If you are looking to get online using mobile WiFi, it is essential that you find the best dongle deals that can provide you with the internet connectivity that you need.
A dongle is a device that acts as a small mobile router or modem. You plug it into the USB port of your computer, and it connects you to your network of choice.
A dongle can be used for many purposes such as providing external storage, internet access, Bluetooth, or even security.
Depending on your area’s network availability and your plan, your dongle will enable you to access 5G, 4G, or 3G networks on the go and some dongles can create a hotspot for your devices.
The best dongles have fast connectivity, long battery life and a wide range of data plans available.
Our team of specialists tested 10 dongle products that are available to purchase in the UK, and in this article we present our top 5 dongles, and associated pay-monthly or pay-as-you-go deals.
Our choice for the best WiFi dongle is the Huawei 4G MiFi as it can provide the ultimate mobile broadband experience and can achieve speeds of up to 300 Mbps. Whether you are streaming, working on the go, having video calls, or just browsing the web, the Huawei 4G MiFi is the dongle designed for you.
Our second option is the Vodafone K5161z WiFi Dongle. With this device, you get a variety of dongle plans ranging from unlimited data to 4GB each month meaning you can select a plan with a very low monthly charge if you use very little data. Alternatively, unlimited data deals are available if you need more monthly data.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, the O2 Alcatel Dongle 4G is the option for you. With O2, you can build your bundle, and choose a data limit and contract length that works for you instead of choosing a data plan. For instance, if you know you will be using the dongle for 8 months, you can select an 8-month contract.
5 Best Pay As You Go WiFi Dongles
- Best Overall: Three Huawei 4G MiFi
- Runner-Up: Vodafone K5161z WiFi Dongle
- Budget Friendly: O2 Alcatel Dongle 4G
- Best Coverage: EE 5G WiFi Mini
- 5G WiFi Dongle: Vodafone 5G Mobile Hotspot
Finding the right WiFi dongle is very useful in accessing the internet especially when traveling overseas.
The top mobile network companies in the UK have WiFi dongles with different deals depending on your needs.
Below are the 5 best pay-as-you-go WiFi dongles for you to choose from:
1. Three Huawei 4G MiFi (Editor’s Choice)
The Huawei 4G by Three is a mobile WiFi device, also known as a MiFi, that provides the best connectivity solution for Mobile broadband, meaning you do not need a landline.
This 4G MiFi is capable of providing the ultimate mobile broadband experience as it can achieve speeds of up to 300 Mbps.
Whether you are streaming, working on the go, having video calls, or just browsing the web, the Huawei 4G MiFi is the dongle designed for you.
You can charge up this MiFi and take it with you anywhere as it provides a portable WiFi connection. Our testing revealed the battery can last you up to 9 hours and you can connect up to 32 devices that are WiFi enabled.
The different data plans that come with the Three Huawei 4G MiFi include Unlimited Mobile Data for 1, 12, or 24 months, 40GB Mobile Data for 1, 12, or 24 months, and 10GB Mobile Data for 1, 12, or 24 months.
The Three Huawei 4G MiFi comes in black, weighs 105g, and measures 108*62*15.6 mm. The contract path for this MiFi is that you pay monthly.
Pros
- Very portable.
- Long-lasting battery.
- Connects more devices.
- Faster connection.
Cons
- The monthly charge increases every April depending on the Consumer Price Index.
2. Vodafone K5161z WiFi Dongle (Runner-Up)
Vodafone is one of the few mobile networks in the UK that provide a traditional USB dongle device.
With Vodafone K5161z, you get a variety of dongle plans ranging from unlimited data to 4GB each month, on a short-term 30-day pay-as-you-go plan or a 12-month or 24-month contract.
This means that you can select a plan with a very low monthly charge if you use very little data.
Alternatively, unlimited data deals are available if you need more monthly data. Just remember, your monthly and upfront costs will considerably increase if you select the pay-as-you-go dongle plan by Vodafone.
It is easy to set up the K5161z as all you need to do is plug it in and follow the simple steps on your computer. It will set itself up and connect to 4G broadband, and your WiFi will be ready for use.
