Netgear doesn't publish the battery life of the Nighthawk M1, it claims it can last "all day" — and you can even buy a battery booster pack for more juice. There is an upgraded version of this hotspot that is 5G-compatible, but it's nearly double the price. 5G connectivity may not be necessary for most travelers.

The Details: "All day" battery life | 20 devices | 4G connectivity | 4.15 x 4.15 x 0.8 inches | 8.5 ounces

Best Router

Gl.inet gl-mt3000 wireless travel router.

It creates a more secure internet connection for your devices.

Routers like this one are not capable of providing internet on their own.

Technically, a Wi-Fi router is not a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. But what it does do is allow you to take one internet connection with a tricky login situation — say, hotel Wi-Fi that asks you to input your room number every time you connect — and streamlines the process for connecting additional devices. In a nutshell, you connect to Wi-Fi via the router, which then creates a more secure network for you to connect to from other devices. This router can also boost Wi-Fi signals throughout a space, so if you're in a vacation rental where the Wi-Fi is strong in one room but not another, a router can help.

This portable router is compatible with more than 30 VPN service providers and can accommodate up to 70 different devices, making it one of the best devices for securely accessing high-speed internet while traveling or on the move. The AdGuard feature helps to protect your devices from malware, phishing, ads, and online trackers. This is an especially important safety feature for using unfamiliar WiFi connections.

The Details: 70 devices | Wi-Fi 6 connectivity | 4.53 x 3.15 x 1.18 inches | 6.9 ounces

Tips for Buying a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

Consider where and when you'll use it.

Not all portable Wi-Fi hotspots can be used everywhere. If yours is tied to a U.S.–based carrier (like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon), and you're planning on going abroad, you need to make sure you've paid for a data plan that includes international use. If you're only traveling for a short period of time, this might be the most convenient option. 

But if you're planning on traveling internationally for an extended period of time, you might want to opt for an unlocked portable Wi-Fi hotspot — that is, one that isn't tied to a specific carrier. You can then buy a data plan from a company based in your destination, which usually is a more economical decision. "SIM cards are cheap and easy to get in lots of countries worldwide, and going this route ensures you get the strongest signal possible for the lowest price," Peter Holslin, senior staff writer at internet comparison site HighSpeedInternet.com, told T+L.

The duration of your trip should also inform whether you want to purchase an as-you-go data plan (better for shorter tips) or a monthly one (better for longer trips).

Check with your phone carrier

"When you use a portable hotspot, you can choose the carrier it's connected to. So if you want to maximize your coverage, you can use one carrier for your phone and a different carrier for the hotspot," Walker said. It's often cheaper to buy a Wi-Fi hotspot to hook up to a local network while traveling versus paying for an international phone plan with your current carrier as well.

Think about voltage and battery life

For the most part, portable Wi-Fi hotspots use a relatively low amounts of power (about five to seven volts, depending on the size and strength of the device). However, you should still utilize a power converter when plugging your hotspot in during international travels. Not all outlets around the world support the same power output, so using an adapter can prevent blowing a fuse or sparking your devices. If you want a more portable Wi-Fi hotspot that doesn't need to be plugged in, be sure to check its expected battery life to know exactly how long you can use it on the go.

"Wi-Fi hotspots work similar to phones, tapping into your cellular network to provide high-speed data for use with laptops, tablets, gaming systems, etc.," Verizon spokesperson George Koroneos told T+L. "What's more? You can give access to your travel companions, so they can use your dedicated hotspot, similar to a Wi-Fi network."

Yes, it does. "Mobile hotspots connect to cellular networks to provide internet connection allowing customers to connect anywhere," Jeff Howard, AT&T's vice president of hardware and partner solutions, told T+L.

It depends on what type of portable hotspot you have and what type of plan you have. If your hotspot plan is locked to a specific carrier, you'll need to make sure your carrier has an international plan. (Spoiler alert: most do.) It might be as simple as turning your device on and letting it automatically connect to a local cell network. But if your portable hotspot requires a local SIM card to work, you'll have to pick one up at the airport or at a store and insert it into your hotspot to connect to a local cell network.

Many cell phone providers have international plan options for travelers, and you can turn most smartphones into a mobile hotspot under that plan. Then you can connect devices to your cell phone for internet services. But that's not always the best solution. "One thing to consider is carriers may limit the hotspot data amount on your phone, so you may see slower speeds at a certain point," Walker said. "You also don't have to run your cell phone battery when you use a standalone hotspot." On the other hand, portable Wi-Fi hotspots require their own data plans, which costs additional money.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer who has tested cell coverage on all seven continents. (Antarctica is by far the worst.) For this article, she poured over cell service coverage maps and read dozens of customer reviews.

In compiling this list, she also interviewed telecommunications experts to discuss what to look for in a mobile hotspot. Experts she spoke to included:

• Thomas Walker , Best Buy mobile supervisor
• Peter Holslin , senior staff writer at internet comparison site HighSpeedInternet.com
• George Koroneos , Verizon spokesperson
• Jeff Howard , AT&T's vice president of hardware and partner solutions

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T-Mobile’s new 5G internet plan lets you take your Wi-Fi on the road

There’s a new premium option, too, including 24/7 support and a mesh access point..

By Allison Johnson , a reviewer with 10 years of experience writing about consumer tech. She has a special interest in mobile photography and telecom. Previously, she worked at DPReview.

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T-Mobile has announced two new home internet plans: Home Internet Plus and Away. Well, technically that’s one home internet plan and one anywhere-but-home plan. These new flavors of T-Mobile’s 5G-powered internet service aim to address different customers, but both serve the same goal: leveraging that sweet 5G spectrum to do more than just keep our phones connected.

