Best mobile broadband modems with Wi-Fi

A Wi-Fi-equipped mobile broadband modem allows multiple devices to connect to it wirelessly for shared mobile broadband access over a telco's 3G network

Often described as a hotspot in your pocket, a mobile broadband modem with Wi-Fi can have multiple devices connected for shared mobile broadband access over a telco's 3G network. These devices act in a similar manner to regular USB modems to access an Internet connection, but their flexibility means they can connect more than just your notebook.

We've rounded up the best Wi-Fi mobile broadband modems in Australia, both from carriers and third-party manufacturers.

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Item:
5 / 8
Virgin Mobile Wi-Fi Modem

Virgin Mobile's Wi-Fi Modem works just as well as a regular USB modem, but adds the convenience of a wireless connection for up to three computers. The flaky Optus network may be an issue for some, but this compact unit is cordless, rechargeable and hugely convenient.

  • Review Date:
  • Reviewer:
  • Manufacturer:
  • 4th Nov., 2009
  • Ross Catanzariti
  • Virgin Mobile
  • Rating:
  • Price:
  • 4.00
  • $ 199.00
  • Pros:
  • Compact, cordless and rechargeable, three Wi-Fi connections simultaneously, works on both Windows PCs and Macs, good speeds if you're in a 3G coverage area
  • Cons:
  • Flaky Optus network, locked to Virgin Mobile (can be unlocked for $80), signal strength rapidly deteriorates over 10 metres

Comments

Jose

1

Could I use this mobile WiFi modem for my ipad2 without laptop??
Thank you.
Jose

John

2

connect any wifi device; phone, ipad, kindle (i think they do wireless), but prepaid plan is expensive with Telstra. Their bigpond ultimate wifi (http://go.bigpond.com/wireless/?2473PSEM&pid=G|P|D|BP|bphmbb|HeadTermsKWWireless) would be good if I wasn't already locked in for two years with them. Will they let me swap plans? or plug my mobile broardband USB modem simcard into this?

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