The K5261z doubles up as a portable storage device as has a microSD memory card slot, meaning you can add a memory card and get extra space.
Pros
- Lots of dongle data bundles to select from.
- You can get a low monthly cost on deals that have a data cap.
- It is easy to set up.
- Can act as a storage device for files.
Cons
- Cannot create a WiFi hotspot.
3. O2 Alcatel Dongle 4G (Budget Friendly)
If you are looking for a dongle that works with USB, O2 Alcatel is another great choice for you.
With O2, you can build your bundle, and choose a data limit and contract length that works for you instead of choosing a data plan.
For instance, if you know you will be using the dongle for 8 months, you can select an 8-month contract. You do not have to be limited to a 24-month or 12-month plan, which is what most competitors offer.
This flexibility is important especially if you will not be using the dongle for a long periods. It’s worth noting however, that the pay-as-you-go plan still requires a three-month minimum contractual commitment.
Our testing team found the setup and connection process of the Alcatel dongle very hassle-free and quick, enabling instant 4G internet connection.
With this dongle, you will experience internet connectivity with uploads of up to 50 Mbps and downloads of up to 150 Mbps.
Pros
- Easy to set up.
- Lightweight and portable.
- High-speed internet access.
- Comes with other benefits such as free Apple music.
- You can build your plan.
Cons
- You cannot create a hotspot.
4. EE 5G WiFi Mini (Best Coverage)
Out of the four major mobile networks in the UK, EE has the best 5G coverage. Therefore, if you are planning on traveling and need to get online, the EE 5G WiFi Mini is a good option for you.
5G WiFi is great for generating a fast 5G network in a slow-speed area such as shared accommodation, or your home.
Whether you are controlling your smart home devices, streaming sport, or making lots of video calls, you can enjoy reliable and fast internet with this device.
Additionally, you can create a secure and personal WiFi hotspot for you and another 64 devices, so that your entire family can enjoy 5G speeds simultaneously.
This is because the EE 5G WiFi Mini has a 30m range which ensures that the signal is effectively distributed throughout your home.
For improved connectivity, this 5G WiFi comes with a Local Area Network port.
The EE 5G Mini comes with a variety of plans including 125GB data on a 24-month contract, 5GB data on a 24-month contract, 25GB data on a 24-month contract, and unlimited data on a 24-month contract.
Pros
- Superfast speeds.
- Increased WiFi range.
- Great value data plans.
- Connect up to 64 devices.
Cons
- A bit expensive.
5. Vodafone 5G Mobile Hotspot (5G WiFi Dongle)
If the area where you live has 5G coverage, you may consider getting a 5G dongle device like the Vodafone 5G Mobile Hotspot.
You should note that 5G dongles can be expensive and this isn’t an exception. Vodafone’s upfront cost can be high, but if you choose their 24-month plans for paying monthly, the cost is more reasonable.
However, with the higher costs you get download speeds of between 300 Mbps to 1 Gbps, and you can connect up to 32 devices to this 5G mobile hotspot as well as enjoy super-fast WiFi 6 and 5G connectivity on the go.
Additionally, you will stay powered for longer as you can get up to 8 hours of battery life which is more than what most 4G dongles offer.
The Vodafone 5G will also switch to 4G automatically when you are at a location without a 5G signal.
This device has a simple setup and control. All you need to do is log on, then connect your devices, and finally, control everything you need using the online interface that is easy to use.
The 2.4-inch touchscreen with a sharp display allows you to control this dongle at your fingertips.
Pros
- 8-hour battery life.
- Can connect up to 32 devices.
- Ultra-fast WiFi speeds.
- Easy to set up and manage.
- Reliable WiFi connection.
Cons
- Very expensive.
Things To Know Before Getting A Pay As You Go WiFi Dongle
How Do WiFi Dongles Work
Dongles are compact gadgets that you insert into the USB port of your computer, granting access to the internet.
A dongle comes equipped with a SIM card, which facilitates connection to the 4G or 5G mobile broadband network, similar to your mobile phone.
