With the internet becoming an essential commodity in modern society, the selection of data plans is critical. The choice of your plan requires careful consideration of personal requirements and the market. This includes what you want to do with the internet, its availability, and its cost.
The introduction of the Verizon Jetpack device to the market has significantly altered the internet landscape. These compact and portable hotspot devices allow people to access the internet while on the move. They have replaced the old method of creating hotspots with mobile phones for other devices.
This comes with a new burden of choosing the best plan for your needs. This article will guide you on how to choose the best Verizon Jetpack plan. We will also address the critical questions that most users struggle to understand. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
A Jetpack is a brand name for Verizon’s standalone mobile hotspot device. It creates a Wi-Fi hotspot for mobile wireless devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers on the Verizon network. Once you connect your devices to the hotspot, you are charged according to your monthly data consumption.
Verizon Jetpack Plans
The primary distinction between standard Verizon plans and Jetpack plans is data. Jetpack plans are data-only, which means that you can purchase a Jetpack plan without being a Verizon customer for other services. However, if you are already a Verizon customer, you can still subscribe to Jetpack plans.
Verizon offers several Jetpack plans for subscribers. Customers on other Verizon plans have access to more affordable options. Below is an exhaustive list of the available Jetpack plans:
1. Jetpack unlimited plans
Unlimited Jetpack plan: For customers who already have a line subscribed to Verizon’s unlimited plan, there is a 50% discount on the unlimited jetpack plan, which is otherwise priced at $20 per month. With the discount, the cost is reduced to $10 per month.
Despite the name, the plan is not actually unlimited. It comes with a 15GB data cap at regular speeds. After exceeding this limit, users can still browse the internet, but at much slower speeds. The maximum speed that can be achieved after exceeding the limit is 600Kbps.
Unlimited Plus plan: This plan comes with 30GB of regular speed data per month. It costs $30 per month and allows users to continue using the internet at lower speeds after exceeding the data cap. However, like the unlimited plan, the overflow data speeds are very slow.
2. Jetpack shared-data plan
If a customer is subscribed to Verizon’s shared data plan, they may add Jetpack services for an additional $10 per month. The disadvantage of this plan is that the Jetpack shares the available data allotment, so with multiple devices, data may be depleted quickly.
3. Stand-alone Jetpack plans
There are a number of standalone plans with fixed data allocation. Exceeding the imposed limit means that you will not be able to access the internet unless you pay $10 for each additional GB used. The good news is that you can receive a $5 discount if you subscribe to automated paperless billing. These plans include:
- 1GB plan: This is the lowest standalone Verizon plan that you can subscribe to. It costs $10 per month. If you exhaust the allocated 1GB, you will have to pay the $10 fee for each additional GB. This plan is ideal for people who have a small number of wireless-capable devices. However, if you plan to add more devices, you may need to consider a different plan.
- 10GB plan: This plan costs $55 per month. It is the next tier up from the 1GB plan. If you want to upgrade slightly, this is a good option. However, if you have a large number of devices, you may need to consider a different plan.
- 20GB plan: This is the middle Verizon Jetpack standalone plan. It costs $85 per month. In most cases, only organizations and larger companies will need more than 20GB of data. The other plans available are the 30GB plan for $115 per month and the 40GB plan for $145 per month. These premium plans are typically used by organizations and larger companies. They are also more likely to subscribe to automated payments, which will earn them a monthly discount.
4. Prepaid Jetpack plans
Verizon offers three prepaid Jetpack plans:
- 6GB plan for $35 per month
- 16GB plan for $45 per month
- 30GB plan for $65 per month
Verizon also offers a $5 discount per month if you subscribe to automatic payment. However, you are not eligible for the discount until the end of the first month.
Under all of these plans, video clarity is throttled at HD quality (720p). In the event that you exhaust your allocated data, you will still be able to browse at lower speeds, but these speeds will be throttled at 600Kbps.
What Do I Need to Use a Jetpack?
In addition to the Jetpack itself, there are a number of other requirements that must be met. These include:
- A stable Verizon connection
- A subscription to an eligible plan
- A wall charger for recharging the battery
- A Micro-USB or USB-C cable for the purposes of tethering
How Can I Connect My Jetpack To My Device?
There are two methods for connecting Jetpack to a device: Wi-Fi connection mode and USB. The Wi-Fi connection mode does not require any physical connectors; all that is required is to turn on the Jetpack and the wireless devices. The connection between the Jetpack and the Verizon network is automatic.
If USB tethering mode is chosen, all that is required is a USB cable to connect the Jetpack and the device. However, it is important to be aware of the Jetpack model and generation, as using the USB on older Jetpack models can deactivate the Wi-Fi option.
Jetpack Performance
In general, Jetpack has an excellent performance index. As it runs on the Verizon network, its speed is comparable to that of a standard cell phone. The speed of the newer Jetpack models may differ slightly from that of the older versions because they are more powerful.
