It’s helped thousands of households access Superfast internet, but many potential users are still concerned about the downsides of mobile broadband.
If you’re more familiar with traditional wired broadband, making the switch to 4G or 5G broadband might seem risky. However, mobile broadband technology is constantly progressing and improving. Today, there are simple solutions to counter the drawbacks of using mobile broadband.
Problem 1: Restrictive data allowances
The modern internet is data hungry, with data usage on home networks increasing by a factor of twenty in the last ten years alone. Images, video and audio are all data-intensive media, and something as simple as scrolling your social media feed can involve downloading multiple megabytes.
Mobile broadband plans are often associated with tight data limits and fees for exceeding your allowance. This makes casual browsing difficult, and heavy use like working from home nearly impossible.
The solution: Unlimited data plans
Fortunately, data caps are no longer universal for mobile broadband plans. Opt for a contract with unlimited data (and make sure it is truly unlimited) and you can stream, message and game to your heart’s content.
Problem 2: Limited coverage
One of the downsides of mobile broadband - like with any broadband - is the question of availability. Does the provider you want to use have a strong signal in your area? While 5G coverage across the UK is constantly improving, each network’s availability is different.
The solution: Multi-network broadband
You can beat the issue of poor coverage by choosing a multi-network mobile broadband plan. These packages allow you to use whichever mobile network has the best signal in your area. You can even switch to a different network if the availability changes, or if you move home.
Problem 3: Short range WiFi
Some mobile broadband providers use cheap, low-power routers that create a weak, short-range WiFi network. This makes getting online frustrating, as you need to be close to your router and can’t connect more than a handful of devices at once.
The solution: Top-end equipment and smart placement
To ensure you have a strong WiFi network you can use anywhere in your home, choose a plan that includes a top-end 5G enabled router. Then, position it in your home to give the best signal - you can read our tips for the perfect mobile broadband setup in your home office here.
Problem 4: Harsh credit checks
One of the downsides to mobile broadband for those who are new to the UK or setting up their first home is the need for credit history. Most mobile broadband plans are offered by mobile companies, who apply the same standards to their broadband plans as they do phone contracts and handsets. This can stop customers without UK credit history from even placing an order.
The solution: A supplier that thinks differently
Look for an independent mobile broadband supplier - one that isn’t linked to a particular network - for plans that offer flexibility and affordability without an exhaustive credit check process.
Problem 5: Mid-contract price rises
Another feature associated with both traditional wired broadband and mainstream mobile broadband providers is the mid-contract price rise. You may think you’re agreeing to one monthly price, only to find that that price increases partway through the contract, with no option to leave early. This makes calculating the true cost of your mobile broadband plan complicated.
The solution: Checking the fine print - or looking for a price rise guarantee
You have two options for beating these price rises. One is to comb the fine print of your contract before you agree to anything. Mid-contract price rises must be disclosed ahead of time - though providers often make them difficult to spot in the contract terms. The other option is to choose a supplier with no mid-contract price rises guaranteed.
Beat the downsides of mobile broadband with one simple solution
Fortunately, there’s a simple way to avoid all of the potential pitfalls of mobile broadband, all while enjoying superfast speeds, great service and affordable plans.
Connectivity’s packages all include:
Unlimited data allowances
Multi-network broadband
Top-end routers
No credit checks
No mid-contract price rises, guaranteed
Check your coverage today, and enjoy free next day delivery so you can get online - fast!