It subsequently shares this connection with your computer, enabling online access.
Just like your phone, a stable and strong mobile network signal is essential to achieve a rapid and reliable internet connection with a dongle.
When faced with a weak 4G or 5G signal, you might encounter sluggish download speeds and occasional internet dropouts.
Dongle Deals Explained
When purchasing a wireless dongle from a mobile network like Three or Vodafone, they usually provide a comprehensive package that includes a data plan, a SIM card, and all the necessary components for internet access.
For instance, Three’s Huawei 4G Plus mobile broadband device bundle incorporates a SIM card, the device’s battery, a quick start guide, and a charging cable.
When deciding on a dongle deal, you’ll need to consider the following aspects:
- Your preferred mobile network.
- The required monthly data allowance. This depends on your intended dongle usage.
- The desired contract duration, whether for long-term use or a few months of online access.
After purchasing the dongle package, it will typically arrive within 1-2 business days through mail delivery.
To begin, you’ll generally need to insert the SIM card into the device. Once you connect it to your computer, a prompt will guide you through the WiFi dongle setup process and grant internet access.
Once setup, you can get online effortlessly by plugging the dongle into your laptop.
Can You Pay As You Go With A WiFi Dongle?
Most mobile networks offer the option of purchasing a dongle without committing to a long-term contract. Instead, you can opt for a pay-as-you-go plan on a short-term, month-to-month basis.
If you decide to cancel your pay-as-you-go internet dongle plan, you usually only need to provide a month’s notice without incurring any cancellation fees as you might with a pay-monthly dongle deal.
However, pay-as-you-go dongle deals often entail a higher initial cost and may have a higher monthly expense as well.
If you anticipate using the dongle for an extended period, opting for a 12-month, 18-month, or 24-month contract often results in significant cost savings.
Do Internet Dongles Offer Unlimited Data Plans?
In the UK, it is indeed possible to obtain an unlimited WiFi dongle, as major providers like O2, Three, EE, and Vodafone offer dongle deals with unlimited data.
Although unlimited data packages can be relatively costly, especially on a short-term contract, having unlimited data becomes crucial if you plan to rely on the dongle as your primary means of internet access.
This is very true when regularly streaming video content on platforms like YouTube and Netflix. High-definition video consumption consumes significant data, making unlimited downloads highly beneficial to avoid reaching any data usage limits.
Conversely, if you intend to use the dongle only occasionally, a monthly limit of 40-100GB should suffice for most needs.
Just be vigilant in monitoring your data usage, a task facilitated by logging into your customer account on the mobile network’s website.
What Download & Upload Speed Can You Reach With A WiFi Dongle
The internet dongle’s upload and download speeds can vary significantly based on the available 4G or 5G signal at your location.
Generally, most 4G dongles offer download speeds ranging from 15 to 50 megabits per second (Mbps) and upload speeds between 3 to 6 Mbps.
These speeds are sufficient for most online activities, such as social media and video streaming. However, large downloads may feel slow unless you consistently achieve 40+ Mbps.
The most accurate method to determine the speeds you’ll receive with a dongle is by conducting a speed test on your phone using the same mobile network you intend to purchase the dongle deal.
If your current mobile carrier differs from the one you are considering, borrowing a friend’s phone on the target network can provide a more precise result.
Presently, 5G dongles are relatively scarce and often come with a high price tag. If you reside in an area that has 5G coverage and is willing to pay more for faster speeds, the 5G MiFi device from Vodafone is a favorable option.
When it comes to 5G dongles, download speeds typically reach 200-300 Mbps or higher, while upload speeds range around 15-30 Mbps.
Is It Possible To Use Your UK Dongle Overseas?
Dongles serve as an excellent method to access the internet using 4G data while traveling within the UK. Similar to your phone, they connect to the local 4G network, ensuring internet connectivity in most parts of the country.
However, using dongles abroad can become more complex, particularly due to the roaming restrictions implemented by mobile networks following Brexit.
While it’s generally possible to get online overseas with a dongle, it may involve higher roaming charges, and accessing your full data allowance might not be feasible.