The new Away plan, importantly, does not allow for “extended use in the same location,” according to a footnote in T-Mobile’s press release . It’s basically a Starlink competitor designed for campers and RV owners, but instead of using satellite connectivity, it’s more like a supercharged cellular hotspot. It can connect up to 64 devices at a time, which seems like way more than an RV can actually hold and comes in two data capacity options: up to 200GB for $110 per month or unlimited for $160 per month (both prices with autopay enabled). It’ll be available starting on May 8th.

Home Internet Plus includes all the features of T-Mobile’s standard plan, starting with a gateway router to turn cellular signal into home Wi-Fi. On top of that, you get a mesh access point to help bring the signal to more corners of your home — an extra 2,200 square feet worth of corners, according to T-Mobile’s press release. You also get access to around-the-clock tech support from Assurant . Home Internet Plus will be available on April 26th for $70 per month with autopay.

As we enter the middle innings of the 5G era , fixed wireless services like T-Mobile’s home internet have emerged as the real moneymakers for carriers. T-Mobile was the first to offer it on a large scale, and Verizon has been pushing into the space as its mid-band 5G spectrum comes online . Even fiber-centric AT&T eventually, reluctantly, got in on the action. Like Verizon, they’ve got some big 5G bills to pay . In any case, T-Mobile’s latest efforts to package up this service for different customers look like something we’re only going to see more of in the near future.

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We Tested Out T-Mobile 5G Home Internet Here is Our 2023 Review – Speeds, Pricing, & More

Competition in the world of home internet has been a dream for many cord cutters. Now thanks to T-Mobile and others finally, there is real competition for home internet. No longer are you limited to DSL, Cable, and maybe a fiber internet option. Now there are a growing number of other options, including T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet.

The question now is should you spend your money on T-Mobile 5G Home Internet? Is it worth the cost? Can you stream what you want with it?

Disclaimer : T-Mobile provided Cord Cutters News with a review unit for this review. T-Mobile did not get to see our review before we posted it live and had no requests or limitations on our ability to test out their home internet service. We tested it in my personal home over several weeks, not at a T-Mobile test site.

Here is our quick review of the T-Mobile 5G Home Internet :

T-Mobile’s 5G internet service skips equipment rentals and is available for $50/month with no contracts.

If you have a Go5G Plus or Magenta Max plan from T-Mobile, you may qualify to get T-Mobile Home Internet for just $30 a month.

T-Mobile advertised the service as a 100 Mbps down speed. In our testing, we regularly got over 200 Mbps down, but sometimes it would fall into the 100 Mbps range.

One note we did move the modem around to different windows and found that putting the modem on the south side of our house gave us the best speed vs the north side.

Also, moving the modem by a window helped improve the internet speed vs having it in the middle of our house.

Speeds for T-Mobile Home Internet will very depending on where you live. So I may get 200 Mbps down, but your speed may be different.

Is T-Mobile 5G Home Internet Fast Enough For Streaming?

Yes, we were able to stream Amazon, Paramount+, YouTube TV, and more without issues using T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet.

There are a few services that lock you into a home IP location. Because T-Mobile’s Home Internet changes your IP address often, it makes using Hulu with Live TV, for example, very difficult.

Most streaming services need 15 Mbps to 20 Mbps for a 4K stream. Even at just 100 Mbps, you should easily be able to stream the movies and TV shows you want, even at 4K.

Setting up my modem was very easy. I plugged it in and downloaded the T-Mobile app. It only took a few minutes to follow the steps in the app.

Help With Early Termination Fees:

T-Mobile is also offering up to $750 to help you pay off early termination fees with your current internet provider so you can make the switch.

Here are the full terms for the $750 help with termination fees:

Limited-time offer; subject to change. Qualifying credit, Internet Service Provider Early Termination Fee, and new Home or Business Internet service required. ISP’s ETF, up to $750, paid via virtual prepaid Mastercard, which you can use online or in-store via accepted mobile payment apps;  no cash access & expires in 6 months.  Submit proof of ETF & 90+ days in good standing w/ ISP within 60 days of new Internet service activation and be active and in good standing when processed.  We might ask for more information.  One offer per eligible address; max 5/account. T-Mobile Virtual Prepaid Mastercard is a rebate for the new service; for any tax implications, consult a tax advisor. Cards issued by Sunrise Banks N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard is a registered trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. This card may be used everywhere Debit Mastercard is accepted. Registration, activation, acceptance, or use of this card constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions stated in the Prepaid Card Agreement. This promotion is not associated, sponsored, or endorsed by Mastercard or Sunrise Banks N.A. Allow 8 weeks from fulfillment of offer requirements. May not be combinable with some offers or discounts.  Why pay more  vs. regular rates of cable competitors with greater than 10% population coverage according to Dec. 2022 FCC Communications Marketplace Report.

Test T-Mobile Home Internet before You Pay:

T-Mobile now offers a 15-day free trial of T-Mobile Home Internet, letting you test it out before you get locked into it.

Here are the legal details of the 15-day test drive:

Cancel within 15 days of Home Internet service activation. Limited-time offer; subject to change. Qualifying new Home Internet line and timely gateway return required. Refund via one-time bill credit. Max 1/account. May not be combinable with some offers or discounts.

Final Thoughts

For the average American who wants to watch videos, check email, and surf the web, T-Mobile 5G Home Internet should easily be what you want. Dedicated gamers who really want that crazy fast internet may want to consider other options. For those who are not dedicated gamers t-Mobile 5G Home Internet may be perfect for them.

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