With Verizon’s nationwide network coverage in the United States, Jetpacks have a more stable connection. As a result, you can access better hotspot services than users on other devices using other networks. Each device connects independently to the internet at high speeds. However, users on prepaid Jetpack plans may experience deprioritization. This means that in the event of internet congestion, the users may experience slower internet speeds than users on Verizon’s network.
Why Would I Want To Use A Jetpack As A Mobile Hotspot Instead Of My Tablet Or Smartphone?
There are several benefits to using a Jetpack as your source of internet. First, Verizon has a wide variety of devices to choose from, so you can find the one that is most suitable for your needs. For example, the Inseego Jetpack MiFi 8800L is one of the most affordable devices on the market. If you are on a tight budget, you can still get a reliable MiFi for a few dollars.
Even though Jetpack has not yet introduced 5G services, it is still a popular choice for many people. Additionally, there are more powerful devices available, such as the MiFi M2100 5G UW. This is one of the best devices on the market, but it is also quite expensive. You can also find older versions of the Jetpack for a lower price if you do not need the fastest speeds.
Here are some of the other benefits of using a Jetpack:
- Unlike a mobile hotspot, a Jetpack comes with its own battery. This means that it will not drain the battery of your tablet or smartphone.
- If you share your Jetpack with others, you do not have to leave your phone behind. You can simply disconnect your tablet or phone and allow others to continue browsing.
- A Jetpack can connect to more devices than a mobile hotspot. You can connect up to 10-15 wireless-enabled devices to a Jetpack, while a mobile hotspot can only connect to a few devices.
- A Jetpack allows you to access more advanced services than a mobile hotspot.
- A Jetpack gives you the freedom to move around. If people are using your smartphone or tablet as a source of internet, you must stay within range of the device. This can limit your privacy.
FAQs – Frequently Ask Questions
Can Verizon Jetpack Replace Home Internet?
Indeed. A portable Verizon Jetpack may be a suitable option for individuals who are constantly on the move. Instead of paying for home internet that is rarely or never used, the Jetpack can be used to cover the individual’s needs. The Jetpack can also be carried home and connected to devices that require internet access.
Is the Verizon Jetpack Unlimited Data Plans?
No. Although they offer some plans labeled as unlimited, each plan has a data cap. With an active subscription, you browse at normal internet speeds. Once you reach the cap, if you are using an unlimited subscription, you can only browse at very low speeds.
Where can I buy a Jetpack?
Verizon’s online store is the primary source for all Jetpack devices. This means that anyone can purchase these devices as long as Verizon provides service in that region. However, Verizon does not currently stock older Jetpack models. If you are unable to locate your desired Jetpack on their website, you can check Walmart, Amazon, and eBay online stores.
How is the Jetpack different from a home Wi-Fi router?
The major distinction between a Jetpack and a home Wi-Fi router is portability. The Jetpack is portable, while the home Wi-Fi router is not. The home Wi-Fi router remains stationary and provides internet connectivity to devices within its range. In other words, the home Wi-Fi router cannot be moved around while in use.
Although the Jetpack operates similarly to a home router, it can be carried around. Some Jetpack models can also function as both mobile hotspots and USB modems. For these reasons, most individuals prefer the Jetpack over the home router. It should be noted that the choice is subjective. Some individuals choose the home router. However, the MiFi technology has garnered much attention and has several advantages due to its flexibility.
Is a jetpack faster than phone hotspot?
Although it is generally believed that Jetpack speeds are faster than mobile hotspots, this is not always the case. Jetpack speeds fluctuate as the amount of data consumed decreases, whereas mobile hotspots can maintain a steady connection with a fixed amount of data. As a result, it is possible for a mobile hotspot to be faster than a Jetpack at times.
Is Jetpack Really a No Throttle Data Plan?
No. Even so-called unlimited plans have data limits imposed on them. Beyond the fixed limit, users are only allowed to browse at throttled speeds. The existence of throttling, however, depends on the plan subscribed to. Some plans do not include throttling.
How can I check the monthly data usage of my Jetpack?
There are various methods for viewing your monthly data usage on Jetpack. On the latest models, such as the Verizon 5G MiFi M1000, the usage is displayed on the device screen. Alternatively, you can log in to Verizon’s online portal and check your Usage under the My Usage page tab. To view your Usage online, click on the View Data Details button.
How do I add more data for my Jetpack?
In some cases, you may need to add more data than what your plan offers. In such a case, you will need to log in to your My Verizon account to manage your plan. Only from there can you change your plan to one that offers more data.
Conclusion
Portability is a major factor in consumer decision making when choosing digital devices. The Verizon Jetpack was specifically designed to address this need. The device allows users to take their internet connection with them wherever they go. In addition, the Jetpack offers affordable and convenient plans. This makes it a more attractive option than using a mobile hotspot on a smartphone.
The Jetpack can connect to multiple devices at once, which is not always possible with a mobile hotspot. Additionally, there are a variety of Jetpack models available, so consumers can choose the one that best suits their needs. As long as consumers choose the right Jetpack and plan, they will be able to enjoy a seamless and reliable internet connection.