For instance, with EE, when going abroad, you’ll likely receive a prompt to purchase a roaming add-on, and the cost will vary based on the country you’re visiting.
Furthermore, in certain locations like the USA and South America, your dongle might not function due to the utilization of a different 4G data frequency from what’s used in the UK.
In such cases, you’ll need to connect to public WiFi or acquire a local SIM card for your mobile phone to access the internet.
WiFi Dongle Pros & Cons
Using a WiFi dongle offers several advantages over other methods of internet access:
- Dongle deals are highly flexible, allowing you to choose your desired monthly data and offering month-to-month plans without long-term contracts.
- Dongles are incredibly user-friendly and quick to set up. You can be online within minutes of receiving the device.
- WiFi dongles provide internet access almost anywhere, making them ideal for travel purposes.
- In areas with poor broadband infrastructure, dongles can often deliver faster download speeds compared to traditional home broadband connections.
- Dongles are convenient, as they don’t require an external power source or charging. Simply plugging the dongle into your computer enables internet connectivity.
However, there are also some downsides to using a dongle for internet access:
- WiFi dongles usually come with data usage caps, unlike fixed-line broadband connections. While unlimited data options exist, they can be expensive.
- Dongles may offer less consistent download speeds compared to traditional broadband, particularly if your 4G signal experiences any issues.
- Internet dongles only allow one device to be online at a time. To create a WiFi network for multiple users, you’ll need a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot like the Three Huawei 4G Plus.
Internet Dongle Alternatives
If you find some of the downsides of using dongles problematic, there are several alternative methods to access the internet beyond traditional broadband connections:
- Mobile Wi–Fi (MiFi) devices: Similar to dongles, MiFi devices create a WiFi hotspot that allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously. They offer great portability, but you will need to recharge the battery periodically, making them an excellent option for on-the-go internet access.
- 4G routers: For a more permanent mobile broadband solution, 4G/LTE routers are a viable choice. Like standard WiFi routers, they create a WiFi network for multiple devices, but they use mobile broadband with a SIM card rather than connecting to a phone line. Although less portable than dongles, 4G routers are ideal for home use. Some, like the Three 4G Hub, provide very good speeds based on testing.
- Phone hotspot: If you have an old, seldom-used phone, you can turn it into a portable WiFi hotspot by inserting a data SIM card. By enabling the phone’s WiFi hotspot feature, you can connect to the internet using this makeshift hotspot.
- Satellite broadband: For those living in remote rural areas, satellite broadband is an option. It involves installing a satellite dish on your property, providing faster speeds than traditional broadband. However, satellite broadband is quite expensive, and latency might be higher.
These alternative methods offer various benefits, catering to different internet access needs and preferences.
WiFi Dongles FAQs
What Companies Provide Mobile Broadband Dongles?
The majority of UK mobile networks provide dongles, and many offer these devices as part of their subscription packages.
These companies include Vodafone, Three, O2, and EE.
Which Is The Best Mobile Network To Use With A Dongle?
While EE currently boasts the best mobile coverage in the UK, there is no singular best network for using a dongle.
The most crucial factor is the coverage of a specific network at your location and any other areas where you intend to utilize the dongle.
Final Words
Hopefully, this guide has given you all the information that you need to know about the various dongle deals available in the UK provided by the major mobile network companies.
Dongles are helpful especially when you are traveling as they provide you with instant internet connection either by creating a hotspot or connecting it directly to your computer.
If you are not sure which dongle to get, our choice is the Huawei 4G MiFi. It is capable of providing the ultimate mobile broadband experience as it can achieve speeds of up to 300 Mbps.
Whether you are streaming, working on the go, having video calls, or just browsing the web, the Huawei 4G MiFi is the dongle designed for you.
Refer to the buying guide to understand more about how a dongle works as well as its benefits and drawbacks.
One Response
Hi Daniele greetings yes Mario Manuel here just to say many thanks for the article it has helped I made a somewhat more informed choice now when I is going to go out and purchase a piece of equipment yes many thanks. Best wishes. Mario Manuel.